Connections Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
April 2016 Inside this Issue: PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE President’s Message
1
Month at a Glance
2
Scholarship Awards
4
Fellow REALTORS® & Business Partners, Did I speak too soon in last month’s message? The weather has taken a bit of a turn. We had such a great March with our Housing Summit and Affiliate Appreciation Night. It was a great turnout for both events. I am so proud of our REALTORS® and Business Partners. We have an extraordinary association.
Professional Development 5-13 Membership News
14-16
Affiliate Appreciation Night
17-19
CMAR Award Nominees
20
CMAR Milestones
21
CMAR Top Producer Finalists
22
Community Action Drive
23
REALTOR® Night at Fenway
24
Golf Tournament
25
CREST
26
Local Market Update
27
Legal Hotline
28
Code Corner
29
CMAR Mission Statement The purpose of the Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® is to:
April doesn’t seem to be slowing down either. Jim Brooks is doing a follow-up on April 5th for the Down Payment Assistance Program as well as more information on the Healthy Homes Grants. We will have a sold out crowd for our Awards Banquet on April 14th. It will be a great event to acknowledge many of our members. Lastly, on April 21st Jamie Williamson will be back at CMAR for a Fair Housing Seminar. Whether you are new or a veteran in this business, this is important information in our industry. I challenge everyone this month to reach out to a REALTOR® you know that is not a CMAR member and invite them to an event, a lunch and learn or schedule an office visit through their broker. I am certain we have one of the best local associations in the state. We offer our members excellent programs, education, resources & legislative information. Make it a great April everyone!
Kris
Kris Koliss 2016 WRAR President
Provide REALTOR® members with the resources that enable them to serve the public in an ethical and professional manner Take an active role regarding issues affecting sellers, buyers, tenants and landlords.
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 1 www.cmarealtors.org
CMAR MONTH-AT-A-GLANCE April 2016 Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1 April Fools’ Day
2
3
4 2-3:30 realtor. com Class
5 9 Gov’t Affairs 11-1 Lunch & Learn w/Fairway Mortgage
6
7 10 Prof Dev Comm
8 12-2 Lunch & Learn w/Peoples Home Loans
9 8-12 Pre-License Class
10
11 5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class
12 8-2 CEU’s @ CREST
13 9:30 Finance 10:30 BOD 9:30-3:30 MLS PIN Training
14 11:30 Awards Luncheon @ Wachusett CC
15
16 8-12 Pre-License Class
17
18 Patriots Day
19
20 12-2 Lunch & Learn w/Prestige Mortgage
21 10-12 Fair Housing w/Jamie WIlliamson
22 Earth Day
23 8-12 Pre-License Class
27 12-2 Lunch & Learn w/Wintrust Mortgage
28 MAR State Director Mtg, Norwood
29
CMAR CLOSED 5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class 24
25 9:30-12 Code of Ethics - Leom. 5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class
26 9-3 Discovering Commercial RE
9:30-3:30 MLS PIN Training
30
Save the Date!
Major Investor Night - Help us Meet our Goals Date & Time: Wednesday, May 18, 2016, 6:00 - 8:30 pm Place: Higgins Room at the Worcester Art Museum Limited to 50 attendees. Registration to begin in mid-April. Call Tracey Fiorelli at 508-509-8162 for more info.
REALTOR® Day on the Hill Date & Time:
Tuesday, June 21, 2016; Bus departs Auburn at 7:30 am
CMAR Annual Golf Tournament Date & Time: Place:
Thursday, June 23, 2016, 8:30 am registration; 9:30 am shotgun start Wachusett Country Club
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 2 www.cmarealtors.org
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Wintrust Mortgage is a division of Barrington Bank & Trust Company, N.A., a Wintrust Community Bank, NMLS# 449042 – © 2016 Wintrust Mortgage. 160301194KO
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 3 www.cmarealtors.org
VIP SPONSOR
Find Great Rates at Security First!
AFFORDABLE 5/1 30-YEAR ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE
2.875% 3.4819% Initial Rate
APR
GREAT for Jumbo loans! 1 and 3 caps The initial rate of 2.875%/3.7360% APR is based on a 30 year mortgage with a 20% down payment. At the initial rate, there would be 360 payment of $414.89 on a 30 year, $100,000 loan. Payments do not include taxes and insurance, which will affect your obligation. After the first 60 months, the interest rate may adjust every 12 months, but never more than one percentage point per adjustment period and no more than a total of three points during the life of the loan. Over the life of the loan, the note rate can never exceed 5.875%. If, after 5 years oron the 61st month, the note rate adjusts to 3.875%, monthly payments on a 30 year, $100,000 loan would be $470.24. If after 6 years, the note rate adjust to 4.875%, monthly payments would be $529.21. If after 7 years or maximum rate, the note rate adjusts to 5.875%, monthly payments would be $591.54 – and your rate and payment will never increase further for the life of the loan! Projected interest rate based on current index plus margin and your actual interest rate and payment may be higher or lower. Initial APR is discounted and not based on the current index and margin used for later rate adjustments. The discount does not apply to future rate adjustments.
NMLS# 252771
Call 508-853-3000
www.millburycu.com
www.securityfirstmf.com
NMLS# 537519
central massachusetts association of realtors®
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS The Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® is pleased to continue our Scholarship Program. In 2016, we will offer three (3) $1,000 scholarships to current high school seniors or currently-enrolled college students. Applications are open to children and grandchildren of REALTOR® members, Affiliate members, and full-time staff of CMAR. We will also offer four (4) $250 Professional Development Scholarships to REALTOR® members to be used towards Designation Classes held at CMAR. Scholarship applications are available on the CMAR website at www.cmarealtors.org.
HURRY - APPLICATION DEADLINE IS APRIL 30, 2016! Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 4 www.cmarealtors.org ®
central massachusetts association of realtors
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Free Online Marketing Tools for Success in Today’s Market Date: Monday, April 4, 2016 Time: 2:00 - 3:30 pm Place: CMAR, 492 Washington Street, Auburn Price: FREE for CMAR Members The Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® is excited to welcome Move, Inc.’s Mark Allen for a special presentation on leveraging online marketing tools to best position yourself in 2016 and beyond.
