RT February 2019

2018 NATIONAL CONVENTION RECAP PAGE 10

2018 HUD COUNSELING DIVISION IN REVIEW PAGE 14

VAREP - FACES IN THE CROWD PAGE 21

SAVE THE DATES

JUNE 16 - 18, 2019 | WASHINGTON D.C.

OCTOBER 13 - 15, 2019 | ORLANDO, FL

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VAREP NATIONAL NEWS

A Letter From Our President

ROGER THAT FEBRUARY 2019

Dear VAREP Members, I present you “RT – ROGER THAT – February

EDI TOR I AL

2019” E-Zine Newsletter. This is the best way

PUBLISHER USA Homeownership, Inc. DBA Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals

for VAREP National to communicate happenings within our organization to our membership.

VAREP experienced tremendous growth and

EDITOR Tori Sydow

recognition in 2018 for the important work

CR EATI VE

that we do. Each of you should be proud

SENIOR DESIGNER Jesus Lopez

and stand tall knowing that your passion to empower veterans to realize the American Dream of homeownership has enabled VAREP to be recognized by key leaders in the real estate, financial, and government sectors as the authority on, and voice of, military and veteran financial-literacy and homeownership.

VAREP ACCOMPLISHMENTS FROM 2014 - 2019 •

32 homes donated mortgage-free to deserving heroes across America.

•

1,000 military and veteran families realized the American Dream of homeownership through

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Nick Preston WEB DEVELOPER Francisco Labias CON TACT VAR EP HEADQUARTERS 951 · 444 · 7363 info @VAREP. net 495 E. Rincon St., Suite 110 Corona, CA 92879 w w w . V A R E P. n e t

our programs and services.

•

10,000 real estate and lending professional were trained as a result of the 80 live events and online membership training.

•

•

• •

3,100 military and veteran families educated about homeownership, financial literacy, and the

ABOUT SON

VA loan program through the live Veteran Housing Summits events hosted by VAREP local

Son Nguyen is the founder and president of the

chapters across the country.

Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals

361 military and veteran families were provided food, utilities payment, rent back payment,

(VAREP). Mr. Nguyen creates, implements, and

basic supplies, clothing, and blankets during the 2018 holiday season. This was made possible

overseas the programs within VAREP including

through our VAREP Cares program implemented by the VAREP local chapters.

working with government agencies and policy makers

$70,000 in the form of housing assistance grants for down-payment, closing costs, and adaptive

to create and reform veteran housing policy to

needs. This was in partnership with the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA).

remove barriers to homeownership.

$5 million spent on home rehabilitation for mortgage-free donations and veteran first resale program.

He is frequently called upon as a subject-matter expert by government agencies, the real estate

HOW TO EXPLAIN WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO I frequently receive phone calls from our membership on how to explain VAREP as an organization.

Depending on your audience, you may want to adapt the points listed below to introduce VAREP.

industry, the lending industry, and real estate trade organizations to consult on a variety of veteran housing issues.

Mr. Nguyen has more than 19 years’ experience

•

•

VAREP is a 501.c.3 nonprofit organization that was founded to directly educate the 1.4-plus

in real estate, public speaking, supplier diversity,

million active military and 22-plus million veterans on sustainable homeownership, financial-

curriculum development, and non-profit management.

literacy education, VA loan awareness, and economic opportunity.

His record demonstrates innovation and leadership at

VAREP is the only organization that educates military and veteran families on the importance

the highest level.

of financial health on the road to homeownership.

•

VAREP is the only organization that educates the real estate practitioner on the important housing-policy and lending initiatives that affect the military and veteran communities.

Mr. Nguyen established VAREP as a housing non-profit for vets, by vets. He believes VAREP’s proactive stance of providing financial-literacy education and advocating homeownership can greatly

VAREP Comparison to Other Veteran Nonprofits

impact homelessness among the veteran community,

The comparison chart to the right shows that we fill a much needed gap in financial-literacy and

by both reducing the current epidemic and preventing

housing components that the other veteran service organizations simply do not offer…In other words: We complement them and do not compete with them.

Our organization has only scratched the surface of creating awareness and having people rethink how to better serve underserved military and veteran housing needs. To a great 2019...Cheers!

future occurrences, one veteran at a time.

Mr. Nguyen entered the Navy in 1996 and served as a Radioman on the USS Vincennes (GC-49) and USS Constellation (CV-64). A proud serviceconnected disabled veteran, Mr. Nguyen holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from of the

Son Nguyen

University of Florida and a Master’s in Organizational

VAREP Founder and President

Management. He currently resides in Corona, CA, with his wife, son, and Labrador.

