Connections April 2015 by REALTOR® Association of Central Massachusetts

April 2015 Inside this Issue: PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE President’s Message

Month-at-a-Glance

Featured Affiliate: Fairway Mortgage

Fair Housing Month

Scholarship Info

Classes/Events

8-17

Membership News

18-20

Community Action

Government Affairs

CREST

Local Market Update

RPAC Update

WRAR Mission Statement The purpose of the Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® is to: * 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.

Greetings to you all. Hope that you have taken ad-

vantage of the down time that Mother Nature arranged for us over the past 12 weeks and that you are rested and ready to go. All anecdotal evidence to date shows a promising Spring market. In fact, I hear of mobbed open houses, increased listing activity and bidding wars. While this is music to all our ears it is all the more important that we remember and enforce our Code of Ethics. It is important to remember that all customers, clients and real estate professionals deserve equal and fair treatment. Speaking of following the rules they are about to change again. The new Consumer Finance Protection Bureau regulations concerning the disclosure of final closing numbers and truth-in-lending statements will become a reality on 1 August 2015. We will be holding a number of educational events, including a new CEU course, to educate our members to ensure they are aware of the ramifications of the changes. Education opportunities are being offered through the spring; check this newsletter and our website for dates. For those members who are affiliated with local charities, don’t miss an excellent opportunity to apply for a MAR Charitable Grant. The deadline is April 17 and the application can be found on marealtor.com Please join us April 16th for the Annual Awards Luncheon. We are happy to say that participation has been steadily increasing so plan ahead and register early. Enjoy the warm weather!!

Brad Brad Roberts

2015 WRAR President

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 1 www.wrar.org

WRAR MONTH-AT-A-GLANCE April 2015 Sunday

5 Easter Sunday

Monday

6 8:30 DR Breakfast

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

2 10 Prof Dev Comm 11-1 Lunch & Learn w/Prestige Mortgage

4 8-12 Pre-License Class

7 9 Govt Affairs Mtg.

8 9:30 Finance 10:30 BOD

9 2-4 Business Builder

10 9:30 YPN

11 8-12 Pre-License Class

5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class

13 5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class

14 11-1 Lunch & Learn w/Fairway Mortgage

15 9:30-3:30 MLS PIN Training

16 11:30 Awards Luncheon @ Wachusett CC

17 9-1 CEU Classes

18 8-12 Pre-License Class

20 WRAR Closed

22 10 Golf Comm. Mtg.

23 10 Renovations Loans w/ Mortgage Network

25 8-12 Pre-License Class

28 9-1 CEU Classes

29 12-2 Lunch & Learn with Atty. Nick Daviau

5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class 26

27 9:30-3:30 MLS PIN Training 5:30-9:30 PreLicense Class

5:30 YPN Paint Night @ Compass Tavern

Save the Date

Get on the Bus with Us!

June 8, 2015

Broker / Office Manager / DR Breakfast

June 10, 2015

REALTOR速 Day on Beacon Hill

June 25, 2015

Annual Golf Tournament at the Wachusett Country Club

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS速 2 www.wrar.org

FEATURED AFFILIATE: Bill Murphy, Fairway Independent Mortgage Fairway Independent Mortgage Supports Make-A-Wish Bill Murphy’s Client appreciation event at Worcester Sharks Game a hit with kids; raises over $6,000 William Murphy and his team at Fairway Independent Mortgage in Auburn, MA hosted a Client Appreciation Night at the Worcester Sharks game on Friday March 20th, with proceeds from the event being donated to Make-A- Wish® Massachusetts & Rhode Island. With over 250 Fairway clients and guests in attendance the Sharks did not disappoint defeating the St. Johns Ice Caps 3-1. In addition to inviting clients of Fairway, over 60 children participated in the “High-Five” tunnel as the Bill Murphy, Fairway Mortgage players took the ice at the start of the game. Several specialty team warm-up jerseys were auctioned off and submitted for a drawing as part of the fundraising efforts along with an opportunity to “chuck-a-puck.” Four Wish families were in attendance and had a chance to meet several of the Sharks players during the pregame. Altogether over $6,000 was raised. On March 29th, additional warm-up jerseys from the game will be available through EBay which Murphy hopes will help bring the total amount raised to $10,000. Murphy has supported Make-A-Wish® Massachusetts & Rhode Island for the last 8 years and is about to eclipse $100,000 for the foundation to date. Murphy has been a strong supporter of the foundation and has also had a family member who received a wish. He allocates a portion of each loan that closes in his branch to the charity. “I am grateful to be able to support an organization that brings happiness to children and families that are facing incredibly challenging illnesses,” said Murphy. According to Make-A-Wish® Massachusetts & Rhode Island, they strive to fulfill wishes for up to 500 local children that are diagnosed annually with a life threatening illness. The most popular wish asked by most is a trip to Walt Disney World, but all sorts of wishes are granted including meeting athletes and celebrities, trips to exotic locations, and experiences like getting to be a ballerina or train conductor for a day. “We are truly grateful to Bill Murphy for his generous support of our mission in honor of his clients,” says Charlotte Beattie, Chief Executive Officer of Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island. “It is only through the generosity of partners like Bill that we are able to fulfill the heartfelt wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions.” Fairway Independent Mortgage is located in Auburn, MA and is a branch of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, among the top 15 lenders in the country. Murphy was recently ranked among the top 1% loan originators nationwide in 2014 and has appeared on the list in past years as well. The Auburn branch is one of 8 Fairway branches in Massachusetts and is one of the top mortgage lenders in central Mass. Murphy’s Auburn branch is committed to providing customers with the best rates and programs available, while also offering personal care to meet individual needs. To reach Bill Murphy in Auburn call 508-407-8300 or email wmurphy@ fairwaymc.com. For more information visit www.fairwaymortgagene. com. Make-A-Wish® Massachusetts &Rhode Island grants wishes for children between the ages of 2 ½ and 18 years of age with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength, and joy. For a child with a life-threatening illness, a wish fulfilled provides profound joy and lasting hope to keep fighting and dreaming for the future. In its 27-year history, the organization has granted more than 7,000 wishes for children in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Visit Make-A-Wish® Massachusetts & Rhode Island at www.massri. wish.org for more information, to make a donation, or to learn about volunteer opportunities. Find us on Facebook at Facebook.com/MassRIWish and on Twitter at Twitter.com/MakeAWishMassRI. Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 3 www.wrar.org

