For advertising information, visit ncrealtors.org/advertise or contact Keri Epps-Rashad at (336) 217-1049.
INSIGHT (ISSN 24714127) (USPS 17170) is published four times a year in February, May, August and November by NC REALTORS®, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Periodicals Postage Prices paid at Greensboro, N.C. and additional mailing offices.
This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information regarding the subject matter covered. Articles which appear in Insight are an informational service to members and consumers. Their contents are the opinions of the authors alone and do not necessarily represent those of NC REALTORS®.
Advertising of a product or service does not imply endorsement, unless specifically stated.
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4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407
Phone: (336) 294-1415
ncrealtors.org
Dear NC REALTORS®,
As we embark on 2025, I’m excited to step into the role of President for our incredible organization. This year, lets focus on three guiding principles that will shape everything we do: Elevate, Advocate, Communicate.
We’re in a pivotal time for our profession, and it’s my mission to ensure that NC REALTORS® continues to lead the way in driving innovation, building relationships, and creating opportunities. Together, we will elevate the standards of our industry, advocate fiercely for our profession, and communicate effectively to keep you informed, engaged, and empowered.
Elevate
This year, we’ll focus on raising the bar for what it means to be an NC REALTOR®. That means enhancing professional development opportunities and creating programs to help you succeed. Our goal is to empower you to grow your business while delivering exceptional value to your clients and communities.
Advocate
Advocacy is at the heart of who we are. Whether we’re fighting for property rights, championing fair housing, or addressing issues that impact homeownership and the real estate market, we’ll ensure that your voice is heard. Together, we can make a real difference for our industry and for North Carolinians.
Communicate
I believe that connection is key to success. Throughout the year, you can count on clear, consistent, and open communication from your leadership team. We’ll share updates on our initiatives, celebrate your successes, and ensure you’re always in the loop. Communication is a two-way street, so I invite you to share your ideas and feedback—we’re in this together!
As your President, I’m honored to lead this extraordinary organization alongside such passionate and talented members. Whether you’ve been in this business for decades or are just getting started, you make NC REALTORS® stronger, and together, we’ll achieve great things.
So, let’s get to work! Here’s to a year of growth, impact, and success. Let’s Elevate. Advocate. Communicate.
All the best,
John McPherson 2025 President, NC REALTORS®
2024
Year in Review
As we reflect on 2024, we are proud of the strides we made together. This year highlighted the strength and resilience of our organization as we continued to showcase the value of REALTORS® and our industry across North Carolina. From advocating for policies that empower homeownership to providing tools and resources to help you succeed, our collective efforts have made a lasting impact.
While the road wasn’t always smooth, our shared perseverance ensured we could adapt and thrive amidst challenges. These achievements are a testament to your dedication and commitment as NC REALTORS®. Whether you’re helping clients buy or sell homes, working in commercial real estate, or contributing in other parts of our industry, your efforts make a real difference, and we’re so grateful for your unwavering support.
As we move forward, our focus remains clear: enhancing the member experience and exploring innovative opportunities to expand our impact. Together, we will continue to elevate the real estate profession and strengthen our communities.
On behalf of the entire 2024 NC REALTORS® Leadership Team, thank you for your hard work and dedication throughout this year. We are confident that with your partnership, we will achieve even greater success in the years ahead.
With gratitude,
The 2024 NC REALTORS® Leadership Team
Harrington John McPherson Renee Cooney
Leigh Brown Andrea Bushnell
Tony
2024 Executive Committee
Tony Harrington President
Perkins RVP – Region 1
Pam Webb RVP – Region 5
Josh Tucker RVP – Region 8
John McPherson President-Elect
Amanda Parmer RVP – Region 2
Paul McGill RVP – Region 6
David Noyes RVP – Region 9
Renee Cooney Treasurer
Linder RVP – Region 3
Dennis Bailey RVP – Region 7
Tim McBrayer RVP – Region 10
Leigh Brown Immediate Past President
Burns RVP – Region 4
Aric Beals RVP – Region 8
Leslie Williams RVP – Region 10
Kim
Laurie
Cindie
Guy McCook At Large Representative
2024 Committee Chairs
Appraisal Committee
Chair: Jason Kellum
Longleaf Pine Association
Vice Chair: Claire Aufrance
Greensboro Regional Association
RVP Liaison: Dennis Bailey
Cleveland Co. Association
Staff Liaison: Denise Daly
Association Executives Committee
Chair: Sheree Higgins
Carteret Co. Association
Vice Chair: Sandra Barnhardt
Mid Carolina Association
RVP Liaison: Aric Beals
Canopy REALTOR® Association
Staff Liaisons: Donna Peterson
Bylaws Committee
Chair: Lori Brooks, Outer Banks Association
Vice Chair: Cynthia Walsh, Brunswick Co. Association
RVP Liaison: Tim McBrayer, Raleigh Regional Association
Staff Liaisons: Caitlin Thompson and Donna Peterson
Commercial Committee
Chair: Tommy Dalton
Triangle Commercial Association
Vice Chair: Lou Baldwin
Winston-Salem Regional Association
RVP Liaison: Paul McGill
Winston-Salem Regional Association
Staff Liaisons: Denise Daly
Commercial Forms Committee
(July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025)
Chair: Janet Clayton, Triangle Commercial Association
Vice Chair: Byron Aynes, Cape Fear REALTORS®
Staff Liaisons: Caitlin Thompson and Leigh Morgan
Communications
Committee
Chair: Logan Geddie, Longleaf Pine REALTORS®