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VETERAN NON-PROFIT COMPARISON CHART Target Audience

VAREP Veterans = 22+ Million Active Duty = 1.4+ Million

MILITARY WARRIORS FOUNDATION Wounded Warriors OEF, OIF, ND = 51,849

OPERATION HOMEFRONT Active Duty Family of E1 - E6 = 1.1 Million

WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT Wounded Warriors OEF, OIF, ND = 51,849

USA CARES Post 9/11 Servicemembers & Family

Financial Assistance

X

X

Emergency Food

X

X

Emergency Home Repair

X

X

Critical Baby Items

X

X

Home and Appliance Repair

X

Furniture and Household Items

X

Local Moving Assistance

X

Apartment Transitional Housing

X

X

Permanent Housing Placement

X

X

Employment Job Board

X

Rehabilitation with Recreational Therapy

X

X

X

X

Peer-to-Peer Counseling

X

Family Support Retreats

X

Peer Mentoring

X

Information Technology Training Academy

X

Financial Literacy Education

X

VA Home Loan Program Education

X

Housing Education

X

Housing Counseling

X

Credit and Debt Management Education

X

Credit and Debt Management Counseling

X

Military and Veteran First Look Affordable Housing Purchase Program

X

Mortgage Free Donated Homes for Wounded Warrior and Spouses of Deceased Warriors

X

X

X

X

X

Community Outreach

X

X

X

Live Community Housing, Financial Literacy, and Employment Fair Outreach Events

X

REALTOR, Housing Professional, and Lender Military and Veteran Certification Course

X

Military and Veteran Friendly Database

X

Advocay with a Written Policy Plan

X Military and Veteran Housing Lending Policy

Housing and Lending Policy Conference

X

Military and Veteran Financial Literacy, Housing, and Employment Resource Center

X

X

X

X Wounded Warriors

NOTE: The non-profit comparison chart does not list the national minority real estate trade organizations including AREAA, NAHREP, and NAREB because we are not structurally set up as a trade organization. We have our membership whom we educate to better serve the military housing needs, but ultimately we are all here to serve the military and veteran communities.

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FEBRUARY 2019 TABLE OF C O NTE NTS

About VAREP University.................................4 VAREP Chapter Map.....................................6 VAREP Chapter Development.........................8 Stop Drop & Push Success Stories..................9 2018 National Convention Recap.................10 2018 HUD Counseling Division in Review....14 Legislative Corner.......................................16 HUD Counseling Success Stories.................19 VAREP Faces in the Crowd...........................................21

For REALTORS®, Lenders, and Housing Professionals Members and Non-members are Welcome.

What is VAREP University?

As the voice for veteran real estate, our goal is to arm practitioners with the right tools so they can better serve the active-duty and veteran communities’ housing needs. VAREP University is the centralized learning platform for the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals.

Members and non-members can earn designations by creating a VAREP University user account, select from the course library, pay and complete the course with a minimum 70 percent score on the final exam.

FEATURED COURSES

2019 NATIONAL EVENTS

The MVHC is designed for a comprehensive understanding of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) Home Loan Guarantee Program. We want our members to have an industry recognized course needed to effectively serve the housing needs of our military and veteran communities. Our goal is to educate and empower attendees to embrace the VA loan program instead of shying away from it. Can be taken live or Online.

The SCRA is designed for a comprehensive understanding of the

Policy Conference JUNE 16- 18, 2019 · WASHINGTON D.C.

Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). We want our members to have an industry recognized course needed to effectively serve the housing needs of our military and veteran communities. Our goal is to educate and empower attendees to understand the protections provided by the SCRA for servicemembers. The knowledge from this course can prevent violations like the mortgage violations during the housing crisis 2008. Online Only.

The Fair Housing course is designed for a comprehensive understanding of the Fair Housing Act. We want our members to have an industry recognized course needed to effectively serve the housing needs of all persons interested without Housing

NATIONAL CONVENTION OCTOBER 13-15, 2019 · ORLANDO, FL 4

discrimination in which an individual or family is treated unequally when trying to buy, rent, lease, sell or finance a home based on certain characteristics, such as race, class, sex, religion, national origin, and familial status. Online Only.

register today! www.VAREP.net/university

TESTIMONIALS FROM VAREP MEMBERS

The Military and Veteran Housing Certification (MVHC) is an

This detailed and comprehensive Military and Veteran Housing

essential component to add to every Realtor’s arsenal of experience.

