A Snapshot of Professional Standards Enforcement in 2024
Janine Smith, Director of Statewide Professional Standards
The WRA Statewide Professional Standards Enforcement Program continues to uphold REALTOR® professionalism and ethics in Wisconsin real estate practice. This recap highlights key data from 2024, including ethics complaints, arbitration cases and citation activity. By fostering accountability and promoting cooperation, the enforcement program ensures that Wisconsin real estate can remain a trusted and self-regulating profession.
Learn more about the WRA Professional Standards Program.
Ethics activity
- Inquiries: 238 (77% from the public)
- Filed complaints: 28 (57% from the public)
Member violations
- Violations: 4
| Article(s) | Description of allegation(s) |
| 2 | Misrepresentation and falsification of documents. |
| 1, 9 | Did not promote client interests. Did not keep documents or share copies. |
| 1, 2, 9 | Disclosed confidential information. Failed to disclose defects and missed contract updates. |
| 15 | Made reckless statements abut another real estate professional. |
Disciplinary actions:
- Fine: $1,000
- Letter of reprimand: Recorded for 1-3 years
- Education requirements:
- NAR ethics training
- Continuing education (CE) courses
- Pre-license chapters
Citation policy
- New citation policy implemented January 1, 2024.
- Citations: 3 issued in 2024
| Year | Voting Age Population | General Election Voters |
| 2020 | 4,536,417 | 3,308,805 |
| 2016 | 4,461,068 | 3,004,051 |
| 2012 | 4,378,741 | 3,071,434 |
| 2008 | 4,330,695 | 2,996,869 |
| 2004 | 4,118,621 | 3,016,288 |
| 2000 | 3,908,533 | 2,619,184 |
Members are required to attempt mediation for mandatory arbitrable issues prior to arbitration. This appears to be a successful tool in resolving monetary disputes.
Mediation and arbitration
| Outcome | Count |
| Resolved through mediation | 6 |
| Arbitration requests (post-unsuccessful meditation) | 2 |
| Mediations in progress | 2 |
