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Understanding How to Come out on Top

In January 2001, the National Association of REALTORS began requiring local boards to offer mediation services to their members. Ohio REALTORS now offers mediation assistance to its members statewide. Many members have taken advantage of this quick and cost-effective dispute-resolution method. The choice is yours. Let’s compare the two:

Mediation:

  • Is a facilitated negotiation process
  • Is an informal amicable resolution
  • Allows the parties to clear the air and resolve misunderstandings
  • Provides assistance from the Mediator to move forward
  • Give both parties full control over the final resolution
  • Is conducted by an experienced Mediation Officer who makes no decisions effecting the parties
  • Resolution is not mandatory; parties can still go to Arbitration
  • Is a win-win situation

Arbitration:

  • Is not a negotiation process; it is a structured hearing
  • Is a formal procedure decided by a hearing panel
  • Allows the structured presentation of evidence, testimony and witnesses
  • Gives the Panel full authority to decide the outcome
  • Gives full control to the Hearing Panel
  • Is conducted by a panel of experienced REALTORS® who make the final decision and the award
  • Hearing Panel decision is final
  • Is a win-lose situation

Conclusion

In order for Mediation to work, each party comes to the table with an attitude of compromise and cooperation. They have a chance to air their feelings, look at the other side of the situation and many times, clear up misunderstandings. Sometimes it becomes apparent that a third party, who is NOT a participant in the Mediation, is the reason behind the current conflict.

These same facts may also become evident once a dispute has moved to Arbitration, but the parties no longer have control over the outcome.

Ohio REALTORS staff has attended specialized training, is very experienced, and can answer any question you might have.

Why not give Mediation a try?

Click here to submit an arbitration request. Be sure to answer 'yes' on the form if you are willing to mediate the dispute.

Staff contact: Sandy Naragon at