Organizational Standards
Organizational Standards for Associations
Successful REALTOR® associations must adhere to the National Association's Organizational Standards for Associations, formerly known as the Minimum Services Criteria.
The purpose of the standards is to ensure that local and state associations remain viable entities and conduct business in accordance with the requirements of their charter, as well as state and federal laws. The criteria, as approved by NAR's Board of Directors, follow. Associations must be recertified every three years using an electronic certification database on Realtor.org. Associations are notified by NAR when they are scheduled for recertification.
1. Governing Documents
Association's Bylaws, MLS Bylaws and/or Rules and Regulations (if applicable) and professional standards procedures are consistent with NAR policy; elections and membership/business meetings are conducted in accordance with the Bylaws; and membership is available on reasonable and nondiscriminatory terms (i.e., on terms and conditions no more rigorous than NAR's Membership Qualification Criteria).
2. Legal Status
Association maintains, has access to, or will have legal counsel available, and maintains policies and procedures that conform with local, state and federal laws, including filing necessary reports and documents (e.g., corporate documents, state and federal tax returns, etc.).
3. Dues Collection
Association enforces the dues formula to assure that every licensee affiliated with a firm comprised of REALTOR® principals is either a member or that the "designated" REALTOR® pays dues based on the number of nonmember licensees affiliated with the firm.
4. Administrative Support
Association maintains, has access to, or will have staff support available. (This may be accomplished through a variety of methods, including paid staff on site, multi-board management, staff support furnished through the state association, etc.)
5. Communications Process
Association provides some form of regular communication to its members. (Examples include a monthly newsletter, computer-based information service, periodic notices on educational offerings and other key services, etc.)
6. Orientation
Association maintains an orientation process to inform new members of the privileges and obligations of membership.
7. Enforcement of the Code of Ethics
Association maintains a viable professional standards process to enforce the Code of Ethics and provide arbitration as a member service. Boards and associations must have a fully functioning professional standards committee with administrative capability to conduct the program, or must administer professional standards enforcement through a multi-board (or regional) professional standards agreement with other associations or the state association.
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