Certification (MVHC) course for REALTORS®, Lenders and Housing

The course provides a wealth of information to professionally assist

Professionals was very empowering and enlightening. The MVHC

over 23 million veterans and active duty personnel, and we must

Resource Manual downloaded from the course is a great and useful

properly serve this important sector of our population. Utilizing the

reference tool. This course helped me develop more confidence

MVHC resources is a great way to say “Thank you.”

in my ability to professionally service my Military and Veteran Chris Prendergast

Families in all aspects of the VA loan process. It required a detailed

VAREP Honolulu Chapter Community Outreach, REALTOR®

review of the entire process and reinforced my ability to become a knowledgeable VA Real Estate Professional.

After taking the MVHC course I realized that though I was pretty

General Bob Hipwell

educated and experienced on VA loans, but there were still certain

VAREP Sacramento Chapter President, Associate Broker

aspects about the program that I was not aware of or perhaps just needed some extra polishing up on. It is about time an independent

This course was very informative and helped build my confidence in

3rd party took the time to both educate and monitor those of us

all aspects of the VA loan. It required a detail review and reinforced

in the real estate and finance world that see Veterans as our niche

the need to be or become an expert VA loan expert. I was able to

clients. I am very happy to be associated with VAREP and to serve

share my experience with other veterans and colleagues.

the honorable men and women of the US Armed Forces.

Ricardo Pacheco Eric Kandell

Marine, VAREP Sacramento Chapter Treasurer, Lender

VAREP Member, Lender

Enjoy the Education, Enjoy the Experience, and Enjoy Serving Those Who Have Served Us! 5

VAREP CURRENTLY HAS

45 CHAPTERS LOCATED IN 21 STATES ACROSS THE UNITED STATES

ACTIVE CHAPTERS Arkansas

Iowa

VAREP River Valley - Founded on September 18, 2018

VAREP Des Moines - Founded on October 3, 2017

Arizona

Kentucky

VAREP Phoenix Chapter - Founded on September 3, 2013 VAREP Tucson Chapter - Founded on January 28, 2015

VAREP Louisville Chapter - Founded on June 14, 2018

California

VAREP Annapolis Chapter - Founded on August 23, 2018

VAREP Coachella Valley Chapter - Founded on August 4, 2016 VAREP East Bay Area Chapter - Founded on August 24, 2017 VAREP Los Angeles Chapter - Founded on April 23, 2014 VAREP Orange County Chapter - Founded on March 11, 2013 VAREP Riverside Chapter - Founded on June 17, 2013 VAREP Temecula Chapter - Founded on January 22, 2019 VAREP Sacramento Chapter - Founded on June 4, 2013 VAREP Fresno Chapter - Founded on January 30, 2019 VAREP San Bernardino Chapter- Founded on August 14, 2014 VAREP San Diego Chapter - Founded on July 29, 2013 VAREP Yuba-Sutter Chapter - Founded on January 11, 2018

Colorado

VAREP Denver Chapter - Founded on August 14, 2014

Florida

VAREP Miami Chapter - Founded on July 13, 2015 VAREP Central Florida Chapter - Founded on April 14, 2015 VAREP Pinellas County Chapter - Founded on December 3, 2015 VAREP Broward Chapter - Founded on July 15, 2015 VAREP Treasure Coast Chapter - Founded on June 30, 2017 VAREP Jacksonville Chapter - Founded on August 28, 2018

Georgia

VAREP Atlanta Chapter - Founded on January 22, 2019

Hawaii

Michigan

VAREP Mid-Michigan City Chapter - Founded on November 14, 2017

Minnesota

VAREP Twin Cities Chapter - Founded on March 11, 2018

Missouri

VAREP St Louis Chapter - Founded on March 10, 2017

Nevada

VAREP Las Vegas Chapter - Founded on August 30, 2013 VAREP Northern Nevada Chapter - Founded on March 4, 2015

Oregon

VAREP Central Oregon Chapter - Founded on February 12, 2019

Texas

VAREP Austin Chapter - Founded on July 2017 VAREP DFW Chapter - Founded on December, 2015 VAREP El Paso Chapter - Founded on April 6, 2017 VAREP Houston Chapter - Founded on March 30, 2015 VAREP San Antonio Chapter - Founded on December 10, 2013 VAREP New Braunfels Chapter - Founded on August 8, 2018

Virginia

VAREP Honolulu Chapter - Founded on April 04, 2014

VAREP Hampton Roads Chapter - Founded on September 5, 2018 VAREP Northern Virginia Chapter - Founded on May 30, 2018

Idaho

Washington

V AREP Treasure Valley Chapter - Founded on May 17, 2018

Illinois

VAREP Chicago Chapter - Founded on June 21, 2016 6

Maryland

VAREP Seattle Chapter - Founded on September 30, 2013 VAREP Tacoma South Sound Chapter - Founded on December 15, 2014

Washington D.C.

