Realtor ethics are unique.

They are distinct from business and attorney ethics, although there is some overlap.   For example, a Realtor can cheat a vendor and not breach any of the Code's ethical standards.  But instead, if the victim is a customer or another Realtor, then the Realtor may be guilty of violating the Code of Ethics.   

Many people are surprised to find out that a similar distinction applies to serious crimes such as armed robbery and dealing illegal drugs.  These activities are not addressed by any article of the Code.

Realtors swear to abide by the Code, and typically learn its principles during their initial indoctrination.  Most Realtors proudly adhere to the Code of Ethics throughout their entire careers in the business, but some occasionally fail to live up to its standards because of ignorance or laziness or greed or mental lapses resulting in another party's financial loss or physical  injury.

But ignorance, laziness, greed, and mental lapses do not apply solely to Realtors in troubled real estate transactions. The principal parties -- buyers, sellers, landlords, & tenants --  are equally susceptible to these human frailties.  So when damages are claimed and a suit is filed, it's often critical to determine if the Realtor's conduct conformed to ethical standards...or strayed from them.