Vice Chair: Karleta Sharisse Smith, Catawba Valley Association
RVP Liaison: Lewis Grubbs, Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®
Staff Liaisons: Mckenzie Allen and and Aliyah Ross
Convention Committee
Co-Chairs: Kathy Carpenter
Greensboro Regional Association
Don Lynn Harris
Cape Fear REALTORS®
Co-Vice Chairs: Kristie Ferguson
Jacksonville
Victoria Fornalski
Winston-Salem Regional Association
Staff Liaisons: Mandy Lowe and Sarah Nardi
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee (DEI)
Chair: Tikola McCree
Union County Association
Vice Chair: Jason Scott
Burlington-Alamance Association
RVP Liaison: Kim Perkins
Jacksonville
Staff Liaisons: Keri Epps-Rashad and Maurice Brown
Economic Development Committee
Chair: Sheila Knight, Jacksonville Board
Vice Chair: Guy McCook, Cape Fear REALTORS®
RVP Liaison: Josh Tucker, Canopy REALTOR® Association
Staff Liaisons: Angela Burgess
Global Network Subcommittee
Chair: Jason Gentry, Canopy REALTOR® Association
Vice Chair: Fara Pourshariati, Raleigh Regional Association
RVP Liaison: Grace Jones
Staff Liaisons: Angela Burgess
Innovation Forum
Chair: Antonio Jones, Longleaf Pine REALTORS®
Vice Chair: Jason Morton,Canopy REALTOR® Association
Staff Liaisons: Andrea Bushnell and Mandy Lowe
Legislative Committee
Chair: Christina Asbury, Jacksonville Board of REALTORS®
Vice Chair: Brooke Cashion, Winston-Salem Regional Association
RVP Liaison: Dennis Bailey,Cleveland County Association
Staff Liaisons: Pam Melton
Professional Standards
Chair: Adam Upchurch Topsail Island Association
Vice Chair: Brenda Hayden Canopy REALTOR® Association
RVP Liaison: Leslie Williams
Raleigh Regional Association
Staff Liaisons: Monica Huckaby and Caitlin Thompson
2024 Committee Chairs
Residential Forms Committee
(July 1, 2024-June 30, 2025)
Chair: Amy Baker, Canopy REALTOR® Association
Vice Chair: Steve Barnes, Land of the Sky Association
RVP Liaison: Laurie Linder, Longleaf Pine REALTORS®
Staff Liaisons: Leigh Morgan
Caitlin Thompson, Legal Counsel
John Wait, Legal Counsel
Risk Management Committee
Chair: Phillip Johnson, Winston-Salem Regional Association
Vice Chair: Brooke Rudd, Brunswick Co. Association
RVP Liaison: Amanda Parmer, Cape Fear REALTORS®
Staff Liaisons: Caitlin Thompson
Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Co-Chair: Spencer “Gabby” Murillo, Raleigh Regional Association
Jonathan Moore Albemarle Area Association
Vice Chair: Bryan Selser, Raleigh Regional Association
RVP Liaison: David Noyes, Hendersonville Association
Staff Liaisons: Mckenzie Allen and Sarah Nardi
Membership
57,000 Strong ASSOCIATION NEWS
6th largest State association
43 local boards
Albemarle Area Association of REALTORS®
Brunswick County Association of REALTORS®
Burlington-Alamance County Association of REALTORS®
Canopy REALTOR® Association
Cape Fear REALTORS®
Carolina Smokies Association of REALTORS®
Carteret County Association of REALTORS®
Catawba Valley Association of REALTORS®
Central Carolina Association of REALTORS®
Charlotte Region Commercial Board
Cleveland County Association of REALTORS®
Coastal Plains Association of REALTORS®
Durham Regional Association of REALTORS®
Foothills REALTOR® Association of North Carolina
Gaston Association of REALTORS®
Goldsboro-Wayne County Association of REALTORS®
Greensboro Regional REALTORS®
Hendersonville Board of REALTORS®
High Country Association of REALTORS®
High Point Regional Association of REALTORS®
Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS®
Jacksonville Board of REALTORS®
Johnston County Association of REALTORS®
Land of the Sky Association of REALTORS®
Lincoln County Board of REALTORS®
Longleaf Pine REALTORS®
McDowell Board of REALTORS®
Mid Carolina Regional Association of REALTORS®
Mountain Lakes Board of REALTORS®
Neuse River Region Association of REALTORS®
Orange Chatham Association of REALTORS®
Outer Banks Association of REALTORS®
Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®
Roanoke Valley Lake Gaston Board
Rocky Mount Area Association of REALTORS®
Salisbury-Rowan Association of REALTORS®
Topsail Island Association of REALTORS®
Triangle Commercial Association of REALTORS®
Union County Association of REALTORS®
Washington-Beaufort County Board of REALTORS®
Wilson Board of REALTORS®
Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®
In Memory Of
Nicolas Amador
John Bankston
John Barker
Richard Barnes
Bradley Becker
Jeffery Bennington
Virginia Black
Sandra Blackwelder
Alma Bouchard
Frances Braden
C. Brooks
Robert Brooks
Lillie Byrd
William Campbell
Tucker Chambers
Curtis Chambless
Aldo Cimino
Judy Clary
Bradley Cohen
David Collins
Carolina Criss
Karen Crockett
Burks Crumpler
Robert Cutting
Craig Dierksheide
Dwight Dorsett
Bartlett Dougherty
Garth Dunklin
William Earp
James Edney
Kimberly Endre
Linda Faircloth
Paul Fourie
Glenn Frazier
John Gaither
Robert Gates
Charles Griffin
Robert Grimaldi
Rhodney Hamby
Patricia Helms-McClain
Marcia Jordan
Graeme Keith
Dorothy Kilpatrick
Clarence King
Jerry Klutz
Pamela Knowles
Linda Lane
Laura Lassiter
February 13, 1956 — September 5, 2024
Edward Lawler
Spencer Lindahl
John Lynn
Edward Marino
Don Markum
Robert McCutcheon
Lyn McFarland
Richard Merrill
Elizabeth Motsinger
Joanne Parker
Maureen Pauley
John Pedone
Kenneth Poindexter
W. Calvin Reynolds
Gerard Roche
Gloria Scales
Trisha Scanlon
Connie Scozzari
Lori Silvestri
Dan Smith
Phyllis Stanley
Paula Stephen
Brian Stewart
Wayne Strickland
As of December 10, 2024
Hembree Sutton
Kathryn Thompson
Pamala Thompson
John Troup
Dollie Uzzell
Gerrit Vogel
Brian Wade
Julius Waggoner
Ron Walker
Sandra Ward
Barbara Watts
Charles Weill
Edward Willer
Mary Edna Williams
Lacy Wilson
Laurence Wolfe
Jennifer Wooten
Alexander Wrenn
Donald Wright
L. Wayne Yarbrough
Chris Yetter
Eddie Yost
November 26, 1979 — November 1, 2024
Mary Edna Williams
Bradley Cohen
Annual Sponsors
7 Annual Sponsors brought in $24,000 in annual revenue
AE Scholarships
These association executives (AEs) were honored with scholarships to attend events for professional development in 2024.