Drawing on a variety of statistical analyses of the industry, Mark will highlight: • The latest trends with consumers and online real estate • How to promote and manage your online presence for successful real estate sales • The latest tools and services (many that are free of charge) to help build your online success Plus, Mark will show you the benefits of claiming your Realtor.com profile and using it to gain referrals, ask for recommendations and demonstrate your expertise. Mark Allen is Vice President of Association Industry Relations for Move, Inc, a leading provider of online real estate services, and the operator of realtor.com® and its related mobile experiences.
Mark Allen
In his key role on the Move industry relations team, Allen works with state and local REALTOR® associations to help further strengthen Move’s ongoing dialogue and ensure that Move continues to deliver unparalleled service that directly speaks to the needs of associations and members.
Added Bonus: Come and find out the latest on MLS PIN Spring Specials!
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 5 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
LUNCH & LEARN Presented by Bill Murphy CEU Course: RE25R08 Financing
You will learn…
TRID recap and updates 2016 market outlook and what to expect with interest rates New ways to grow market share Improving client credit scores 5 ways to help sellers list now!
#1 Mortgage Originator in Central MA -Banker & Tradesmen
Lunch and refreshments will be served courtesy of Attorney Jessica Albino
Location: Central Massachusetts Association of of REALTORS® The Worcester Regional Association REALTORS® 492 Washington St. Auburn, MA 01501 When: April 5th, 11:00 am ‐ 1:00 pm ‐ Registration at 10:30 RSVP ONLINE: http://www.wrar.org/events.html Managing transactions with TRID guidelines
TRID (TILA RESPA Integrated Disclosure) was designed to simplify the mortgage process for borrowers.
F a i rw a y I n d e p e n d e n t Mortgage Corporation 783 Southbridge St. Au b u r n , M A 0 1 5 0 1 508-407-8300 w m u r p h y @ f a i rw a y m c . c o m w w w . f a i rw ay m o r t g a g e n e . c o m
Best practice for TRID and managing expectations for smooth closing transactions Preapprovals vs. Pre‐Qualifications Change of circumstances to the Loan Estimate or Closing Disclosures can delay closings Learn about the new changes to mortgage financing, loan programs and guidelines in 2016. New projection of interest rates from market analysts and the impact on your buyers’ loan programs and purchasing power – What factors will drive rates? Gaining market share from the newest generation of home buyers o The fastest growing home owners market is Generation X and Y o Learn how to appeal to millennials How to improve the buyers’ credit scores and maximize their loan options Updates for FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA and MA Housing Manage Expectations + get more loans closed!!
This information is not intended to be an indication of loan qualification, loan approval or commitment to lend. Other limitations may apply. ©2014 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation NMLS ID#2289 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) EQUAL HOUSING LENDER.
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 6 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
& & Jim Brooks, Healthy Homes Program Manager from the Executive Office of Economic Development, Housing Development Division
10:00 - 10:30 am City of Worcester Post-TRID Down Payment Assistance 1. Review TRID compliant City of Worcester Down payment Assistance Plan 2. Simplified process 3. MasssHousing Approved 4. Up to $5000 in assistance 10:30 - noon Open Office Hours regarding Healthy Homes Grant and Down Payment Assistance Grant If you missed the INVESTMENT PROPERTY / HEALTHY HOMES SUMMIT earlier this month, be sure to attend this session so you can provide the latest information to your clients/ potential clients! CMAR is proud to partner with the City of Worcester in taking a proactive approach to addressing Health Issues related to Housing. The City has received a $3,700,000 HUD Grant for Lead Paint Remediation & Healthy Homes issues and this money is available to your clients for home improvements.
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 7 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
trid is here
LET’S LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW TO MANAGE TRANSACTIONS IN THE AGE OF TRID.
You are invited to a Peoples Home Loans Lunch and Learn!
Earn 2 CEU’s - RE93R15: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Effect on Real Estate Closings Friday, April 8th | 12PM to 2PM WRAR 492 Washington Street | Auburn MA 01501 CMAR Register at www.WRAR.org/events.html Speaker will be Michael Dutra from Peoples Lunch to be provided by Brian Daniels of Herlihy Insurance Realtors, let’s make this simple. Here’s 5 things to know: 1. TRID stands for TILA-RESPA Integrated Disclosure and is designed to better inform the consumer. 2. We cannot require documents prior to application. If your buyers need full pre-qualifications, they must volunteer their documentation. 3. Changes to Loan Estimates or Closing Disclosures can delay closings. 4. Changes to purchase agreements, missing fee/cost disclosures or delays in property inspections or application for homeowners insurance can delay closings. 5. While TRID is new, there are likely to be delays. Coach your buyers, sellers and other agents to give me their documents as quickly as possible when we ask for them.
We are well prepared to thrive in the new lending environment. Count on Peoples to help make the complex changes less complex.
Questions about the ever-changing market? Contact me today. I will be the clear guide through the mortgage industry. CEU’s sponsored by McLaughlin, Richards, Biller and Schindel, LLP
Michael Dutra
Home Loans
A DIVISION OF PEOPLES BANK
bankingunusual.com
Regional Sales Manager NMLS 13530 Direct: 508.372.9176 | Cell: 401.486.6894 mdutra@bankingunusual.com
www.TeamDutra.com
NMLS 690890 Member FDIC
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 8 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
April 2016 marks the 48th anniversary of the 1968 landmark Fair Housing Act. Each year REALTORS® recognize the significance of this event and reconfirm our commitment to upholding fair housing law as well as our commitment to offering equal professional service to all in their search for real property. We are proud to bring Jamie Williamson, Chair of the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD), to our FAIR HOUSING SEMINAR.
Date: April 21, 2016 Time: 10 am - 12 pm Place: Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®, 492 Washington Street, Auburn Cost: FREE for CMAR Members
Jamie Williamson
Receive 2 CEU’s - RE19RC12 Register online at www.cmarealtors.org
FAIR HOUSING It’s not an option; it’s the
LAW
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 9 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
HOW TO CLOSE YOUR CLIENTS ON TIME, EVERY TIME!
Hosted by: Principal Prestige Home Mortgage NMLS#3571
Setting accurate expectations for all parties. Structuring your offer correctly with your lender. Making sure you have the correct inspections for the loan program they are using. Special tips on deposit checks and how to speed up that process that can cause delays. Effective communication tips with your lenders and attorney.
