March 2014 Connections by REALTOR® Association of Central Massachusetts

March 2014 Inside this Issue: President’s Message

March Month-at-a-Glance

Affiliates Corner

3-5

Affiliates Appreciation Night

6-7

Upcoming Classes & Events

8-18

Awards Information

19-20

Membership News

21-22

Golf Tournament

CREST

Government Affairs

April is Fair Housing Month

26-27

MAR Legal Hotline

Scholarship Drive Raffle

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

President’s Message March is usually the beginning of the busy spring real estate market. Though there’s still a lot of snow on the ground, things are definitely picking up. Thanks to all the REALTORS® and Business Partners who came to our Affiliate Appreciation Night on February 27. Congratulations to Tony Economou & his District 1 Team on a well deserved victory. Dave Samara & I had a great time running the trivia contest. Next time we need to make the questions a little bit harder. There are some great events planned for this month: Our YPN Chapter is hosting a St. Patrick’s Day party on 3/12 at the Perfect Game on Water Street in Worcester. Why not stop by to network and have some green beer? Our Business Builders series continues in March with a Buyer Agency & Compensation class on 3/13. The first class in this series had great reviews and this one should be great. On 3/21 Jody O’Brien will return for another event for Designated REALTORS®. This will be directed toward small offices with 3-10 agents, but the content will be useful to all DR’s. We had excellent evaluations from Jody’s last event, and expect a great turnout for this one. Please register early. There are lots of CEU classes scheduled throughout the month, at both the Auburn location and the Fidelity Bank location in Leominster. We’re getting a group of REALTORS® together to support the Walk for the Homeless in Worcester on 5/18. More info to come. And last, Don’t forget to register for Day on the Hill on 6/11. Have a great month!

Dave

Dave Stead 2014 WRAR President

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

WRAR MONTH-AT-A-GLANCE March 2014 Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 1

3 9-10:30 TD Bank REALTOR® Breakfast & Info Session

4 9 Gov’t Affairs Comm Mtg 9:30-3:00 MLS PIN Training

8 8-2 CEU Classes

11 9-1 CEU Classes @ Fidelity Bank, Leominster 2-4 CRS Mastermind Panel

12 9 Finance Comm 10:30 BOD Mtg 12-2:30 Reno Financing 4-6:30 YPN St. Patty’s Day Party @ Perfect Game

13 2-4 Business Builder’s Series

14 10 Membership Comm. Mtg.

18 10:30 Lunch & Learn with Fairway Mortgage

19 9:30-3:30 MLS PIN Training

21 9-1 Broker Basics

25 11:30-2 Lunch & Learn with Shamrock Mortgage

28 8-2 CEU Classes

Save the Date Monday, April 7, 2014 9:00-11:00 am

Fair Housing Seminar WRAR, Auburn

Thursday, April 17, 2014 WRAR Awards Celebration 11:30 - 2:30 Wachusett Country Club, West Boylston Wednesday, June 11, 2014 TBA

REALTOR® Day on the Hill State House, Boston

Thursday, June 26, 2014 8:30 am

WRAR Annual Golf Tournament Wachusett Country Club, West Boylston

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

OUR 2014 VIP SPONSORS

Good lenders make good neighbors. Our NextDoor Mortgage Consultants are local people. They know our area, they know their stuff and they know how to get you the perfect loan. Good lenders make good neighbors. Meet a few of our NextDoor Lending officers: From left to right:

Mike Checkosky

Emily DeGray

Paul Nocivelli

NMLS# 719009

NMLS# 719017

NMLS# 47819

Southbridge branch

Charlton branch

Worcester branch

Call us at 1-800-939-9103

Drop on by.

www.nextdoorlending.com Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS速 3 www.wrar.org

OUR 2014 VIP SPONSORS

“My goal is to help you grow your business by being an extension of the top quality service you provide to your clients. Let’s grab coffee or a smoothie and I can show you how.” John B. Saari – 508‐740‐7442

Helping more clients and more referral partners through products, education, and communication ‐ Emery is both a direct lender and a broker with 25 lenders to help you close more transactions ‐ FHA lending down to a 600 credit score ‐ Credit Union PMI rates which are 40% lower than traditional lenders ‐ Higher income ratios than traditional lenders ‐ No PMI loans ‐ Credit Union Confidence

www.themortgagebuddy.com

John B. Saari ‐ Emery Federal Credit Union – (508) 740‐7442 themortgagebuddy@gmail.com www.themortgagebuddy.com NMLS: 5529 Emery Federal Credit Union NMLS: 401087

