Insight | May 2024

THE VOICE OF REAL ESTATE IN NORTH CAROLINA

VOL 103 NO 2 | MAY 2024

Plus: + Navigating the Unique World of Farm Sales + Empowering Communities through Public Service

NC REALTORS® Convention & Expo October 19-22 pg.22

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May 2024 Features 10 Must-Know Forms Changes for 2024

General Counsel John Wait highlights significant changes in the latest NC real estate forms updates, including modifications due to the NAR settlement.

14 Planting Success: Navigating the Unique World of Farm Sales

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Explore strategies for navigating farms and other unique properties in today’s dynamic real estate market.

18 Empowering Communities: REALTORS® at the Helm of Public Service Initiatives in North Carolina

Meet the New Staff

Learn how North Carolina REALTORS® lead public service initiatives and influence legislation to improve the lives of their constituents and communities.

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10 4 President's Letter 5 Inside NC REALTORS® • NC REALTORS® Federal Political Coordinators Award • NAR RPAC Hall of Fame • Newest NC REALTORS® Staff

TALK TO US

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Have something to talk about? Sure you do—and we want to hear it! Send us your comments, ideas or success stories to mallen@ncrealtors.org and you could be featured in the next Insight. ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 3

Insight, Volume 103, Issue 2 President Tony Harrington, ABR®, ALHS, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS, CLHMS, GREEN, PSA

Treasurer Renee Cooney, ABR®, AHWD, C2EX, GRI, RENE, SRES®, WHS

President-Elect John McPherson, ABR®, AHWD, C2EX, CRS, e-PRO®, GREEN, GRI

Immediate Past President Leigh Brown, ABR®, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS, CLHMS, CRS, e-PRO®, SFR®, SRES®

Regional Vice Presidents Region 1: Kim Perkins, Jacksonville Region 2: Amanda Parmer, Wilmington Region 3: Laurie Linder, Fayetteville Region 4: Grace Jones, Durham Region 5: Pam Webb, Archdale Region 6: Paul McGill, Winston-Salem Region 7: Dennis Bailey, Shelby Region 8: Aric Beals, Charlotte Region 8: Josh Tucker, Mooresville Region 9: David Noyes, Arden Region 10: Tim McBrayer, Raleigh Region 10: Leslie Williams, Youngsville At Large Representative: Guy McCook, Laurinburg Chief Executive Officer Andrea Bushnell, Esq., AHWD, CIPS, RCE Vice President of Communications & Marketing Mckenzie Allen, AHWD, C2EX Creative Development Manager Joe Fallon Content Marketing Coordinator Aliyah Ross, C2EX Multimedia Coordinator/Staff Photographer Doug Klesch Contributors John Wait For advertising information, visit ncrealtors.org/advertise or contact Keri Epps-Rashad at (336) 217-1049.

INSIGHT (ISSN 24714127) (USPS 17170) is published four times a year in February, May, August and November by NC REALTORS®, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Periodicals Postage Prices paid at Greensboro, N.C. and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to INSIGHT, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407-7877.

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. Articles which appear in Insight are an informational service to members and consumers. Their contents are the opinions of the authors alone and do not necessarily represent those of NC REALTORS®.

Advertising of a product or service does not imply endorsement, unless specifically stated.

To opt-out of paper copy mailings, email hello@ncrealtors.org with a subject line of “Insight opt-out.”

4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407 Phone: (336) 294-1415 ncrealtors.org

Dear fellow REALTORS®, As we embark on another chapter together, I’m filled with a sense of anticipation and pride for what lies ahead. Amidst the shifting landscape of real estate, we recently received news that the National Association has reached a settlement in the Bernett case. This moment is not just about legalities; it’s about the resilience and unity of our community.

While this news may spark questions, let it also ignite a flame of determination within us. Here in North Carolina, we stand strong, unwavering in our commitment to support each other through every twist and turn. We are a force to be reckoned with, a collective of passionate professionals dedicated to shaping the future of real estate.

In the pages of this issue, you’ll find stories that reflect the spirit of NC REALTORS®—stories of innovation, advocacy, and service. These are not just stories; they are testaments to the remarkable things we accomplish when we come together with purpose.

