What ethical obligation did REALTOR® Sue violate in her attempt to buy a property?

In the context of professional ethics for REALTORS®, transparency is a crucial principle. By failing to disclose her profession in real estate when attempting to buy a property, REALTOR® Sue compromised her ethical obligations. REALTORS® are expected to act with honesty and integrity, ensuring that all parties involved in a transaction are fully informed about any potential conflicts of interest.

Disclosing one's status as a real estate professional is vital because it allows the seller to understand that the buyer has knowledge of the market and the transaction process. This transparency helps maintain trust and fairness in the transaction. If Sue had not disclosed her profession, the seller may have been at a disadvantage, assuming that the buyer was a typical consumer rather than a skilled real estate professional who may leverage their expertise in the negotiation process. Thus, not sharing this information can be viewed as a breach of ethical standards set forth by the National Association of REALTORS® and is considered unprofessional behavior.