APRIL IS FAIR HOUSING MONTH

Fair Housing community

leadership Join us on Friday, April 17, from 9 - 11 am, as Jamie WIlliamson presents CEU Course RE19RC12, Fair Housing. Breakfast will be provided by Mark Covotta of Stonegate Mortgage.

Stay for a bonus CEU Class from 11 am - 1 pm, as Jamie presents CEU RE09R07, Residential Rental-Landlord Issues

MARKET

inviting & sustaining

diversity

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS速 4 www.wrar.org

WRAR SCHOLARSHIPS

The Membership Committee of the Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® is excited to announce the 2015 Scholarship Recognition Program. In the past, through the efforts of our membership, we have granted scholarships to children of REALTORS® and Affiliate members to help further their educational endeavors. Rules & Regulations for Scholarship Awards 1. The Scholarship will be awarded on the basis of scholas�c achievement including transcripts and awards (50%); leadership ability (10%); community involvement (10%) ; and essay (30%). Applica�on must be submi�ed with most recent transcript. 2. The Candidate must: a) be a high school senior or full-�me college student b) maintain a 3.2 GPA or higher 3. At the discre�on of the Selec�on Commi�ee, candidates may be asked to par�cipate in a personal interview. 4. This Scholarship will be awarded a�er the student has received their rst semester grades. He/she will submit their transcript to Lisa Sprague at the Worcester Regional Associa�on of REALTORS® to receive their scholarship award. In the event that a recipient does not use the scholarship within the allo�ed �me, the next highest candidate in order will be awarded the scholarship. If any winner accepts the scholarship and therea�er does not a�end school or does not maintain reasonable a�endance or grades, the award, or balance thereof, shall be returned to the Worcester Regional Associa�on of REALTORS® Scholarship Fund . 5. Scholarships are designated for children or grandchildren of REALTOR® members of the Associa�on; Affiliate members of the Associa�on, or full-�me staff employees of the Associa�on. 6. Scholarship Applica�ons may be obitained online at h�p://www.wrar.org or by calling the WRAR office at 508-832-6600. 7. The applica�on and all a�achments should be sent to the Worcester Regional Associa�on of REALTORS®,

492 Washington Street, Auburn, MA 01501, no later than May 1, 2015. Any applica�on postmarked a�er that date will be disqualied.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 5 www.wrar.org

NAR REALTOR® SAFETY COURSE NAR REALTOR® Safety Course REALTOR® Safety Course April 21 Tuesday @ 10:00am-1:00pm MAR, HQ 1400 Main Street, Waltham MAR Members: $10 This brand new 3 hour program presented by MAR and NAR will give REALTORS® tools and tips for safety at the office, safety with clients and safety at home. REALTORS ® will learn from others’ experiences and get to know local resources. This class comes with 2 CE credits, RE36R05: Conducting Open Houses and Developing a Safety Plan.

To register visit:

https://www.marealtor.com/events/calendar/ 2015/04/21/default-calendar/nar-realtor-safety-course

Get on the Bus with Us!

