new agent HANDBOOK GUIDE
HAVE THE RESOURCES I HAVE THE LIFESTYLE XPERTISE I HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE TO DELIVER AM AHEAD OF THE TRENDS I’M AT THE FOREFR WALK TALLER I HAVE THE LEADS TO GROW I HAV HE TOOLS TO ACHIEVE I’M AN INFLUENCER I’M BETTER I HAVE THE LIFESTYLE EXPERTISE I HAVE KNOWLEDGE TO DELIVER I AM AHEAD OF THE T AT THE FOREFRONT I WALK TALLER I HAVE THE GROW I HAVE THE TOOLS TO ACHIEVE I’M AN INF R I’M BETTER I HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE TO DEL AHEAD OF THE TRENDS I’M AT THE FOREFRONT ALLER I HAVE THE LEADS TO GROW I HAVE THE ACHIEVE I’M AN INFLUENCER I’M BETTER I AM A HE TRENDS I’M AT THE FOREFRONT I WALK TAL HE LEADS TO GROW I HAVE THE TOOLS TO ACH AN INFLUENCER I HAVE THE RESOURCES I HAVE TYLE EXPERTISE I HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE TO D M BETTER I’M AT THE FOREFRONT I WALK TALLE HE LEADS TO GROW I HAVE THE TOOLS TO ACH AN INFLUENCER I HAVE THE RESOURCES I HAVE TYLE EXPERTISE I’M BETTER I WALK TALLER I HA KNOWLEDGE TO DELIVER I AM AHEAD OF THE TR HAVE THE RESOURCES I HAVE THE LIFESTYLE EX M AN INFLUENCER I HAVE THE TOOLS TO ACHI ETTER I HAVE THE LEADS TO GROW I HAVE THE S I HAVE THE LIF NEW AGENT HANDBOOK EST PERTISE I HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE TO DELIVER I A OF THE TRENDS I WALK TALLER I HAVE THE LEAD
table
OF CONTENTS
01 WELCOME
1 ...................................WELCOME LETTER 3 ..............................................OUR VALUES 4 .................................................OUR STORY 6 .......BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS 7 .................................OFFICE LOCATIONS 9 .................... CORPORATE CONTACTS
11 CHECKLISTS
11 .......................................... ORIENTATION 12 ........................................... REFERENCES 15 ............................................. KCH AGENT 15 ................................................... GENERAL 16 ......................................... GREENHOUSE 16 ............................................................... ZAP
17 HELP GUIDE
17 ............................................. BHG BRAND 18 .................................................. INTRANET 18 .................................................... CLASSES 18 .............................................. VOICEMAIL 19 ............................... EMAIL SIGNATURE 21 ............................................... WEB PAGE 21 ...................................... SOCIAL MEDIA 22 ............. MARKETING & BRANDING 23 .............................................. EVANTAGE 24 ....................... GREENHOUSE LOGIN 25 .................. MARKETING MATERIALS 26 ................................... SUBSCRIPTIONS 26 ......................... GIFTS & DISCOUNTS 27 ............................... LUXURY LISTINGS 28 ........................................ BHG ASSETS 29 ............................................................ FAQ
31 EXTRAS
31 ......... PROFESSIONAL COURTESIES 32 ..................RESPECT FOR PROPERTY 34 ......................................AGENT SAFETY 36 ........................................................ NOTES 37 ...................................................... FORMS
welcome
TO BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE KANSAS CITY HOMES
This New Agent Handbook will help you understand and take advantage of the tools and resources that are now available to you: A List of training opportunities on our programs/services Tips for leveraging the BHG brand including talking points for active and inactive clients, your COI, and others Tutorials for making a smooth transition, including: changing over your smartphone email, and updating your voicemail, email signatures and social media profiles FAQs about your transition Have questions or need help? Reach out to your broker or email helpdesk@kansascityhomes.com.
WELCOME | 1
letter
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Hello. Let me be the first to officially welcome you to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. We are excited to have you with us and look forward to helping you build a better real estate career. It takes a special type of person to succeed in this business, and joining a trusted brand like Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is a promising first step. As you get settled into your new office, you will become familiar with all the resources, tools, and support systems we have in place for you. They are designed to give you a winning edge in the market and help you deliver the highest level of service that clients have come to expect from the agents in our company. I encourage you to take advantage of every opportunity to learn from your brokers and fellow agents to hone your skills and become a better REALTORÂŽ. Best of luck to you and once again, welcome! Sincerely,
David Cooper David Cooper President, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes
WELCOME | 3
values BETTER SERVICE
BETTER SERVICE BUILT ON OUR CORE BUSINESS VALUES
Guided by PAIGE, our core business values, we’re committed to your unique goals and delivering an excellent real estate experience.
To stimulate energy to a higher level of inspiration and emotion
Being actually and precisely what we claim to be
To embrace all people and ideas
To have increasing influence
To consistently exceed expectations
WELCOME | 4
history OUR PROGRESS
Combining nearly 200 years of real estate experience, a group of visionary industry leaders established our brokerage in 2004. Today, Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate Kansas City Homes ranks #2 in Kansas City residential real estate* and #6 nationally in the Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate network with $1.3 billion in sales volume.
Industry leaders form Prudential Kansas City Realty (PKC) with offices in Overland Park, Prairie Village, Leawood and Kansas City
2004
2005
Company more than doubles its number of agents and increases sales volume to more than $1 billion
Company acquires Carter-Duffey Realty and opens two new offices in the Kansas City Northland
2008
2009
Company joins the better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate network as Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate Kansas City Homes
2012
2013
2016
Opens Lee’s Summit Office Company acquires Heartland Properties, joins forces with award-winning builder Tom French and opens another office in southern Overland Park
REAL Trends magazine ranks our company #135 for homes sold among the nation’s top 500 brokerages and #189 for closed sales volume nationally with $1.3 billion sold
WELCOME | 5
Realogy CORPORATION
Realogy Corporation, a global provider of real estate services, has a diversified business model that includes real estate franchising, brokerage, relocation and title services.
Realogy’s world-renowned brands and business units include Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate®, CENTURY 21®, Coldwell Banker®, Coldwell Banker Commercial®, The Corcoran Group®, ERA®, Sotheby’s International Realty®, NRT LLC, Cartus and Title Resource Group. Collectively, Realogy’s franchise systems have approximately 15,000 offices and 315,000 sales associates doing business in 87 countries around the world. Approximately one in four U.S. homes bought or sold in a brokerage-related transaction involves a Realogy brand-affiliated brokerage.
WELCOME | 6
Better Homes AND GARDENSÂŽ REAL ESTATE
The Better Homes and Gardens name, owned by Meredith Corporation, has been a staple in American culture ever since the magazine was first published in 1922. The brand represents a true passion for the home with a deep commitment to homeownership that builds quality of life for individuals, families and communities. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate delivers a full-service value proposition that engages the best technologies to meet the needs of homebuyers and sellers of every generation. Today, the magazine boasts a circulation of 7.6 million, a readership of nearly 40 million, and holds the largest database in the U.S. with 80 million consumers. The real estate brand includes over 60 brokerages with over 300 offices in the US and Canada and over 10,000 agents and continues to expand at a rapid pace. The key differentiators of the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate brand include: > > > > > >
A unique team of industry experts available to support your business Access to one of the largest consumer databases in the world (the Meredith Consumer database) The latest online principles used to engage the online consumer Best in class systems and tools to help develop and manage your business Follow-up programs utilizing extensive Better Homes and Gardens’ resources Online lead generation and management systems
Contact the BHGRE Corporate team for technical support: > Phone at 866.616.4BHG > Live Chat from the Live Chat Link on The Greenhouse > Email at help@bhgrealestate.com
Support requests are answered: Mon - Fri: 5:00am - 10:59pm Sat - Sun: 6:00am - 10:59pm Coverage on major holidays
WELCOME | 7
office
COLLEGE BLVD.