VAREP D.C. Metropolitan Area Chapter - Founded on June 11, 2014

25 CHAPTERS IN FORMATION Arizona

VAREP Chandler Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP Prescott Chapter - Coming 2019

California

Kansas

VAREP Wichita - Coming 2019

Maryland

VAREP Southern Mayrland - Coming 2019

VAREP Silicon Valley Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP Modesto Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP Oceanside Chapter - Coming 2019

Massachusetts

Colorado

Michigan

VAREP Colorado Springs Chapter - Coming 2019

Florida

VAREP Pensacola Chapter - Coming 2019

Georgia

VAREP Agusta Chapter - Coming 2019

Hawaii

VAREP Big Island Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP Maui Chapter - Coming 2019

VAREP Boston Chapter - Coming 2019

VAREP Detroit Chapter - Coming 2019

New Jersey

VAREP New Jersey Chapter - Coming 2019

North Carolinda

VAREP Wilmington Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP North Carolina Chapter - Coming 2019

Oregon

VAREP Portland Chapter - Coming 2019

Pennsylvania VAREP Philadelphia Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP Pittsburgh Chapter - Coming 2019

South Carolina VAREP Florence Chapter - Coming 2019

Tennessee VAREP Nashville Chapter - Coming 2019

Washington VAREP Vancouver Chapter - Coming 2019 VAREP Bremerton Chapter - Coming 2019

Wisconsin VAREP Milwaukee Chapter - Coming 2019 7

VAREP Chapter Development Carla Lemon VAREP National Association Director

2018 brought on board VAREP’s Association Director, Carla Lemon.

With Carla’s assistance VAREP launched 12 new chapters and currently on track to launch an additional 15 chapters in 2019. In addition VAREP has grown its reach teaching the MVHC Course for CE credits in 8 States and plan to expand to 15 states in 2019.

The success of the chapters shows in the many levels the individual chapters continue to reach the Veteran communities through educational events, VAREP Cares in meeting individual needs, one Veteran at a time.

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STOP DROP & PUSH SUCCESS STORIES Veronica’s story:

Andrew’s story:

Veronica is a 9/11 Pentagon survivor and Air Force Veteran. She has endured years of health issues as well as caring for her elderly father. She was approached by an organization called Warrior Songs that helps bring hope and healing to Veterans through music and the creative arts. Veronica was given an opportunity to share her story of healing with a songwriter.

Once that was completed, the song was moved on to another artist who put the lyrics to music. Women at War: Warrior Songs Vol 2, offers 15 songs that represent the first hand testimony of 18 women and 2 Gold Star Families.

Andrew Jones is a Marine Corps combat veteran, AZ Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2017 and Best-selling Author of Healing the Warrior Heart.

Andrew returned home from Iraq in late 2003 after participating in the initial Shock & Awe campaign with the 1st Marine Division as an 0351 (Anti-Tank Assaultman) with Fox Co 2/23. He immediately began having nightmares of his experiences in combat and began down a dark path of destruction, leading to alcoholism. addiction, homelessness and extreme suicidal behavior.

Veronica was invited to attend the debut of the CD in Madison, Wisconsin. She applied for a grant from the Stop, Drop and Push Campaign to assist her with the cost of airfare and lodging so that she would be able to attend the debut and hear her song performed live for the first time. It was a healing journey for her and something that she knows will continue to support her moving forward.

In 2011, Andrew began to seek out ways of overcoming the battles he faced with PTSD, TBI, depression, anxiety and rage. In 2013, he turned his life over to Jesus and says, “I decided to apply my Marine Corps mentality to achieving joy and success in my life.” He hasn’t looked back since. After proudly serving as the Veteran Outreach Coordinator for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention AZ, a Fellowship with The Mission Continues and time as the Program Director for The Ripple Effect Helping Veterans and Families HEAL, Andrew rounded up an incredible core of passionate people and took a leap of faith at starting Operation Shockwave.