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 6 www.wrar.org

2015 VIP SPONSOR

Looking For Your First Home? As A First Time Home Buyer You Can: • Get up to $11K in down payment assistance* • Down payment and closing cost assistance • For qualified buyers anywhere in Massachusetts

1-800-939-9103 | www.southbridgesavingsbank.com *Some Restrictions apply. Call a mortgage consultant today for more information

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 7 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

ALWAYS KNOW BEFORE YOU SHOW! My Agents Unfair Advantage: Pre-Approval Mobile App! SPRING MARKET DIFFERENCE MAKER Thursday April 2 at 11:00am - 1:00pm The Worcester Regional Board of REALTORS® 492 Washington St, Auburn, MA

Lunch will be provided to all who sign up.

Ever been in a multiple offer situation on a Sunday afternoon and cannot reach buyers lender for updated pre-approval letter for highest and best? THIS WILL NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN!

How can it help my business as a Realtor? 1. Your clients will receive the same rigorous and reliable pre-approval we are known for. Credit check, automated underwriting approval, AND review of all of their financial docs. 2. Once we are complete with that process, we enroll the client and add the buyer to the agents app. Now you will know with 100% accuracy what their payment will be and if they qualify for various homes before you are showing them INSTANTLY. 3. No more guessing they are qualified for $200K…ish or it depends on the taxes. You will have 100% clarity on price and payment for your buyers. 4. If it says qualified, you will and have the ability to generate a custom pre-approval letter emailed to you directly in seconds automatically 24/7! Write more offers with less hassle.

HOSTED BY: Wes Oliver Prestige Home Mortgage Westborough, MA 01581 woliver@prestigehomemortgage.com NMLS #3571

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 8 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The WRAR Professional Development Committee is pleased to present:

2015 Office Leadership Breakfast Series

Session 1 Topic:

RESPA/TILA/HUD 1/ The Closing Disclosure & Loan Estimate A panel of attorneys will discuss the New Federal Regulations coming into effect on August 1st, 2015

Date: Breakfast: Program: Cost:

April 6, 2015 8:30 am 9:00-11:00 am $15 each or $50 for all 4

BE PREPARED

PROTECT YOUR PROFITS

Managing Your Potential Exposure As a Broker / Owner

BROKER AWARENESS

Offered exclusively to Brokers & Office Managers

RISK MANAGEMENT

UPCOMING SESSIONS June 8

September 14 November 9

CBRB Head Legal Council Atty. Bob McCauley will discuss Employee vs. Independent Contractor Don’t end up in court! 20 Misrepresentation & Disclosure Situations that can be Avoided Hot Topics from the Legal Hotline with Ashley Stolba

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: ............................................................................. Register now - $15 each - Fax to 508-832-6620 or email to lwalls@wrar.org. April 6_____($15)

June 8_____($15)

Sept. 14_____($15)

Nov. 9_____($15)

All four classes _____($50)

Name:_________________________________________________________________________________________ Firm:_________________________________________________________________________________________ Billing Address:_________________________________________________________________________________ Credit Card/Expiration:___________________________________________________________________________ email:_______________________________________________ phone:____________________________________

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) & THE Effect on Real Estate Closings Receive 2 CEU’s - RE93R15

Dates: April 8 & May 8 Time: 12:00 - 2:00 pm Place: WRAR, 492 Washington St Auburn Cost: FREE to WRAR Members

This course provides a counseling session to prepare real estate agents and their clients on how to respond to new changes to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) rules, effective date of August 1, 2015. These very important sessions will be offered twice monthly through August 1.

Lunch & Refreshments will be served courtesy of Mark P. Covotta Branch Manager Stonegate Mortgage NMLS# 65971

10 www.wrar.org

Business Builder Session 4:

Manage Your Time & MAXIMIZE Your Productivity Thursday, April 9, 2015 2:00-4:00 pm WRAR, 492 Washington St. Auburn FREE to WRAR Members Speaker: Jim Keenan

Manage your time and maximize your productivity by focusing your energy on the activities that really matter to your business. Time blocking, productivity tactics and the 411 Action Goal System will help you operate with a targeted purpose. You’ll learn to work smarter, not harder, toward annual, monthly and weekly goals. To create the work/life balance we all strive to achieve, look to Time Management with the 411. This course prioritizes the tools and systems you need in this course to accomplish more in the time you work, rather than spending more time working. Objectives: • Learn to focus on the 20% and operate with purpose. • Effectively set goals and establish accountability. • Create a 411 Action Goal Sheet to help define goals and manage activities. • Implement the 411 with the aid of productivity tactics such as time blocking.

This event is Sponsored by: REAL E ESTATE

A monthly educational series brought to you by the WRAR Professional Development Committee

Business Builders

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The lAW office OF

JESSICA ALBINO

.......................................................... Sign me up ! Return this form via fax to 508-832-6620 or email to lwalls@wrar.org. You may also enroll online at www.wrar.org Name ___________________________________________________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip_____________________________________________________________________________ Phone______________________________________ email_______________________________________

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

11 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT You’re Invited!