Rob Hill 913-491-1550 Hours: M-F 8-5, Sat 10-4 Sun 11-3
LOCATIONS
PRAIRIE VILLAGE Annie Premis 913-981-2800 Hours: M-F 8:30-5pm Sat 9-4pm, Sun 11-4pm
NORTHLAND
BLUE VALLEY
LIBERTY
Darrel Stiles 913-661-6700 Hours: M-F 8:30-5pm
LEAWOOD
Steve Moyer 913-345-3000 Hours: M-F 8:30-5pm
PLAZA/KANSAS CITY Dan Sweeney 816-410-5500 Hours: M-F 8:30-5:30pm Sat 10-4pm
PLAZA/KANSAS CITY
LIBERTY
Joanna Williams 816-781-4700 Hours: M-F 8:30-5pm
PRAIRIE VILLAGE STATE LINE LEAWOOD COLLEGE BLVD
NORTHLAND
LEE’S SUMMIT
Kristi Ferrara 816-436-3600 Hours: M-Sat 8:30-5pm
LEE’S SUMMIT
BLUE VALLEY
Michelle DuPont 816-272-7300 Hours: M-F 10-3pm
WELCOME | 9
corporate CONTACTS
David Cooper
913.661.1434
davidc@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.8559
belzer@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.2317
marilyn@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.2348
copeland@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.8518
khowell@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.1475
jminor@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.8520
juliet@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.2310
cashion@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.2312
prush@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.1486
erica.butler@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.2305
valerier@kansascityhomes.com
913.661.8571
jbaldwin@kansascityhomes.com
Technology Director
913.661.8506
scoggins@kansascityhomes.com
Scott Adams
Technology Manager
913.661.8598
scotta@kansascityhomes.com
Sean Ferrel
Technology Technician
913.661.8594
sferrell@kansascityhomes.com
Polly Clark
Technology/CAM
913.661.8595
pclark@kansascityhomes.com
Help Desk
913.661.1411
helpdesk@kansascityhomes.com
President
Mike Belzer CFO
Marilyn Worley
Human Resources Director
Kathy Copeland
Performance Coaching
Karen Howell
Accounting Manager
Julie Minor Accounting
Julie Thompson Accounting
Fran Cashion
Relocation Director
Patty Rush
Relocation Counselor
Erica Butler
Relocation & Corporate Inventory Manager
Valerie Rolfes
Marketing Director
Josh Baldwin
Senior Marketing Specialist
Jean Scoggins
WELCOME | 10
kch PARTNERS
Barry Priest
913.749.0101
bpriest@fsbfinancial.com
Blue Valley Office
Christopher Resch
913.749.0113
cresch@fsbfinancial.com
Leawood Office
Martin Still
816.682.1645
martin@fsbfinancial.com
Prarie Village/State Line Office
Nathan Hutshell
913.226.0569
nhutshell@fsbfinancial.com
College Blvd. Office
Randy Robinett
913.749.0131
rrobinett@fsbfinancial.com
Northland Office
Terrence O’Neill
813.651.4861
toneill@fsbfinancial.com
Plaza Office
Amy Both
913-325-2472
aboth@security1st.com
College Blvd. Office
Betsy Radell
913-325-2472
bradell@security1st.com
College Blvd. Office
Sara Quinn
913-325-2472
squinn@security1st.com
College Blvd. Office
Joyce Bramlett
913-325-2472
jbramlett@security1st.com
College Blvd. Office
Christina Lawson
913-228-2207
clawson@security1st.com
Blue Valley Office
Laurie Bennion
913-228-2207
lbennion@security1st.com
Blue Valley Office
Kim Underwood
913-228-2207
kunderwood@security1st.com
Blue Valley Office
Charise Kidwell
913-228-2207
ckidwell@security1st.com
Blue Valley Office
Charity Bindi
913-228-2207
cbindi@security1st.com
Blue Valley Office
Alicia Vohs
913-228-2207
avohs@security1st.com
Blue Valley Office
Lynda Phillips
913-325-2536
lphillips@security1st.com
Prarie Village/State Line Office
Brandon Magee
913-325-2536
bmagee@security1st.com
Prarie Village/State Line Office
Sara Libich
913-325-2536
slibich@security1st.com
Prarie Village/State Line Office
checklist
CHECKLISTS AND ASSIGNMENTS TO HELP JUMPSTART YOUR CAREER
CHECKLIST | 11
orientation CHECKLIST
Orientation DATE:
TIME:
Send agent photo to marketing@kansascityhomes.com Order business cards Order signs Order name badge Order announcement cards Agent information sheet completed and sent to marketing@kansascityhomes.com Update phone settings Schedule appointment with IT for laptop/phone configure DATE:
TIME:
Complete W-9 Complete licensing documents Sign Independent Contractor Agreement Receive commission schedule Copy of driver’s license KCRAR Application Set up CSS Review benefits Set up Real Satisfied account Schedule Heartland MLS Orientation class
DATE:
Schedule appointment for Supra set up at KCRAR
TIME: DATE:
TIME:
CHECKLIST | 12
reference LIST
BROKER NAME: BROKER NUMBER: AFTER HOURS NUMBER: MAIN OFFICE NUMBER: MY AGENT MENTOR: MY AGENT MENTOR NUMBER: MY AGENT MENTOR EMAIL: OFFICE DOOR ACCESS CODE: OFFICE WIFI: COLOR COPIER CODE: MY OFFICE PHONE NUMBER: EFAX NUMBER: VOICEMAIL NUMBER: EMAIL/LOGIN/PASSWORD: WEBSITE: KCH AGENT LOGIN/PASSWORD: PRINT TIME [TELL 25] LOGIN/PASSWORD: GREENHOUSE LOGIN/PASSWORD: ZAP LOGIN/PASSWORD: MLS LOGIN/PASSWORD: DOTLOOP LOGIN/PASSWORD:
CHECKLIST | 13
reference LIST CONT’D
DOCUSIGN LOGIN/PASSWORD: CSS LOGIN/PASSWORD: REAL SATISFIED LOGIN/PASSWORD: REALTOR.COM LOGIN/PASSWORD: NAR RPR LOGIN/PASSWORD: NAR LOGIN/PASSWORD: INMAN LOGIN/PASSWORD: MO LICENSE NUMBER/RENEWAL DATE: MY KANSAS LICENSE NUMBER/RENEWAL DATE: MY NRDS NUMBER: SUPRA: KEY NUMBER: USER CODE: SHACKLE CODE: IBOX SERIAL NUMBER(S):
CHECKLIST | 14
apps TO DOWNLOAD
ZAP CSS HMLS DOTLOOP BHGRE SUPRA EKEY RPR LIFELINE EXTRAS: EVERNOTE ANY.DO
CHECKLIST | 15
kch agent KCHAGENT.COM View training calendar Print a buyer book Print a seller book Update your phone settings Review flyer templates and download Turn on ‘Tell 25 Postcards’ Set up Evantage Programs MyHome Search, Sale, Compare, and Watch Locate the KC Utilities
general INFORMATION
Create your database [Center of Influence] Read policy manual located on kchagent.com Contact your COI and let them know you are with BHGRE Kansas City Homes Update your email signature Update your social media accounts: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, SnapChat etc. Like your Facebook office and corporate page Create a Facebook business page Create a profile on nar.realtor.com Create a profile for RPR
CHECKLIST | 16
greenhouse GREENHOUSEBHGRE.COM
Update your Greenhouse profile with your photo, bio and languages Set up your Digital Marketing Center Update your profile in the Digital Marketing Center Add yourself as a contact in the Digital Marketing Center Create a flyer, postcard or email in the Digital Marketing Center Go to the Learning Calendar and sign up for ‘Seeds of Success’ Order a personalized BHG subscription for a client, friend or business
zap
NEW.MYZAP.COM Update your Zap website profile with your photo, bio and languages Add a video to your Zap website Add a local insight to your Zap website Review and update your lead settings and welcome email Download and log into the Zap mobile app Send a review request to one of your contacts Locate your personal Zap desktop and mobile website links Send your personal website link to one of your contacts Create a follow-up plan for one of your contacts
help guide YOUR GUIDE TO A BETTER, STRONGER CAREER WITH BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE KANSAS CITY HOMES
HELP GUIDE | 17
how to
LEVERAGE THE BHG BRAND
If you are an established agent, a great way to jumpstart your business is to use this transition to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate as a reason to get in touch with everyone you know. This is a great opportunity for you to reconnect with your clients, your circle of influence, and your inactive clients to see if you can generate some direct business and referrals. If you’re a new agent, make your list of everyone you know... even if they’re not looking to purchase a home. They may know someone who is! Here’s what you can do:
CALL YOUR ACTIVE SELLERS AND BUYERS
CALL YOUR INACTIVE LEADS
EMAIL YOUR ENTIRE DATABASE A DIGITAL MARKETING CENTER ITEM SUCH AS AN ECARD
SEND OUT A DIRECT MAIL POSTCARD FROM THE PRINT MARKETING CENTER OR PINPOINT LOG INTO THE GREENHOUSE AND NAVIGATE TO THE “MARKETING” TAB, THEN SELECT “ONLINE” AND “SOCIAL” TO REVIEW AND THEN FOLLOW THE BRAND SOCIAL MEDIA SITES.
