There’s been an uptick in anonymous Code of Ethics complaints about REALTORS®’ social media profiles and online advertising. Article 12 of the Code of Ethics requires REALTORS® to ensure their status as professionals is readily apparent in their advertising, marketing, and other representations, which includes social media. Standard of Practice 12-9 also says REALTORS®’ websites must include their firm name in a readily apparent manner.
Social media profiles and ads are not in violation of the Code if the REALTOR®’s professional status and firm information can be accessed after one click. For example, a Facebook page or ad is usually compliant if there is a link that, when clicked, takes users to a website with the required information. On social media in particular, another way to be in compliance is to include the required information in the platform’s “about me” section of your profile.