Lunch and Learn with Bill Murphy of Fairway Mortgage CEU Course: RE25R08

Financing

The Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 492 Washington St. Auburn, MA 01501

Have Your Best Spring Ever in 2015! April 14th 2015 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Registration 10:30 AM) Lunch and refreshments will be served courtesy of Attorney Jessica Albino RSVP ONLINE: http://www.wrar.org/events.html What to Expect:

• • • •

• • • • •

New changes in August 2015 that could impact your closing date Reduced mortgage insurance premium to make FHA more desirable New 3% down payment Conventional loan program New projection of interest rates from market analysts and the impact on your buyer’s loan programs and purchasing power o What factors will drive rates in 2015 o Recent drop in interest rates will allow your buyer to have increased buying power with similar monthly payments How to submit strong offers with strong preapprovals Helping the millennial generation understand their student loan debt and housing options Gaining market share from the newest generation of home buyers o The fastest growing home owners market is Generation X and Y How to improve your client’s credit score and maximize their loan options Cheat sheet for FHA, VA, Conventional, USDA and MA Housing

Hosted by: Bill Murphy of Fairway Independent Mortgage – CMP Center for Real Estate Studies & Training

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.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

12 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Daviau Law Offices, PC

Lunch & Learn with Attorney Nicholas Daviau

Guiding You Through Each Phase of Your Life

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) & THE Effect on Real Estate Closings

Receive 2 CEU’s - RE93R15 Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2015 Time: 12:00 - 2:00 pm Place: WRAR, 492 Washington Street Auburn Cost: FREE to WRAR Members

Topics to be covered: 1. Role of the Closing/Settlement in the Real Estate Cycle 2. Seller’s Closing Costs and Responsibilities 3. Buyer’s Closing Costs and Responsibilities 4. Documents at Closing 5. Settlement Statement 6. Broker’s Role and Impact on the Closing Process 7. How will changes to the Settlement Practices affect the Closing Process Lunch & Refreshments will be served courtesy of Joyce L Cutler /Assistant Vice President Branch Manager NMLS#655062 Leominster Credit Union 910 West Boylston Street Worcester Ma 01606

13 www.wrar.org

Presenting:

Help with Your Renovation Loans! Do you have questions about Renovation Loans?   

When and how do I use one? How do I change to one? How do they work?

Thursday, April 23rd 10:00 – 11:30 am WRAR Conference Room 492 Washington Street Auburn, MA 01501 Speaker: Cheryll LeBlanc Cheryll is a 20+ year veteran of writing these fun loans. In her career, she estimates she’s either been directly or indirectly responsible for closing over 400 renovation loans. And somehow she managed to retain her relationships despite that fact!

Space is Limited! Register Early! Please RSVP to Cheryll at 508-498-7570 or cleblanc@mortgagentwork.com

Presented by: CHERYLL LEBLANC

District Manager, NMLS# 484281 Office: 508-407-0075 Cell: 508-498-7570 cleblanc@mortgagenetwork.com

www.CheryllLeBlanc.com

MORTGAGE NETWORK, INC. 23 Midstate Drive, Suite116 Auburn, MA 01501

© 2015 Mortgage Network, Inc. NMLS ID# 2668. ; Massachusetts Mortgage Lender and Broker MC2668 . This is not a commitment to lend. Rates, terms, fees, and equity requirements are subject to change without notice. Restrictions apply. Equal Housing Lender.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

14 www.wrar.org

WRAR AWARDS CELEBRATION

PLATINUM SPONSORS Law Office of Jessica Albino Daviau Law Offices, PC Fairway Mortgage Prestige Home Mortgage Southbridge Savings WinTrust Mortgage

Thursday, April 16, 2015 Wachusett Country Club 11:30 am registration 12:00 Buffet Luncheon & Awards Member Price: Non-member Price: Table of 10:

$35 $35 $330

GOLD SPONSORS Bank of Canton Cahn & Barron, LLC, Attorneys at Law Fidelity Bank Forward Financial Services MLS PIN Prospect Mortgage Security First Mortgage Webster Five

If you are purchasing a table of 10, PLEASE include a separate sheet with the attendee names . REGISTRATION DEADLINE: APRIL 3, 2015

SILVER SPONSORS Commonwealth Environmental Services Law Office of Harry P. Kotseas BRONZE SPONSORS Law Office of Patrick Flynn Mortgage Network Law Office of David R. Rocheford, Jr. PC Each year the Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS速 recognizes its members for their professional achievements including involvement with our Association and contribution to our communities. Join us in celebrating those achievements, including our TOP PRODUCER Award.