As we move forward, let’s carry this momentum, knowing that together, we are capable of achieving extraordinary things. The challenges we face are opportunities in disguise, and with each hurdle, we grow stronger, more resilient, and more united than ever before.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication and support. Let’s continue to write the story of NC REALTORS®—one of resilience, strength, and boundless possibility as we discover new opportunities, grow our businesses, and lead the way to a brighter future.

Your 2024 NC REALTORS® President,

Tony Harrington

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

17 NC REALTORS® Inducted into NAR RPAC Hall of Fame NC REALTORS® proudly announces the newest members of the National Association of REALTORS® RPAC Hall of Fame. This prestigious recognition honors members who have invested a minimum aggregate lifetime amount of $25,000 in RPAC. The 2023 class includes 14 members at the $25,000 level, one member at the $50,000 level, and two at the $75,000 level. Hall of Fame benefits include name plaques on the RPAC Hall of Fame wall in NAR’s Washington, D.C. building, a personal plaque, and recognition pins. The 2023 class was inducted in May during the 2024 NAR Legislative Meetings, joined by a distinguished group of REALTORS® who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing the profession and protecting property rights. Congratulations to our 2023 NAR RPAC Hall of Fame inductees!

BRADLEY COHEN Canopy REALTOR® Association $75,000 Level

TONY SMITH Canopy REALTOR® Association $75,000 Level

HADI ATRI Cape Fear REALTORS® $50,000 Level

BILL ACETO High Country Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

LEE ALLEN Canopy REALTOR® Association $25,000 Level

BROOKE CASHION Winston Salem Regional Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

CLIF CHEEK Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

ROSEMARIE DOSHIER Outer Banks Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

CHRISTI HILL Jacksonville Board of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

GUY MCCOOK Cape Fear REALTORS® $25,000 Level

JIMMY TOWNSEND Long Leaf Pine REALTORS® $25,000 Level

DAVID DEAL Canopy REALTOR® Association $25,000 Level

JOHN MCPHERSON Winston Salem Regional Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

TIM MCBRAYER Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

RENEE COONEY Carolina Smokies Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

CAROL BRADLEY Union County Association of REALTORS® $25,000 Level

MARVETTE ARTIS Greensboro Regional REALTORS® $25,000 Level

ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 5

Get to Know Your 2024 NC REALTORS® PAC Trustees The mission of the NC REALTORS® Political Action Committee (NC REALTORS® PAC) is to raise and disburse funds to promote homeownership, protect private property rights and increase political awareness for the real estate industry. The NC REALTORS® PAC Trustees are dedicated volunteers from the association membership that recognize the importance of NC REALTORS® PAC and are fully invested in its mission. Collectively, trustees make funding decisions based on recommendations/input from local associations, voting records for incumbents and a candidate’s support and/or knowledge of issues of concern to the real estate profession. Meet your NC REALTORS® PAC Trustees:

Bob Bates

Cirila Cothran

Daniel Whited

Bob Percesepe

Marvette Artis

Sandra O'Connor

Chair

Adam Upchurch

Connie Corey

Sandra Hurst

Treasurer

Past Chair | NAR Participation Representative

Region 1 Trustee

Laurie Linder

Amanda Smith

Jennifer Franklin-Rowe

Region 3 Trustee

Phillip Johnson Region 6 Trustee

Renee Cooney

Region 9 Trustee

Coleen Curtis

AE Advisor (Non-Voting)