The Stop, Drop and Push Campaign provided a grant to Operation Shockwave in support of the Veteran Leadership Unit training. The 12 peer support Veterans were trained on suicide prevention, crisis intervention, emotional freedom technique, leadership and mentorship, communication skills and adapting military principles to life now. The grant covered the cost of 2 trainers, food, travel expenses, facility usage and classroom materials.

The Phoenix VAREP chapter participated in the delivery of the check and success video created that can be found at www.stopdroppush.org

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO 9

RECAP

Thank you I always enjoy the networking, however; the breakout sessions were a nice addition to the conference.

There’s tons of great information given and shared so I really appreciate it.

What can I say, you outdid yourselves with the speakers. Those are always a highlight for me as well. Attending these always makes me strive to get to the national board and help even more for our veterans going forward. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.

10

O

u

Opportunity I loved the opportunity to meet

Meeting everyone from HQ

the military speakers and learn

that have been amazingly

more about how to better serve

supportive especially Jesse

our communities.

and Michael.

11

“The comaradarie amongst the professionals in wanting to further the mission of VAREP and each other’s business.”

“Phenomenal speakers and the delegate workout session, that should be a repeat every year.”

“You all do an amazing job and I can’t stop talking about it for months after I get home So great job and I appreciate you all.”

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SAV E TH ED ATE

The 2019 VAREP National Convention will educate, develop, and empower current and future leaders within the VAREP organization. The National Convention equips VAREP leaders with the necessary tools to serve the military and veteran housing needs.

SEE YOU IN ORLANDO! varep.net/convention

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THE PATH TO SUSTAINABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP VAREP’s Housing Counseling Department is a HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency providing homebuying, credit, budget, post purchase and foreclosure prevention counseling services to Veterans, Active Military and the community nationwide. Over the past year, from January to December 2018, we provided the following housing counseling services:

2018 COUNSELING & OUTREACH STATISTICS

416

306 84 222

GROUP WORKSHOP PARTICIPANTS FROM VHS CHAPTER EVENTS

INQUIRIES FOR SERVICES

CLIENTS COUNSELED

1 ON 1 HOUSING COUNSELING CLIENTS

TYPES OF COUNSELING PROVIDED

124 27

PRE-PURCHASE HOMEOWNERSHIP

14

POST PURCHASE

29

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION

16

FINANCIAL HOMEOWNERSHIP SUSTAINABILITY COUNSELING

26

CREDIT COUNSELING

VISIT WWW.VETHOMEOWNERSHIP.COM OR CALL: 888.273.7267

5,500 LMI HOUSING INQUIRIES INTERNET, TELEPHONE & COMMUNITY EVENTS

1,500 LMI FAMILIES RECEIVED PRE-PURCHASE, CREDIT & HOUSING COUNSELING

850 VETERAN FAMILIES SUCCESSFULLY PLACED IN HOMES THROUGH OUR PROGRAMS

350 VETERANS WERE REFERRED TO HUD VASH PROGRAM

600 VETERANS ENGAGED IN CREDIT COUNSELING TO IMPROVE FINANCIAL READINESS

3,100 VETERANS & SERVICEMEMBERS

* Statistics from 2014-2018

EDUCATED ON VA HOME LOAN BENEFIT, IMPORTANCE OF GOOD CREDIT & HOME BUYING PROCESS THROUGH COUNSELING & OUTREACH EVENTS

VISIT WWW.VETHOMEOWNERSHIP.COM OR CALL: 888.273.7267

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LEGISLATIVE CORNER “To maintain the momentum from the Policy Conference, I have appointed G-II Varrato, AZ State Director; Yeimalis Acededo-Rasmussen, National Board of Director; William Process, Former Northern Nevada Chapter President; Gary Johnson, Former VAREP Sacramento Chapter President; Robbie Grossman, VAREP Twin Cities VicePresident; and Jeff Wilson, to form VAREP’s National Legislative Committee (NLC).

The NLC’s task is to do the background and heavy-lifting work necessary to move our mission and the bill forward.”

