Re: Do we need mandatory ethics courses by Stan Albert, REM December 2012:
In his article Stan Albert comments on “the growing lack of ethics in our profession” and the need for a mandatory ethics course for real estate practitioners. Professional ethics are a core part of the Real Estate Institute of Canada’s (REIC) values. Our programs and courses have been advancing professionalism and providing a national standard of business ethics in the real estate industry since 1955.
Our Ethics and Business Practice course (REIC 2600) is our most popular course. Students rave about the course content, the case scenarios that are discussed and our engaging instructors. This course assists the real estate practitioner to develop and refine their decision-making skills from an ethical standpoint. Using factual and hypothetical case studies and group discussions, students study various real estate ethical codes to acquire the tools and strategies to maintain strict ethical standards.
Since January 2011, over 500 students have successfully completed REIC 2600. RECO has designated REIC as a pre-approved education provider in Ontario.
The ethics course is mandatory for each of our designation programs. The emphasis on ethics and high business standards help members differentiate themselves from their competitors. Our designees are also governed by the institute’s Code of Professional Standards. The Fellow of the Real Estate Institute (FRI) designation is REIC’s senior credential and is the gold standard for professionals in real estate sales and leasing. With education that exceeds licensing requirements, FRI designated members are acknowledged as real estate practitioners with a high level of expertise and knowledge and a commitment to professional development and strong business ethics.
REIC recognizes that to be a professional, one must have ethical underpinnings. As a membership organization, we are proud to be doing our part in advancing the professional status of real estate practitioners in Canada and enhancing consumer protection.
Maura McLaren, CAE
Executive director & CEO
Real Estate Institute of Canada
Toronto