Register at :
http://www.wrar.org/events.html or call 508-832-6600 http://www.cmarealtors.org/events.html Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS速
10 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT REALTORS®
Commercial Alliance
The REALTORS® Commercial Alliance of Massachusetts presents
The National Association of REALTORS®
Discovering Commercial Real Estate This course is designed to explain this important side of the business and introduce many of the concepts, tools and other resources needed to pursue a commercial transaction or a career in commercial real estate. Students should bring a financial calculator. Course will include handouts and will have group engagement activities.
Date: Registration: Class: Place: Cost: Instructor:
Tuesday, April 26, 2016 9:00 am 9:30 am - 3:00 pm; Luncheon included Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 492 Washington Street, Auburn, MA $99 for REALTOR® members; $139 for non-members Robert J. Nahigian, FRICS, SIOR, CRE, MCR
Added Bonus for registering: All attendees will be entered into a raffle for a chance to win a FREE 2017 RCAMA membership!
Robert J. Nahigian
Luncheon Sponsor:
Course Outline: Principles of Commercial Real Estate: Players and Properties Characteristics of Commercial Real Estate and Types of Commercial Transactions Commercial Contracts and Resources for Further Exploration ............................................................................. Register online at www.cmarealtors.org/events.html or fax to 508-832-6620 or email to cpappas@rcama.org Name:_________________________________________________________________________________________ Firm:_________________________________________________________________________________________ Billing Address:_________________________________________________________________________________ Credit Card/Expiration:___________________________________________________________________________ Amount to be charged:_________________________ phone:____________________________________________
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
11 www.cmarealtors.org
CODE OF ETHICS TRAINING
The National Association of REALTORS® requires all REALTOR® members to complete a REALTOR® Code of Ethics course during the four year period that ends December 31, 2016.
Code of Ethics Training * * * *
Learn the role the Code should play in your business. Enhance professionalism and competency. Learn how to use the Code as a viable guide. Learn the benefits of Arbitration vs. Litigation For your convenience, CMAR will hold classes on the following dates. All classes are FREE for CMA members, and 2 CEU’s will be awarded. Mon., April 25 - Fidelity Bank, Leominster 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Weds., May 4 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Weds., June 1 1:00 - 3:30 pm Weds., August 31 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Weds., October 12 1:00 - 3:30 pm Sat., November 19 19, 12:30 - 3:00 pm Weds., November 30 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Sat., December 10 12:30 - 3:00 pm Weds., December 14 1:00 - 3:30 pm Weds., December 28 9:30 am - 12:00 pm Alternately, you may take online training on the NAR website at http://www.realtor.org/code-of-ethics/training. NO CEU’s are awarded for these online classes.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Fulfill your requirements early! You may register online at www.wrar.org or call the office at 508-832-6600. The Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® 492 Washington Street * Auburn, MA 01501 Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
12 www.cmarealtors.org
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Effective Communications
The Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® Professional Development Committee Brings you...
A Workshop using the DiSC Personality Profiling System
The Workshop Focus Effective Communication utilizing the DiSC Assessment to connect and win more business Building Productive Teams through trust, healthy conflict, clarity in commitment, accountability and collective results
RT
- Doesn’t like to be rushed - Calm manner - Calm approach - Supportive actions - Humility
P
O
RE
CU
CY
- Shows enthusiasm - Is optimistic - Likes to collaborate - Dislikes being ignored
L AB O R AT I O N
C S
COL
C H AL L E N G E
US
D i
AC
RA
TH
SM
- Sees the big picture - Can be blunt - Accepts challenges - Gets straight to the point
- Enjoys independence - Objective reasoning - Wants the details - Fears being wrong
EN
TS L U
IA
S
AC TI O N
P SU
S T ABI L I T Y
Presented by Ray Eickhoff Dr. DiSC NMLS #2289
Date: Thursday, May 5, 2016 Time: 4:00 - 6:00 pm Place: CMAR, 492 Washington St., Auburn, MA Cost: $30, includes customized DiSC Assessment The DiSC Assessment is required; if you already have one, please notify us BEFORE registration and we will over-ride the cost.
Register online at www.cmarealtors.org or call Lisa at 508-832-6600. Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
13 www.cmarealtors.org
MEMBERSHIP NEWS New Applicants Renata Banach Robert Budack Kurt Charles Stephanie Dupuis Daniel A Pellegrini Sr. Matthew Phillipo Katie Resseguie Tiffany Salo Christine Scannell Michael Scannell Jennifer Thomas
Real Living Barbera Assoc. Keller Williams Realty Keller Williams Realty Waterwheel Realty D.P. Realty/Notary Svcs Exit Realty Partners Exit Real Estate Executives RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Exit Realty Partners Exit Realty Partners Keller Williams Realty
Worcester Worcester Worcester Barre Southbridge Worcester Brookfield Auburn Shrewsbury Shrewsbury Worcester
New Members John Arthur Nicholas Baniukiewicz Sheila Berger Janice Brigham Tammy Ceccarini Carlos Cepeda John Chalino Shelly Chalue Bridjo Cobbs Susan Cone Christine Coonan Oloye Cooper Jennifer Davy Lisa D’Elia Ewelina Dendroulakis Janiece Diaz Laura Fistori Julianne Foley David Gasser Mark Giusto Preston Juskavitch Moses Kadiri Victoria Kelly Jill Kosiba Savvas Kosmidis Peter Lam William McGuiness Jr. Stephanie McNamara Kristine Merriam Laurie Morrison Brian Murphy Laura Perkins Brande Plourde Rhiannon Prunier Mark Rousseau Elizabeth Smick