Register online at www.wrar.org or return this form via fax to 508-832-6620 or via email to jdinnocenzo@wrar.org. You may also call the WRAR offices at 508-832-6600. Contact Name:______________________________________________ Company:__________________________________ Billing Address:_______________________________________________ City/State/Zip_______________________________ Phone:___________________________________________ Email:_______________________________________________ Amount Due__________

____Check

____American Express

____Discover

____MasterCard

____Visa

Card No______________________________________________________________ Expiration________________________ Signature_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS速

15 www.wrar.org

VETERANS’ FOOD DRIVE & BBQ

RLRT PRESENTS: BBQ & FOOD DRIVE TO BENEFIT LOCAL HEROES

Saturday, April 18th 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Held at the Real Living Barbera Associates Office 451 Grove Street,

Worcester, MA 01605

PLEASE COME HELP US RAISE FOOD ITEMS FOR OUR HEROES. DONATIONS CAN BE NON‐PERISHABLE ITEMS OR SMALL INCREMENT GROCERY STORE, PHARMACY GIFT CARDS AND CASH. THERE WILL BE FACE PAINTING, GAMES, HAMBURGERS & A FUN BBQ! PLEASE JOIN US FOR FUN, BBQ AND A GREAT CAUSE!! EVERY DONATION ENTERS YOU TO WIN A 4 PACK OF SEASON PASSES TO SIX FLAGS NEW ENGLAND! A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: COMMONWEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES INC. (774) 696‐5479 SALEM FIVE MORTGAGE SERVICES, JASON ANKER (857) 891‐5075 READY 2 RUN GRAPHICS (508) 459‐9977

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

16 www.wrar.org

YPN PAINT NIGHT

YPN

Young Professionals’ Profess sionals’ Network

Professional Development g Opportunities p & Networking for today’ today’s REALTOR®

To benefit the WRAR Scholarhip Fund

Date: Time: Place: Cost: Host:

Tuesday, April 28, 2015 Registration at 5:30; Starts at 6:00 pm The Compass Tavern, 90 Harding Street, Worcester $40 per person Art by Simone Participants will be painting wine glasses & bottle; this picture is only an example and does not necessarily depict the project.

Thank you to our Event Sponsors: Nick Maruca of Creative Cabinets The Law Office of Scott Wrenn Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

17 www.wrar.org

MEMBERSHIP NEWS

March New Member Orientation

Diana Awuah Xsell Realty Worcester Edwin Baduski Houde Real Estate Marlboro Susanna Bianco Keller Williams Realty Worcester Elizabeth Browning ERA Key Realty Services Auburn Lewis Brugger Keller Williams Realty Worcester Cesar Burgos Xsell Realty Worcester Samantha Butkiewicus ERA Key Realty Services Spencer Dennis Carlson C 21 Commonwealth Milford Lynn Chevalier Sterling Realty Belair Sterling Heather Donovan C 21 Toomey- Lovett Spencer Katarina Earley Keller Williams Realty Worcester Megan Fletcher Realty Exec. Tri-County Bellingham Jessica Fromm RE/MAX Professional Spencer Patrick Hack ERA Key Realty Services Worcester Thomas Ingalls ERA Key Realty Services Worcester Brenda Jacques ERA Key Realty Services Whitinsville Barry Latham ERA Key Realty Services Worcester Peter Mancuso Emerson REALTORS Auburn Pauline McLaughlin Afonso Real Estate Milford Sandra Milller Coldwell Banker Worcester Ivelin Mollov Exit Realty Partners Shrewsbury Jay Mooney Quaboag Valley RE Brookfield Maureen O’Connor ERA Key Realty Services Auburn Lisa Paciello Reece Exit Realty Partners Worcester Mark Palmieri Jr. ERA Key Realty Services Whitinsville Nathaniel Richards Eastern Alliance Realty Worcester Robin Riel ERA Key Realty Services Milford Michelle Roberts ERA Key Realty Services Spencer Angela Rogers Exit Realty Partners Auburn John Saari RE/MAX Professional Shrewsbury Joshua Somers Exit Realty Partners Auburn Justin Stelmok Emerson REALTORS Auburn

New Applicants Ama Adadjo Christopher Brown Jessica Casasanta Joshua Daoust Nicholas Dearent Shirley DeVries Rony Elzoghbi

Xsell Realty Keller Williams Realty ERA Key Realty Services Keller Williams Realty Exit Realty Partners B.H.H.S. N.E.Prime Prop. Keller Williams Realty

Worcester Worcester Whitinsville Worcester Auburn Whitinsville Worcester

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

Charlsey Gentile Michael Hoefling Jully Khattar Aaron Lathrop Sarah Menke Lawrence Peak Susan Szolusha Chris Ulinski Tom Woollacott

Exit Realty Partners Keller Williams Realty Exit Realty Partners Keller Williams Realty Realty Exec. Tri County Keller Williams Realty RE/MAX Professional Exit Realty Partners Keller Williams Realty

Auburn Worcester Worcester Worcester Bellingham Worcester Sturbridge Auburn Worcester