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

OUR 2014 VIP SPONSORS i

The Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 492 Washington St. Auburn, MA 01501 March 19th - 6:00-8:00 PM (5:30 PM Registration) March 22nd –10:00 AM-12:00 PM (9:30AM Registration) RSVP by contacting Trevor at Trevorb@fairwaymc.com or Through our website’s Events and Seminars page at www.fairwaymortgagene.com or By calling (508)-407-8300 What to expect:  What steps should you take when selling your home  Why now is the time to sell o Be the first to list in your neighborhood o What are the costs of waiting to move up or down  Introduction into today’s Real Estate market o Can you be your own seller  Becoming move‐up sellers o Do you have to sell your house in order to purchase another o Can you close your sale and purchase at the same time o How can you avoid PMI with less than 20% down payment o Reviewing the amount of equity available in your home  Important legal FAQ when buying and selling Hosts: Bill Murphy of Fairway Independent Mortgage – CMP Jessica Albino of the Law Office of Jessica L. Albino

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

AFFILIATE APPRECIATION NIGHT WRAR Affiliate Appreciation Night was held on Thursday, February 27. Thank you to all of our members who showed their support to our great team of Affiliate Members. They are the ones who make all the “extras” at our events possible. Did you know that affiliate support is a reason for membership dues remaining steady for seven years running? Appetizers and drinks were followed by Trivia, hosted by WRAR President Dave Stead and Prospect Mortgage Manager Dave Samara. Each member of the winning team won a $25 gift card to a local restaurant. The winning team was made up of Tony Economou, Bruce Varner, Matthew Stewart and Nathan Stewart. Attorney Meghan Roche of the Law Office of Meghan Roche won the raffle basket, which was donated by Kelly Gaumond of Country Bank for Savings. Jim Flynn of First Eastern Mortgage won the door prize.

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

AFFILIATE APPRECIATION NIGHT

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

WRAR SCHOLARSHIP

The Membership Committee of the Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® is excited to announce the 2014 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 3.5 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 2, 2014. Any applica�on postmarked a�er that date will be disqualied.

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

COMMUNITY ACTION COMMITTEE WRAR Community Action Committee’s

Food Drive to benefit the

Creating a hunger-free community Recommended Food Items Soup, Stew, Chili Dry & Canned Pasta Macaroni & Cheese Cereal, Rice, Beans Canned Fruits & Vegetables Canned Tuna, Chicken & Salmon Peanut Butter & Jelly *NO GLASS PLEASE* We are accepting donations through April 24. Cash donations always welcome! Make checks payable to the Worcester Regional Assn. of REALTORS® Drop-Off Locations Bank of Canton – Auburn Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage - Worcester ERA Key – Auburn, Spencer, Worcester, Whitinsville Janice Mitchell Real Estate – Holden RE/MAX Advantage 1 – Worcester RE/MAX Professional – Shrewsbury, Charlton, Sturbridge, Spencer RE/MAX Vision - Worcester WRAR - Auburn

Together we Your donations help the Worcester County Food Bank and their 145 local programs feed children, seniors & families! Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 9 www.wrar.org

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS’ NETWORK

YPN

Young Professionals’ Network

Professional Development & Networking Opportunities for today’s REALTOR®

The Young Professionals Network of the Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® cordially invites you to their:

St. patrick's day celebration Date: Time: Place: Cost:

Wednesday, March 12, 2014 4:00-6:30 pm Perfect Game Sports Grill & Lounge 64 Water St, Worcester, MA 01604 FREE Appetizers / Cash Bar $10 optional donation to the WRAR Scholarship Fund includes arm’s length of tickets for gift basket raffle

First 25 members to register at www.wrar.org or to call 508-832-6600 to register get a FREE drink ticket! Best Dressed “Wearin o’ the Green” attendee wins a free ticket for WRAR There’s an app for that! Scholarship Fund raffle for week’s stay at a Myrtle Beach Condo Appetizers sponsored by Bryan Larson of Fairway Mortgage, Boston The Law Office of Jessica Albino Dave Bremer of Shamrock Financial Corporation Fax this form to 508-832-6620 or email to lsprague@wrar or call Lisa Sprague at 508-832-6600 Name:________________________________________________________________________________________ Company:_____________________________________________________________________________________ email:________________________________________________________________________________________ Here’s my donation to the scholarship fund! $_______

Check enclosed_____

Credit Card_____

Credit Card No.______________________________________________________ Expiration_________________ Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

10 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CRS Think Tank

March 11th, 2014 2:00pm- 4:00 pm Presented by MA CRS Chapter & WRAR Course location:

What’s the ONE thing you can do for Extraordinary Results for 2014? CRS wants to help you increase business and your bottom line. Open to all REALTORS.

This interactive program will give you the opportunity to walk away with the answer to your most burning question.

And the categories are: 1. Sales & Marketing 2. Branding & Business Planning 3. Technology & Social Media

Worcester Assoc. of Realtors 492 Washington St. Auburn, MA 01501 Cost to Attend: $10 MA CRS Chapter members $20 Non-Members

To Register: Email: swalker@marealtor.com OR Call Sarah Walker: 781-839-5506 to indicate your attendance at the meeting.

