Dispute Resolution

Chicago REALTORS® Professional Standards and Dispute Resolution

Why This Matters

The professional standard that sets REALTORS® apart from other real estate practitioners is their acceptance and adherence to the Code of Ethics. The Code has been revised many times through the years to reflect current developments in professional real estate practice.

But, even with the best of intentions, planning and preparation, occasional disagreements arise between REALTORS® and/or between REALTORS® and their clients or customers. As civil litigation becomes increasingly costly, time-consuming, and burdensome, there has been a trend among private parties to settle disputes and conflicting claims through alternative means.

How It Works: A High-Level Overview

The Chicago Association of REALTORS® Professional Standards Department offers its members and their clients:

A vehicle to economically expedite ethics complaints and/or arbitration requests without going to court.
An opportunity to be educated about the Code of Ethics.
An impartial, informed environment where REALTORS® are judged by their peers as opposed to others who may be far less familiar with the practices and customs of the real estate industry.

It Starts With Less Formal Dispute Resolution options

In addition to our core processes, we offer less formal vehicles for resolving disputes. Our newest offering is Ombudsman assistance. Through an Ombudsman (can be requested below), REALTORS® and the public can request assistance with real estate-related matters, thus allowing a trained Ombudsman to act as an intermediary to assist with a successful resolution.

The Association also requires mediation prior to arbitration. We have seen a successful resolution in over 90% of all mediated cases! Through both processes, we help our members maintain their relationships with other practitioners in addition to offering a quick and cost-effective way to handle disputes outside of the court system.