- Son Nguyen, VAREP Founder & President

G-II Varrato II U.S. Air Force Arizona State Director Ligislative Committee Chairman

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Yeimalis Acevedo-Rasmussen Patriot National Board of Director Legislative Committee

William Process U.S. Navy Legislative Committee

Gary Johnson

Robbie Grossman

Jeff Wilson

U.S. Air Force U.S. Coast Guard Legislative Committee

Patriot Legislative Committee

U.S. Navy Legislative Committee

VAREP’S NOTABLE FOOTPRINTS ON CAPITOL HILL Over the past 6 years, VAREP has successfully established a very notable footprint presence on Capitol Hill. Our first major accomplishment was to successfully change the Uniform Residential Loan Application (URLA aka FNMA 1003) so that now the URLA prompts the loan officer to ask the loan applicant are you, “…Currently serving on active duty…”, are you “…

Currently retired, discharged, or separated from service…, and are you a, “…

Surviving spouse…?” The new URLA is required to be used for all loans as of July 2019.

VAREP has successfully ended the despicable lender practice of LOAN CHURNING when the S. 2304 Protecting Veterans From Predatory Lending Act was included, as an amendment, to the Economic Growth, Regulatory Relief, and Consumer Protection Act, signed into law as Public Law No.: 115-174 on 24 May 2018.

VAREP was successful in starting the Financial Literacy engine for active duty servicemembers when Senator Kyrsten Sinema (then Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema) add to the John McCain National Defense Authorization Act, the following language, “… to ensure members obtain sufficient financial literacy to effectively leverage conferred benefits and opportunities for employment, education, vocational training, and entrepreneurship…. “ The John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 was signed into law on 13 August 2018 as Public Law No: 115-232 VAREP became aware of H.R. 299 Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act. Buried deep in the bill was language that would strip remainder entitlement usage for any VA loan. The bill also had a provision that would remove the

17

LEGISLATIVE CORNER VA lending set at the current conforming loan limits for GSE loans thus allowing any veteran to purchase and finance a home for any amount of money with no money down. However the bill also stipulated that any veteran with less than 100% disability would no longer be able to take advantage of the funding fee waiver. VAREP, endorsed the efforts of NAR and MBA and NAMB to make the appropriate corrections to H.R. 299 Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act thus the bill did not pass in the Senate and will be reworked in the hundred and 16 Congress to affect the necessary corrections.

Finally VAREP worked closely with Sen. Tim Kaine and Sen. Orrin Hatch in coordination with the national fair alliance and several other nonprofit organizations to successfully create a bill that was introduced in the 115th Congress, S. 3612 Fair Housing Improvements Act Veteran Discrimination Act 2018. The bill was introduced 13 November 2018 and referred to the committee on banking, housing and urban affairs on the same day.

Unfortunately the 115th Congress concluded on December 14, 2018 and no additional activity was possible.

Nevertheless the bill is being worked again in the 116th Congress and VAREP will be smack in the middle of negotiations and advocating efforts throughout the 116th Congress. Advocacy for the Fair Housing Improvements Act Veteran Discrimination Act 2019 will be part of the policy positions for the 2019 VAREP Policy Conference this year.

VAREP continues to lead the way in home ownership advocacy, community outreach, veteran job creation and affordable housing for our military family through the professional membership of all industry professionals who have made a commitment to our military family.

G-II Varrato II is the VAREP Arizona State Director, VAREP National Legislative Committee Chair and a Diversity Committee Member at NAR.

18

HUD COUNSELING SUCCESS STORIES Lydia Mawhinney’s story:

Sash Matten’s story:

Lydia was referred to VAREP Counseling Department because she was facing a foreclosure date in 2 weeks. It is unlikely the servicer will suspend the sale of a property being that close. Thomas was able to speak with the servicers and promptly had Lydia submit a loan modification packet. She was denied, however was not given a reason for the denial.

Her file was escalated to the servicers consumers department. Lydia was being shuffled back and forth during this process and her time line was running out with another foreclosure sale date in 3 weeks. A quick decision to file bankruptcy stopped the foreclosure sale and permitted VAREP more time to assist her in getting a loan modification. Her file was sent to CFPB and Thomas was successful in getting her into a trial period for the loan modification. Lydia has completed the trial period and is current on her mortgage. Thomas is following up with new Action Plan & Budget Counseling to prevent future financial problems.

Sash fell behind with mortgage payment due to deployment.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO

The servicer would not do a loan modification and told the client they would have to short sale the property.

Sash contacted VAREP Counseling Department for assistance.