Keller Williams Realty Worcester Keller Williams Realty Worcester Exit Realty Partners Worcester RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Sturbridge RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Shrewsbury RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Sturbridge Keller Williams Realty Worcester Keller Williams Realty Worcester Keller Williams Realty Worcester Exit Beacon Pointe Northboro Exit Realty Partners Worcester Keller Wiilliams Realty Westboro Homestead Realty Group Millbury Exit Realty Partners Worcester M. Titus Realty Inc. Webster Oak Hill Realty Services, LLC Worcester Exit Realty Partners Shrewsbury ERA Key Realty Services Whitinsville Oak Hill Realty Services, LLC Worcester Century 21 North Shore Realty Leominster Blackstone Valley Realty Mendon Hope Realty & Assoc. Worcester Millennium Realty Mendon Lamacchia Realty, Inc. Waltham ERA Key Realty Services Worcester Keller Williams Realty Worcester Exit Realty Partners Auburn Paramount Realty Group N.Grafton Keller Williams Realty Worcester Exit Realty Partners Auburn B.H.H.S. N.E.Prime Properties Whitinsville Exit Realty Partners Worcester RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Sturbridge Real Living Barbera Assoc. Worcester ERA Key Realty Services Worcester RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Sturbridge
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORSÂŽ
Lizandra Velez Michael Vizard Michael Voyer Zachary Whitney Clarisse Youmall
New Office Dawn Truax
Exit Realty Partners Keller Williams Realty C21 North Shore Realty Exit Realty Partners C21 North Shore Realty
Auburn Worcester Leominster Auburn Leominster
Red Door Realty 113 Main Street Suite 5
Sturbridge
New Affiliates Suzanne Beauchamp
Cahn & Barron LLC 53 East Central Street Worcester
Deryn Donovan Scott Kriss Mike Krone Alex Mulcahy
Kriss Law/Atlantic 15 Crawford Street Needham Kriss Law/Atlantic 15 Crawford Street Needham Kriss Law/Atlantic 15 Crawford Street Needham Kriss Law/Atlantic 15 Crawford Street Needham
Addison Danna Todd Lapan John Lucas
Prestige Home Mortgage 45 Lyman Street Westboro Prestige Home Mortgage 45 Lyman Street Westboro Prestige Home Mortgage 45 Lyman Street Westboro
Rosa Salas
Residential Mortgage Services 324 Grove Street Worcester
Brian Tankersley Dustin Wirzburger
Security 1st Mortgage Funding 1 Ararat Street Worcester Security 1st Mortgage Funding 1 Ararat Street Worcester
Ruta Convent Joseph Girolamo Sandeep Rajguru Raymond Schavone Kaushal Vyas
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2200 West Park Drive, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2200 West Park Drive, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2200 West Park Drive, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2200 West Park Drive, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 2200 West Park Drive,
Westboro Westboro Westboro Westboro Westboro
14 www.cmarealtors.org
APRIL BIRTHDAYS Wishing a very happy birthday to those celebrating this month! May your year ahead be filled with health, happiness, love and friendship! Lynne Ahlberg Boyd Robert Alix Alicia Anderson Peter Anderson Janet Andreson Andrew Armata Vicki Aubry Jessica Barber Michael Barbera Linda Bazinet Debra Becroft Linda Boisvert Amy Bonner Dennis Bottcher Kevin Brignole Vartoohi Burdick Fred Bush Dennis Carlson Lynn Chevalier Ada Cimpeanu Valerie Cohen Susan Cone David Consigli Pamela Cooper Paul Cutler Rebecca Dalke Arturo Dominguez Leonidas Dosreis Gerald Fay Rodney Foisy Michael Foster Luis Garcia Kim German
Lou Gosselin Dawn Green Elizabeth Gregory Jeannine Hair Michelle Horan Lisa Hugo Tina Jacobsen Joe Jenkins Kurt Johnson David Karam Sean Kelly Kristin Kotel Judith Kuhtreiber Lori LaPlante Katherine LaRose Denise Larson David Leal Gina Lewis Karen Lowe Elisha Lynch Patricia Magner Tony Mallozzi Nancy Mayer Maribeth McCauley Lynch James McCullough Patrick McQuaid Dawn Melvin Michele Miller Dianne Mitchell Amy Mullen John Mulryan Brian Murphy Peter Normandin
Dorrinda Okeefe-Shea Stacey O’Neil Karen Packard Tony Palmerino Edward Reardon Thomas Rheault Christina Riberdy Gracellen Riel Richard Roberge Cynthia Rondeau Leif Rosseland Mark Sacco Susan Sachs Nathaniel Schur Mark Shear Jeannine Silun Gary Smith Joseph Smith Joshua Stowell Dawn Szczygiel Nancy Thomas Melinda Titus Luis Torres Carol Vancil Stratton Vitikos James Watson Chris Whitten Dawne Woods David Wright Marjorie Yale
SUPRA SPRING SPECIAL Now is the Time to Invest in your Own Lockbox Key or Upgrade Your Lock Box Key Supra Spring Special from April 1 – June 30, 2016. During this time, the $50 Activation Fee is waived on all keys (dKEY, ActiveKEY and eKEY) for all new keyholders. Also, if a new keyholder or existing keyholder upgrades to eKEY, they will receive the free Fob, worth $58.39. In addition, lockboxes are on sale for $40 (checks only - no credit cards) for the lockboxes). Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
15 www.cmarealtors.org
RENE CERTIFICATION
On March 24 & 25, 18 REALTORS速 took part in the Real Estate Negotiation Expert Certification Class, taught by national trainer, Barbara Fairfield (pictured center). This was the first time this class has been offered to CMAR members, and it received rave reveiws! Congratulations to the following members on their RENE Certification: Cherie Benoit, Sheila Berger, Candice Bettencourt, Marsha Bodine, Amy Bonner, Karen Butland, Ada Cimpeanu, Michelle Curran, Danielle Forcier, Bernice Giard Stone, Shannon Gifford, Patricia Halloran, Lori-Anne Hart, Keith Krikorian, Karen Packard, Elena Scaplen, Erika Sullivan and Sarah Taylor.
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
At our March 16 New Member Orientation, 41 new REALTORS速 were inducted as members into CMAR. Kimberly Allard-Moccia, former MAR President, conducted the training and 2015 CMAR President Brad Roberts, presented our newest members with their certificates and REALTOR速 pins. We wish you much success in your new careers! Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS速
16 www.cmarealtors.org
AFFILIATE APPRECIATION NIGHT Our annual event was held at the Worcester Club to show our thanks for all that our Affiliated Business Partners do to enhance membership at the Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®. Special thanks to our sponsors of this event:
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Berkshire Hathaway N.E.Prime Properties Century 21 Northshore Denault-Storrs Century 21 Walsh Coldwell Banker, Worcester Coldwell Banker, Sturbridge Exit Realty Partners, Shrewsbury Janice Mitchell Real Estate Lee Joseph, Coldwell Banker, Worcester Marty Green Properties, LLC Open Door Real Estate Paramount Realty RE/MAX Professional Associates, Auburn
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
Congratulations to our “Nuts & Bolts” Game winners, who landed gift cards! Elisha Lynch, Exit Realty Tracey Fiorelli, Janice Mitchell Real Estate Dan Ryan, Housemaster Jasmine Ortiz, Keller Williams Barbara Hines, RE/MAX Vision Door Prizes were won by Bruce Varner of Security First Mortgage and Kim Hines of ERA Key Realty. Congratulations!