Region 3 Trustee

Emily Wood

Region 6 Trustee

Scott Barfield

Region 9 Trustee

Christina Asbury NC REALTORS® Legislative Chair

Region 4 Trustee

Carol Bradley

Region 7 Trustee

Jon McBride

Region 10 Trustee

Michael Davenport Region 1 Trustee

Kim Dawson

Region 4 Trustee

Dennis Bailey

Region 7 Trustee

Brett Bushnell

Region 10 Trustee

Region 2 Trustee

Region 5 Trustee

Lee Allen

Vice Chair

Region 2 Trustee

Region 5 Trustee

Sallie Myrick

Region 8 Trustee | NAR Major Investor Council

Region 8 Trustee

Tony Harrington

John McPherson

NC REALTORS® President

NC REALTORS® President Elect

Contributions to RPAC are not deductible for federal or state income tax purposes. Contributions are voluntary and are used for political purposes. Suggested amounts are merely guidelines and you may contribute more or less than the suggested amounts. The National Association of REALTORS® and its state and local associations will not favor or disadvantage any member because of the amount contributed or a decision not to contribute. Your contribution is split between National RPAC and the State PAC in your state. NC RPAC supports the efforts of National RPAC and contributes a portion of its contributions to National RPAC. Contact your State Association or PAC for information about the percentages of your contribution provided to National RPAC and to the State PAC. The National RPAC portion is used to support federal candidates and is charged against your limits under 52 U.S.C. 30116. In-kind contributions/donations are not included for the purposes of the National RPAC State PAC split. NC law requires political committees to report the name, mailing address, job title or profession and name of employer or employee’s specific field for each individual whose contributions aggregate is in excess of $50 in an election cycle. North Carolina law prohibits contributions of cash in excess of $50 per day. Federal law prohibits contributions of cash in excess of $100 per year. Contributions can only be accepted from individuals; in the form of personal checks, credit/debit cards and cash less than $50 per day/$100 per year. Contributions from corporations or business entities cannot be accepted. This solicitation was paid for by NC RPAC.

The Homeowners Alliance represents your interests in the North Carolina General Assembly.

From insurance to taxes, your representatives make decisions that directly impact your wallet.

That’s why the NC REALTORS® started the Homeowners Alliance.

By joining, you can stay up-to-date on some of the most important issues for homeowners.

We’ll never charge you for membership, and we’ll never tell you who to vote for.

3 Ways to Join the Alliance from Your Phone

NC HOMEOWNERS

ALLIANCE The ONE Group Fighting for Homeowners at the NC General Assembly

1

LIKE the NC Homeowners Alliance on Facebook

2

SIGN UP by typing “NC Homeowners Alliance” into your browser

3

TEXT “JOIN” to 919.813.2660

A Facebook Group for NC REALTORS® Watch & Learn On Your Schedule Short videos with tips to boost your business, presented by your peers and top industry experts.

Join the Facebook Group

ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 7

Welcome to the Team!

Meet the Newest NC REALTORS® Staff

In the past year, NC REALTORS® added several phenomenal staff members. We hope you enjoy getting to know some fun facts about these individuals. For a complete list of NC REALTORS® staff and leadership, please visit ncrealtors.org/staff.

ANGELA BURGESS | MEMBER PROGRAMS MANAGER When did you join the staff?

May 2023 Educational background: Studied design at Brevard College.

Experience related to your current position: 25+ years’ experience in executive administration, including finance and human resources. Prior to joining NCR, I was the AE at Gaston Association

8 INSIGHT • May 2024

of REALTORS® for six years, Gaston Homebuilders Association Administrator for one year and Interim AE at Orange Chatham Association of REALTORS® for six months.

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?

Spending time with my granddaughter, family and friends. Favorite pastimes are hiking, kayaking, and camping.

JAMES BUSH | REGIONAL & SHARED GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS DIRECTOR When did you join the staff?

September 2023 Educational background: B.A Political Science, University of South Carolina; M.A. International Relations, University College Dublin Experience related to your current position: Before this, I was a local GAD for a REALTORS®

association in Pennsylvania. Before that, I worked in both the Pennsylvania and South Carolina legislatures.

What are you reading right now?

With the Old Breed by E.B. Sledge.

What are you currently watching on Netflix?

I just finished watching Band of Brothers.

HEATHER HAYES | CONTROLLER When did you join the staff?

April 2024

What was the best concert you ever attended?

Jimmy Buffet

Educational background: Bachelor of Science in Accounting from UNCG

What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?

Being outdoors. I enjoy mountain biking, hiking, paddleboarding, scuba diving, gardening, and anything else I can find to do outdoors.

Experience related to your current position: Auditor in a public accounting firm and Assistant Controller for a large non-profit organization.