Once Thomas spoke with the servicer, he asked them if they were aware of SCRA which prohibits them from foreclosure and that Sash did qualify for a forbearance due to being deployed. Representative did not want to grant the military forbearance, so a claim was escalated to the President of the company office. The V.P. contacted Thomas directly and reviewed the information submitted regarding client delinquency. Sash received a 6 months forbearance which bought the mortgage current and provided 2 additional months of no payment which helped him get up to date with other bills that were in arrears. Sash is back from deployment and making mortgage payment with no issues.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO 19

PROMOTING VETERAN STABILITY TO PREVENT VETERAN SUICIDE WHO WE ARE The Stop, Drop and Push Campaign (SDPC) is part of the Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals’ (VAREP) philanthropic platform of giving back (VAREP is a 501c.3 non-profit focused on housing for veterans). Although our focus may be on veteran housing, we cannot stand idle while our brothers and sisters are part of the 22 veteran suicide statistic.

HISTORY OF THE NUMBER 22

STOP, DROP & PUSH MISSION

In 2012 the Department of Veterans Affairs released a 59-page report outlining veteran suicide. The report states the numbers of Veterans who die from suicide each day has remained relatively stable over the past 12 years (varying from 18 -22 per day).

To lower the 22 veteran lives lost each day due to suicide by educating the public about veteran reintegration issues; connecting alternative veteran therapy providers to those who need treatment; and provide the necessary funding to ensure treatment is possible so our heroes will rediscover purpose and lead productive lives.

ALTERNATIVE THERAPY Research has determined in addition to medication and traditional therapy, a holistic approach including alternatives therapies such as existential/transpersonal, animal-assisted psychotherapy and play therapy (examples include martial arts, fly fishing, mountain climbing and rafting) are important as part of the road to recovery for many veterans.

951-268-1517 | info@stopdroppush.org 20

www.STOPDROPPUSH.org

FACES IN THE CROWD “Faces in the Crowd” is a handful of responses to an intriguing question... VAREP Members share their stories of all things VAREP related!

21

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT VAREP? VAREP - Treasure Coast, FL Chapter The level of research and information that is shared with Realtors and the community. The unique community outreach that takes place. The fact that it is unique in that it is run by the real estate community that is passionate about veterans.

VAREP - Central Florida Chapter Their dedication in assisting veterans through homeownership, advocacy on veterans behalf in Washington and VAREP’s commitment on educating realtors & veterans! VAREP is the voice for the veteran!

VAREP - Treasure Valley, ID Chapter VAREP’s organization structure facilitates and optimizes larger massive donation flows and seamlessly directs these flows to the Veteran need efficiently without waste providing the veteran with the optimal donation return ratio.

VAREP - Houston, TX Chapter We are the only organization dedicated to increasing sustainable homeownership, providing financial literacy, education, and creating economic opportunity for active duty military and the veteran community.

22

VAREP - Washington D.C. Chapter VAREP is an association that practices what they preach. As a veteran, I searched extensively to ensure I could support an organization that I could also believe in. After attending the conference in Pheonix, I was convinced that we are true in what we aim to do, not only does it provide a desired feeling of altruism it shows the truth in determination to make a change.

VAREP - St. Louis, MO Chapter It is a big organization across the U.S. but the mission is so close to everyone’s heart and passion so it feels like we are literally all one chapter! The overall support set in place to help make each chapter successful really is unique for a non profit..

VAREP - Tacoma/South Sound, WA Chapter The authentic work that we do to have a positive impact on Veterans lives. Working with elected officials to make real impactful change in regards to the VA loan. Not being afraid when someone says “there is no way you will get that changed or done”.

VAREP - Central Florida, FL Chapter It is truly an organization that cares for Veterans and does multiple things for the Veteran community. The culture within VAREP is about selfless service a key Military value.

23

WHY DO YOU GIVE YOUR MONEY, TIME, OR ENERGY TO VAREP AND IT’S MISSION? VAREP - Washington D.C. Chapter Regardless of one’s reason for going into the military, its a unique thing to do and a major sacrifice for all to have the freedoms we enjoy. Once I became aware of the need for educating to prevent and to sustain home ownership I was moved to act. After hearing the hearts of VAREP’s Leadership and seeing what they do for those who serve, I was all in.

VAREP - Orange County, CA Chapter Long line of Military members within my family. The Military made me who I am and anything I can do to give back to my brothers and sisters, I am willing to do. Someone has to fight for those that sometimes don’t even realize there is a fight that needs to be fought.

VAREP - Northern California I’m a servant and believe in VAREP as a founding member I bleed VAREP and had hoped to one day work for VAREP fulltime to make a difference . But even with that said I have given my all to help make us a true non profit agency for veterans I truly love.