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AFFILIATE APPRECIATION NIGHT
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS速
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AFFILIATE APPRECIATION NIGHT
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS速
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2016 CMAR AWARDS - NOMINEES Our Annual Awards Luncheon will be held on Thursday, April 14, at the Wachusett Country Club. We are pleased to announce the following Award nominees for 2016.
Kristen Walther
Rookie of the Year Award REALTOR® of the Year Award Recognizes the REALTOR® who has contributed dedicated service to the Association, the community and the real estate industry; considers local, state and national activities, community service, business accomplishments and REALTOR® spirit. And the nominees are: Mark Balestracci Maribeth Lynch Mary Ann Shaw Erika Sullivan
Erika Hall Karen Russo Dave Stead
Natalie A. Quinlan Distinguished Service Award Recognizes the individual who has offered continuous service to the Association in various areas over an extended period of time; focuses on the individual’s overall contribution and service to the Association. And the nominees are: Mike DeLuca Mary Gale Lucy Lemke
Tony Economou Lee Joseph
Affiliate of the Year Award Recognizes the Affiliate member who has contributed dedicated service to the Association, the community and the real estate industry; considers local, state and national activities, community service, business accomplishments and REALTOR® spirit.
Recognizes the REALTOR® who has contributed dedicated service to the Association , the community and the real estate industry; considers local, state and national activities, community service, business accomplishments and REALTOR® spirit. And the nominees are: Christopher Brown Shannon Gifford Lusa Hugo Suzanne MacKenzie Lora Savage
Jessica Fromm Grace Golden Vi Lai Maureen O’Connor
REALTORS® Choice Award Recognizes an individual who, in the opinion of his/her peers, is the most professional, courteous and cooperative in the listing and selling of real estate. And the nominees are: Candi Bettencourt Lisa Boudreau Lisa Caron Matteo Gentile Lisa Hugo Laurie Kraemer Lucie Lemke Kathleen McSweeney Amy Mullen Tom Rheault Dave Stead Erika Sullivan Allison Zorovich
Jim Black Jeff Burk Diane Dabrowski Stacey Hamel Lee Joseph Priscilla Kryger Moira McGrath Cathy Meyer Chris Reilly Karen Russo Nathan Stewart Liza Tangney
Join us on April 14 to find out the winners!
And the nominees are: Mike Dutra
Bill Murphy
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
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2016 CMAR AWARDS - MILESTONE CELEBRANTS Lifetime Membership Rosalind Levine Denise Oosterman Judy Reynolds Deborah Richards
30 Year Milestone Brian Babine Randall DeVries John Fikoski Demetrios Gatos Lee Joseph Kristin Kotel George Lamothe Karen Mercure Elaine Quigley Douglas Stone Michael Toomey
25 Year Milestone
Sue-Anne Bock Dona Colangelo Donna DeChiaro Stefanie Ferrecchia Marcia Frangiosa Paul Gallagher Alex Hammer Ruth Hiller Gloria MacKoul S. Elaine McDonald Joseph Navin Cindy Pollard Gracellen Riel Barbara Venincasa
20 Year Milestone
Vicki Aubry Jane Becker Marianne Belanger Sandi Boucini Rosemarie Bradshaw Donna Coakley-McGowan Cynthia Donati Cheryl Fleming Richard Hansson Jane Kelleher Karen Manring Meg McElroy John Morte Maura O’Connor Renee Prunier Sandra Splaine Cynthia Truax George Tsefrikas Roger West
15 Year Milestone
Petra Bartelmann Gary Caggiano William Callahan Merillyn Chicknavorian Pamela Crawford Claire Earley Deb Evans Caryn Gorczynski Michelle Granger Barbara Grover Jeannine Hair Deborah Hays Rochelle Jonswold Cheryl Lancaster Marilyn Leary Susan Ovian Donna Plouffe Claire Rainville Robert Smith Laurie Sullivan Mark Twichell Alan Varnum
10 Year Milestone
Alicia Abu Kathryn Acciari Colleen Altison Trista Astrella Joseph Banks Pamela Bott Patricia Bourque Elena Branagan Jennifer Brunelle Eliamonda Cacollari Lisa Caron Philip Carroll Joseph Chenevert Susan Como Jean Cormier Gina Cotton Kathleen Craig Carrie Cross Elizabeth Cruz Pamela Dennis Lisa DeVries Christopher Essel Gerald Fay Ronald Garabedian Grover Gentry Colleen Griffin Delmy Guzman Kelly Henderson Michael Howard Kurt Johnson
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
10 Years (continued) Sean Kelly Anthony Khattar Jean Killeen Denise Larson Josephine LeBlanc Barbara Leone Dorothy Mann Louis McCann Daintria McClure Patrick McParland Catherine Meyer Elizabeth O’Connor Basil Onwukwe Sally Palermo Cassie Paolucci Lisa Pappas Festim Pishtari Mark Porter Michael Prescott Cheryl Raymond Maria Reed Lance Rozell Joan Senecal Jennifer Solin Jeffrey Taylor James Thompson Paul Tonelli Susan Weinstein Seth Welcom Margie White Mary Wood Alison Zorovich
5-Year Milestone Entela Agolli Judi Brink Vanessa Burrill Irene Caruso John Casillo Lisa Cellucci Dana Claflin John Colautti Bryan Davis Susan Davis Thomas Dillon Agnes Dormon Dennis Finn Joanne Fontaine Kim German Jennifer Gillis Martin Green Naomi Herron Justin Jarboe Rebecca Joseph
5 Years (continued) Edward Lapointe Donald Lundstrom Kimberly Lussier Gail Mahoney Gregory Maiser Angela Masiello Michael Miele Rachel Morse Eric Ntim Nyarko Jon Pouliot Janet Schoeny Thomas Sullivan Maryanne Swartz Sheryl Tessier Brian Trottier Rachel Yovan
Affiliate Milestones 10 Year Milestone Jeannine Ellis
5 Year Milestone
Jessica Albino Robert Bonofiglio Michael Bovenzi Kelly Gaumond Robert Kalagher Harry Kotseas Richard McNally Anne Marie Rafferty David Rocheford Larry Stone Donna Tiso
21 www.cmarealtors.org
2016 CMAR AWARDS - TOP PRODUCER FINALISTS Andrew Abu....................................Andrew Abu REALTORS
Pamela Kelley................................Janice Mitchell Real Estate
Colleen Altison...............................Innovative Real Estate Solutions
Anthony Khattar............................Khattar Realty LLC
Mark Balestracci...........................Exit Realty Partners
Denise Larson...............................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Tracy Barber..................................Exit Realty Partners
Lucie Lemke..................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Sue Bellino....................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Diane Luong..................................RE/MAX Advantage1
Amy Bonner...................................Berkshire Hathaway HomeService
Maribeth Lynch..............................Thrive Real Estate Specialists
Sandra Bosnakis...........................RE/MAX Vision
Gloria MacKoul..............................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Lisa Boudreau...............................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Patricia Magner.............................Collins & Demac Real Estate
Lisa Bradley...................................RE/MAX Vision
Kevin Maher..................................Emerson REALTORS
Samantha Butkiewicus.................ERA Key Realty Services
Gail Mahoney.................................RE/MAX Professional Assoc.
