An Ombudsman is an individual appointed to receive and resolve disputes through constructive communication and advocating for consensus and understanding.
The Ombudsman procedures are intended to provide enhanced communication and initial problem solving at the local level.

Ombudsman Procedures adopted by the Heartland Association of REALTORS® (HAR) are intended to provide enhanced communications and initial problem-solving capacity to the professional standards process. HAR is charged with the responsibility of receiving and processing ethics complaints, and hearing arbitration disputes filed against its’ members. An Ombudsman can respond to general questions regarding real estate practices, transaction details, ethical practices and enforcement issues.

Many complaints do not expressly allege violations of specific articles of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics and may not concern conduct related to the Code. Some complaints are transactional, technical, and procedural questions that can be readily responded to. Some complaints are due strictly to lack of communication. These types of issues may be appropriate for the Ombudsman program.

WHAT ARE REALTOR® OMBUDSMAN BENEFITS?
You can receive non-judgmental real estate related information in a timely manner and at no cost.

WHAT THE OMBUDSMEN WILL NOT DO?
• Adjudicate/make the final decision;
• Give legal advice;
• Determine who is right or wrong;
• Disclose communications – Process is CONFIDENTIAL;
• Make any written record of discussions and/or agreements.
You may view frequently asked questions about the Ombudsman process and procedures here NAR Ombudsman FAQ