NAR AE Institute ($1,000)
• Lisia Amburn
High Point Regional Association of REALTORS®
• Jo Anna Edwards
Goldsboro-Wayne County Association of REALTORS®
• Chris Triepke
Roanoke Valley Lake Gaston Board of REALTORS®
2024 William D. North AE Institute Scholarship
• Carla Rose
Salisbury-Rowan Association of REALTORS®
Regional AE Conference ($1,000)
• Ashley Johnson Orange Chatham Association of REALTORS®
• Stephanie Schwarz Highlands-Cashiers Board of REALTORS®
• Kate Simmons Mountain Lakes Board of REALTORS®
• Bonnie White Johnston County Association of REALTORS®
Insight NC REALTORS® Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation
Publication Title: Insight. Publication Number: 1717-0. Filing Date: October 4, 2022. Issue Frequency: Four times a year. Number of Issues Published Annually: Four. Annual Subscription Price: $1.80. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: NC REALTORS®, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Publisher Name and Complete Mailing Address: Andrea Bushnell, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Editor Name and Complete Mailing Address: Mckenzie Allen, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Managing Editor Name and Complete Mailing Address: N/A. Owner: NC REALTORS®, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Tax Status: Has not changed during preceding 12 months. Publication Title: Insight. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: August 2022. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Mailer to all members of NC REALTORS®.
Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months. Total Number of Copies: 52,103. Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541: 51,647. In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541: 0. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS®: 0. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS: 0. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 51,647. Outside County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541: 0. In-County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541: 0. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: 0. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: 0. Total Nonrequested Distribution: 0. Total Distribution: 51,647. Copies not Distributed: 456. Total: 52,103. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 100%. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies: 0. Requested and Paid Print Copies: 51,647. Total Requested Copy Distribution: 51,647. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies): 100%.
No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date. Total Number of Copies: 53,909. Outside County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541: 53,044. In-County Paid/Requested Mail Subscriptions stated on PS Form 3541: 0. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid or Requested Distribution Outside USPS®: 0. Requested Copies Distributed by Other Mail Classes Through the USPS: 0. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 53,404. Outside County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541: 0. In-County Nonrequested Copies Stated on PS Form 3541: 0. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through the USPS by Other Classes of Mail: 0. Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail: 0. Total Nonrequested Distribution: 0. Total Distribution: 53,044. Copies not Distributed: 530. Total: 53,574. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 100%. Requested and Paid Electronic Copies: 0. Requested and Paid Print Copies: 53,044. Total Requested Copy Distribution: 53,044. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation (Both Print & Electronic Copies): 100%.
Innovation Grant Recipients
Durham Regional Association of REALTORS® Program: AI Innovation for Today’s Realpreneurs
In a world where technology continually redefines business boundaries, AI is not just an advantage—it’s your key to staying ahead. “AI Innovations for Today’s Realpreneurs: The Warm-Up” is more than a program; it’s a launchpad designed to integrate AI seamlessly into every facet of a real estate professional’s entrepreneurial journey. This initiative will equip members with the tools needed to enhance productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness in today’s fast-paced market.
High Country Association of REALTORS® Program: Fair Housing Coloring Book Program
This project will expand the distribution of a custom coloring book aimed at educating potential homebuyers about Fair Housing. With support from a NAR Fair Housing Grant, the association initially printed 5,000 copies of the 28-page book, which features a family of mountain goats in search of their forever home. The demand has been high, so the association is seeking to print more copies to meet local needs. The coloring book, which also showcases local attractions like Sugar Mountain, Appalachian State University, and Mast General Store, will be distributed at events such as the Boonerang Festival in Boone and to local elementary schools. In a unique community twist, the sketches and storyline were contributed by local students. This project promotes awareness of Fair Housing while increasing the visibility of the REALTOR® brand.