Gail Carter......................................ERA Key Realty Services
Sue Marzo......................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Donna Caissie...............................Emerson REALTORS
Kim McCrohon...............................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Scott Cheney.................................Keller Williams Realty
Sandra McGinnis...........................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Dana Claflin...................................ERA Key Realty Services
Kimberly McGrath.........................Janice Mitchell Real Estate
Kathy Craig....................................ERA Key Realty Services
Kathleen McSweeney...................Collins & Demac Real Estate
Colleen Crowley.............................Exit Beacon Pointe Realty
Cathy Meyer...................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Diane Dabrowski...........................ERAKey-Alliance Realty
Amy Mullen....................................RE/MAX Professional Assoc.
Mike Dagilis...................................Exit Realty Partners
Van Nguyen....................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Mike Deluca...................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Dina Nichols..................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Mike Duffy.....................................Exit Realty Partners
Jane O’Connor...............................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Darlene Eager................................ERA Key Realty Services
Dorrinda O’Keefe-Shea.................Century 21 Toomey- Lovett
Michele Eddy.................................ERA Key Realty Services
Brandon O’Neal.............................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Cheryl Eidinger Taylor....................ERA Key Realty Services
Cassie Paolucci.............................Post Road Realty
Deb Evans......................................ERA Key Realty Services
Mark Peris.....................................Andrew Abu REALTORS
Tracey Fiorelli.................................Janice Mitchell Real Estate
Elaine Quigley................................Berkshire Hathaway HomeService
Donna Flannery.............................ERA Key Realty Services
Christine Reilly...............................ERA Key Realty Services
Debra Flot......................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Tom Rheault..................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Spencer Fortwengler.....................Exit Realty Partners
Karen Russo..................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Amy Gerrish...................................RE/MAX Professional Assoc.
Mark Sacco....................................Exit Beacon Pointe Realty
Christy Gibbs.................................Gibbs Realty Inc.
Mary Ann Shaw.............................ERA Key Realty Services
Jeffrey Gibbs..................................Gibbs Realty Inc.
Dave Stead....................................RE/MAX Advantage1
Michelle Gillespie..........................Berkshire Hathaway HomeService
Leslie Storrs...................................Century 21 North Shore
Caryn Gorczynski...........................Century 21 Center Home Team
Erika Sullivan.................................Erika Sullivan Realty Group
Lou Gosselin..................................Exit Beacon Pointe Realty
Mary Surette..................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Terri Grimes...................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
JoAnn Szymczak............................RE/MAX Advantage1
Gizely Guimaraes..........................Exit Beacon Pointe Realty
Marita Tasse..................................RE/MAX Professional Assoc.
Sarah Gustafson...........................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Cynthia Tessier..............................ERA Key Realty Services
Erika Hall.......................................Keller Williams Realty
Lisa Westerman............................RE/MAX Professional Assoc.
Mary Hicks.....................................Century 21 Toomey- Lovett
Dianne Zottoli................................Holden Realty Inc.
June Hillier.....................................RE/MAX Real Estate Center Barbara Hines...............................RE/MAX Vision
Teams
Jennifer Holland............................ERA Key Realty Services
Crawford Realty Team ..................RE/MAX Prof. Associates
Carla Horn......................................ERA Key Realty Services
Kelleher Team ..............................Coldwelll Banker Res. Brok. Park
Mike Howard..................................Andrew Abu REALTORS
John Miller Real Estate Experts...Keller Wiliams Realty
Lisa Hugo.......................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Stewart and Stewart ....................Coldwell Banker Res. Brokerage
Elizabeth Johnson.........................Emerson REALTORS Shannon Johnson.........................Janice Mitchell Real Estate Lee Joseph.....................................Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Park
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
22 www.cmarealtors.org
COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE One of the tasks of our Community Action Committee is to research and interview potential local charities to “adopt” for the year. Once the charities are chosen by the committee, we then direct our efforts to helping them with their needs. We also assist the charities in applying for the grants offered by MAR’s Charitable Foundation and they are the recipients of the proceeds from our Annual Golf Tournament. Last year, our 2 charities received over $3,000 each in addition to baby supplies, backpacks and and gift cards for veterans. This year, our Committee has selected The Boys and Girls Club of Worcester and the Bridge of
Central Massachusetts.
A little about the Charities:
The Boys & Girls Club of Worcester serves 6,000 of the most disadvantaged children in our city. Every year, approximately 500 Club kids are at-risk, proven-risk, special needs, and/or homeless or housinginsecure. Our Family Support core area provides basic needs like shelter, food, winter clothing, even holiday presents for our Club families. Headquartered in Worcester, The Bridge offers 50 programs in 17 cities and towns (located primarily in central Massachusetts) that serve individuals with complex life challenges including serious and persistent mental illness, developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and substance use disorders.
How you Can Help:
We will be having quarterly drives throughout the year to help raise supplies for the charities. Our first drive is a Book and Board Game drive for the Boys and Girls Club which is running throughout the month of April. We are asking all members to consider bringing a New Book or Board Game for ages 5-18 to our Awards Banquet or to the Association Headquarters.