MATT LAIL | DIRECTOR OF POLITICAL & EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS When did you join the staff?

April 2024 Educational background: Bachelor of Arts (English – Writing & Editing), North Carolina State University Experience related to your current position: I spent the previous seven years in a lead Marketing & Communications role for an

international company. Before that I spent four and a half years at a public relations firm and a decade for another statewide trade association. I have also worked in journalism and sportswriting.

What are you reading right now?

Brothers and Sisters: The Allman Brothers Band and the Inside Story of the Album that Defined the ‘70s”

by Alan Paul.

JOE FALLON | CREATIVE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER When did you join the staff?

January 2024

including local city government, marketing agencies, and corporate businesses.

Educational background: I have a Bachelor of Arts degree and an Associate’s degree specializing in branding and advertising.

What are you reading right now?

Don’t Be a Jerk: And Other Practical Advice from Dogen, Japan’s Greatest Zen Master

Experience related to your current position: With over 14 years of experience in branding and advertising, I have worked in various sectors,

What was the best concert you ever attended?

Rise Against and Deftones.

ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 9

Must-Know Forms Changes for 2024

BY JOHN WAIT General Counsel

Even before the Burnett antitrust settlement was announced on the Ides of March,1 it had been a very, very busy forms cycle. Forms changes represent eight months of hard work by our Forms Committee members and NC REALTORS® staff.

the settlement were tense but productive, gut-wrenching and solution-oriented. Like all of you, we were very anxious about the announced changes, but we also felt a heavy burden to make sure that members had the tools they needed to address a new landscape.

The chair of the Forms Committee, Jennifer Frontera, did an excellent job and worked very well with Bob Ramseur, chair of the Joint Forms Task Force. Leigh Morgan somehow kept me organized on the staff side. There were also volunteers that did awesome work in task forces that addressed commercial, property management, and auction forms.

The Forms Committee did an outstanding job with the limited information it had at the time, but all the forms volunteers know that this year will be an entire year of unpacking how members navigate the new MLS rules and proposing solutions. While that process continues, I would be amiss if I did not take a minute and highlight the work that was done this past cycle.

We thought we were done after our last meetings in early March . . . and then suddenly we were not. The forms meetings between March 15th and April 10th to address

So, in case you have not taken a gander yet, here are some must-know forms changes for 2024.

I mean, really? Can anyone tell me if this was intentional?!

1

10 INSIGHT • May 2024

1. Form 2-T – Residential Offer to Purchase and Contrac 5. NEW Form 170 – Closing Guidelines for Seller

t.

Language has been added to permit the buyer to pay the Due Diligence Fee to another party at the seller or listing agent’s direction, and the Due Diligence Period paragraph now has checkbox options where agents can either pick a date certain or choose a certain number of days to be counted from the Effective Date. Language has also been added to give the buyer and the closing attorney more power to make sure the seller gives information about their HOA account to limit surprises at Closing.

2. Form 4-T – Agreement to Amend Contract

. A checkbox has been added so that a buyer can easily be added to the purchase contract by amendment!

3. NEW Form 10-T – Estate Property Flowchart

. Have you ever wondered who should sign the paperwork for estate property? Well, wonder no more! This flowchart will help you identify, even at the agency contract stage, who needs to sign documents when it comes to estate properties. But still, do not fail to consult with your BIC and an estate attorney during the process.

4. NEW Form 142 – Vacant Land Disclosure Statement

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This new form has been created to allow the seller to make disclosures regarding vacant land. This disclosure is required by new, added language in Form 12-T, the Offer to Purchase and Contract – Vacant Lot/Land. The seller has the right to make no representation if they wish, just like the RPOADS and MOG disclosures required by the Residential Property Disclosure Act. If the seller does not provide this form as required by Form 12-T, then the buyer will have a limited three-day right to terminate and receive a refund of their Due Diligence Fee, if any.

. These new guidelines provide a simple, one page list of common items sellers need to complete as part of closing. This form will make it easier for listing agents to explain what their clients must do, and will hopefully make the move out transition easier to understand.

