Board of REALTORS Complaint Process:

This one page graphic will give you an overview of the process used by the Board of REALTORS when a complaint is received.

Dispute Resolution System Forms & Brochures:

Buyers or sellers who want to resolve differences among themselves or with a REALTOR can take advantage of the Berkshire County Board of REALTORS® endorsed dispute resolution system. This process is administered through our partner, The Berkshire Regional Housing Authority in Pittsfield, MA. The system aids in the settlement of differences between sellers and buyers, and between consumers and real estate practitioners, through mediation rather than costly and time-consuming litigation.  The housing authority sets their own fees for this process.

Mediation:

Mediation is our preferred method of dispute resolution. All local REALTOR® associations must, as a benefit of membership, offer the ability to mediate contractual disputes and resolve claims of unethical conduct.  Mediation involves the skillful intervention of a third-party professional to help resolve disputes that arise between two or more parties.  We have trained volunteers who administer this mediation meeting and seek to bring all parties together in finding a swift and equitable solution.  We offer this service at no cost.

Code of Ethics:

REALTORS® have voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Ethics, for professionalism and protection of the public. They are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics is a detailed document that spells out the professional responsibilities of every REALTOR® and is the best assurance that the real estate agent you are working with is a professional of utmost care and concern. We offer this service at no cost.

View the Code of Ethics
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Arbitration of Business Disputes:

REALTORS® have voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Ethics, for professionalism and protection of the public. They are subject to disciplinary action and sanctions if they violate the duties imposed by the Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics is a detailed document that spells out the professional responsibilities of every REALTOR® and is the best assurance that the real estate agent you are working with is a professional of utmost care and concern.  The filing fee for the arbitration of a contractual dispute is $150 if you first attempt mediation and $500 if you do not.  Please note that if you are the prevailing party, this filing fee will be refunded at the conclusion of the hearing process.