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
23 www.cmarealtors.org
REALTOR速 NIGHT AT FENWAY PARK
REALTOR NIGHT AT FENWAY PARK Boston Red Sox vs. Seattle Mariners
When: Where: Time: Price:
June 18th, 2016 Fenway Park 4:05pm $50.00 per ticket - a portion of each ticket sold will go to the CMAR Scholarship Fund
A great way to celebrate the season with REALTOR速 friends!
For tickets, contact Lisa Sprague at Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS速 508-832-6600 or lsprague@cmarealtors.org All Association Members will have seats in the same section!
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS速
24 www.cmarealtors.org
CMAR 18th ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT CMAR 18th Annual
Golf Tournament0 Wachusett Country Club Thursday, June 23, 2016
Registration: 8:30 am Shotgun: 9:30 am Luncheon: 2:30 pm Single: $125 Foursome: $500
Prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place, Longest Drive & Closest to Pin Raffles, Door Prizes Strings & Mulligans Available!
Includes 18 holes, cart, continental breakfast, luncheon
A portion of proceeds will be donated to local charitable organizations. To register contact Jacki D’Innocenzo at 508-832-6600 or via email at jdinnocenzo@cmarealtors.org. Or send this form to CMAR, 492 Washington Street, Auburn, MA 01501 * FAX 508-832-6620. No. of Players__________
Team Captain:____________________________________________________________
Player 1:
Player 2:
Player 3:
Player 4:
Contact Name: Billing Address: Amount Paid: $__________
___Check
___Amex
___Discover
Card No._________________________________________________
___MasterCard
___Visa
Exp.____________________________________
Signature:__________________________________________________________________________________________
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
25 www.cmarealtors.org
CENTER FOR REAL ESTATE STUDIES & TRAINING Upcoming CEU Courses for April All classes are held at the Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS® CREST School, 492 Washington Street, Auburn, MA 01501, unless otherwise noted. CMAR Members in good standing receive FREE LOCAL CEU’s! Tuition for non-members is $20 for each 2-hour CEU. You may register for classes online at www.cmarealtors.org or by calling the CMAR office at 508-832-6600. Time
Instructor
Course Code
Course Title
Tuesday, April 12 - Auburn 8:00am 10:00am 12:00pm
Brad Roberts
RE34RC03
National Economic Trends & the Real Estate Professional
Brad Roberts
RE44R05
Understanding Title & Title Concerns
Brad Roberts
RE76R12
USDA/Rural Loans
Monday, April 25 - Fidelity Bank Building - Leominster 9:30 am
Gary Bourque
REALTOR® Code of Ethics Training
FREE SAFETY WEBINAR FREE webinar on April 20 at 2:00 pm! The busy season is almost here. Ensure you have a safety plan in place to help you succeed. Sign up for this free safety webinar from the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and learn from Kimberly Allard-Moccia, broker-owner with Century 21 Professionals and NAR REALTOR® Safety Course Instructor, as she shares specific tools and practical advice for implementing safety protocols across your real estate business. Whether you work on your own or as part of a team, everyone should have the same goal – to create a safe work environment. See more at: http://onlinelearning.realtor/Catalog/p-3323-realtor-safety-webinar-incorporating-safety-into-your-business.aspx
VIP SPONSORS Thomas M. Valentine Jr.* PRESIDENT/FINANCIAL ADVISOR
508-796-5950 645 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA 01602 www.forwardfinancialsrv.com *Registered Representative, Securities offered through Cambridge Investment Research, Inc. A Broker/Dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC. Forward Financial Services and Cambridge are not affiliated.
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
countrybank.com 1-800-322-8233 Member FDIC Member DIF 26 www.cmarealtors.org
LOCAL MARKET UPDATE Local Market Update – February 2016 A RESEARCH TOOL PROVIDED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®
+ 41.1%
- 8.0%
- 22.3%
Year-Over-Year Change in Closed Sales All Properties
Year-Over-Year Change in Median Sales Price All Properties
Year-Over-Year Change in Inventory of Homes All Properties
February
Single-Family Properties
2015 294 238 $259,500 1,968 4.5 140 91.8% 364
Pending Sales Closed Sales Median Sales Price* Inventory of Homes for Sale Months Supply of Inventory Cumulative Days on Market Until Sale Percent of Original List Price Received* New Listings
2016 521 340 $235,000 1,506 3.0 127 93.3% 529
Year to Date +/– + 77.2% + 42.9% - 9.4% - 23.5% - 33.2% - 9.4% + 1.7% + 45.3%
February
Condominium Properties
2015 74 61 $203,000 394 3.7 86 95.9% 102
Pending Sales Closed Sales Median Sales Price* Inventory of Homes for Sale Months Supply of Inventory Cumulative Days on Market Until Sale Percent of Original List Price Received* New Listings
2016 149 82 $208,250 329 2.8 117 95.6% 159
2015 610 514 $250,450 --129 93.0% 774
2016 944 686 $241,000 --121 93.7% 1,006
+/– + 54.8% + 33.5% - 3.8% --- 6.0% + 0.8% + 30.0%
Year to Date +/– + 101.4% + 34.4% + 2.6% - 16.5% - 26.0% + 35.5% - 0.3% + 55.9%
2015 149 128 $213,700 --112 96.1% 208
2016 261 164 $205,000 --113 95.2% 288
+/– + 75.2% + 28.1% - 4.1% --+ 0.4% - 0.9% + 38.5%
* Does not account for seller concessions. | Activity for one month can sometimes look extreme due to small sample size.
Median Sales Price
BASED ON A ROLLING 12-MONTH AVERAGE
Single-Family Properties
Condominium Properties All MLS
b
All MLS
b
Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®
a
Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®
a
$350,000
$360,000
$340,000 $300,000 $320,000
$250,000
$300,000
$280,000
$200,000
$260,000 $150,000 $240,000
$220,000 12-2007 12-2008 12-2009 12-2010 12-2011 12-2012 12-2013 12-2014 12-2015
$100,000 12-2007 12-2008 12-2009 12-2010 12-2011 12-2012 12-2013 12-2014 12-2015
All data from the Berkshire County Multiple Listing Service, Cape Cod & Islands Association of REALTORS®, Inc. and MLS Property Information Network, Inc. | Provided by MAR. | Powered by ShowingTime 10K.
Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
27 www.cmarealtors.org
LEGAL HOTLINE Michael McDonagh, MAR General Counsel Ashley Stolba, MAR Associate Counsel Justin Davidson, MAR Legislative & Regulatory Counsel
The MAR legal department continues to hear about scams that REALTORS® should be aware of. The most common scam currently affecting the real estate industry is known as the “Business E-mail Compromise” or “BEC.” Below, please find information on this scam:
REALTORS® print, e-mail, and share this document with coworkers and clients so everyone is prepared to react should the need arise.