Agents Transferred Offices Elizabeth Champi Poisson Crystal Figueroa Christa Jaillet John Kreiss Karen Manring Raymond Mattress Tracy McGrath John Miller Pamela Taylor

Exit Realty Partners RE/MAX Professional LAER Realty Partners Keller Williams Realty Open Door Real Estate Exit Realty Partners ERA Key Realty Services Keller Wiliams Realty Exit Beacon Pointe Realty

Shrewsbury Auburn Northboro Westboro Sterling Auburn Marlboro Worcester Northboro

New Affiliates

Susan LaRose Doucette & LaRose, LLC Oxford Gretchen Antonelli Forward Financial Svcs. Worcester Joyce Cutler Leominster Credit Union Worcester Paul Walsh Mortgage Financial, Inc. Worcester Marty Gilman Norcom Mortgage Sturbridge Eric Stevens Quick Silva Law Somerville Patrick Manning Residential Mortgage Svcs. Southboro Mark Covotta Stonegate Mortgage Marlboro Lee Abdella Walsh Home Inspection Cumberland Mike Walsh Walsh Home Inspection Cumberland Justin Bitler Wintrust Mortgage Needham John Genga III Wintrust Mortgage Needham 18 www.wrar.org

MEMBERSHIP NEWS

On March 4, 33 new agents were sworn in as the newest WRAR REALTORS® at our New Member Orientation. PresidentElect Kris Koliss (kneeling, front) welcomed them.

Get on the Bus with Us!

World-Class Home Financing in Your Backyard! Prospect is a direct lender with in-house processing centers so you can close with confidence. Our vast array of home loan solutions can help first-time buyers, move-up buyers, hard-to-qualify, investors and everyone in between: n

Conventional

USDA Rural Financing

Refinance

Renovation Loans

FHA and VA

Investment and Second Homes

MA Housing

Jumbo and Super Jumbo

David Samara

Sales Manager, NMLS #29773 Office: (508) 459-3617 Cell: (508) 380-8385 Fax: (877) 301-5689 David.Samara@prospectmortgage.com www.myprospectmortgage.com/dsamara

Wendy Burdett

Contact us today for all of your home-financing needs! 1393 Grafton Street ∙ Suite D ∙ Worcester ∙ MA 01604 ∙ Branch NMLS #77995

Loan Officer, NMLS #40660 Office: (508) 459-3621 Cell: (508) 380-7697 Fax: (877 461-6020 Wendy.Burdett@prospectmortgage.com www.myprospectmortgage.com/wburdett

Loan inquiries and applications in states where I am not licensed will be referred to a Loan Officer who is licensed in the property state. Equal Housing Lender. Prospect Mortgage is located at 15301 Ventura Blvd., Suite D300, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403. Prospect Mortgage, LLC (NMLS Identifier #3296, www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) is a Delaware limited liability company licensed by MA Mortgage Lender/Broker License #MC3296; licensed by the NH Banking Dept; licensed by RI Licensed Lender #20021343LL, Loan Broker #20041643LB. This is not an offer for extension of credit or a commitment to lend. Loans are currently being closed and committed at the expressed rates, however these rates may change or may not be available at the time of your loan lock-in, commitment or closing. All loans must satisfy company underwriting guidelines. Interest rates and APRs are based on recent market rates, are for informational purposes only, are subject to change without notice and may be subject to pricing add-ons related to property type, loan amount, loan-to-value ratio, credit score and other variables. Call for details. Terms and conditions apply. Additional loan programs may be available. Rev 2.25.15 (0215-1968) LR 2015-XXX

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

19 www.wrar.org

MEMBERSHIP NEWS Scholarship Raffle - Winner Announced at Awards Luncheon 4/16 Our Young Professionals Networking Group is holding a raffle in support of the WRAR Scholarship Fund. As most of you know, the Scholarship Fund exists to help children and grandchildren of REALTOR速 and Affiliate members to help further their education. Scholarships are awarded each spring. In 2014, we gave $4,000 ($1,000 each) to children of WRAR members.

To build up our 2015 Scholarship Funds, we will be selling raffle tickets for $25 each. The winner will receive the use of a cottage in Ogunquit, ME, for the week of June 13-20, 2015, or any week in June or September 2016. This holds a $1,300 value. For more information and pictures, visit http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p365187. Thank you to Bryan Larson of Fairway Mortgage, Boston, for the generous donation of the cottage. To purchase a ticket, call Lisa Sprague, Membership Manager, at 508-832-6600, ext. 230, or email Lisa at lsprague@wrar.org.

Get on the Bus with Us!

2015 VIP SPONSORS

MOLD It can affect your PROPERTY and your HEALTH!

