Insight | Summer 2014

NCAR President Tomp Litchfield and honored guest, Governor Pat McCrory, at the 2014 Legislative Meetings.

President’s MESSAGE

AMAZING! By the time this article is published over half of 2014 will have flashed by, the NC General Assembly will have more than likely adjourned the 2014 short session and I will have my fifth grandchild. Where is the time going?

Legislatively speaking, it has been a relatively quiet session, but we are not going to put our guard down. Many of our NC representatives and senators are campaigning; therefore, we can anticipate and welcome the brief assembly period. However, we must be prepared to stand strong and unified to support or defeat new legislative bills that affect private property rights. Please respond to every “Call for Action” request you receive from NCAR, NAR and your local board or association. We must all commit to do our part.

REALTOR® safety has been a recent subject that cannot be stressed enough. We do not think much about safety on the job unless tragedy hits close to home. It has, and we need to take this issue extremely seriously. Just a few months ago, a showing for a Salisbury REALTOR® quickly turned from a normal day at work to that of survival mode. The agent had arranged to show a house for sale, and once inside, she was assaulted by the client. Being held at knifepoint and instructed to drive them both to the next showing, the agent said that she needed to check in with her office so they would not be concerned with her overdue return. Little did the attacker know, the agent was actually sending a coded message to the office letting them know she was in danger. Shortly after, another agent showed up at the second home to rescue her from an additional attack.

We at The Rich Company in Washington also have a code word that will trigger immediate emergency action by our staff. Additionally, during our meetings, we discuss possible emergency scenarios and how to respond to each. It is my hope that all real estate companies do the same type of training. This simple education could make the difference between life and death. Always give this information to new agents who begin working at your firm, and review your company’s safety directives often. There are also many safety apps on the web that can be downloaded to your smart phone, including React Mobile, Blackline GPS and Guardly. Please take this message seriously and mark your calendars for our special webinar on October 8th, “Work Safely, Protect Your Clients and Be More Productive,” presented by safety expert, Tracey Hawkins.

And lastly, do not forget our NCAR Convention and Expo in Hot Springs, VA, September 14 -17. You still have until September 8 to register, but remember, the room cutoff is August 23 (subject to availability). This year’s Convention promises to be one of our best ever. I hope to see you all there!

Insight Magazine, Volume 93, Issue 3

President Tomp Litchfield

President-Elect

Tony Smith

Treasurer Treasure Faircloth

Immediate Past President

Patrice Willetts

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

Region 1: David Perrot, Kill Devil Hills; Region 2: Jody Wainio, Wilmington; Region 3: Steve Cohen, Fayetteville; Region 4: Kim Dawson, Durham; Region 5: Amy Hedgecock, High Point; Region 6: Patrick Morgan, Boone; Region 7: Marsha Jordan, Lincolnton; Region 8: Alison Royal-Combs, Laurie Knudsen, Charlotte; Region 9: Billie Green, Asheville; Region 10: Teresa Pitt, Jose Serrano, Raleigh; At-Large: George Bell

Executive Vice President Andrea Bushnell

Editor Blair Wilburn

Assistant Editor/Designer Mckenzie Hamrick

Contributors

Bridget McCrea

Will Martin

Cady Thomas

For Advertising information, contact Mike Buescher at 336-808-4229 or mbuescher@ncrealtors.org.

Insight (USPS 017602) is published four times a year during the months of February, May, August and November by the North Carolina Association of REALTORS®, 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407. Member subscriptions of $2.89 are covered by annual membership dues. Periodicals postage rates paid at Greensboro, NC.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NCAR, Insight Magazine; 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407.

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. Their contents are the opinions of the authors alone and do not necessarily represent those of the North Carolina Association of REALTORS®.

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

4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407

Phone: (336) 294-1415, Toll Free: (800) 443-9956

NCRealtors.org

REALTOR® SAFETY

Moby, a company that develops personal safety mobile applications, put together a real estate safety report to research the current safety issues real estate professionals face on a daily basis. This particular study analyzed the online responses of over 450 real estate professionals.

30

The percentage of real estate attacks on men in 2011.

Thursday

The most common day for attacks on REALTORS® in 2011.

61

The number of workplace fatalities in the real estate industry category as defined by Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2012.

50

The percentage of attacks on REALTORS® that involved guns in 2011.

26

The number of real estate workers who died as a result of homicide in 2012.

Aug. 13, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Webinar: Three Real Estate Technology and Marketing Trends to Act on Now

Learn the basics of lead generation in the new media age including the trends and concepts driving buyers and sellers online, led by Nobu Hata, director of digital engagement for the National Association of REALTORS®.

Register online at ncrealtors.org.

Sep. 10, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Webinar: A Practical Guide to Risk Management - Are you prepared and protected?

Lisa Scoble of Pearl Insurance will explain errors and ommissions insurance policies, what is typically covered, what can be added and what is typically excluded.

Register online at ncrealtors.org.