The scam: A buyer in a transaction will receive an email
What you can do to protect yourself:
from a real estate agent, title company, or attorney with wiring instructions to transfer money for the upcoming transaction. The email appears genuine and contains the company’s email information and logo, and sometimes will include manipulative language to encourage you to act quickly. The email, however, is not from the so-called sender; but rather, it is from a hacker who had monitored the email account of one of the parties then altered information in the email to have the funds sent to the hacker’s own account. Once the buyer transfers the funds pursuant to the wiring instructions included in the email, the funds are placed into the hacker’s account, most likely never to be recovered.
Who the scam targets: Anyone conducting business through email is a target. The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) has seen a 270% increase in identified victims and exposed loss since January 2015. This scam was reported in all 50 states and in 79 countries. Fraudulent transfers were sent to 72 countries; however, the majority went to banks in China and Hong Kong. Over 8,000 victim complaints totaling almost $800 million were reported to the IC3 from October 2013 to August 2015.
What MAR is doing to protect its members: Massachusetts
Association of REALTORS® President Annie Blatz, Vice President of Legal Affairs Kurt Thompson, CEO Rob Authier, and General Counsel Michael McDonagh met with the Boston Economic Crime Squad of the FBI on Friday, March 4th, 2016. Together, the FBI and MAR agreed to increase awareness of these scams and educate REALTORS® on ways to avoid and report the scam. To accomplish this goal, the FBI has created a guide that can be accessed here: www.themarreport.com/wp/wp-content/ uploads/2016/03/BEC-Flyer-002.pdf. The flyer contains common variations of the scam, suggestions for protecting yourself, and, most importantly, how and when to report the matter to the BFO-FBI. It is encouraged that Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
• From the very start of any transaction, communicate and educate. Get all parties involved in the transaction up to speed on fraudulent “red flags,” and make sure everyone implements secure email practices. • Verify wire transfer requests and changes to vendor bank accounts with two-factor authentication such as a secondary sign-off and/or using voice verification over known phone numbers. Never transfer money without this authentication. • If any party in the transaction has received suspicious or questionable wiring instructions, all parties should be notified immediately. • Encourage computer
your clients systems and
to secure their email accounts.
• Carefully review your E&O Policy to see if your policy covers cybercrime. To protect you and your clients, educate yourself about the fraud schemes and be on guard for any warning signs in a transaction. REALTORS® and their clients who encounter these or similar situations are encouraged immediately report the incident to the FBI’s Boston office at 617-742-5533 and the IC3 at www.ic3.gov. You should also take caution and contact the Massachusetts Attorney General’s office at www.mass.gov/ago or the Federal Financial Fraud Task Force at www.stopfraud.gov. Finally, if you hear of any additional scams, please do not hesitate to report it to your Local Association and/or the MAR Legal Department.
28 www.cmarealtors.org
2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President, Kris Koliss President Elect, Sarah Gustafson Vice-President, Judy Patterson Secretary, Tracey Fiorelli Treasurer, Michael Meurant Immediate Past President, Brad Roberts
Diane Dabrowski Mike DeLuca Erika Hall Lorraine Herbert Lee Joseph Kathy McSweeney Leslie Storrs John Vaillancourt Andrew Abu Leif Rosseland Nathan Stewart
Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Alternate Alternate Alternate
CODE CORNER We have been getting more and more questions on the rules surrounding advertising, both in print and on social media. As a reminder, below is an excerpt from MAR’s Legal Hotline from last April. Please keep in mind that you must adhere to all policies when using social media. We recommend that you keep your business and personal pages separate in Facebook. But, bear in mind that when you post on your personal page, you are still bound by licensing laws and you must be sure to include a link to another page, most likely your firm website, which includes the name of your brokerage. April 2015 Q. My company wants to start advertising our listings on social media. How can I be sure that I am making the proper disclosures?
A. Whether the property is being promoted in a newspaper or on the internet, brokers must disclose the name of their brokerage, as well as their status as a real estate professional. Massachusetts Regulation 254 CMR 3.00(9) states that, “A broker shall not CMAR STAFF advertise in any way that is false or misleading” and “all advertisements shall include Executive VP, the name of the real estate broker.” Furthermore, the REALTOR® Code of Ethics states Colleen Pappas that, “REALTORS® shall be honest and truthful in their real estate communications and Office Manager, shall present a true picture in their advertising, marketing, and other representations. Lisa Sprague REALTORS® shall ensure that their status as real estate professionals is readily apparMarketing Manager, Jacki D’Innocenzo ent in their advertising, marketing, and other representations, and that the recipients Accountant, of all real estate communications are, or have been, notified that those communicaMaura O’Connor tions are from a real estate professional.” Standard of Practice 12-5 goes on to say that, “REALTORS® shall not advertise nor permit any person employed by or affiliated with them to advertise real estate services or listed property in any medium (e.g., electronically, print, radio, television, etc.) without disclosing the name of that REALTOR®’s firm in a reasonable and readily apparent manner.”
Standard of Practice 12-5 of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics was amended in 2011 to address the concern of social media and advertisements. Specifically, it states: “This Standard of Practice acknowledges that disclosing the name of the firm may not be practical in electronic displays of limited information (e.g., “thumbnails”, text messages, “tweets”, etc.). Such displays are exempt from the disclosure requirement established in this Standard of Practice, but only when linked to a display that includes all required disclosures.” Therefore, in each social media advertisement, you must be sure to include a link to another page, most likely your firm website, which includes the name of your brokerage. You should also keep in mind that Massachusetts License law prohibits salespersons from advertising under their own name. Therefore, it is recommended that salespeople who wish to advertise their listings via social media should do so in a manner that clearly identifies their status as a real estate professional, as well as the name of their brokerage.
CMAR office hours are 9:00 am—5:00 pm. For assistance with the MLS Lockbox system, please make an appointment with Lisa Sprague at 508-832-6600. Please LIKE our facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/CentralMasslAssociationofREALTORS. By doing so you will not only get up-to-the-minute information on everything going on at CMAR, but you will help us to increase our visibility while growing your own business network. Central Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®
29 www.cmarealtors.org