NEB increases its number of background-checked financial professionalsMortgagePress.comreal estate industry, Mortgage Brokers, real estate agents, real estate brokers
Move will help consumers avoid unethical sales
practices
The National Ethics
Bureau (NEB) has announced its entry into the real estate
industry. NEB has begun admitting Mortgage Brokers, along with real
estate agents and real estate brokers, into its membership.
To become members, real estate and mortgage professionals must
pass a comprehensive, seven-year background check, as well as
maintain NEB's membership standards. In return, they will have the
right to use NEB's branding and communication tools to strengthen
client relationships and increase revenue.
"The real estate industry is under stress due to the market
downturn, credit crunch and sub-prime crisis," said Steven R.
McCarty, NEB chair. "Unfortunately, this has increased unethical
sales practices and outright fraud, especially in sub-prime
mortgage applications. As a result, consumers today have less faith
in then integrity of the real estate industry. By qualifying for
NEB membership, real estate professionals can take a bold step to
restore public confidence and lay the groundwork for future
growth."
To qualify, real estate professionals must successfully pass
NEB's Ethics Check System, an annual check for criminal, civil and
business violations. They also must hold a valid Mortgage Broker,
real estate agent or real estate broker license, as well as be
up-to-date with their continuing education requirements.
"The National Ethics Bureau has been well received in the
financial services world," said Jeffrey S. Kopitz, NEB president.
"We hope to have a similar impact on the real estate business,
helping consumers find a trustworthy real estate or mortgage
professional in today's market environment."
For more information, visit www.ethicscheck.com.