VAREP - Louisville, KY Chapter As a patriot, I am compelled to give back to our veterans in honor of the many sacrifices they endured to support our nation. Given appropriate education, time, and resources we can reduce veteran homelessness and make a difference in our local communities - one veteran at a time.

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VAREP - Louisville, KY Chapter I have chosen to be a part of VAREP because I needed a “mission.” I needed to find a way for my ikigai (my purpose) to be connected to the segment of our population that I related to the most, the veteran community. I may have left the service but my service didn’t leave me. Finding VAREP, allowed me to do the job I was already doing and put it inline with a passion, the veteran community & to serve. Bringing VAREP to our community has allowed me to feel like we’re making an impact to our profession and community (mission).

I am excited to see how many life’s we can impact and where we can take our chapter during our initial three years.

VAREP - San Antonio, TX Chapter In many cases the veterans cannot speak for themselves but I can certainly do that for them. There are many support groups for breast cancer, als, etc. but a lot fewer to care about the plight of veteran families. I am willing to give all three (money, time and energy) to VAREP because it cares about what I care about. As a REALTOR I recognize that too many REALTORS and lenders are themselves unaware of how much a VA loan can mean to military and veterans.

VAREP - Tucson, AZ Chapter After becoming a Member I have a witness of how veterans are treated by Realtors and Loan officers and being a veteran myself and also not given the best loan for me by lenders also. The more you are involved and being with other Veterans, gives you the energy to fight for more rights.

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ANY PERSONAL STORIES THAT ILLUSTRATE ANY OF YOUR ABOVE THOUGHTS? UNIQUE ABOUT VAREP? VAREP - St. Louis, MO Chapter When I bought my first house in 2001, there wasn’t any organization like VAREP where Veterans can turn to. I had to rely on my realtor who had never served to help me with the process. I now have a better understanding of VA loans and the home buying process since I’ve joined VAREP.

VAREP - Northern California Yes, I’ve met several veterans at our various Housing summits , VAREP Charity events and even just in conversation randomly in the market place and found how much we need to be connected not only as brothers and sisters who served this country but also with patriots who support our miltary and serve with all their hearts. I’ve helped mentor a lot of vets, find them shelter, food and clothing, got them off drugs, supported them through thier ptsd crisis and will continue to do so.

VAREP - Tucson, AZ Chapter When our chapter has a Lunch and Learns to teach the myths of a VA loan, dozens of agents and lenders are amazed on what they didn’t know about VA loans and the needs of Veterans. We are making a difference!

VAREP - River Valley, AR Chapter My family consists primarily of active duty and veterans.

I know from a personal first hand stance on what it takes daily and what it means by God, Country, Family. Far too many take our freedom for granted.

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VAREP - Miami, FL Chapter Through our chapter, I have personally been able to educate a good number of veterans where they had no clue what their benefits were or that they were told the wrong information about how to use their benefits. Our chapter has put on several events where our chapter has been able to help veterans reach homeownership.

VAREP - San Bernardino, CA Chapter My heart swells each time I see a VAREP Cares event and especially when we bring Christmas to families that have so little.

VAREP - Central Florida, FL Chapter As a little girl, I would stare at the picture in my aunt’s living room. The picture was that of my cousin, 2 yrs old then, kneeling in front of his fathers coffin. I remember the coffin had a flag and it looked so fancy and royal.

Being a child, I thought he was some kind of prince or someone with great power. Later in life, I was told he died in WW II and I could not understand, back then, why did he died and left a son and wife behind. As I got older, I realized, the sacrifice he did for his family and for us. That stayed with me forever! Through the years, I would watch the news and hear the horrific stories of our veterans coming back home to nothing, No wife, No Children and No support! They came back with mental illnesses and addictions that family & friends could no longer ignored. They were abandoned to fight for themselves when these were the same men and women who fought for US. Their love was unconditional and ours had conditions.

Some never made it alive and a huge population are now in the streets. I felt the need to get involved some how to help, but did not know how. I looked into several opportunities online but I still felt disconnected. One day, I received an email from Miami Realtors Association looking for Leaders to start a new chapter with VAREP. I showed up and here I am! There is SO MUCH MORE we need to do out there.....

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“The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional to how they perceive veterans of early wars were treated and appreciated by our nation.”

- George Washington

VETERANS ASSOCIATION OF REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS info@VAREP.net 2

w w w . V A R E P. n e t

951- 444 -7363