In June 1944, NAREB (now National Association of Realtors) authorized the formation of the Agricultural Institute (now Realtors Land Institute). Soldiers returning from the war had opportunities with the GI bill to become home owners and rural properties were underrepresented by agents who adhere to the Code of Ethics and business practices a REALTOR is held to. Ironically after World War I, there had been a similar call for an association of land brokers. During the 1920s, the Land Men Realtors Committee was formed as the second specialty designation of NAREB. With The Great Depression, the professional group dwindled to just barely 200 members.
In 1985 the Agricultural Institute was renamed REALTORs Land Institute, embodying the opening words of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics: “Under all is the land. Upon its wise utilization and widely allocated ownership depend the survival and growth of free institutions and of our civilization.”
The RLI code of conduct is the framework in which members conduct their business and sets high standards of professional conduct and integrity. The following is directly copied from our RLI website:
Our Mission
The REALTORS Land Institute elevates the level of professionalism in the land industry.
Our Vision
To be the Voice of Land by being the destination for land industry expertise.
Our Organizational Values
RLI has established organizational values that we want everyone, from our members to our industry partners, to know about so they know what can be expected when interacting with us.
Collaboration
We create a competitive advantage in our members by the relationships and networking we foster. We continually work together with our members, our partners, and internally to achieve our mission and vision. We seek and value collective wisdom to create an environment that encourages camaraderie.
Commitment
We are committed to and will do whatever it takes to achieve our vision of being “The Voice of Land” for land agents and landowners. We are devoted to the land industry, those we serve, and to the stewardship of the land.
Excellence
We pursue the highest standards in everything we endeavor. We aspire to consistently exceed the expectations of our membership. We provide a competitive advantage to our members by providing excellent service and resources that enhance the level of excellence our members can achieve.
Expertise
RLI and its members are the most knowledgeable resources in the industry on all matters pertaining to land real estate and the land market. We are committed to continuous learning and keeping up with industry trends to help us best serve our members so they can best serve their clients. We validate ourselves as “The Voice of Land” by our knowledge and expertise that we share with the industry.
Innovation
We are forward thinking. We seek new opportunities and explore new ideas to be the best at bringing value to our members and the industry. We strive to create an environment where new ideas are actively encouraged and explored. We use innovation to adapt to the changing needs of the industry and our members.
Integrity
We do the right thing in all situations, putting the best interest of our organization and membership above all else. We do what we say with the goal of earning trust and respect through keeping our word. Our stakeholders can be assured of RLI’s character, abilities, and viability through our actions. Together, our leadership, staff, and members create a transparent environment where trust flourishes.
This week I had the privilege of being elected as a Director to the Tennessee chapter of RLI. Our members are part of a culture that places learning and education at the forefront of our businesses. Achieving the coveted Accredited Land Consultant requires education and experience that sets these REALTORs apart from other real estate agents. The emphasis on education allows RLI members to better serve their clients and customers whether is be a farm, development, or even energy services transaction. I am grateful to all members of the TN chapter that chose to put their trust in me to serve them.
