Joe Ferrara was an attorney, a real estate broker, an educator, a blogger, and a thought leader. He was the consummate consumer advocate and he was unafraid of poking sticks in mighty Goliath%u2019s eyes. The real estate industry lost a maverick.
Joe used to say he felt like a "lone voice howling at the moon." He advocated a pro-bono provision to the Realtor Code of Ethics.
Let's make it happen!
We the undersigned ask that NAR add a Pro Bono Provision to the Realtor Code of Ethics. We ask that you consider the words of our fallen friend Joe Ferrara, who championed this cause for several years.
Joe conducted his crusade on his beloved Sellsius blog. Read his thoughts, %u201CNAR Must Add Pro Bono Provision to Realtor Code of Ethics.%u201D (Excerpt below)
Such interests impose obligations beyond those of ordinary commerce. They impose grave social responsibility and a patriotic duty to which REALTORS%uFFFD should dedicate themselves, and for which they should be diligent in preparing themselves. REALTORS%uFFFD, therefore, are zealous to maintain and improve the standards of their calling and share with their fellow REALTORS%uFFFD a common responsibility for its integrity and honor. (Preamble, National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics, 2008) (emphasis added)
Here is a simple starting point:
Voluntary Pro Bono Public Service
Every Realtor who is able has a professional responsibility to provide real estate related services, without compensation, to those unable to pay or of limited means. Every Realtor should aspire to render pro bono service on at least one (1) real estate transaction per year.
Let%u2019s honor Joe Ferrara and make this happen. He said:
Let%u2019s do more than just think about it. Let%u2019s do it.
If you support this initiative, add your voice and share this with other real estate professionals, especially those who are in position to effectuate or influence change.
Let%u2019s honor Joe and let%u2019s get this done in his name.
Let%u2019s do more than just think about it. Let%u2019s do it!
