A TEAM FLORIDA REALTORS BROWARD COUNTY FLORIDA. Recently there has been a controversy over whether real estate agents get elected to the board to use their position to get listings in their buildings. Effective leadership should stem from a desire to serve the community rather than for personal gain. There have been instances of realtors running for the board on the platform to “uphold property values,” leverage their deep community knowledge, and occasionally offer residents discounted listings. While these intentions can benefit the community, a true leader’s priority should always be service over self-interest.

However, all board members have a fiduciary duty to their membership, and Realtors are also bound by a strict Code of Ethics. To paraphrase Dwight D. Eisenhower, the supreme quality for leadership is integrity; without it, real success is impossible—whether on a condo board, a sports field, in the military, or the office.

So, can building presidents who are licensed Realtors take listings in their own building? Yes, why not? As long as they don’t misuse their position. Examples of misconduct would include contacting families of deceased residents to solicit business or leaving business cards on doors inappropriately. Additionally, purchasing units at a discounted price through deceptive means would be a clear violation of ethical standards.

Historically, many presidents in our community have held real estate licenses, and incidents of unethical behavior have been rare. As for candidates who campaign with promises like “I won’t take listings in this building if elected” but later break that pledge, it’s a reminder that voters have some responsibility too. As Thomas Jefferson once said, “The government you elect is the government you deserve.”

3850 Washington, Suite #1016, Hollywood Florida 33021

Email: info@ateamflorida.com

Phone: 954-964-2559