National Association of Realtors® (NAR)

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The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) is the largest trade association for real estate professionals in the United States. It sets national policy standards, ethics requirements, advocacy priorities, and professional frameworks that shape how real estate is practiced at every level.

NAR does not sell homes, run local MLS systems, or manage individual transactions. Its role is structural: establishing the national foundation that state and local Realtor® organizations operate within.

WHAT: What NAR Is

• A national trade association representing real estate professionals
• The owner and steward of the REALTOR® trademark
• The author of the Code of Ethics
• A national advocate on housing, property rights, and real estate policy

Membership in NAR is not automatic for licensed agents. It is voluntary—but required if an agent wants to use the REALTOR® designation and participate in Realtor®-affiliated MLS systems.

WHAT NAR Does (National-Level)

• Establishes the REALTOR® Code of Ethics
• Provides national advocacy and lobbying
• Develops professional standards and policy guidance
• Supports state and local Realtor® associations
• Maintains the REALTOR® brand

WHAT NAR Does NOT Do

• Does not license agents
• Does not run MLS systems
• Does not enforce state real estate law
• Does not manage local associations directly

How NAR Connects to Idaho Real Estate

NAR operates through a three-way membership structure:

• National: National Association of Realtors®
• State: Idaho Realtors®
• Local: Upper Valley Association of Realtors® (example)

To be a REALTOR® in Idaho, an agent must typically be a member at all three levels.

NAR and MLS Systems

NAR does not operate MLS platforms. However, many MLS systems—including Snake River MLS—require Realtor® association membership to participate.

Why NAR Matters to Buyers and Sellers

• Establishes ethical standards for REALTOR® members
• Creates accountability through professional discipline
• Supports consistent nationwide practices

Related Pages

• Idaho Realtors®
• Upper Valley Association of Realtors®
• Snake River MLS