Journal Sentinel "Morning Mail"

Code of ethics demands honesty

If Michael D. Iverson truly let Gerald Mahr sell his land to him, knowing that the land was worth millions more than the purchase price, Mr. Iverson is grossly neglecting the REALTORS® Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice ("Did Gerald Mahr give away the farm?" Oct. 3").

Article 1 of the Code of Ethics clearly states, "When representing a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant, or other client as an agent, REALTORS® pledge themselves to protect and promote the interests of their client. This obligation to the client is primary, but it does not relieve REALTORS® of their obligation to treat all parties honestly. When serving a buyer, seller, landlord, tenant or other party in a non-agency capacity, REALTORS® remain obligated to treat all parties honestly. "

Aside from his own reputation and future business, Mr. Iverson's actions may be ruining the good, hard work that honest REALTORS® have done to regain the trust of the public. I hope our associations will step up and hold him accountable, if he did violate the code - before the damage is done to Mr. Mahr, his heirs and those of us looking out for the best interests of our clients and customers.

Kristin Noll, REALTOR®
Shorewood