HELP GUIDE | 18
how to
UTILIZE INTRANET, CLASSES & VOICEMAIL
HOW TO USE KANSAS CITY HOMES INTRANET SITE
Visit kchagent.com, our agent intranet site, to assist you in your day-to-day real estate needs. KCH Agent houses industry links, marketing resources, buyer and seller presentations, relocation information, forms, and a training calendar to mention a few. This will become your go-to resource for BHGRE Kansas City Homes.
HOW TO SIGN UP FOR CLASSES ON THE TRAINING CALENDAR
The training calendar is located on kchagent.com – Learning – Training calendar. The training calendar includes; Third Thursday training, a series presented by our agents and managers on the latest real estate information, CE classes, orientation, and online courses.
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR VOICEMAIL
Remember to update your voicemail greeting. Every phone is different, but if you call into your voicemail you should be prompted to go to “Message Options” or “Record Your Voicemail.” Once you’ve gotten to the point of recording your voicemail, you should record it in a quiet place, without using a headset, but instead speaking directly into the phone for ideal transmission. Here is the suggested message: Hi this is ________ with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. I’m sorry I can’t take your call right now but your call is important to me. Please leave a message and I will contact you as soon as possible. Thank you and have a great day!
HELP GUIDE | 19
how to
UPDATE GMAIL SIGNATURE
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR EMAIL SIGNATURE
A lot of you use an email signature for your outgoing emails; and those of you who do not probably should do so. It’s a great way to brand your outgoing email. There are many different email programs, but if you just go to the “Help” section on your email program and search for “signature” you will probably find instructions for doing so. You can change the font, color, weight, and more using the text formatting tools. A signature should be easy to read and professional. A distracting signature will make you look less professional to the recipient. If you still need assistance, please contact your Office Manager. An idea is to use green and gray to highlight your name and phone number etc. Here are the step by step instructions for Gmail and Outlook.
GMAIL
If you have a Gmail account: 1. Click the settings gear button and select “Settings” from the drop-down menu. 2. Stay on the “General” tab, scroll down to the “Signature” section and select the option below “No signature” to turn the feature on. 3. You’ll have a text box to write out your signature, so write it out. [Name] REALTOR Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Office Address City, State Zip XXX.XXX.XXXX (office) XXX.XXX.XXXX (mobile) KansasCityHomes.com
Emails sent or received do not constitute acceptance of conducting transactions via electronic means, nor shall it create a binding contract in the absence of a fully signed written contract.
HELP GUIDE | 20
how to
UPDATE OUTLOOK SIGNATURE
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR EMAIL SIGNATURE
A lot of you use an email signature for your outgoing emails; and those of you who do not should probably do so. It’s a great way to brand your outgoing email. There are many different email programs, but if you just go to the “Help” section on your email program and search for “signature” you will probably find instructions for doing so. You can change the font, color, weight, and more using the text formatting tools. A signature should be easy to read and professional. A distracting signature will make you look less professional to the recipient. If you still need assistance, please contact your Office Manager. An idea is to use green and gray to highlight your name and phone number etc. Here are the step by step instructions for Gmail and Outlook.
If you wish to add a quote, a marketing line, or the company logo, you can do that. You’ll always have the option of editing your signature on a particular outgoing message. You’ll need to set up the signature to go out automatically in your emails.
OUTLOOK
If you have an Outlook account: 1. Open Outlook. 2. Click on the “File” tab. 3. Click on the “Options”. 4. Pull down “Options.” 5. Click on the “Mail” tab. 6. Click on “Signatures.” 7. You’ll have a text box to write out your signature. [Name] REALTOR Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Office Address City, State Zip XXX.XXX.XXXX (office) XXX.XXX.XXXX (mobile) KansasCityHomes.com
HELP GUIDE | 21
how to
UPDATE YOUR WEB PAGE AND SOCIAL MEDIA
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR PERSONAL WEBPAGE
Visit kchagent.com – Marketing – My Website. This will take you to the backend of your personal website on kansacityhomes.com. Please make sure to complete your profile including background information, interests, affiliations, etc. Potential clients like to find commonalities with who they work with.
HOW TO UPDATE YOUR SOCIAL NETWORKING PROFILES (FACEBOOK, LINKEDIN)
If you’re on social networking sites, you’ll want to update your online profiles. It’s simple to do so from the desktop. We will provide new branded banners on KCH agent if you choose to use them.
1. Log into Facebook.com. 2. Click on the “Profile” link at the top. 3. Click on “Update Info” under your cover photo. 4. You can now edit the Work and Education sections 5. Edit the information that refers to your company name in the “Work and Education” sections. 6. Edit your login email information under “Contact Information” 7. While you’re on Facebook stay up-to-date on current industry news and brand events by searching for “Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes” and “Like” us!
1. Log into linkedin.com 2. Click on the “Profile” link at the top 3. Click “Edit Profile” 4. Click on the “Pencil Icon” next to the position 5. Edit the information that refers work place 6. To be in the know join Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LinkedIn Group!
