What are the NAR Consumer Guides?

The National Association of REALTORS^® (NAR) publishes Consumer Guides—short, downloadable resources intended for home buyers and sellers—with the goal of simplifying complex real-estate issues and helping consumers make informed decisions. These guides are for REALTORS^® to share with clients and are often offered in both English and Spanish.

Why has NAR produced them?

REALTORS^® know all too well that buying and/or selling a home is one of the largest financial transactions someone can undertake. Recent practice changes have increased complexity for consumers and—now more than ever—REALTORS^® must demonstrate their value and distinguish themselves from an ordinary agent. The consumer guides educate consumers to navigate transactions more effectively, clearly explain various practice changes, and clarify the responsibilities and ethical duties of REALTORS^®.

Key Topics Covered by the Guides

While there are many installments in the series, some of the major topics addressed by the consumer guides are as follows:

How Can Consumers and REALTORS^® Use the Guides?

From a consumer perspective:  These guides provide a practical, plain-language overview of key steps, terms, client/agent relationships and obligations.  They can serve as a conversation starter with a REALTOR^® and ensure that consumers are entering into transactions knowingly.

From a member perspective:  The guides can be printed or shared with clients to help educate them, streamline the client-professional relationship, and align expectations.

Both sides benefit.  From changes in agent agreements, to compensation structures, to disclosure rules, the marketplace is evolving. It is becoming increasingly important for consumers to understand what is changing so there are not surprises. Thus, there is greater need for transparency—which these guides provide. Also, for REALTORS^® and brokerages, using these educational materials will help build trust and professionalism.

Make sure you are staying plugged in to the latest from NAR, and visit facts.realtor for more information!