In many developed countries, such as the United States and Canada, brokers are required to follow strict codes of ethics, such as those of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). These codes are supported by legal mechanisms that ensure transparency and fairness.
In Bulgaria, although there are regulations and ethical principles, their application is often less strict. Not all brokers are members of professional associations, making compliance with ethical standards inconsistent.
In countries such as the UK and Germany, becoming a licensed broker requires long-term courses and specialist exams. This ensures a high level of knowledge and ethics.
Bulgaria lacks a unified education system for brokers, which leads to large differences in the level of competence and professionalism.
In the West, long-term customer relationships are encouraged. Ethical practices focus on creating trust through open communication, and closing the deal is seen as only part of the process.
In Bulgaria it is common to find approaches aimed at quick profits, which can lead to compromises with ethics and customer dissatisfaction.
In countries such as Sweden and Denmark, brokers are involved in initiatives that support sustainable development by using green practices and promoting eco-friendly housing.
Such initiatives are just beginning to enter Bulgaria, and the future is expected to bring more active participation of brokers in social and environmental causes.
The social environment dictates what is considered acceptable in a profession. In countries where ethics and professionalism are highly valued, brokers are more likely to follow strict ethical standards. In Bulgaria, however, cultural biases such as a lack of trust and a penchant for quick profits can create barriers to professionalism.
Negative examples often get more attention than positive ones. However, this has a demotivating effect on brokers who strive to work ethically because their efforts are rarely appreciated. Changing public perception and encouraging positive examples could foster a better professional environment.
The social environment has a huge impact on the formation of young brokers. Upbringing and education, including the values passed down from previous generations, play a role in building professional culture. The new generation of brokers is often motivated by instant profit, but with the right guidance and social support they can adopt more ethical practices.
Organizations and professional communities create standards and promote ethics. In a social environment where associations actively support the development of ethical brokerage, professionalism improves.