OTHER
Follow BHGRE on all social media platforms you utilize. Facebook.com/bhgrealestate Twitter.com/bhgrealestate Youtube.com/bhgrealestate Pinterest.com/bhgrealestate Instagram.com/bhgrealestate
HELP GUIDE | 22
how to
CREATE PERSONAL MARKETING & BRANDING
HOW TO CREATE YOUR PERSONAL MARKETING PIECES
Better Homes and Gardens also offers both a Digital Marketing Center and a Print Marketing Center through the Greenhouse. These are populated with our company logo allowing you to create postcards, listing brochures, virtual tours, eCards, eNewsletters and much more. Also available in the Marketing section of the Greenhouse is the brand’s ID and Resource Guide where you can find brand print ad templates, logos and a royalty-free photo library.
DOTLOOP
Dotloop handles the entire real estate transaction from end-to-end with seamless form creation, e-sign, collaboration, compliance, and storage. Dotloop gives you real-time visibility into all the deals in your business. Dotloop is provided free and will need to be set up by your office admin.
CENTRALIZED SHOWING SERVICES [CSS]
CSS provides you the ability to schedule 10 to 12 showings in less than 5 minutes through their convenient contact centers or through Showings.com and the CSS Mobile App. Talk to your office admin about making sure your account is set up.
HELP GUIDE | 23
how to USE EVANTAGE MY HOME SEARCH
Sign up your buyers for our expansive My Home Search tool. Located on kchagent.com. This tool will allow them to create a custom search for their needs and send email updates any time a new listing appears within their search, price updates, listing changes, etc.
MY HOME SALE
Keep your clients updated about virtually every aspect of the home selling process. They will be able to compare their home to other homes in the market and recent sold data, read feedback on their listing from recent showings, view insights on online tracking for marketing their listing all via our automated email system from you.
MY HOME COMPARE
Sign up your sellers or your future sellers on the My Home Compare program through kchagent.com. This will allow them to view off market data on recently sold homes, current listings, etc. This grants insider information to see days on market, price changes, or why a property didn’t sell.
MY HOME WATCH
Sign your sellers up for the My Home Watch program to remain their real estate resource. This tool allows them to keep watch of their recent largest investment and keeps you top of mind.
HELP GUIDE | 24
how to
LOGIN TO THE GREENHOUSE Access to the Greenhouse will be provided within 5 business days of you officially becoming an agent with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. Your Greenhouse username is in the format, firstname.lastname and will come in the first email. The second email will include your auto generated password. The emails will be sent from access@bhgrealestate.com. Once you receive both emails, please log into mybhggreenhouse.com with the provided username and password. You will then be prompted to revise your password to a personal password as well as set a security question and answer. You will need to log in using your new password that you created.
HELP GUIDE | 25
how to
CREATE YOUR MARKETING MATERIALS
PRINT MARKETING MATERIALS
The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Print Marketing Center provides access to various branded postcards, brochures, presentation folders and stationery items, as well as closing gifts. Once you receive your Greenhouse credentials, log into the Greenhouse and click on the “Print Marketing Center� link in the Marketing tab. Also available in this section of the Greenhouse is PinPoint, a tool that allows agents to access the Meredith database, select demographic criteria, and mail customized postcards to members of the database. This is an exclusive tool only available to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate agents. The Digital Marketing Center also allows you to edit and print flyers and more.
DIGITAL MARKETING MATERIALS
The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Digital Marketing Center provides access to hundreds of electronic marketing items that you can customize and email to current, past and future buyers and sellers. The creation of these items and the hosting is of no charge and is integrated into your BHGRE CRM. Once you receive your Greenhouse credentials, click on Marketing in the Greenhouse and then Digital Marketing to create a marketing piece from scratch. Or, if you are creating a listing specific flyers or ePostcard you can search for the MLS# and photos and additional listing details will pre-populate on the templates.
HELP GUIDE | 26
how to
UTILIZE BHG SUBSCRIPTIONS, GIFTS AND DISCOUNTS
ORDER BHG MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION OR OTHER BHG-RELATED GIFTS
You can purchase a one-year (12 issue) subscription to the Better Homes and Gardens magazine or a one-year (8 issue) subscription to Traditional Home magazine for your clients. The Personalized BHG Magazine Closing Gift Program includes a personalized label on the cover of each magazine with your contact information, headshot, company logo and personal message. To order subscriptions, once you have access to the Greenhouse, log into the Greenhouse and go to the “Shopping” section and then click on the Better Homes and Gardens products section then select Personalized BHG Magazine Gift Subscription. You will also find other valuable discounts on BHG books like the well-known BHG Cookbook or discounts through BHG’s signature flower series offered by FTD.com
HOW TO ACCESS APPROVED SUPPLIER DISCOUNTS
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate offers various discounts on products and services through the Approved Supplier Program. These discounts include services such as moving services for clients to discounts on agent wireless plans through companies such as AT&T, Sprint and Verizon. To access these discounts, log into the Greenhouse and navigate to “Shopping”. Each Approved Supplier is listed in the sections such as marketing tools, closing gifts, and client discounts.
HELP GUIDE | 27
how to
MARKET LUXURY HOMES & UNIQUE LISTINGS
DISTINCTIVE COLLECTION
Distinctive Collection is the Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate luxury tier. Properties must be a minimum of $600,000. Distinctive Collection yard signs are available as well as a line of postcards, brochures and stationery in the Print Marketing Center, in addition to Distinctive Collection templates in the Digital Marketing Center. For more information on Distinctive Collection, including info on special designations available, once you receive credentials to the Greenhouse, visit “Marketing” in the Greenhouse and click on the “Brand Tiers” section. Distinctive Collection listings are also marketed on BHGREcollection.com. In order to ensure your Distinctive Collection listings are displaying on the site they will need to be marked as Distinctive Collection listings. Kansas City Homes also produces a quarterly online magazine. View kchagent.com Distinctive Collection to learn how to submit your listings.
MARKETING PROGRAMS FOR UNIQUE LISTINGS TYPES
Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate offers additional “tiers” allowing you to ensure signs - as well as print and digital marketing materials - fit your market and listings. If our standard marketing just doesn’t cut it for your listing, we offer Urban Properties, Waterfront Collection and Ranch and Resort tiers and marketing programs. Unique signs have been developed by our Approved Suppliers as well as unique marketing materials that are available in both the Digital and Print Marketing Centers in the Greenhouse. For more information on these branded tiers, please go to “Marketing” in the Greenhouse and click on the “Brand Tiers” section.
HELP GUIDE | 28
how to USE BHG ASSETS
FIND IMAGES TO INCLUDE IN MY NEW MARKETING MATERIALS
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate offers a variety of royalty free photos which can be used for any and all marketing purposes. These photos can be downloaded in formats for both print and web, and can be found by navigating to the Marketing section of the Greenhouse, and then access the Brand ID and Resource Guide. Under “Download Assets” you can access our Photo Library.
BHGRE CUSTOMER SUPPORT
The BHGRE Customer Support is available on an expanded schedule into the evenings and weekends: Monday - Friday: 5:00am - 10:59pm Saturday - Sunday: 6:00am - 10:59pm Coverage on major holidays You can reach us by: Phone: 866.616.4244 (4BHG) Email: Help@bhgrealestate.com (Emails addressed Monday-Friday.)