Johnston County Association of REALTORS® Program: Entrepreneurial Center of Professional Development
The Johnston County Association of REALTORS® is expanding its local community outreach by partnering with local small business owners. Their new program aims to develop Continuing Education courses for entrepreneurs who have owned a business for over three years. Many small businesses struggle to survive past five years, and this initiative is designed to support those facing this critical phase of growth.
By collaborating with organizations such as the Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC), Entrepreneurs Assistance Program (formerly NC LEAP), Johnston Community College, and local chambers of commerce, this program will offer valuable education and guidance to help small business owners reach the next level of success. While Johnston County already supports new entrepreneurs, there is a gap in resources for those seeking to surpass the five-year survival mark. This program will help close that gap by providing courses and tools tailored to the specific challenges these business owners face.
Scan the QR code to learn more about how these associations plan to use their grants. ncrealtors.org/2024-innovative-grant-recipients-announced
Durham Regional Association of REALTORS®
Durham Regional Association of REALTORS®
High Country Association of REALTORS®
AC A DEMY LEA DERSHIP
2024 Graduates NC REALTORS ® William C. Bass Leadership Academy
Michelle Braat
Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®
Joshua Hearst
Jacksonville Board of REALTORS®
Benjamin Myers
Washington Beaufort County Board of REALTORS®
Paula Dingwall Long Leaf Pine REALTORS®
Cassey Mikles Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®
Carmen Palmer
Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®
Chloe Enoch
Burlington Alamance County Association of REALTORS®
Jonathan Moore Albemarle Area Association of REALTORS®
Chris Puckett Central Carolina Association of REALTORS®
Lisa Headrick
Jacksonville Board of REALTORS®
Spencer “Gabby” Murillo Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®
Donathon Stover
Mid Carolina Regional Association of REALTORS®
NC REALTORS® William C. Bass Leadership Academy Class of 2024 graduated at the 2024 NC REALTORS® Convention and Expo in Wilmington, North Carolina.
Each year, NC REALTORS® local associations select a member who has been a REALTOR® for five years or less, has provided exemplary service to their local board and exhibits strong leadership potential. We look forward to seeing where our 2024 rising stars take us next.
Jonathan Moore Albemarle Area Association of REALTORS®
Josh Hardison Coastal Plains Association of REALTORS®
Kasey Jackson
Foothills REALTOR® Association of North Carolina
Stephanie Carrillo Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®
Christian Kohler Brunswick County Association of REALTORS®
Victoria Fornalski Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®
Erin Waller Cape Fear REALTORS®
Pearce Mabe High Point Regional Association of REALTORS®
Emma Skelton Greensboro Regional REALTORS®
Amanda Purvis Neuse River Region Association of REALTORS®
Penny Rogers Durham Regional Association of REALTORS®
NC REALTORS ® Awards
REALTOR® of the Year
Lynn Harris of Cape Fear
Rosemarie Doshier Hall of Fame Award
Harriette Doggett Hall of Fame Award
Phillip W. Johnson PMD Hall of Fame Award
Thomas R. Lawing, Jr. PMD Hall of Fame Award
Madalyn Kunow Champion Award
Catherine Robertson Ben Ball Community Award
Jason Gentry Committee Member of the Year Award
Guy McCook
Jason Scott
John-Lewis Godfrey
Jason Morton
Tim Mock
National Association of REALTORS ® Recognition
NAR Leadership Academy Graduates
The Leadership Academy is dedicated to identifying, inspiring, and mentoring talented and emerging leaders at both the local and state levels. A big congratulations to the 2024 NAR Leadership Academy graduates proudly representing North Carolina!
Anne Marie Decatsye, CEO of Canopy REALTOR® Association, recognized as the 2024 recipient of the William R. Magel Award of Excellence for her exceptional contributions, mentorship, and commitment as an association executive within the REALTOR® community.
RPAC Hall of Fame
$75,000 Level: Bradley Cohen , Canopy REALTORS
Tony Smith, Canopy REALTORS®
$50,000 Level: Hadi Atri, Canopy REALTORS®
$25,000 Level: Bill Aceto , High Country Association of REALTORS® • Lee Allen , Canopy REALTORS® Brooke Cashion, Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS® • Clif Cheek, Brunswick County Association of REALTORS® • Rosemarie Doshier , Outer Banks Association of REALTORS® • Christi Hill, Jacksonville Board of REALTORS® • Guy McCook, Cape Fear REALTORS®
Jimmy Townsend, Long Leaf Pine REALTORS® • David Deal, Canopy REALTORS® • John McPherson, WinstonSalem Regional Association of REALTORS® • Tim McBrayer, Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS® • Renee Cooney, Carolina Smokies Association of REALTORS®
Carol Bradley, Union County Association of REALTORS®
Marvette Artis, Greensboro Regional REALTORS®
REALTOR® Certified Executive (RCE) Graduates
These individuals earned the RCE professional designation in 2024. The RCE designation is the only professional designation designed specifically for REALTOR® association executives (AEs). Additionally, it exemplifies goal-oriented Association Executives with drive, experience and commitment to professional growth.
Learn more about the RCE designation at nar.realtor.
Sandra Barnhardt Mid Carolina Regional Association of REALTORS®
Michele Xiong Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®
Tikola McCree Union County Association of REALTORS®
Marvette Artis Greensboro Regional REALTORS® Association
NC REALTORS® was recognized by the REALTORS® Relief Foundation (RRF) as members of the prestigious “Pillar Club” for our outstanding generosity and contributing over $100,000 in donations to the foundation.
WE NEED YOUR FEEDBACK
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NC REALTORS®
VIRTUAL MEETINGS
June 10–12, 2025
Due to the proximity of the Winter Leadership Meetings and the in-person Legislative Meetings and State of Real Estate event, most committee meetings will meet virtually June 2025 to provide more time between meetings.
