ABoR Profile

Mission

Since 1926, ABoR has remained committed to building a cooperative network among the real estate professionals of Central Texas. We provide members with the most comprehensive information about the local housing market and award-winning educational offerings. In keeping with the goals of the National Association of REALTORS®, ABoR advocates the right to own, use and transfer real property and promotes standards for efficient, effective and ethical real estate business practices.

What is a REALTOR®?

Anyone licensed by the Texas Real Estate Commission can conduct real estate transactions in Texas. However, holding a real estate agent's or real estate broker's license does not make someone a REALTOR®. To earn that distinction, a professional must abide by the strict REALTOR® Code of Ethics, which was adopted before the implementation of broad-based licensing requirements. The Code of Ethics establishes a standard of behavioral expectations that exceeds legal requirements, ensuring REALTORS® honor and respect clients' interests.

The vast majority of REALTORS® participate in a local or regional Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which can give homebuyers a distinct advantage when buying or selling a home. Only licensees who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® can use the term REALTOR® on business cards and in marketing materials. Many consumers look for this designation as a signal they are working with someone committed to professional enrichment and integrity.

Key Facts and Common Terms

• Founded in 1926
  

• Main events: Realty Round Up, annual tradeshow held in the autumn that draws 2,000+ real estate professionals; Installation and Awards Banquet, held in December and draws 500-600 real estate professionals
  
• Total Membership: 8,500
  
• Web sites: For consumers, Austinhomesearch.com; for members, Abor.com
  
• Days on market (DOM) - The number of days a listing is on the market before selling
  
• Multiple Listing Service (MLS) - At its core, the MLS is an agreement among REALTORS® to cooperate and share information to benefit clients
  
• National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) - A trade association representing more than one million REALTORS®
  
• Texas Association of REALTORS® (TAR) - A state association representing more than 80,000 REALTORS®
  
• Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) - State real estate licensing entity