HELP GUIDE | 29
frequently ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. WHAT IS OUR COMPANY WEBSITE? A. KansasCityHomes.com. We also encourage you to become familiar with:
BetterHomesKC.com. BHGRECollection.com BHGRElife.com BHGrealestateblog.com
Q. DO WE HAVE BHGRE KANSAS CITY HOMES SOCIAL MEDIA? A. We also are represented on a variety of other social media platforms:
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Facebook Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Twitter Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Instagram Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Pinterest Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes YouTube Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Google+ Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes Yelp Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes LinkedIn
Q. WHAT ABOUT BHGRE SOCIAL MEDIA? A. There are a lot of great resources that BHGRE has available for us to use through their social media
channels, so borrow, share and like away. Facebook.com/bhgrealestate Twitter.com/bhgrealestate Youtube.com/bhgrealestate Pinterest.com/bhgrealestate Instagram.com/bhgrealestate
Q. IS THERE A LISTING PRESENTATION INCORPORATING BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS BRANDING AND TOOLS? A. Located on KCHAgent.com under the Buyer and Seller tabs you will find a listing presentation for either of your needs. You can custom select your pages to reflect your presentation. Keep in mind it is important to add pieces that set you apart from other agents.
HELP GUIDE | 30
frequently ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. WHAT CAN I DO TO INCREASE MY ONLINE VISIBILITY? A. Zillow, Trulia and Realtor.com all offer FREE profiles for agents. Make sure you complete your profiles on these sites with a professional photo and a short, yet succinct bio. Focus on attributes that set you apart from the rest. Be sure to request reviews from your clients to be posted to these sites. Start a Facebook business page, name it your “Firstname Lastname - Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes”. Complete your Zap profile for your personal website at new.myzap.com. Complete your Greenhouse profile and complete your Digital Marketing Center profile in the Greenhouse.
Q. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A PART OF THE BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS LIFESTYLE BRAND? A. Lifestyle typically is an individual’s attitude, way of life, values, or world view. So how does that translate to
real estate? Better Homes and Gardens has built their brand on a strong passion for the home and everthing that encompasses it. We often talk about lifestyle as a Realtor is more about finding our clients a home, not a house, all while providing superior service. How do we do that?
> Understand your client’s current lifestyle > Ask how they want to be communicated with – text, email, phone, all the above > Become an ambassador of Kansas City and be able to answer questions and talk about what a KC lifestyle looks like. > Knowing the latest trends [BHG Style Spotter Blog] > Creating superior service. Here are a few ideas: > Finding out how your client likes their coffee/favorite drink and bring it to one of your appointments > Asking them what their favorite activities are and relating it to the area they want to live in > Knowing and remembering what lifestyle changes they need/want
extras
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND INFORMATION
EXTRAS | 31
professional
COURTESIES AND RESPECT FOR THE PUBLIC
> > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > >
Follow the “Golden Rule”: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Respond promptly to inquiries and requests for information. Schedule appointments and showings as far in advance as possible. Call if you are delayed or must cancel an appointment or showing. If a prospective buyer decides not to view an occupied home, promptly explain the situation to the listing broker or the occupant. Communicate with all parties in a timely fashion. When entering a property, ensure that unexpected situations, such as pets, are handled appropriately. Leave your business card if not prohibited by local rules. Never criticize property in the presence of the occupant. Inform occupants that you are leaving after showings. When showing an occupied home, always ring the doorbell or knock—and announce yourself loudly before entering. Knock and announce yourself loudly before entering any closed room. Present a professional appearance at all times; dress appropriately and drive a clean car. If occupants are home during showings, ask their permission before using the bathroom. Encourage the clients of other brokers to direct questions to their agent or representative. Communicate clearly; don’t use jargon or slang that may not be readily understood. Be aware of and respect cultural differences. Show courtesy and respect to everyone. Be aware of—and meet—all deadlines. Promise only what you can deliver—and keep your promises. Identify your REALTOR® and professional status in contacts with the public. Do not tell people what you think—tell them what you know.
EXTRAS | 32
respect FOR PROPERTY
> > > > > >
Be responsible for everyone you allow to enter listed property. Never allow buyers to enter listed property unaccompanied. When showing property, keep all members of the group together. Never allow unaccompanied access to property without permission. Enter property only with permission even if you have a lockbox key or combination. When the occupant is absent, leave the property as you found it (lights, heating, cooling, drapes, etc.) If you think something is amiss (e.g. vandalism), contact the listing broker immediately. > Be considerate of the seller's property. Do not allow anyone to eat, drink, smoke, dispose of trash, use bathing or sleeping facilities, or bring pets. Leave the house as you found it unless instructed otherwise. > Use sidewalks; if weather is bad, take off shoes and boots inside property. > Respect sellers’ instructions about photographing or videoing their properties’ interiors or exteriors
EXTRAS | 33
respect FOR PEERS
> > > > > > > > > > > >
Identify your REALTOR® and professional status in all contacts with other REALTORS®. Respond to other agents' calls, texts, and emails promptly and courteously. Be aware that large electronic files with attachments may be a burden on recipients. Notify the listing broker if there appears to be inaccurate information on the listing. Share important information about a property, including the presence of pets, security systems, and whether sellers will be present during the showing. Show courtesy, trust, and respect to other real estate professionals. Avoid the inappropriate use of endearments or other denigrating language. Do not prospect at other REALTORS®' open houses or similar events. Return keys promptly. Carefully replace keys in the lockbox after showings. To be successful in the business, mutual respect is essential. Real estate is a reputation business. What you do today may affect your reputation—and business— for years to come.
EXTRAS | 34
safety
PROPERTY SHOWINGS GUIDELINES When faced with potentially menacing behavior, you should first try to find a discreet way to remove yourself from the situation. Avoid triggering the emotion a predator might use to justify an attack. You can say you need to step outside to make a phone call and then do not go back inside. If an attack does occur, trust yourself and stay as calm as possible. Think rationally and evaluate your options. Below are some other things to consider: When you have a new client, ask him/her to stop by your office and complete a Prospect Identification Form, preferably in the presence of an associate. Get the client’s car make, model and license number. Photocopy the driver’s license. Retain this information at your office. Call references and verify employment and current address. Introduce the prospect to someone in your office. A would-be assailant would not want to be noticed or receive exposure, knowing a person could pick him/her out of a police lineup. Always let someone know where you are going; leave a phone number of the client you are meeting.
SAFETY GUIDE AT A GLANCE > Meet at the office first > Complete a Prospect Identification Form > Photocopy the driver’s license > Call references and verify employment and current address > Introduce the prospect to someone in your office > Always let someone know where you are going > Leave a phone number of the client you are meeting
EXTRAS | 35
safety
OPEN HOUSE GUIDELINES
It’s not a pleasant topic to think about, but even with the most diligent use of safe work habits, you may find yourself confronted by a dangerous person. The primary goal in any incident is to escape from the danger and call for help. Below are things to consider when showing an open house: Check all rooms and determine several “escape” routes. Makes sure all deadbolt locks are unlocked. Once inside, turn on all the lights and open all the curtains. This is not only a good safety procedure, but it’s also a great marketing tactic.
SAFETY GUIDE AT A GLANCE > Know who you are with > Tell someone at the office who you are with or meeting > Keep your cell phone by your side > Be safe at open houses > Have a ‘distress call’ word > Don’t be overly personal in your marketing > Heed your gut reaction > Dress for safety > Keep your car ready > Let customers lead > Take flight and sometimes fight
Make sure you can escape from the backyard if you were to use the back door. When prospects begin to arrive, jot down and take note of their car descriptions, physical appearance and license numbers. When showing a house, always walk behind the prospects. Direct them; don’t lead them. For example: “The kitchen is on your left,” and gesture for them to go ahead of you. Inform a neighbor you will be showing the house, then ask if he/she would keep an eye and ear open for anything out of the ordinary.