TOP FIVE LEGAL TAKEAWAYS FROM 2024
In my house, I oversee everything concerning the holiday season. I get the tree out of the attic and decorate it. I shop and buy all the presents for the entire family (including myself). I entertain family and plan the meals. I organize the annual ski trip. Etc., etc., etc. . . . For about two months, it is an additional full-time job for me.
And yet. With the holidays now fully in the rearview mirror and a new year upon us, I can confidently say that this past season was a welcome vacation from an otherwise frenetic 2024. Ha!
Think about it! When 2024 started, we were discussing NAR’s appeal of the antitrust verdict. In March, the appeal was over, and we were digesting the news of the settlement and waiting on details. In early summer, all of you were preparing to conduct business in a completely new way. By Halloween, you were adjusting to new buyer agency forms and MLS rules. And when the holidays rolled around, many of you had begun to find your groove and thrive in a totally new environment.
If you have not heard it lately, you all deserve gigantic kudos. You have my admiration and respect. I mean, you did already, but you know what I’m saying. Anyway, you looked a seismic shift in the industry in the eye, and took it head on. You did so by causing about a 30% increase in Legal Hotline calls. LOL! But still, you did it, and we were happy to help.
1.
Broker compensation is, quite simply, negotiable.
By all means, value your services and make sure your client understands exactly how compensation works for you and your firm. Continue to put your client’s needs first and foremost. Part of that discussion for buyers should include an explanation that listing firms and sellers are not required to offer compensation to a cooperating agent.
Even if cooperative compensation is offered, it does not need to be a blanket offer and may vary based on the terms in a purchase contract. For sellers, make sure they understand the financial strains a buyer may be under and the advantages and
BY “LEGAL JOHN” JOHN WAIT General Counsel
disadvantages of declining to offer concessions or cooperative compensation.
Once the new MLS rules were implemented, we received a lot of calls on the Hotline from agents seeking guidance on negotiating compensation. Having detailed compensation discussions with your clients and explaining your value are the most important things you can do to facilitate these nowcommon negotiations.
2.
Scams are still a huge problem, and firms should continue to be extremely vigilant.
Last year, phone calls to the Hotline about scams remained constant. Fake sellers and buyers continue to be a major issue. Anytime you receive information for an out-of-state prospect who cannot meet you in person, you need to be very careful. Insist on at least a live video conference after receiving a picture ID. If you are not using the FOREWARN app, download it to your phone immediately. If you are a broker-in-charge, make sure scams are discussed regularly at your firm. In addition to fake seller and buyer scams, be aware of fake tenant and landlord scams as well.
We have received Hotline calls where the documentation for all these scams, at first blush, looked very convincing and authentic. One property manager only discovered a tenant scam after calling the bank associated with the tenant’s check. All other paperwork, and the background check, failed to discover the scam.
In short, if your Spidey Sense is going off, do not ignore it.
You should also be cautious in transactions that are not scams but present escalated risk. For example, wholesale listings and purchases present a variety of risks depending on the parties involved. NC REALTORS® standard forms are often not a good fit for these sorts of transactions. Make sure you have the tools necessary to help your client, including an attorney who can help your client interpret custom, nonstandard forms, if necessary.
3.
Follow MLS rules and your firm’s policies as to written buyer agreements.
Under the new MLS rules, a written buyer agreement is required prior to touring a home if an agent is “working with” a buyer. “Working with” a buyer means providing services to the buyer as that buyer’s agent.
A written buyer agreement is not required if an agent is acting as a listing agent or a seller subagent, because in those cases, the agent is working for the seller and has a fiduciary duty to the seller and not the buyer. A written buyer agreement is also not required for vacant land, commercial, or rental transactions. The new MLS rules only apply to residential transactions where 1-4 dwelling units are present on the property.
The NC REALTORS® Forms Library was updated to help agents navigate this new landscape. The Exclusive Buyer Agency Agreement (Form 201) was greatly simplified, and a one-page Property Showing Agreement (Form 202) was adopted if a buyer is not ready for exclusive agency. Firms have adopted different policies as to how these forms should be used, and agents should follow those policies.
4. Plan for unrepresented buyers.
Unrepresented buyers have become more common. If you have not already, you might consider structuring your listing agreements to address this issue. Some unrepresented buyers might be a strong prospect to purchase a listing, other unrepresented buyers will not be, and still yet others could fall somewhere in between. Ultimately, the way a listing firm addresses unrepresented buyers is negotiable, but it should be addressed in a clear policy that is communicated to a seller in writing and made part of the listing agreement. A good policy will have objective criteria to evaluate an unrepresented buyer and further address any fees or costs that might arise.
Listing firms should also make sure that the NC REALTORS® Forms Policy is followed as to unrepresented buyers. A seller can fill out a purchase contract and send it to an unrepresented buyer, but giving a non-REALTOR® a blank form is strictly prohibited.
5.
Be aware of other antitrust landmines.
Since firms can advertise cooperative compensation anywhere except the MLS, if the seller desires to, then great care should be taken in how that advertisement is made to other brokers and firms. And, if cooperative compensation is negotiated, great care should be taken in how the agent discusses
cooperative compensation with their client. This means long-standing principles from your antitrust education are more important now than ever.
For example:
There are no standard commission rates.
Your commission is negotiable with your client, and it should not be based purely on what anyone else in your market may be charging.
Any local board meeting may be construed as a gathering of competitors, and there should be no discussion of commission rates.