Wine and Cheese Networking immediately following – Sponsored by Judy Reynolds, Evergreen Realty Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

11 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

2 FREE Continuing Education Credits! Renovation Financing  Gain listings  Move Listings  Energize expiring listings  Capture more buyers  Provide more opportunities for buyers  Separate from the pack

Wednesday March 12th 12:00 – 2:00

Worcester Regional Assoc. of Realtors - WRAR 492 Washington Street Auburn, MA www.wrar.org Or Call 508-832-6600

Get Educated Today with our Renovation Expert Kevin J. Brennan Renovation loans are one of the fastest growing programs in this market. With his extensive experience and passion, Kevin will demonstrate ideas to Gain Listings, Move Listings and Capture Buyers! Join us for the two hour RE75R12 FHA course.

Presenter Kevin J Brennan Phone: 978-815-8478 Kevin.Brennan@ProspectMtg.com New England Renovation Sales Manager

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

Ask to have Kevin present at your office Kevin J Brennan

Ask how you can have present at your office.

12 www.wrar.org

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

Business Builders

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Business Builder Session 2:

Buyer Agency and Compensation Receive 2 CEU’s Date: Time: Place:

Thursday, March 13 2:00-4:00 pm WRAR 492 Washington Street, Auburn Price: FREE to WRAR Members Speaker: William Mullen III William Mullen III Bill Mullen is the general counsel for the Greater Boston Association of Realtors. An attorney, real estate broker, and licensed real estate instructor, Mullen has served on the Mass. Association of Realtors Board of Directors and is past president of the North Shore Association of Realtors.

FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

This event is sponsored by: Emery Federal Credit Union John B. Saari Senior Loan Officer NMLS #5529 Office: 781-759-1200 Cell: 508-740-7442

WIN A TABLET! Each time you attend a Business Builder class, your name will be entered into a drawing. At the end of the year, one lucky winner will receive a TABLET! .......................................................... 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®

13 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT i

Earn 2 CE’s Residential Mortgage Loan Market & Credit Today (RE47R05) The Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® 492 Washington St. Auburn, MA 01501 March 18th 2014 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (Registration 10:30 AM) To Pre-Register call Lynne Walls at 508-832-6600 Or visit: www.wrar.org What to Expect:

 Where rates will be and the impact on your buyer’s loan programs and purchasing power  Improving your client’s credit score to have the best loan options  Over 50 Mortgage and Credit Gotchas  Help sellers list now o How to get buyers and sellers off the fence o The costs of waiting to sell or buy a house o Eliminating PMI for move up sellers and buyers with less than 20% down payment  Gaining market share from the newest generation of home buyers o The fastest growing home owners market is Generation X and Y  We will help get you ready for an explosive Spring Market and make this your best year yet Hosts: Bill Murphy of Fairway Independent Mortgage – CMP Jessica Albino of the Law Office of Jessica L. Albino Center for Real Estate Studies & Training

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

14 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT YOU ASKED - WE DELIVERED!!

A Two-Part Office Leadership Series

Offered exclusively to Brokers & Office Managers

BROKER BASICS

♦ This class was requested at the last DR Breakfast G d for f Brokers B k ith smaller ll offices ffi 3 10 ♦ Geared with off 3-10 agents Class 1: Time: Cost:

Friday, March 21, 2014 9:00 am - 1:00 pm $50.00

Presented by

Jody O’Brien

Jody was the 2003 President of the Northeast Association of REALTORS® and a member of the Board of Directors for the Mass. Association of REALTORS® from 1998 – 2004. Her service awards include Chairperson of the Year Award (twice), 1999 Distinguished Service Award and 2003 Massachusetts Educator of the Year.

Class 2: Time: Cost:

♦ Networking ♦ Managing Risk ♦ Analyzing and Implementing Office Policy

Wednesday, June 4, 2014 9:00 am - 1:00 pm $50.00

♦ Expand leadership skills ♦ Creative Office Meetings ♦ Agency Relationships & more ♦ How decisions affect the office and the real estate community

Special: Attend both classes for $75 ............................................................................. Register now - $50 each or all both classes for $75. Fax to 508-832-6620 or email to lwalls@wrar.org. March 21_____ ($50)

June _____($50)

Both Dates_____($75)

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

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

15 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT SHAMROCK FINANCIAL CORPORATION Presents a Lunch & Learn

The Busy REALTORS® Guide to Social Media You’re online and plugged into the latest social media sites. You’re promoting yourself and your business. So when are you actually selling homes? Shalimar Albanese, Director of Marketing at Shamrock Financial Corporation will show you what to do, how to do it and the the Social Media platforms that best suit yyour goals.

Tuesday, March 25 11:30 registration 12:00 -Program & Luncheon ncheon FREE TO WRAR MEMBERS $20 FOR ALL OTHERS LUNCHEON IS PROVIDED COURTESY OF SHAMROCK FINANCIAL

........................................................................... Register now - Fax to 508-832-6620 or email to lwalls@wrar.org. FREE FOR WRAR MEMBERS

Non-member rate is $20.

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

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

16 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

New agents and top producers from all over the US and Canada say this course exceeded expectations and provided them with cutting-edge tools that leave their competition in the dust!