We offer Mold Remediation without the use of harmful and toxic chemicals. We take care in ensuring no spores and dust leave our work area so that, in most cases homeowners can remain in the home while remediation is undertaken. We offer a 10-year transferable guaranty! Call for a Consultation Today! Commonwealth Environmental Services, Inc. A Mold Remediation Company 24-Hour Service 774-696-5479 Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS速

Law Office of Harry P. Kotseas Harry P. Kotseas, Esq. Sharon F. LaPointe, Esq. * Annelle E. Benson, Esq. Highland Title & Closings Real Estate Mortgage Law Purchases & Sales Mortgage Closings Short Sales

Title & Closings Preparation of Wills Business Formation & Transfers Settlement of Estates

94 Highland Street, Worcester, MA 01609 09 Tel: (508) 753-5933 Fax: (508) 755-1244 contact@kotseas.com

20 www.wrar.org

WRAR COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE Hello Everyone, Happy Spring! I am proud to say I am chairing the Community Action Committee this year and we have a lot going on!. Our structure has changed a bit for the committee, which is currently broken down into 7 task force:

• • • • • • •

Golf Tournament Backpack Drive MAR Charitable Trust Communications Public Relations Volunteer Day Habitat Build Day

Some groups are larger than others and some require shorter time commitments. If you are interested in volunteering on any of these please contact me asap. We do have enough members on the Golf Tournament for this year. Furthermore, we have identified the two charities which WRAR will be supporting this year, through the golf tournament, volunteer day and supply drive. Both have locations in Worcester County. Veterans Inc. is New England’s leading provider of support services to veterans and their families. Incorporated in 1990, Veterans Inc. has helped more than 55,000 veterans in need and today operates offices and programs in all six New England states, providing or assisting with housing, counseling, employment and training services, family programs, benefits counsel-

ing and advocacy, temporary financial assistance, health and wellness, food services, and women and childcare services. Horizons for Homeless Children is one of the few organizations in Massachusetts focused exclusively on the needs of young homeless children and their families. We are recognized as a national leader in the education of homeless children. Today, we provide high-quality early education, opportunities for play, and family engagement services to more than 2,000 homeless children each week in Massachusetts. We will be scheduling a volunteer day for Veteran’s Inc in the fall. Due to policies at Horizons we will not be able to schedule one there. In lieu of that, we will be doing a supply drive for their location. I am looking to collect the following items: Playdough, Clorox Wipes, Baby Wipes, Tissue, Paper Towels, Markers, Coloring Books, Baby Rattles, Chutes and Ladders, Candyland, Mr. Potato Head, Construction Paper, Tempera Paint, and Finger Paint. Please feel free to bring an item to the Awards Banquet or WRAR. Email me if you need a pick up. kkoliss3853@gmail. com. Our golf tournament is going to be a great event this year and we anticipate another sell out. Please look for the flyer in this newsletter and sign up quick! If you know of any local charity that may be interested in applying for a MAR Charitable Trust Grant please email me!! Finally, keep an eye out for the Back Pack Drive again in the next couple of months. That has always been a great success and a great help to local children! Thank you! Kris Koliss 2015 President -Elect & Community Action Chair

Can You Help Our Supply Drive?

We are running a Supply Drive for Horizons for Homeless Children and we are looking for the following items: Playdough Clorox Wipes Baby Wipes Tissue Paper Towels Markers Coloring Books

Baby Rattles Chutes and Ladders Candyland Mr. Potato Head Construction Paper Tempera Paint Finger Paint.

Please bring an item to the Awards Banquet or WRAR. Email me if you need a pick up: kkoliss3853@gmail.com.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

21 www.wrar.org

2014 VIP SPONSOR

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We are committed to delivering great service to our customers. Contact us today! 1500 Worchester Rd., Ste. G Framingham, MA 01702

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Office: 781.453.8900

Direct: 781.453.6927

Senior Mortgage Consultant NMLS #4231

Cell: 617.651.0571 eFax: 844.889.5383 JGenga@WintrustMortgage.com www.WintrustMortgage.com

Senior Mortgage Loan Professional NMLS #13530

Cell: 401.486.6894 eFax: 844.766.1954 MDutra@WintrustMortgage.com www.TeamDutra.com

Justin Bitler

Senior Mortgage Consultant NMLS #153699

NH/VT: 603.448.9192

MA: 508.271.7160 Office: 781.247.9374 eFax: 855.900.2363 JBitler@WintrustMortgage.com www.HomeLoansByJB.com

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

22 www.wrar.org

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE REALTOR Day on Beacon Hill June 10, 2015 10:00 am at the State House

WRAR Bus departs TJ Maxx parking lot in Auburn at 7:30 SHARP and returns at 3:30 pm FREE to WRAR Members Join us and make your VOICE HEARD! Seats are Limited - Sign up TODAY!