Agreements with competitors to fix commission rates are clearly illegal.
Agreements with competitors to freeze out other competitors are clearly illegal.
Do not suggest that a seller must offer a certain amount of cooperative compensation or else no buyer agent will show their property.
In addition, it is important to remember that the antitrust settlement released REALTOR® members and firms from liability they might have otherwise had to face by being part of the MLS. To maintain that release, members and firms must follow the terms of the settlement, which includes not using any online platform that facilitates cooperative compensation like the old MLS used to. The risk of using an online platform that operates like the old MLS cannot be understated. Antitrust cases are expensive, and many insurers no longer offer protection against these sorts of claims.
LEGAL HOTLINE
NC REALTORS® have free, unlimited access to the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline. Did you know one call to a real estate lawyer costs an average of $300 per hour? With just one call to the Legal Hotline, you’ve paid for one year of NC REALTORS® dues in full. Don’t waste your time stressing over forms, disclosure or landlord/tenant law. Call the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline to get quick resolution, so you can return to your clients and your business.
PHONE: 336.294.1415
EMAIL: legalhotline@ncrealtors.org
$1.1 Million
Community investment across the state of North Carolina
$1,077,131
Hurricane Helene Disaster Relief Aid Grants Awarded
(As of December 13, 2024)
$62,500
Total in Matching Grants, 100 Homes Grants, and Gives Back Grants
38
Counties supported by Hurricane Helene aid
1,078
Individuals and families served during Hurricane Helene disaster relief
$21,000 Downpayment assistance
21
Families supported with down payment assistance
3 Hosted homebuyer education seminars
Annual Report & Strategic Plan Update 2024
Core Goal COLLABORATIVE
Collaborate with local associations and other stakeholders to identify short and long-term strategies to ensure a functional, cohesive, and sustainable framework to meet the needs of members.
COLLABORATIVE
Identify partnership opportunities with local associations
Awarded $20,000 in grants to local associations
NC REALTORS® Commercial Committee partnered with local RCAs to boost member engagement and build rapport
DEI tool kit adopted by DEI committee to support local associations
Inform and support local associations with legal developments and their implications
Collaborated
with
6 firms
to expand educational opportunities
Established
regular NAR settlement updates to keep local Association Executives informed
Strengthen relationships with coalition partners to advance our public policy objectives
Representatives to review an NC bill on Asian Homeownership Rights
PARTNERED WITH STATE CHAMBER
to establish a Housing Coalition focused on advancing housing legislation in 2025.
Longleaf Pine Association of Realtors DEI Committee at their Association Realtor Rally.
Improve allied industry group collaboration
Promoted careers in real estate
At Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in North Carolina with the NCREC
Collaboration with Specialty Groups
Property Management Division (PMD)
HB 556
Tenancy in Common/E-Notary/Small Claims Changes
SB 445
Recording of Court-Filed Documents
Commercial
SB 802 C-PACE Program
Collaboration with Licensure Boards, State Agencies & Stakeholders
Partnered with the Governor’s Office to prevent an eviction moratorium
Engaged with NCREC to address an eviction moratorium in Western North Carolina
Worked with the Attorney General’s Office on consumer protection language to prevent predatory housing acts in Western North Carolina
Coordinated with NCREC Chair and Vice Chair to host the first listening session at Convention
Teamed up with the State Chamber to promote housing initiatives across NC
Miriam J. Baer and Janet B. Thoren, the NCREC Chair and Vice Chair, attended the NC REALTORS® Convention & Expo.
Spent time on the campus of Winston-Salem State University with the NC Real Estate Commission. The purpose, to expose and connect HBCU students to the Real Estate Profession.
Seek opportunities to improve inter-committee communication & coordination
2 Walking Tours
Hosted by the Economic Development and Commercial Committees and the Global Sub-Committee in Raleigh and Wilmington.
Include diverse voices to ensure we represent the varied experiences and perspectives of our members
Hosted our 2nd Mosaic DEI event in Wilmington, NC on October 19, 2024
Downtown Raleigh Alliance (DRA)
Project Grace, Wilmington
PREPARED
Core Goal
Position the association to respond to industry changes.
Strengthen awareness of the value of belonging to NC REALTORS®
By joining NC REALTORS®, you’ve committed to professionalism in the real estate industry. We’re here to support your success every step of the way. Without membership, many essential services would come at a significant cost. Here’s a look at the value and potential savings you gain as a member.
NC REALTORS® Membership Dues: $210
Contract Forms
Members gain exclusive access to 100+ contract forms via zipForms, saving hundreds in legal fees for drafting and reviewing. Enjoy this valuable tool as part of your membership.
Member Savings $239 for ZipForms software Member Savings $800 To draft a multi-page contract form with outside attorney.
Legislative Advocacy
Your membership fuels NC REALTORS® PAC and our advocacy power. Our dedicated lobbyists have secured key victories, including the 2023 repeal of the Privilege License Tax. The Privilege License Tax repeal saves members $50 annually and $3M across the industry. Member Savings $50 per year Industry Savings $3M
Classes & Events
Maximize your earning potential with our professional development courses, CE classes, and events. These opportunities help grow your business and increase referrals. Through Peer Networking Unlimited Referrals & Growth
Legal Hotline
The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline offers unlimited access to expert attorneys for advice on disclosures, contracts, and more. Just one call can cover the value of your membership dues.