Earn your Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) Designation. Now recognized by the National Association of REALTORS® Receive 4 CEU’s

Whether you are new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, the SRS Course will redefine your “normal” and reinvent the way you represent sellers. Come learn tips and tools that will equip you to list in today’s marketplace. Increase listings and grow your business. Demonstrate and communicate your value package. Understand and apply the Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice. Understand the comply with state license laws. Understand and apply methods, tools and techniques to provide support and services that sellers want and need. Instructor:

TAKE THE COURSE! Dates: Time: Place:

April 9 and 11, 2014 9:00 am - 5:00 pm WRAR, 492 Washington Street Auburn, MA Cost: $269 early bird (before March 14) $299 Regular Rate Register online at www.wrar.org or call Lynne at 508-832-6600

Barbara Fairfield, ABR, CBR, GRI, SRES, SRS, GREEN, SFR Barbara is the Owner/Partner of Dynamic Directions, Inc. - an educational and sales training firm that internationally delivers quality education to associations and companies. Barbara entered the real estate business in 1980. She earned her broker's license in 1985 and co-founded Sterling, Realtors in Middletown, Connecticut. Barbara is a member of the Connecticut Association of Realtors. She has proudly served as the 1999 RPAC chair, as the 2000 Issues Advocacy chair and is presently serving as the 2003 Division Vice President for Member Services for the Connecticut Association of Realtors. Barbara was appointed the 2001 Marketing Forum chair for the National Association of Realtors, served on NAR's 2002 Risk Management committee and is presently serving on NAR's Education Committee. She holds the Accredited Buyer Representative designation, the Certified Buyer Representative designation, the Seniors Real Estate Specialist designation and is a Graduate of the Realtor Institute

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

17 www.wrar.org

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT The Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® presents:

Essential Training for New Agents to Start a Successful Real Estate Career

ESSENTIALS for $ucce$$ This course will provide the basic building blocks, fundamental skills and creative techniques to start a SUCCESSFUL real estate career. The courses will also appeal to veteran agents looking for new business opportunities through the use of ever-changing technology tools, online media and internet marketing platforms in order to achieve a much higher level of success.

Day 1 APRIL 29: 2 CE credits – RE32RC03: Technology & Real Estate Brokerage Getting Started - The ESSENTIAL Apps for Success Lead



Instructor:

Jody O’Brien

Worcester Regional Assn of REALTORS® 492 Washington Street Auburn, MA 01501 April 29, 30 & May 1, 2014_ 8:30 am Registration 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Class Attend days individually or save by registering for the entire series.

Generation through today’s technology tools. Media – is our next “client” a tweet away? Location Services – the new town “Square”. Communication – OMG BTW TTFN… Rating & Review – Yelp, I need a real estate agent! Content Sharing – Are they “pinning” away for You…..Tube? Social

Day 2 APRIL 30: 4 CE credits – RE41R05: R.E. Advertising Compliance & the Law and RE62RC10: Comparative Market Analysis Building your Business - ESSENTIAL Strategies for Success Pricing

strategies in today’s market. customer service. Working WITH today’s consumers & handling objections. Negotiate to WIN! Exceptional

Day 3 MAY 1: 2 CE credits – RE10RC07: General Real Estate Laws, Regulations and Practices Closing the Deal - ESSENTIAL Laws, Regulations and Practices for Success Managing

and controlling risk: - Fair Housing - Lead Paint - Brokerage Relationships. Creating a business plan. Goal Setting - reach for the sky and touch the stars. Managing long term success and financial freedom

****************************************************************************

Send to Lynne Walls @lwalls@wrar.org I want to take the steps to Build a Successful Business! Sign me up for:

Save $50!  Day 1 @ $75

 Day 2 @ $75

 Day 3 @ $75

 All 3 days @ $175

Name________________________________________________________________________ Billing Address_________________________________________________________________ City______________________________________ State___________ Zip_________________ Phone_______________________ email____________________________________________ Credit Card_____________________________________________ exp ___________________

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

18 www.wrar.org

2014 WRAR AWARDS CELEBRATION

awards celebration 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 new TOP PRODUCER Award.

Thursday, April 17, 2014 Wachusett Country Club 11:30 am registration 12:00 Buffet Luncheon & Awards Member Early Bird: $30 before 3/17/2014 Member Rate Rate: $35 after 3/17/2014 Non-member Price: $35 Table of 10: $300

Our Gold Sponsors: Bank of Canton Cahn & Barron, LLC Compass Consulting The Law Office of Jessica Albino MLS PIN Prospect Mortgage Security First MortgaGe

Our Platinum Sponsors Emery Federal Credit Union Fairway NE Mortgage SouthBridge Savings Bank 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

19 www.wrar.org

2014 WRAR AWARDS CELEBRATION Vote TODAY for the 2014 REALTORS® CHOICE AWARD This is the 20th year that this award for professional excellence will be presented to one of our REALTORS®. This award recognizes an individual holding REALTOR® membership in our Board who, in the opinion of his/her peers, is the most professional, courteous and cooperative in the listing and selling of real estate. Service on Board Committees is not required. Only one vote per REALTOR® member is allowed. REMEMBER: It is important that you vote for someone that you have had a real estate transaction with in 2013 and who went above and beyond to provide exceptional service not only to their client, but to YOU, their fellow REALTOR®. THIS IS NOT A COMMITTEE SELECTION.