CENTER FOR REAL ESTATE STUDIES & TRAINING Upcoming CEU Courses for April All classes are held at the Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® CREST School, 492 Washington Street, Auburn, MA 01501.. We also hold periodic classes at the Fidelity Bank Building, 478 Mechanic Street in Leominster. WRAR 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.wrar.org or by calling the WRAR office at 508-832-6600.

Auburn, Friday, April 17, 2015 Time

Instructor

Course Code

Course Title

9:00 - 11:00

Jamie Williamson

RE19RC12

Fair Housing

11:00 - 1:00

Jamie Williamson

RE09R07

Residential Rental:Landlord/Tenant Issues

Auburn, Tuesday, April 28, 2015 9:00 - 11:00

Nelson Zide

RE12R07

Condominiums, Cooperative & Timeshares

11:00 - 1:00

Nelson Zide

RE89R14

Purchase & Sale Agreement in Residential Transactions

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

23 www.wrar.org

LOCAL MARKET UPDATE Local Market Update – February 2015 A RESEARCH TOOL PROVIDED BY THE MASSACHUSETTS ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

- 12.9%

+ 9.3%

- 23.7%

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

2014 360 259 $236,500 2,054 4.5 133 93.2% 550

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

2015 335 231 $260,000 1,626 3.8 139 91.8% 364

Year to Date +/– - 6.9% - 10.8% + 9.9% - 20.8% - 16.2% + 4.1% - 1.5% - 33.8%

2014 639 567 $243,000 --124 93.0% 1,016

February

Condominium Properties

2014 90 75 $209,900 495 4.6 99 95.7% 147

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

2015 90 60 $202,750 320 3.0 88 95.7% 101

2015 683 504 $251,500 --128 93.0% 773

+/– + 6.9% - 11.1% + 3.5% --+ 3.1% + 0.0% - 23.9%

Year to Date +/– 0.0% - 20.0% - 3.4% - 35.4% - 34.1% - 11.6% - 0.0% - 31.3%

2014 193 164 $185,950 --111 95.0% 281

2015 172 128 $212,500 --114 96.0% 207

+/– - 10.9% - 22.0% + 14.3% --+ 3.2% + 1.1% - 26.3%

* 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

All MLS

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

$350,000

$300,000

$300,000 $250,000

$200,000 $250,000

$150,000

$200,000 1-2008

1-2009

1-2010

1-2011

1-2012

1-2013

1-2014

1-2015

$100,000 1-2008

1-2009

1-2010

1-2011

1-2012

1-2013

1-2014

1-2015

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 10K Research and Marketing.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

24 www.wrar.org

2015 VIP SPONSOR

Take Advantage of Security First’s Spring Rates!

SECURITY FIRST’S 15-YEAR FIXED RATE MORTGAGE

% 3.00 Rate

% 3.2139

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Richard McNally Brian Tankersley Kelly Lizotte MLO# 21892 MLO# 32634 MLO# 32750 Cell: 508-523-7971 Cell: 508-853-3000 Cell: 508-523-6409

Anne Marie Rafferty MLO# 566034 Cell: 508-864-9216

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

APR

WORCESTER

Call 508-853-3000 www.securityfirstmf.com NMLS# 252771

Deven Ewing MLO# 31776 Cell: 774-239-5969

Michael Morcone MLO# 1059166 Cell: 774-766-0257

Bruce Varner MLO# 752600 347-615-4444

Susan Bertenthal CT MLO# 1203529 860-384-2945

25 www.wrar.org

2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President, Brad Roberts President Elect, Kris Koliss Vice-President, Sarah Gustafson Secretary, Judy Patterson Treasurer, Michael Meurant Immediate Past President, Dave Stead

Kathleen Cooper Diane Dabrowski Jayne Diliberto Tracey Fiorelli Erika Hall Lorraine Herbert Lee Joseph Kathy McSweeney Leslie Storrs James Keenan John Vaillancourt

Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Director Alternate Alternate

WRAR STAFF Executive VP, Colleen Pappas Membership Manager, Lisa Sprague

WRAR RPAC STATUS Each year, the National Association of REALTORS® sets goals that the local associations are encouraged to reach. For 2015, our NAR Goals are: RPAC Donations $25,000 $20,000 $15,000 $10,000 $5,000 $Donations

Marketing Manager, Jacki D’Innocenzo Accountant, Maura O’Connor Administrative Assistant, Lynne Walls

WRAR office hours are 9:00 am—5:00 pm. For assistance with the MLS Lockbox system, please make an appointment with Lynne Walls at 508-8326600. Please LIKE our facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/WorcesterRegionalAssociationofREALTORS. By doing so you will not only get up-to-the-minute information on everything going on at WRAR, but you will help us to increase our visibility while growing your own business network.

Goal $23,677

Current $7,780

RPAC Participation 430 420 410 400 390 380 370 360 Participation

Goal 426

Current 384

Have you made your fair share contribution this year? If not, please contact WRAR today.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

26 www.wrar.org