Member Savings $225 (based on three 15-minute calls at $300/hour attorney rate)
Tech Helpline
Need tech support? As a member, you can access Tech Helpline for assistance with your computer, printer, or devices, saving you the cost of hiring an IT professional. Member Savings Hundreds in IT support
Preferred Partners Discounts
Take advantage of exclusive discounts from partners like Pearl Insurance, Office Depot, Paperless Agent, and Answer Financial, saving you money on products and services you use daily. Member Savings $900 per year
NAR LITIGATION RESPONSE
NC REALTORS® provided crucial resources to support members through the legal changes resulting from the NAR Settlement Agreement.
These resources ensure members stay informed on the latest industry developments and are equipped to navigate any impacts.
20 ABR Classes
1 Landing Page with Resources and Updates
7 Road to Perfect Contract Classes
14 Legal Videos
7+ Handouts & FAQs Created
100+ visits to Local Associations
10+ members
of the Leadership Team, staff, and legal counsel have visited local associations to offer strategic planning facilitation, board training, legal updates, or presentations on the NAR Settlement.
Scan the QR code to learn more about the NAR Lawsuits Resource Center. ncrealtors.org/nar-lawsuits-resource-center
INFLUENTIAL
Core Goal
Increase our political influence to aggressively advance real estate interests through advocacy, political action, and consumer and member engagement.
INFLUENTIAL
Eliminate barriers to housing availability and encourage housing production
Sept 27, 2024 at High Point University 676 registered
Carolina Core Housing Summit
Study
Bowen National Research on 21 counties
Data
Thousands surveyed, hundreds of thousands of housing units analyzed
Aug 21, 2024 on Zoom 449 registered
3 NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation Home Buyer Education Seminars
Focus
Regional demographics, housing cost burdens for individuals in the Carolina Core
Focus
Workforce housing, legislative changes, zoning impact, and innovative housing solutions across NC
Focus
To educate the community on all aspects of the home-buying process
At the Carolina Core Housing Summit held at High Point University, NC REALTORS® and 11 local associations unveiled the Carolina Core Housing Needs Assessment. This study by Bowen National Research lays the foundation for addressing current and future housing needs in partnership with community leaders and officials.
Continue Fair Housing initiatives to ensure all North Carolinians have access to property ownership
LAUNCHED FAIR HOUSING MEDIA CAMPAIGN
Launched statewide in April. This includes statewide radio and newspaper outreach across North Carolina.
PROMOTED Fair Housing INITIATIVES
through engagement with local associations and allied partners
2024 Short Session Legislative Wins
SB 166
Building Code
Regulatory Reform
HB 228
Increase Bond Limit for the Housing Finance Agency
• Increases bond limit from $3B to $12B
HB 556
Tenancy in Common/E-Notary/Small Claims Changes
SB 607
Regulatory Reform Bill
SB 802
C-PACE Program
SB 445
Recording of Court-Filed Documents
HB 984
Removal of Squatters from Private Property
Human Trafficking Changes (HB 971)
ensured it did not negatively impact our vacation rental managers
Prevented negative legislation from passing
Panel consisted of Architects, Realtors, City Planners, DEI Advocates, and Policy Makers
Orange Chatham Realtor Assn and the town of Chapel Hill.
Canopy Realtor® Association
Chapel Hill Development Challenges and Opportunities
Missing Middle Housing
Hall
$100,000 Level
Leigh
$75,000 Level
Asa
Bradley
$50,000 Level Andrea
Stephanie
Tony
Valerie
Wendy
2024 MAJOR INVESTORS
As of January 9, 2025 | *Indicates President’s Circle
Anne
Anne
Bill
Brenda
Buddy
$25,000 Level Allen
Phillip
Steven
Swayn
Doug Brindley
Maren Brisson-Kuester
Leigh
Robert
Renee Cooney*
Asa
Tony
Tim McBrayer
Linda Trevor*
Golden R’s
Bill Aceto*
Ed
Marvette Artis*
Hadi Atri
Dennis Bailey*
Lou Baldwin*
Chester Bartlett
Bob Bates*
Kelly Benton
Brett Bushnell*
Andrea Bushnell*
Brooke Cashion*
Hannah Chan*
Cindy Chandler*
Clif Cheek*
Jamie Cooper*
Linda Craft
Kim Dawson*
David Deal
Magda Esola
Crystal Franklin-Copas*
Pam Furtney*
Bruce Gates*
Jason Gentry
Joan Goode*
Kathy Haines
Wendy Harris
Amy Hedgecock
Christi Hill
Deno Hondros
AnnMarie Janni
Tiffany Johannes
Phillip Johnson*
Janet Kane*
Thomas Lawing*
Laurie Linder*
Jon McBride*
John McPherson*
Jay Mitchell*
Valerie Mitchener
Timothy Mock*
John Muir*
Sandra O’Connor*
Kimberly Perkins*
Teresa Pitt*
Robert Rabon
Ginger Robles*
Brooke Rudd*
Ea Ruth*
Tony Smith
Cady Thomas*
Joshua Tucker
Stephanie Walker*
Donald Walston
Patrice Willetts*
Leslie Williams*
David Zeitz*
Myra Zollinger*
Crystal R’s
Mary Allen
Christina Asbury*
Michael Barr
Stefanie Bell
Margaret Bishop
Jeffrey Bolduc
Diana Braun
Diana Brink
Cirila Cothran*
Carla Council
Michael Davenport
Anne Marie DeCatsye
Jay Dowdy
Jennifer Frontera
Arthur Furtney
Dana Galli
Heather Garris*
Heather Gool*
Lewis Grubbs
Brenda Hayden
Sandra Hurst
Lucas Kane*
Adam Kiefer
Dawn Kilby
Denise Kinney
Marcus Larose Ilona Matteson
Jonathan Moore
Beverly Newell
Shankar Nunna Mark Parker Bob Percesepe