EXTRAS | 36
notes FOR LATER
forms
COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING FORMS AND SUBMIT TO YOUR OFFICE ADMIN
FORMS | 37
COMMISSION SCHEDULE STARTING VOLUME* $0.00 $1,575,000.01 $2,100,000.01 $2,625,000.01 $3,150,000.01 **BONUS LEVEL
$4,200,000.01 $5,775,000.01 $7,350,000.01
ENDING VOLUME*
AGENT
COMPANY
$7,350,000.00 and Beyond
90% 95%
10% 5%
$1,575,000.00 $2,100,000.00 $2,625,000.00 $3,150,000.00 $4,200,000.00 $5,775,000.00
COMMISSION EXAMPLE: Sales Price of Home Commission Rate Gross Commission for the Sale
50% 60% 65% 70% 75% 85%
50% 40% 35% 30% 25% 15%
PLANNING YOUR ANNUAL INCOME $200,000 x 6% $12,000
3% for Participation Sale
$6,000
Your Share 3.0% for Participation Side ***Fixed Commission
$3,000 $90 $235
Sales Per Month 1 2 3
Approximate Annual Income $42,000 $84,000 $126,000
* At pre-determined thresholds, your commission split will increase from the 50/50 level to one where you keep a higher percentage of the commissions ** Agents achieving bonus levels will reset to 75% on January 1 of the following year *** See exceptions to commission payouts in BHGKC Policy Manual > Commission Schedule Additional Information—Refer to BHGKC Policy Manual > Your earnings could be considerably higher than the above-shown figures > Expenses are tax deductible and tax withholding is the agent’s responsibility
AGENT SIGNATURE
DATE
FORMS | 38
CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND START-UP CAREER DEVELOPMENT
NO CHARGE
> Professional Development Modules > Individual training modules may be required after skill evaluation
START-UP (ONE TIME)
$100.00
> E-Comm Center > Private Phone with Direct Dial (DID) > Voicemail > eMail > eFax > Personal Website > Personal URL > Initial Virus Protection for Office Computer and Laptop > Professional Business Photo > Personal Desk Space > License and Paperwork Processing > Account Set-Up
ONGOING FEES > > > >
$85.00 / MONTH $30.00 / MONTH $2.00 / MONTH 3.0% / TRANSACTION
Error & Omissions Insurance Technology Fee Flower Fund Franchise Fee
EXAMPLE FOR $200,000 SALE 3% Commission 50% Split 3.0% Franchise Fee Fixed Commission
$6,000.00 $3,000.00 $90.00 $210.00
DATE TO BEGIN MONTHLY FEES: Immediately /
/
I AGREE TO COMPLETE THE RELEVANT TRAINING AS STATED ABOVE WITHIN MY FRST 60 DAYS AT BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS REAL ESTATE KANSAS CITY HOMES. I ALSO AGREE TO PAY ALL RELEVANT FEES.
AGENT SIGNATURE
DATE
FORMS | 39
OUR INITIAL INVESTMENT - NEW AGENT PRODUCT/SERVICE
QUANTITY
Business Cards Name Badge Desk/Door Name Plate Announcement Cards & Postage Relocation Book Children’s Relocation Book Home Seller Book Home Buyer Book Professional Business Photo CSS - Centralized Showing Service
All New Listings
Yard Signs Pointer Signs Sign Riders
MARKETING & TECHNOLOGY > > > > > > > >
KansasCityHomes.com m.KansasCityHomes.com Customized Agent Website KCHAgent.com Mybhggreenhouse.com Center My Home eVantage My Home Mobile Full Screen Photos
AGENT SUPPORT > Mentoring Program > Technology Training
> > > > > > > >
Virtual Tours YouTube Videos Buyer/Seller Presentations Relocation Packets BHGKC Contract Folders Flyer Templates Real Estate Review Newsletter Tell 25 Postcards
> Broker Support > Coaching
$50.00 Each $20.00 Each $7.00 Each $7.00 Each $7.00 Each $80.00 $15.00 $30.00 $150.00 $12.00 $5.00 $11.50 $11.50 $45.00 - 75.00 $30.00 Each > Exclusive Postcard Program & Promotions > eCard Templates > Media Center > Integrated Systems (Email/Webmail, eFax, Digital phones/Voicemail, Smart Phones) > HelpDesk
> Business Planning > Continuing Education
TOTAL INVESTMENT IN YOUR BUSINESS: AGENT SIGNATURE
VALUE
3 2 Open House 1 Sold 1 Pending 1 Open 1,000 1 1 Up to 100 1 1 1 1
OFFICE
*Signs are on loan and must be returned with normal wear and tear to avoid charges
OVER $2,000.00
FORMS | 40
AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS I hereby authorize Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes to initiate credit card payment(s). I understand that the amount charged will be the same as my monthly billing. I will receive the billing by the 3rd of each month and payment will be processed by the 20th of each month. The following card information is current and valid. I understand that this information will be kept confidential in my personnel file maintained at the Corporate office.
NAME OF CARD HOLDER ADDRESS PHONE NUMBER CARD TYPE
VISA
MASTERCARD
CARD NUMBER EXPIRATION DATE CSV NUMBER
(MUST HAVE 3-DIGIT NUMBER ON BACK OF CARD)
I agree to pay the amount according tot he card issuer agreement. I understand that there will be a 3% service fee added each month.
AGENT SIGNATURE
DATE
FORMS | 41
PERSONAL DATA REFERRED BY NEW
TRANSFERRED FROM
OFFICE 01-8101 COLLEGE
03-PV/SL
06-BLUE VALLEY
09-NORTHLAND
02-LEAWOOD
05-PLAZA
08 - LIBERTY
0-LEE’S SUMMIT
LAST NAME
FIRST NAME MARRIED
SS NUMBER
CORPORATE
MIDDLE INITIAL
SINGLE
SPOUSE NAME
ADDRESS
DOB
EFFECTIVE DATE
HOME PHONE
CELL PHONE NUMBER & PROVIDER
WORK RELATIONSHIP
Are you incorporated? (Corp, LLC) If yes, please provie Article of Incorporation
PRIMARY AGENT
PART TIME STAFF
UNLICENSED
TEAM MEMBER
LICENSED
PARTNERSHIP
FULL TIME STAFF
YES
NO
DEPARTMENT
EMERGENCY CONTACT #1 NAME
RELATIONSHIP
ADDRESS
CITY
HOME PHONE
WORK PHONE
STATE
ZIP
STATE
ZIP
CELL PHONE
EMERGENCY CONTACT #2 (MUST BE OUT OF STATE) NAME
RELATIONSHIP
ADDRESS
CITY
HOME PHONE
WORK PHONE
CELL PHONE
Agents and employees must promply notify the Benefits Administrator, Marilyn Worely, in writing of any changes in personal information. Email: marilyn@KansasCityHomes.com or Inter-Office, 8101 College Blvd., Corp Office.