DEADLINE FOR VOTING: FRIDAY, March 29, 2014

The Board staff will count the votes upon receipt. The recipient of this award will be the REALTOR® member who receives the most votes.

NOMINEES

Marianne Belanger James Black Miranda Bousquet Jeff Burk Kathleen Cooper Pam Crawford

Colleen Crowley Tracey Fiorelli Dorothy Fontana Mary Gale Christy Gibbs James Kalogeropoulos

Kris Koliss Michele Miller Chris Reilly Nancy Shaw Morley Mary Stolarczyk

Please return completed form to lsprague@wrar.org or fax to 508-832-6620.

My vote for the 2014 REALTORS® CHOICE AWARD IS:_______________________________________ Contact Name (required):_________________________________________________________________________________

Company::____________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature (required)_____________________________________________________________________________________

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

20 www.wrar.org

MEMBERSHIP NEWS Pictured below are our newest REALTOR® members, who attended orientation on February 10th. WRAR President Dave Stead, far right, was on hand to congratulate and welcome them to the REALTOR® family.

A mortgage panel was on hand for Q&A’s to get our REALTORS® up to speed on the lending process. The panel was made up of our VIP Sponsors. Pictured below from left to right: Panel Moderator, Attorney Jessica Albino, Wendy Burdett and Dave Samara of Prospect Mortgage, Emily DeGray of Southbridge Savings Bank, and Bill Murphy of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

21 www.wrar.org

MEMBERSHIP NEWS New Members Darrell Alexander Exit Realty Partners Yvonne Amagliani RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Elizabeth Bannon Dora Naves & Assoc. Serena Berube Sterling Realty Belair Gillian Bonazoli Coldwell Banker Brok. Paul D’Anello Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Monica Delaporta Coldwell Banker Res. Brok. Michael Foster Ernest W. Foster Jr. RE Shannon Gifford RE/MAX Professional Assoc. Sandra Guay ERA Key Realty Services Allan Hamdal ERA Key Realty Services Sargon Hanna Hope Realty & Assoc. Kim Hines RE/MAX Advantage1 Marc Huckins ERA Key Realty Services Jaime Mackoul Coldwell Banker Res.Brok Chris Marsicano Prudential Prime Properties Kim McGhee RE/MAX Advantage1 Ly Nguyen Cunningham One Stop Insurance & RE Paul Novak Gold Star Development, Inc. Jackie O’ Dowd ERA Key Realty Services Kim Oakes RE/MAX Professional Assoc Melissa O’Brien RE/MAX Advantage1 Mary Oliver VanderZicht Real Estate Karen Packard Open Door Real Estate Charig Parikh Keller Williams Realty Deborah Perro Deborah Perro Angela Petralia Century 21 Realty Team Tan Pham Keller Williams Realty Gregory Richardson Gatsby Real Estate Nuntana Savanorke Exit Realty Partners Frances Tolson Exit Beacon Pointe Realty David Vitkus RE/MAX Advantage1 Yolanda Walker DCU Realty

Worcester Sturbridge Marlboro Sterling Worcester Shrewsbury Shrewsbury W.Boylston Sturbridge Auburn Worcester Worcester Worcester Auburn Worcester Hudson Worcester Lowell Worcester Westboro Sturbridge Worcester Whitinsville Sterling Worcester Shrewsbury Leominster Worcester Rochdale Worcester Northboro Worcester Marlboro

New Applicants Brian Coomey Morris Crump Robin Dunbar Bain David Fitzpatrick Denise Foley Carlos Galarza Rhiannon Gresty Linda Laney Sidney Miniweather Michael Rose Kayleen Sauvageau Zachary Zisk

Exit Realty Partners Worcester Exit Beacon Pointe Realty Northboro Exit Realty Partners Shrewsbury Exit Beacon Pointe Realty Northboro ERA Key Realty Services Worcester ERA Key Realty Services Worcester Quaboag Valley Real Estate Brookfield ERA Key Realty Services Framingham Keller Williams Realty Worcester Keller Williams Realty Worcester ERA Key Realty Services Spencer ERA Key Realty Services Spencer

Agents Transferred to New Office: Holly Oliveri Jasmine Randhawa Jeannine Silun Cindy Tessier Michelle Wesson Marjorie Yale

ERA Key Realty Services Cedar Wood Realty Group Emerson REALTORS® ERA Key Realty Services McGeough Lamacchia Realty ComVest Realty Services, Inc.

