IREM Connecticut helps celebrate rich ethical heritage during IREM Ethics Awareness Month

Connecticut Chapter No. 51 of the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) has joined 92 other IREM chapters across the U.S. and internationally in September to mark "IREM Ethics Awareness Month." Designed to showcase the 80-year-old organization's historical commitment to professional ethics, this observance spotlights the fact that IREM members don't just talk the talk when it comes to ethics, but they also walk the walk. As a condition of membership, all IREM members must pledge to adhere to the rigorously enforced IREM Code of Professional Ethics, with violations subject to serious disciplinary action, including expulsion. IREM was formed in 1933 by representatives of real estate firms whose primary concern was the financial responsibility of those who were managing property for others. Each founding member firm was required to follow certain ethical standards of practice. Today, these ethical ideals are still a cornerstone of IREM. IREM ethics education is a requirement to become a credentialed member - and all members are obliged to uphold the IREM Code of Professional Ethics, thus, conducting their professional activities in accordance with the code. Likewise, Accredited Management Organization (AMO) firms must abide by the AMO Code of Professional Ethics, which was revised effective January 1, 2012, and dictates member firms professional conduct. The codes are reviewed periodically to ensure for ethical and competent practice of our members. The purpose of the Code of Professional Ethics is to establish and maintain public confidence in the honesty, integrity, professionalism, and ability of the professional real estate manager. The Institute of Real Estate Management and its members intend that the code and performance pursuant to its provisions will be beneficial to the general public and will contribute to the continued development of a mutually beneficial relationship among Certified Property Manager members, CPM candidates, Accredited Residential Manager members, Accredited Commercial Manager members, associate members, and other members, national and international professional real estate associations and organizations, and clients, employers, and the public. IREM Connecticut is one of the organization's 80 chapters nationwide. Chapter No. 51 serves real estate professionals and companies from all of Connecticut and Berkshire, Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden Counties in Mass. For more information on upcoming chapter events and membership, please visit www.irem-ct.org. Jason Falcetta, CPM, ACoM, is president of IREM Connecticut Chapter No. 51, Stamford, Conn.