6. Agreement RE-DRAFT Form 220 – Cooperating Compensation . This form was formerly titled “Confirmation of Compensation, Agency, and Appointment.” It has been renamed and completely re-drafted to help agents’ who are navigating new MLS rules and Code of Ethics changes. This form now helps facilitate a contract for cooperating compensation between the selling firm, i.e., the buyer’s agent, and either the seller or the listing firm.

7. MContract AJOR EDITS Form 800-T – Offer to Purchase and – New Construction

. This new version of Form 800-T was created by a task force over the course of many months with input from REALTORS® and closing attorneys. The old version was difficult to navigate and did not reflect how new construction transactions unfold in practice. These edits, collectively, will make this form much easier to use and understand. Major edits to this form include:

a. Building Deposits eliminated and replaced with Construction Fees; b. Mandatory detailed plans and specifications are itemized and must be attached to the form to make sure the scope of the build is clear; c. A mechanism for Construction Fees to be refunded if there is a material breach of contract by the seller; d. Standard triggering events for when Construction Fees must be paid; e. A requirement that any significant deviation from the Plans and Specifications must be agreed to in writing via a Change Order; and f. Deadlines built into each phase of construction so that builders cannot indefinitely delay Closing due to either alleged or actual delays.

ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 11

8. N EW Form 416 – Tenant Personal Property Flowchart

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The statutes that govern tenant personal property are extremely confusing and are strewn about Chapter 42 of North Carolina’s General Statutes in no discernable order. This chart will be extremely helpful to property managers who must navigate these statutes every day and face stiff penalties if they fail to follow the law as written, unwieldly as it is.

9. NTearEW Guide Form 417 – Landlord-Tenant Normal Wear and

. The issue as to what is ordinary wear and tear to a rental property has, up to now, been an aggravating gray area for agents, landlords, and tenants. This guide is not the law, but it will be a helpful and important step toward managing expectations for all parties involved in the tenancy.

10. FSale orm 620-T – Real Property Auction Purchase and Contract

. This contract has been restructured to make sure all material contractual terms are on the first page rather than scattered through the first several pages. It has also been edited to more closely resemble Form 2-T.

Full forms change summaries are available in the Q&A section of ncrealtors.org. Though not discussed in detail here, all the standard form agency agreements have been revised to comply with the terms of the antitrust settlement.

The biggest changes, of course, are to the residential buyer agency agreements, Forms 201 and 203. However, agents who use the commercial and auction agency forms should also review the changes made to those agency agreements.

I’d like to thank every REALTOR®, staff member, and NC Bar Association attorney who worked on these forms changes for their dedication and thoughtful contribution.

I have always believed that the forms speak to REALTOR® values and should be a source of pride. As someone who works regularly with forms from other states, I have a deep appreciation for the years of work that have made our forms what they are today, and I believe these most recent changes will continue to make our forms some of the best in the country.

LEGAL HOTLINE NC REALTORS® have free, unlimited access to the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Did you know one call to a real estate lawyer costs an average of $300 per hour? With just one call to the Legal Hotline, you’ve paid for one year of NC REALTORS® dues in full. Don’t waste your time stressing over forms, disclosure or landlord/tenant law. Call the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline to get quick resolution, so you can return to your clients and your business.

PHONE: 336.294.1415 EMAIL: legalhotline@ncrealtors.org

12 INSIGHT • May 2024

Golf & Give

2024 NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation Golf Tournament September 23, 2024 Longleaf Golf & Family Club ncrealtorshf.org/golf

The NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation, a charitable foundation, invites you to join us for a golf tournament. Proceeds from this tournament will benefit the Housing Foundation’s 100 Homes in 100 Counties initiative.

Golf Tournament: Monday, September 23, 2024 Longleaf Golf & Family Club 10 N. Knoll Road, Southern Pines, NC 28387 Rates: Team of Four – $600, Individual – $150 Driving Range Open: 7:30 AM Registration Open: 8:30 AM Breakfast Buffet: 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM Shotgun Start: 10:00 AM Lunch: Box Lunch pick up or drop off Buffet Awards Immediately following the tournament. Cash prizes Ceremony: awarded for: • 1st, 2nd and 3rd place teams • Longest Drive • Closest to the Pin CONTACT Kentia Smith | Housing Foundation Director

ksmith@ncrealtors.org

336.217.1043

Planting Success

Navigating the Unique World of Farm Sales

BY LEE NELSON Lee Nelson is a freelance journalist from Illinois. She writes for REALTOR® Magazine, several state REALTOR® Magazines and websites, and loanDepot.com.