FORMS | 42
NEW LICENSEE CHECKLIST KS NEWLY LICENSED AGENT NAME
OFFICE
KANSAS RESIDENT LICENSING
Fingerprinting REQUIRED prior to application. Go To KREC website, www.accesskansas.org/krec/ under ‘Checklist for Licensing’ for information on fingerprinting requirements. To Process KS Application Check to KREC: (or Discover Card) Application Fee: $15.00 License Fee: $ (See License Fee Schedule) Request for Certification of KS License: $10.00 Submit Original Copies of: Application for License (& Application Checklist if using Discover Card for payment) Education Certificate Score Report (2 pages) Practice Course Certificate Fingerprints & Money Order: $64.00 (can be submitted prior to application) To Process MO Application (Cannot be Done Until KS License is Received) MO Pass Test Results MO Post License Hours (24) KS License Certification Check to MREC for Non Resident Application: $150.00 (Non-resident Broker $200.00) *MO Fingerprinting REQUIRED. Go to www.pr.mo.gov/realestate.asp for information
BRANCH OFFICE
KS License Received at Branch—Copy to M. Worley (Date: MO Work Permit Received from Corporate (Date: ) MO License Received from Corporate (Date: ) Notify KCRAR of license #’s upon receipt (Date: ) (Email KCRAR after both are received)
)
FORMS | 43
NEW LICENSEE CHECKLIST MO NEWLY LICENSED AGENT NAME
OFFICE
MISSOURI RESIDENT LICENSING
Fingerprinting REQUIRED prior to application. Information can be found on the home page of MREC’s website, www.pr.mo.gov/realestate.asp along with a link for more information. Cost is $44.80. KS fingerprints will not be accepted for this requirement. To Process MO Application Application Fee: $90.00 (MO Broker $130.00) Request for Certification of License: $10.00 Submit Original Copies of: Application for License (License must be issued in agent’s FULL LEGAL NAME) Certificate of Complete MO Salesperson Pre-Examination Course Request for Certification of License To Process KS Application (Cannot be Done Until KS License is Received) KS Score Report (2 pages) KS Non-Resident Consent Form—Notarized KS License Application MO License Certification Check to KREC for Application: $ (See KS License Fee Schedule)
BRANCH OFFICE
KS License Received at Branch—Copy to M. Worley (Date: MO Work Permit Received from Corporate (Date: ) MO License Received from Corporate (Date: ) Notify KCRAR of license #’s upon receipt (Date: ) (Email KCRAR after both are received)
)
FORMS | 44
NEW AGENT MARKETING NEWLY LICENSED Please print name EXACTLY as you want it to appear. Some common titles are: > > > > > > >
Residential Sales Specialist Sales Associate REALTOR® Associate Sales Executive Senior Sales Executive Residential & Relocation Specialist Real Estate Consultant
1. NAME BADGE Name Title OR Team Name (Optional) 2. PLEASE CIRCLE DESK OR DOOR NAME PLATE (WITH HOLDER) Name 3. NAME RIDERS Name Phone Quantity (5 or 10)
AGENT SIGNATURE
OFFICE
FORMS | 45
BUSINESS CARDS ORDER FORM (PART 1) 1. CHOOSE FRONT STYLE
OPTION 1
OPTION 1
OPTION 2
OPTION 3
OPTION 5
OPTION 6
OPTION 7
1. CHOOSE BACK STYLE (Note, if blank, it will be non-coated so you can write on it)
OPTION 1
OPTION 2
OPTION 3
OPTION 4
FORMS | 46
BUSINESS CARDS ORDER FORM (PART 2) 1. YOUR INFORMATION Information to be placed on cards (office number, office email & BHGKCH Website MUST be on the card. Please print clearly.) First Name: Last Name: Title 1: Title 2: Email: Office Number: Cell Phone Number: Fax Number: Address: City, State, Zip: Company Website: Additional Website:
@KansasCityHomes.com
www.
KansasCityHomes.com
4. RETURN TO OFFICE ADMIN AND WAIT FOR PROOF 5. MUST RETURN PROOF TO OFFICE ADMIN BEFORE ORDER CAN BE PLACED PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS: Gary Rohman Photography Portrait Innovations John A. Jordan Phone: 913.814.7740 Cell: 913.708.4422 Jordan Photography 7702 W. 144th Terrace, Overland Park KS 66223 john@jordanphotography.com Basic Package: $65.00 30 Minute Session Several Shots Photo CD of One Shot
Phone: 816.221.4334 210 Baltimore Ave. Kansas City, MO 64108 gary@rohmanphotography.com Basic Package: $70.00
Phone: 913.906.0994 6511 W. 119th St. Overland Pack, KS Phone: 816.505.0044 8658 North Boardwalk Ave. Kansas City, MO portraitinnovations.com Basic Package: $70.00 (Primary Agents Will be Reimbursed on Monthly Billing) Choose 3 Shots Photo CD Same Day Viewing
FORMS | 47
ANNOUNCEMENT CARDS NEWLY LICENSED We must have your photo before any order can be processed. Please allow up to five business days to receive finished announcement cards. Name EXACTLY as you want it to appear: Office: Title or Slogan: Phone Number: Alt. Phone Number: Email: Website: Which Option? Quantity Paid by BHGKCH:
Additional Cards:
Announcement Card Option A: NEW AGENT FROM COMPANY Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes proudly welcomes (AGENT FIRST NAME LAST NAME) to our team of real estate professionals. Our sales professionals are among the most respected in Kansas City, successfully closing more than two times as many transactions as the average Kansas City agent. By affiliating with our company, (AGENT FIRST NAME) shows how committed (HE/SHE) is to delivering the very best service to help you buy or sell a home. So, the next time you have a real estate question, call (AGENT’S FIRST NAME) and find out how much Better (HE/SHE) your real estate experience can be. Announcement Card Option B: EXPERIENCED AGENT FROM COMPANY Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes proudly welcomes (AGENT FIRST NAME LAST NAME) to our team of real estate professionals. Our sales professionals are among the most respected agents in Kansas City, successfully closing more than two times as many transactions as the average Kansas City agent. With more than (# of years) years of real estate experience, (HE/SHE) is committed to continue delivering the very best service to help you buy or sell a home. So, the next time you have a real estate question, call (AGENT’S FIRST NAME) and find out how much Better (HE/SHE) your real estate experience can be. Announcement Card Option C: FROM NEW AGENT Hello! I wanted to share some exciting news . . . I’ve found a new home: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. By being associated with a real estate company which has such a well-known and time-tested lifestyle brand, you can count on superior service and results every time we work together. Please make sure to update your address book with my new contact information and the next time you think about buying or selling a home, call me to find out how much Better your real estate experience can be. Announcement Card Option D: FROM EXPERIENCED AGENT Hello! I wanted to share some exciting news. . . I’ve found a new real estate home: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. By being associated with a well-known and time-tested lifestyle brand, you can continue to count on superior service and results every time we work together. Please make sure to update your address book with my new contact information and the next time you think about buying or selling a home, call me to find out how much Better your real estate experience can be.
FORMS | 48
BENEFITS PROGRAM NEWLY LICENSED 401(K) PLAN > > > > > > > > >
Build your retirement nest egg the tax-deferred way. Convenient direct deduction from every closing. Meet emergencies—borrow against plan assets without tax penalty*. Work toward financial/retirement goals by having direct access to a financial advisor Utilize opportunities for asset allocation and diversification by having unrestricted investment choices. Protect assets with ERISA protection. Reduce administrative time and costs by consolidating qualified plans. Take advantage of 24/7 on-line access and the email link to your financial advisor. Continue contributing after age 70 1/2* to offset taxes on mandatory distributions.
GROUP MAJOR DENTAL INSURANCE
> Immediate coverage for preventative, basic and major services. > No pre-existing limitations, pre-determinations or deductibles. > Includes oral or cosmetic surgery and orthodontic discounts. > Low group rates and generous yearly maximum for basic and major services makes this the best plan in the city.
GROUP VISION
> Great benefits on your exam and eyewear at an affordable price.