Auburn Worcester Auburn Auburn Waltham Northboro

New REALTOR® Office Mike Barbera

Real Living Barbera & Assoc. 451 Grove Street Worcester, MA

Ly Nguyen Cunningham One Stop Insurance & Real Estate 1006 Westford Street Lowell, MA Gregory Richardson

Gatsby Real Estate 1115 Stafford Street Worcester, MA

New Affiliates

Jay Barron

Cahn & Barron, LLC 53 East Central Street Worcester, MA

Deven Ewing

First Eastern Mortgage 130 Cedar Street Milford, MA

Matt Happy

Mortgage Master 276 Turnpike Road, Suite 213 Westboro, MA

Meghan Roche

Law Office of Meghan Roche 30 Ward Street Worcester, MA

New office - Secondary Designated REALTOR®

Anthony Lamacchia McGeough Lamacchia Realty Waltham, MA

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

22 www.wrar.org

WRAR ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

WRAR 16th Annual Golf Tournament Wachusett Country Club Thursday, June 26, 2014 Registration: 8:30 am Shotgun: 9:30 am Luncheon: 2:30 pm Early Bird Rate (May 31 cut-off): Single: $125.00 * Foursome: $500.00 Regular Rates: Single: $135.00 * Foursome: $540.00 Registration includes 18 holes, cart, continental breakfast, luncheon.

A portion of proceeds will be donated to Worcester area non-proﬁts in need.

For more info or to register, contact Jacki D’Innocenzo at 508-832-6600 or via email at jdinnocenzo@wrar.org. You may also send this form to WRAR, 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___________________________________ City/State/Zip_____________________________________ Phone__________________________________________ email___________________________________________ Amount Due $______

_____Check

_____American Express

_____Discover

_____Master Card

_____Visa

Card No.____________________________________________________ Expiration___________________________ Signature_______________________________________________________________________________________

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

23 www.wrar.org

CENTER FOR REAL ESTATE STUDIES & TRAINING Upcoming CEU Courses for March 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 $30 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, Saturday, March 8, 2014 Time

Instructor

8:00 - 10:00

Brad Roberts

Course Code RE35R03

Course Title

10:00 - 12:00

Brad Roberts

RE49R05

Dual Agency

12:00 - 2:00

Brad Roberts

RE54R06

Alternative Dispute Resolution(ADR) & Procuring Cause

Offers

Leominster, Tuesday, March 11 , 2014 9:00 - 11:00

Craig Reynolds

RE40R05

Probate

11:00 - 1:00

Craig Reynolds

RE28RC12

Foreclosure

8:00 - 10:00

Jo Ann Szymczak

10:00 - 12:00

Jo Ann Szymczak

12:00 - 2:00

Jo Ann Szymczak

Auburn, Friday, March 28, 2014 RE26RC07 RE58RC09 RE25RC08

Appraisal Process Auction 101 Financing

Next CEU Classes: April 7, 9:00-11:00 am & April 15, 2014, 8:00 am - 2:00 pm in Auburn. For a complete schedule, visit http://www.wrar.org/month-at-a-glance.html

CEU Changes for 2014 Effective January 2014, our 12-hour days of CEU’s will now switch to two 6-hour days, We find that shorter days are more conducive to learning. CEU classes will remain FREE for all WRAR Members. Non members - New for 2014 - Get your 12 education credits for license renewal for only $99.00! Pay all at once and have the luxury of attending the classes you want; at your pace. As always, Center.

you

may

continue

take

online

courses

the

MAR

Online

Education

Contact Lynne Walls at lwalls@wrar.org to schedule your classes. View the complete calendar at www.wrar.org.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

24 www.wrar.org

COMMITTEE ON GOVERNMENT & LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS State Political Coordinators Day on the Hill The Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS® was excited to welcome MAR President Peter Ruffini at a special local Government Affairs Meeting on February 25, where we launched our new State Political Coordinator initiative. WRAR has been identified as the pilot program as the state is looking to expand their efforts to all the local associations. A State Political Coordinator is a REALTOR® that is dedicated to a Representative or Senator of whom they are a constituent. The purpose of the program is to open of the lines of communication between the local REALTORS® and Legislators regarding issues that affect home ownership. This program has been very successful at the National level. WRAR, with assistance from MAR, has modeled the Federal Program. There are currently 11 State Political Coordinators who have generously contributed their time and talents to launching this program on the local level. State Political Coordinator

Jane Fine Sarah Gustafson Janice Mitchell Micheal Meurant Judy Reynolds Duane Pappetti Tom Walsh David Stead Maria Navedo Kris Koliss Fran Koliss

REALTOR® Day on Beacon Hill is scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at 10:00 am at the State House, Great Hall. Once again, REALTORS® will have a chance to network and enjoy a continental breakfast before learning about the key legislative issues in 2014 that will affect the real estate industry and private property. Attend the REALTOR® Day on the Hill to get up close and personal with legislators and make an impact on the legislative process. Transportation is provided FREE for WRAR members. The bus will leave the TJ Maxx parking lot in Auburn at 7:30 am. Be sure to register online at www.wrar.org.