14 INSIGHT • May 2024

The demand in farmland has increased since Covid, and the value of farmland is at record highs.

Christina Asbury

THE EDUCATION FOR LAND SALES In the dynamic world of real estate, adaptability is key.

For Christina Asbury, navigating the diverse landscapes of farms and coastal properties means her office extends far beyond traditional walls. With her trusty four-wheel drive truck and boat serving as mobile headquarters, Christina embraces the rugged terrain with a pair of muck boots always at the ready.

“A pair of heels have never sold a property for me,” states Asbury, a broker at Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage, Sneads Ferry.

From survey tape to bug spray, and even a machete, her toolkit is as diverse as the landscapes she navigates. Vick’s Vapor Rub serves a unique purpose, masking the pungent odors of the outdoors, while pantyhose provide protection against pesky chiggers and ticks when traversing through tall grass. “They don’t get through the pantyhose,” she says.

Selling farmland is an entirely different market and somewhat a different way of life for REALTORS®.

“The demand in farmland has increased since COVID, and the value of farmland is at record highs,” Asbury says.

Asbury served several terms as president of the Carolinas Chapter of the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI), a commercial affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®. She also served with the National RLI in various capacities and earned her Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) designation, with only 45 in her state and 690 in the nation. She also teaches land classes to other REALTORS®.

To earn the ALC, you must finish six courses, receive two letters of recommendation, pass a final exam and submit a sales portfolio demonstrating you have achieved a minimum of 25 land transactions or $10,000,000 in land sales within the last five years.

Some people accomplish this in a year, while others take a few years.

“It’s not an easy designation to get, and they just raised the requirements as well,” comments Eric Andrews, principal broker and principal auctioneer at Realty World Carolina Properties, Pittsboro. He has been president of the Carolinas Chapter of the RLI since 2021. He also serves as chairman of the Future Leaders Committee at the organization’s national level. “It’s interesting to network with other land brokers with different issues in different parts of the country,” Andrews says. “But we do have something in common. Buyers are looking for acreage, open space and freedom.” ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 15

THE NECESSITIES OF THE JOB Andrews says that selling a farm takes a different set of knowledge, tools and equipment than selling a home.

“As a broker for farms, you have to realize the deep roots and connection that the heirs or owners of a farm have. It’s not about the money for them, most of the time,” he adds.

For sellers, parting with a farm can be challenging because it holds sentimental value, often serving as the backdrop for family gatherings and cherished memories. It’s where they raised their calves for the State Fair or grew their own pumpkins.

Buyers are looking for acreage, open space and freedom Eric Andrews

16 INSIGHT • May 2024

In addition to emotional considerations, other essential skills for farm brokers include the ability to interpret plat or aerial and topographical maps and a thorough understanding of local zoning regulations.

Asbury expresses that as a farm broker, your awareness must encompass drainage and easement issues, available conservation programs, pasture management considerations, tree and soil varieties, road systems and watering sources like creeks or springs.

You must walk the property and examine the inside and out of barns, sheds and a home, if there is one.

“Sometimes, you have the farmhouse that has never been renovated,” she remarks. “You have to make sure you know the zoning restrictions and other ordinances that will govern how much you can renovate.”

Asbury and Andrews say it’s necessary to utilize advanced mapping technology to accurately determine property boundaries and identify flood zones, ponds and other land features.

“It’s not easy to find 50 acres in the middle of nowhere when it’s adjoined by other 50 to 100 acres,” he states.