GROUP LIFE INSURANCE
> Guarantee Issue for 5 times your annual salary up to $100,000—no health questions or physicals! $100,000 Guarantee issues ONLY for new agents. During Annual Open Enrollment, Guarantee Issue will be for up to $40,000. > Guarantee Issue for spouse up to $20,000 > Child(ren) $10,000 policy for only $.97 per month—same premium for one or more children * Subject to IRS regulations
FORMS | 49
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS PLAN We recognize that our employees are our most valuable resource and your benefits plan is extremely important to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Homes. Therefore, it is our pleasure to offer our benefits-eligible employees a variety of solutions to help address your benefit needs, as well as the needs of your families. Our employees continue to be the driving force behind our past success and position us well for the future. Thank you for your ongoing commitment as we strive to be the best employer in our industry. We are proud to include all of you as part of the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Kansas City Home’s family. This summary of benefits is intended only to highlight your benefits and should not be relied upon to fully determine coverage. This plan may not cover all your health care expenses. Please refer to the Certificate of Coverage for a complete listing of services, limitations, exclusions and a description of all the terms and conditions of coverage.
BUKATY COMPANIES SERVICE TEAM Jeff Walstrom Benefits Consultant jwalstrom@bukaty.com
Marianne Tucker New Business/Renewal Manager mtucker@bukaty.com
Jeff is the primary contact for all employee benefits program.
Marianne is responsible for obtaining carrier quotes, and preparing spreadsheets.
Janice Henderson Client Service Specialist jhenderson@bukaty.com Janice is responsible for assisting clients with the day-to-day administrative and service issues.
Bukaty Companies 11221 Roe Ave. Leawood, KS 66211 Phone: 913.345.0440 Fax: 613.345.2608 bukaty.com
FORMS | 50
RIGHTS AND DISCLOSURES SPECIAL ENROLLMENT RIGHTS If you are declining enrollment for yourself or your dependents (including your spouse) because of other health insurance or group health plan coverage, you may able to enroll yourself and your dependents in this plan if you or your dependents lose eligibility for that other coverage (or if the employer stops contributing toward your or your dependents other coverage). However, you must request enrollment within 30 days after your or your dependents other coverage ends (or after the employer stops contributing toward the other coverage). In addition, if you have a new dependent as a result of marriage, birth, adoption, or placement for adoption, you may be able to enroll yourself and your dependents. However, you must request enrollment within 30 days after the marriage, birth, adoption, or placement for adoption. to request special enrollment or to obtain more information contact Bukaty Companies at 888.657.0440 NOTICE OF PRE-EXISTING CONDITION LIMITATIONS Your plan may impose a pre-existing condition exclusion. This means that if you have a medical condition before coming to our plan, you might have to wait a certain period of time before the plan will provide coverage for that condition. This exclusion applies only to conditions for which medical advice, diagnosis, care, or treatment was recommended or received within a 6-month period. Generally, this 6-month period ends the day before your coverage becomes effective. However, if you were in a waiting period for coverage, the 6-month period ends on the day before the waiting period begins. The pre-existing condition exclusion does not apply to pregnancy or to a child who is under the age of 19. This exclusion may last up to 12 months (18 months if you are a late enrollee) from your first day of coverage, or, if you were in a waiting period, from the first day of your waiting period. However, you can reduce the length of this exclusion period by the number of days of your prior “creditable coverage.” Most prior health coverage is creditable coverage and can be used to reduce the pre-existing condition exclusion if you have not experienced a break in coverage of at least 63 days. To reduce the 12-month (or 18-month) exclusion period by your creditable coverage, you should give us a copy of any certificates of creditable coverage you have. If you do not have a certificate, but you do have prior health coverage, we will help you obtain one from your prior plan or issuer. There are also other ways that you can show you have creditable coverage. Please contact us if you need help demonstrating creditable coverage. All questions about the pre-existing condition exclusion and creditable coverage should be directed to Bukaty Companies at 888.657.0440. Plan participants may be subject to more favorable limitations based on applicable state law in which the employer group is located. WOMAN’S HEALTH AND CANCER RIGHTS ACT (WHCRA) OF 1998 If you have had or are going to have a mastectomy, you may be entitled to certain benefits under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 (WHCRA). For individuals receiving masectomy-related benefits, coverage will be provided in a manner determined in consultations with the attending physician and the patient for: > All states of reconstruction of the breast on which the mastectomy was performed; > Surgery and reconstruction of the other breast to produce symmetrical appearance; > Prostheses and; > Treatment of the physical complications of the mastectomy, including lymphedema. These benefits will be provided subject to the same deductibles and coinsurance applicable to other medical and surgical benefits provided under this plan. Therefore, the following deductibles and coinsurance apply: see medical summary below. If you would like more information on WHCRA benefits, call your plan administrator. Do you know that your plan, as required by the women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) of 1998, provides benefits for mastectomyrelated services including all stages of reconstruction and surgery to achieve symmetry between breasts, prostheses, and complications resulting from a mastectomy, including lymphedema? Call Bukaty Companies at 888.657.0440 for more information. KEEP US INFORMED OF STATUS CHANGES It is very important that you keep your Plan Administrator informed of address changes and other personal data changes for you and/or dependents who are or may become qualified beneficiaries on any of the company’s group benefits. Changes should be reported to the Plan Administrator.
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RIGHTS & DISCLOSURES (2) COBRA RIGHTS IN THE EVENT YOU LOSE YOUR HEALTH (MEDICAL/DENTAL/FLEX) COVERAGE A group health plan is required to offer COBRA continuation coverage to you, your spouse and your dependents enrolled in the Plan when a qualifying event occurs that causes loss of group health coverage. Coverage may be available for 18 months up to a maximum of 36 months, depending upon the qualifying event. The employer is required to notify the Plan if the qualifying event is: > Termination (for any reason other than misconduct) or reduction in hours of employment of the covered employee eligible for up to 18 months of continuation coverage. > Death of the covered employee-eligible for up to 36 months of continuation coverage > Covered employee becomes entitled to Medicare - eligible for up to 36 months of continuation coverage depending upon date of Medicare entitlement. The covered employee or one of the qualified benficiaries is responsible for notifying the Plan Administrator within 60 days of the occurence if the qualifying event is: > Divorce or legal separation - eligible for up to 36 months of continuation coverage. > A child’s loss of dependent status under the Plan - eligible for up to 36 months of continuation coverage. DISABILITY EXTENSION If you or anyone in your family covered under the Plan is determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to be disabled and you notify the Plan Administrator in a timely fashion, you and your entire family may be entitled to receive up to an additional 11 months of coverage for a total of 29 months. The disability would have to have started at some time before the 60th day of COBRA continuation coverage and must last at least until the end of the 18-month period of continuation coverage. To obtain the extended coverage, a copy of the SSA disability determination must be received by the Plan Administrator within 60 days after the determination is issued and within the individual’s first 18 months of continuation coverage. If SSA determines later the individual is no longer disabled, that individual must notify the Plan Administrator within 30 days after the date of the second determination. SECOND QUALIFYING EVENT If while on 18 months of continuation coverage, family members enrolled in the Plan experience another qualifying event, they may be entitled to an additional 18 months of coverage, for a maximum of 36 months. The extension may be granted if the employee or former employee dies, becomes entitled to Medicare or gets divorced or legally separated, or if the dependent child loses dependent status, but only if the events would have caused the spouse or dependent child to lose coverage under the Plan had the first qualifying event not occurred. When responsibility for notification rests with the covered employee or qualified beneficiary, notice of the qualifying event must be made within 60 days of the occurence to the company’s Plan Administrator. A detailed explanation of COBRA rights and procedures is available in the Plan’s Summary Plan Description.