Legislator

Representative Matthew Beaton Representative Ryan Fattman Representative Kimberly Ferguson Representative John Fernandes Representative Jennifer Flanagan Representative Daniel Donahue Representative Anne Gobi Representative John Mahoney Representative Harold Naughton, Jr Representative George Peterson Senator Micheal Moore

State Political Coordinators are non-partisan and assist the legislators in understanding issues that directly affect home ownership. If you have a connection with a member of the Massachusetts Legislature, are a member of their district and they do not currently have a State Political Coordinator please feel free to contact Sarah Gustafson 774.289.7339, Sarah.Gustafson@NEMoves.com for further information regarding the program. Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

25 www.wrar.org

APRIL IS FAIR HOUSING MONTH - Take your Training NOW! The City of Worcester will hold a Fair Housing Conference for both landlords and tenants on April 5th at City Hall.

Registration 8:30-8:50am/ Announcements 8:50-8:55am

II.

Keynote Speaker, MCAD 9:00-9:15

III.

Attorney General’s Office 9:15-9:25

IV.

Tenants Rights and Concerns 9:30 -10:30 (1 hour)

Presenters will offer various resources available to tenants when facing housing challenges. From rental discrimination to unsafe homes; learn how to get the help you need and how to work with your landlord to make positive changes.

Presenters: 1.) CLA 2.) RcAP 3.) CMHA Time IV. Main Auditorium -Tenants 1 CLA –protected classes +lead 10 Min (I.S. –speaker? On Lead) 9:30-9:40 2 RcAP-Subsidized housing, Section 10 Min 8, HCVP, Shelter Plus Care 9:40-9:50 program 3 CMHA-education, tenant and LL 10 Min rights, support and homeless 9:50-10:00 prevention resources 4 Question & Answer 20 Min 5 Coffee 10:20-10:30 10 Min

4.) Inspect’l Svces

; Q & A: (20 Mins)

Outbreak session –Rm105 Question & Answer:

Time

From 9:30 – 10:20 Panel: NeighborWorks WAFT Inspectional Services Court Mediators Coffee 10:20-10:30

10 Min

Landlords and Homeowners Concerns 10:30 -11:30 (1 hour)

From neighborhood stabilization to homeownership what landlords and homeowners need to know. Presenters will discuss: the homeownership from first time homeowner to those under foreclosure, options when dealing with problem tenants and properties, and provide other resources.

Presenters: 1.) NeighborWorks 2.) WAFT 3.) I.S. Vacant & Foreclosed 4.) Mediation Time Outbreak Session - Rm105 Time V. Main Auditorium-Landlords 6 NeighborWorks-foreclosure 10 Min Question & Answer: prevention, financial capacity 10:30-10:40 From 10:30-11:20 7 WAFT-Anti Foreclosure team 5 Min -10:45 Panel: 8 IS –Vacant & foreclosed (L.Hall) 5 Min -10:50 CLA 9 Court Mediation/Eviction time 10 Min CMHA table-(?Suzanne Aymes) 10:50-11:00 RCAP 10 Question & Answer 20 Min 11 Coffee 11:20-11:30 10 Min Coffee 11:20-11:30 10 Min

II.

III.

Immigration - LSS Attorney – trends, laws and recourse 11:35-11:50

Moderator Evaluations & Wrap-up

Regional Association of REALTORS® Worcester

11:50-12:00

26 www.wrar.org

APRIL IS FAIR HOUSING MONTH - Take your Training NOW!

Fair Housing It’s not an option; it’s the

LAW IT! N R LEA

April 2014 marks the 46th 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. WRAR brings you

Jamie Williamson, Chair Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)

FAIR HOUSING SEMINAR Monday, April 7, 2014 9:00 - 11:00 am WRAR, 492 Washington St., Auburn Receive 2 CEU’s FREE to all WRAR Members $20 for non-members This class is sponsored by O’Connell & O’Connell, P.C. Attorneys at Law Register online at www.wrar.org OR CALL lYNNE AT 508-832-6600 Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

27 www.wrar.org

MAR LEGAL HOTLINE Michael McDonagh, MAR General Counsel Ashley Stolba, MAR Associate Counsel Justin Davidson, MAR Staff Attorney Q.

When I first meet with a prospective client, I like to ask them a series of questions to better build a relationship, and to establish their wants and needs. Are there any specific questions that I should avoid asking? My office takes Fair Housing laws seriously, and I want to be sure that we are following the laws.