THE PEOPLE (AND ANIMALS) THEY MEET When Andrews met a retired banker who turned private zoo keeper, he faced the unique challenge of selling a zoo. The woman had acquired numerous

As a broker for farms, you have to realize the deep roots and connection that the heirs or owners of a farm have. It’s not about the money for them, most of the time, Eric Andrews

animals, including zebras, kangaroos and emus, and transformed her 100-acre property into a nonprofit zoo. She would extend invitations to school children to visit and learn about the animals, making the venture profitable.

on her boat to see the view from that side of the property.

She maintains strong relationships with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and local extension service representatives to offer insight into available opportunities, including loans for prospective buyers.

“However, COVID-19 hit, and none of the kids could visit, and she couldn’t keep her staff. It became too much,” he states.

Over the years, Asbury has met many older farmers who wanted to send their children to college so they didn’t have to work so hard for their money. “Now, the parents are getting older, and the younger folks aren’t interested in coming back to farm,” she adds. “It’s almost like we are helping in estate planning. There’s a lot of guilt when they go to sell the farm that their grandfather farmed.”

While inspecting the property, Andrews had a face-to-face encounter with a male kangaroo.

“He rarely saw someone taller than him. I’m 6 foot 4 inches, and he’s 6 feet,” he laughed. “He tried to box me because he was angry.”

Despite the challenges and strange encounters, the property included a very nice home, many barns and outbuildings and fenced-in pastures and shelters. Andrews leveraged his ALC designation to facilitate the sale to a nonprofit organization specializing in wild horse rehabilitation.

The organization, which assists veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress syndrome, now utilizes the property to train and rehabilitate horses sourced from Colorado and Wyoming.

Additionally, brokers sometimes face uncertainty regarding the target demographic for a particular listing. For instance, Andrews recently marketed a 100-acre property featuring 32 ponds.

“We put it in a few fishing magazines and got an unbelievable response. You don’t want to exclude anyone,” he adds.

As the dynamics of farming and land sales continue to evolve, Asbury, Andrews and their fellow real estate professionals remain steadfast in their commitment to navigating these changes with positivity and determination, ensuring a bright future for the industry.

THE CHANGING FACE OF FARMING

In her role, Asbury handles a variety of land types, including oceanfront lots. She takes potential buyers ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 17

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES REALTORS® AT THE HELM OF

PUBLIC SERVICE INITIATIVES IN NORTH CAROLINA

BY LEE NELSON

18 INSIGHT • May 2024

In North Carolina, REALTORS® not only serve as leaders in the real estate industry but also as dedicated public servants. From membership on school boards to positions in city councils and involvement in zoning policies, some real estate professionals wear multiple hats, often assuming prestigious roles such as mayors and state legislators.

Their efforts extend beyond real estate business success to actively shaping the future of their communities through participation in discussions and the development of legislation aimed at improving the lives of their constituents.

This article highlights the stories of five exemplary NC REALTORS®, offering insights into their backgrounds, motivations and the significant impact they have in their roles as public servants in North Carolina.

April Stephens

County Commissioner of Johnston County April Stephens has always been passionate about serving and contributing her time to various chamber boards and civic organizations in her community. She’s also the former president of the Johnston County Association of REALTORS®. “I believe it is our job and my passion to support our communities that support us,” Stephens says.

“Serving the public gives me a better understanding of the community’s needs and how I can help.”

One of the challenges she faces as both a public servant and a REALTOR® is time management. Stephens often finds that events and meetings overlap, requiring her to juggle responsibilities and differing viewpoints.

“There was some backlash from citizens who are antigrowth and had fear that I will make decisions based on my career,” she emphasized. “If you know me, that is simply not the case. I want what’s best for Johnston County as a whole.”

Being a public servant has provided Stephens with valuable lessons in leadership, communication and listening skills. For those considering a position in public service, she suggests finding and leaning into what you’re passionate about.

“I was attending planning board and commissioner meetings long before I was elected because I wanted to stay informed of what was happening in our communities and county. It helped me be a better resource for my team and clients as well.”

I was attending planning board and commissioner meetings long before I was elected because I wanted to stay informed of what was happening in our communities and county. It helped me be a better resource for my team and clients as well.

– April Stephens

Public service has helped my real estate business because it gives me a chance to meet business leaders, developers and people who are driving our local community.

