when problems arise in buying or selling real estate, many participants have started to turn to real estate arbitration and mediation. however, the rise in arbitration and mediation has given parties to a real estate contract an alternative to litigation but still resolve their disputes. it will discuss the costs and effectiveness of the alternative dispute resolution options in real estate and when arbitration may be required. the national association of realtors outlines how arbitration and mediation should proceed when a realtor’s ethics are placed in question. realtors are held to high standards of accountability in their practice, and arbitration focusing on ethical implications provides a way to hold real estate agents accountable for their missteps.

when looking to buy or sell real estate, many clients ask their real estate agent whether they should initial the arbitration provision. the arbitrator considers the relevant facts and evidence of the case, listens to arguments, and renders a decision. what most realtors® fail to realize, or disclose, to their clients is that the realtors® are not required to participate in arbitration proceedings between clients.