Elijah Pitman
Erika Pitman
Benjamin Ray
Paul Sabadash
Leah Schuch
Donathon Stover*
Stephanie Thompson* James Townsend Randolph Voller
Alfonso Brittany Allen Matthew Allen Karen Allred Terri Alphin Smith Lisia Amburn
Lisa Anderson Headrick Eric Andrews Natalie Armstrong John Atkinson
Samuel Aubrey
Gayleia Bailey
Terry Banks
Jeffrey Barfield*
James Barnes
Margaret Bartlett
Melissa Bell
Royce Bennett
Alice Betts
Susan Bible
Carolyn Blackmon
Ruby Bland
Colleen Blondell
Stephania Bloodworth
Phyllis Bosomworth
Marilyn Bostick
Deana Bowen
Michelle Braat
David Branton
Randy Bratton
Lewis Bratton
Ashley Brimson
Mark Brink
Shawn Britt
Lori Brooks
Phyllis Brookshire
Jeb Brown
Robert Bunnell
Cynthia Burns
Jennifer Burns-Koonce
Tisha Bush
Sherry Byrd
Kelly Campbell Jane Cannon
Kathryn Carpenter
Miguel Carreno
Michael Carter
Morris Cherry
Dorothy Ciarrocchi
Phyllis Cole
Samantha Cole
Marcella Coley
Emilee Collins
Annmarie Conta
Norma Cooper
Towanda
Increase active member participation in advocacy and strive for full membership investment in RPAC and/or Corporate Ally Program
Hosted 200+
events and Zoom calls to provide advocacy updates and RPAC Support
NC REALTORS® PAC 2024 Election Cycle
NC REALTORS® PAC distributed $762,000 in state races. We won 96% of our races. NC REALTORS® PAC is consistently ranked a top bi-partisan PAC in North Carolina. To see profiles of the NC RPAC supported candidates in the general cycle, scan the QR code.
NC REALTORS® PAC UPDATE
$1,172,443
Raised
which is 85% of our $1,378,000 goal
13,926 members have invested at the participating level
NAR President’s Cup Update
• Major Investors: 394 out of 549
• President’s Circle Members: Exceed goal with 61 members (goal 55)
• Participation: 25.34%
Be THE voice of Real Estate
Positioned President Tony Harrington in various media appearances to advocate for real estate professionals and address important industry changes.
NC REALTORS® | Redefined Episode 65
Hear President Tony Harrington and PR strategist Chris Sinclair discuss the “Our REALTORS® Know” public awareness campaign, highlighting the invaluable expertise NC REALTORS® bring to the table.
Invest in technology & programs that will enhance our advocacy performance
Enhanced Advocacy Performance
by implementing programs that enable GADs to monitor local ordinances and SPCs to submit electronic updates following meetings with legislators
Promote job growth & economic development
Acquired 17 leads
to 7 commercial brokers at MIPIM event.
Developed
detailed follow-up plan for MIPIM leads
Revised the Economic Development Toolkit
MIPIM 2024
MIPIM 2024
MIPIM 2024
FOCUSED
Core Goal
Consolidate and streamline committees, programs, and services to remain relevant and responsive to member needs.
FOCUSED
Conduct an enterprise-wide assessment to ensure consistency and clarity
6 Committees
created or renamed to better reflect work and relevance
Appraisal Committee (formerly the Appraisal Section)
Commercial Committee (formerly the REALTORS® Commercial Alliance)
Global Committee (formerly the Global Network Committee)
YPN Committee (Young Professionals Network)
Ensure alignment of programs and activities with the strategic plan
Restructured
the Shared & Regional GAD program to offer a proactive, customizable approach that better serves members and local associations.
Restructured
Service Corp to Member Benefit committee
Speaker Pius Dawson, NAR; Global Alliances Advisory Board Member
Members of Various Committees
INTEGRAL
Core Goal
Become the leader in member messaging on the value of the REALTOR® to our members’ clients and customers.
Equip REALTORS® with the tools and messages to articulate their value to consumers
ncrealtors.org/nc-realtors-know
NC REALTORS® launched the “Our REALTORS® Know” public awareness campaign in June 2024, highlighting the specialized expertise and knowledge that REALTORS® bring to every interaction.
1 Consumer Website
1 Member Website
13 Member & Consumer Resources
5 TV Commercials & Testimonial Videos
As of December 2, 2024
11 Social Media Graphics & Posts
2 Flyers
10 statewide billboards and 18+ airport ads
21 Local Ads on News Websites
Over 5K
Website Clicks from Social Advertising
33.2 Million Impressions from TV Commercials
48 Million Impressions from Billboards
10.1 Million Impressions from Website Ads
Why Impressions?
We focus on impressions for brand awareness campaigns as the number of times the ads are seen directly reflects the campaign’s reach and visibility.
Provide resources that help enhance member professionalism and skill
19,720 hours of professional development provided
3.2 members reached by professional development
8.8K members in Mobile Monday’s Facebook group
Spotlight how REALTORS® serve and strengthen their communities
On social media, we highlighted local board events and celebrated NC REALTORS® members actively participating in our meetings and NAR conferences. From networking at national gatherings to supporting initiatives across North Carolina, these stories reflect our dedication to serving our communities and the strength we demonstrate through collaboration and unity.
Whether you need the best price for your house, or the inside scoop on a neighborhood...