– Ronald (Ronnie) Thompson

ncrealtors.org • INSIGHT 19

Many non-profits seek workers and people to join them in their cause. Doors will open if you get involved

– Brian Biggs

Ronald (Ronnie) Thompson

Brian Biggs

Ronnie Thompson became engaged in public service with the aim of preserving a pristine stream. He pursued a seat on the County Commission, eventually chairing it in his final year in 1992.

Brian Biggs became involved in public service after being approached to run for the school board in Randolph County.

Mayor of Morganton

Then Thompson secured a position on the city council in 2013 and successfully ran for mayor in 2015. He was reelected in both 2019 and 2023.

“It is imperative to be on boards, councils and commissions because these are where the critical decisions are discussed and voted on,” he says. “REALTORS® need to be a vital part of the discussion before the votes are taken.”

From a business standpoint, Thompson recognizes that governmental decisions can impact a brokerage’s capacity to serve the public effectively. His involvement in public service has revealed that while government cannot resolve every individual’s issues, most people are open to dialogue when given the opportunity to express their concerns.

He also emphasizes the value of active listening over speaking. His activity in public service has facilitated valuable connections within the community and benefited his real estate business.

“Public service has helped my real estate business because it gives me a chance to meet business leaders, developers and people who are driving our local community.”

20 INSIGHT • May 2024

House of Representatives District 70

“I learned so much about education. It was a great learning experience,” he reflects.

Biggs believes that engaging in public service provides valuable insight into the day-to-day activities and challenges faced by REALTORS®, which he deems essential to bring to Raleigh.

“Home buyers, homeowners, and REALTORS® face so many challenges that people are unaware of,” he emphasized.

“It’s essential to be a voice for our profession.”

Thanks to advancements in technology, Biggs has effectively balanced his role in the General Assembly with his real estate business. However, he maintains a clear separation between politics and real estate.

“My job as a REALTOR® is to perform my duties without bias. I hold the Code of Ethics very firmly.”

For those interested in getting involved, Biggs advises starting with community engagement because many organizations require assistance.

“Many non-profits seek workers and people to join them in their cause. Doors will open if you get involved,” he concluded.

Paul McGill

Tax Board of Equalization and Review member, Forsyth County Zoning Board of Adjustments, Blowing Rock Paul McGill has been engaged in public service for most of his adult life, viewing it as a natural extension of his business leadership, volunteer initiatives and church service.

“Seeing a public service need for expertise in applied business principles, including financial acumen and land usage, seemed a natural segue,” he explained.

Given that REALTORS® specialize in land, buildings, homes and property management, McGill believes that specialized knowledge is essential for his roles in public service.

“As a frontline representative in these arenas, specialized knowledge can assure unbiased, thoughtful and diligent evaluation of said issues.”

Public service also involves the evaluation of complex issues, often with opposing objectives. The ability to negotiate and reach a consensus is imperative and McGill’s real estate career has prepared him for just that.

“It is a privilege to treat everyone fairly with an open mind and assure that transparency exists,” he says

Dennis J. Whitson

Chairman of McDowell County Planning Board Since 2002, Dennis Whitson has served on the planning board in Marion, N.C. “It is important to be able to have a positive impact on the growth and regulations of the county while protecting the property rights of others and still preserving the qualities that make our county such a desirable place to live and work.”

Public positions often entail facing disagreement with decisions made by the board. Some may develop negative sentiments toward certain board members and opt not to utilize their business services in the future.

“I think my public service has been a benefit to my real estate business as it gives people a chance to see how I always try to treat everyone with fairness and respect,” Whitson says. “It also provides an opportunity for others to see how I and the board can handle different and often difficult situations.”

He asserts that when individuals recognize your willingness to volunteer time, knowledge and efforts to enhance the community without financial gain, they gain confidence that you will offer the same level of commitment and more when they become your clients or customers.

“It is a privilege to treat everyone fairly with an open mind and assure that transparency exists,

– Paul McGill

“It is important to be able to have a positive impact on the growth and regulations of the county while protecting the property rights of others and still preserving the qualities that make our county such a desirable place to live and work.

– Dennis J. Whitson

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