As a real estate agent, it is important to understand the wants and needs of your clients, and quite often, learning this information is the result of well-intended questions and conversation. It is always important, however, to keep Fair Housing laws in mind when speaking with your clients. Specifically, M.G.L. c. 151B Section 4 states, in part, that it shall be unlawful to ...”cause to be made any written or oral inquiry or record concerning the race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation … age, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, veteran status or membership in the armed services, blindness, hearing impairment or other handicap or because such person possesses a trained dog guide as a consequence of blindness or hearing impairment, of the person seeking to rent or lease or buy any such accommodation or land.” A recent case held a broker liable for asking his Venezuelan client the question: “Where are you from?” Although the broker in this case claimed to be making small talk and insisted that his question was non-discriminatory, the statute is clear: an inquiry concerning national origin is a per se violation of the Massachusetts Fair Housing Laws. REALTORS should always be mindful of this section of the law when speaking with clients and prospective clients.

My Buyer-Client is purchasing a rental property that was built before 1978. There is a family currently renting the home, and one of their children is under 6 years old. The Seller/Landlord has never inspected the property for the presence of lead paint. We have a lead inspection scheduled for next week. If lead paint is found, what must my client do to comply with the lead laws?

If lead paint exists in the home, your client will have to delead the home or bring it under interim control. You should remind your client that it is illegal to evict or refuse to renew the lease of this family because of lead paint. Additionally, the parents cannot waive the rights of their children to live in lead-safe housing or agree to assume to risks of lead exposure.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

The Lead Laws provide that new owners have 90 days from the date of taking title to bring the home into compliance. Since there is a signed lease in place, the tenants will have to be relocated for the time that certain deleading work is taking place inside the home, and the landlord is responsible for the reasonable moving costs and temporary housing costs over and above the rent of the home being deleaded. During the time the home is being deleaded, the tenant remains responsible for paying the normal rent they would pay for this period as their share of the cost of temporary housing. The Lead Law states the temporary housing must not cause undue economic or personal hardship to the tenant. You should remind your client that a state tax credit of $1,500 per unit is available to abate the home. Q.

My Landlord-Client has been renting an old Victorian to a couple for the past several years. When they rented the apartment they did not have any children, and chose not to have the property tested for lead. The couple has now informed my client that they are expecting their first child. How can my client be sure to follow the Lead Paint laws?

Since there has not been a transfer of ownership, and the tenant is already living in the unit, there is no “grace” period in the law after a child under 6 moves in. Prior to the birth of a child, the home must be brought into compliance with the Lead Law. On the day the child is born or moves in, the landlord becomes liable for failure to comply. You should also remind your client that it is illegal not to rent or to evict a tenant based on the fact that she is pregnant. For more information on Fair Housing, please visit www.marealtor. com.

28 www.wrar.org

2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President, Dave Stead Pres. Elect, Brad Roberts Vice President, Kris Koliss Secretary, Sarah Gustafson Treasurer, Conrad Allen Past President, Rochelle Jonswold Kathleen Cooper, Director Jayne DiLiberto, Director Tracy Fiorelli, Director Erika Hall, Director Lorraine Herbert, Director Lee Joseph, Director Judy Patterson, Director Mary Stolarczyk, Director Leslie Storrs, Director Diane Dabrowski, Alternate Kathleen McSweeney, Alternate

SCHOLARSHIP DRIVE RAFFLE WRAR Scholarship Funds are designated for children or grandchildren of REALTOR® members, Affiliate members or full-time staff employees of the Association. Each year our Scholarship Committee reviews all applications, and makes decisions based on factors including academic achievement, school and sports involvement, community activities, work experience and the student’s goals and personal accomplishments. A minimum of two scholarships are awarded each year, with a minimum value of $500 each. We would love to be able to increase these amounts, but are dependent upon the monies available in the fund. In an effort to raise scholarship money, Wendy Burdett of Prospect Mortgage has very generously donated the use of her Myrtle Beach, South Carolina condominum for one week to one lucky winner. Raffle tickets are $25 each. Dates are subject to availability and can be arranged through Wendy. For more information on the condo, visit http://www.vrbo.com/100933.

WRAR STAFF

To purchase a ticket, you may call the WRAR office at 508-832-6600 and ask for Lisa, or return the form below via fax to 508-832-6620.

Executive VP, Colleen Pappas

________________________________________________

Membership Manager, Lisa Sprague Marketing Manager, Jacki D’Innocenzo

DRAWING WILL BE HELD ON APRIL 17 AT THE AWARDS LUNCHEON! I want to enter! I will purchase: _____ One ticket for $25 I would like extra - _____ tickets for a total of $_____________.

Staff Accountant, Maura O’Connor Administrative Assistant, Lynne Walls

Name__________________________________________________________________ Billing Address__________________________________________________________

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 508832-6600.

_______________________________________________________________________

Please LIKE our facebook page at https://www. fa c e b o o k . c o m / WorcesterRegionalAssociationofREALTORS.

Credit Card_____________________________________________________________

email__________________________________________________________________ Telephone______________________________________________________________

Expiration Date__________________________________________________________

By doing so you will not only get up-tothe-minute information on everything going on at WRAR, but you will help us to increase our visibility while growing your own business network.

Worcester Regional Association of REALTORS®

29 www.wrar.org