Sep. 14-17

NC REALTORS® Convention & Expo, The Homestead, Hot Springs, VA

Join us for the 2014 NC REALTORS® Convention & Expo at The Omni Homestead Resort. Remember: the last chance to register online is September 8th. Register at ncarconvention.org.

Sep. 14-15

Leadership Academy

The Homestead, Hot Springs, VA

Oct. 8, 10 a.m.–11 a.m.

Webinar: Work Safely, Protect Your Clients and Be More Productive

Former REALTOR® and safety expert Tracey Hawkins will teach us how to move through the real estate process safely and securely. Register online at ncrealtors.org.

BE INSPIRED

BY THE HISTORIC SPLENDOR OF THE OMNI HOMESTEAD

Excitement is building as we return to The Omni Homestead this fall for the annual NC REALTORS® Convention & Expo. Centered on the theme of a “Rich History, Promising Future,” this year’s event promises to prepare REALTORS® from across the state with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the ever-changing future of our industry. Guests will find themselves warmly welcomed by the majestic Homestead, nestled in the beautiful fall splendor of the Alleghany Mountains of Virginia.

The Homestead is ready to inspire you. There is no better place to sharpen your skills as a professional and discover the latest and greatest advancements in the real estate industry. With more than 14 education sessions, several nationallyknown speakers and an expo hall full of vendors wanting to improve your bottom line, we guarantee it’ll be the most beneficial Sunday through Wednesday that you’ve had all year.

And while you’re there, you’d be amiss not to explore some of the outdoor adventures The Homestead has to offer. Guests can choose from over 30 recreational activities during their stay. Whether its golf or falconry, horseback riding or relaxing at the spa, The Homestead will not disappoint. Take a look at this Convention Preview for a sneak peak of events to come and we look forward to seeing you at The Omni Homestead, September 14-17.

Photos presented by The Omni Homestead.

Afternoon tea and coffee at The Homestead in 1925 Trivia Night at the 2013 Convention & Expo.

The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa.

Dancing at The Homestead around 1928.

Dance Party at the 2013 Convention & Expo.

Fly Fishing at The Omni Homestead.

Cascades Clubhouse at The Homestead.

As of 07/16/14

SYSTEMS ENGINEERING

CENTURY 21

PIEDMONT NATURAL GAS

PEARL INSURANCE

SHOWINGTIME

SIGNLITE SIGNS

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK

AMERICA’S PREFERRED HOME WARRANTY

SUPRA

JY MONK

CENTRALIZED SHOWING SERVICE

BB&T HOME MORTGAGE

SYSTEL

ZIPLOGIX

CORELOGIC MARKETLINX

TENNESSEE VALLEY SIGNS

TAR HEEL BASEMENT SYSTEMS

PYRAMID ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENGINEERING

NC HOUSING FINANCE AGENCY

HMS HOME WARRANTY

RE/MAX CAROLINAS

NC LICENSED HOME INSPECTIONS

ASSOCIATION

HOME WARRANTY OF AMERICA

REALTY WORLD - THE CAROLINAS

UNITED CREDIT EDUCATION SERVICE

WILDE LAW FIRM

OLD REPUBLIC HOME PROTECTION

EXIT REALTY

VETERANS UNITED HOME LOANS

NATIONWIDE INSURANCE

DUKE ENERGY

COMMISSION EXPRESS

CUTCO CLOSING GIFTS

NATIONAL REALTY EXCHANGE

SERVICES

2-10 HOME BUYERS WARRANTY

REALTORS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

TIME WARNER BUSINESS CLASS & TELWARE

FIRST AMERICAN HOME BUYERS

PROTECTION

TRAVELERS

RELIANT LIFE ALERT, LLC

RPR

REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

WAKE COUNTY

AMERICAN HOME SHIELD

B2R FINANCE

AND SEE WHAT YOU HAVE TO GAIN FROM THIS YEAR’S EDUCATIONAL LINEUP

Going back to basics for customer service.

Strategies to overcome an overloaded work schedule.

The correct ways to use social media for your business.

KICK IT UP A NOTCH HAVE SOME FUN

Making the most of technology to communicate more effectively. How to stand out and build your brand.

Combining classic technologies with new ideas to generate more leads. Streamlining the forms process using zipForm® Plus and DocuSign. Recognizing the obstacles that may be holding you back.

Ways to communicate with your appraiser during a transaction. How a positive attitude can turn your problems into possibilities.

WITH THE MANY EVENTS AVAILABLE TO YOU AND YOUR GUESTS

This year’s minimum registration fee includes the opening evening reception on Sunday, complimentary breakfast and lunch on Monday, coffee service on Tuesday and The Homestead’s afternoon tea every day.

Keeping pace with the ever-changing technologies, products and services available to REALTORS® today can be a challenge. The Expo makes it easy by bringing together companies that will show members the latest tools to work smarter, not harder. Members also have the chance to win $500 in cash plus many other great door prizes.

Don’t miss the keynote address by Dr. Willie Jolley and his inspirational message, “Change is Good… When Your Attitude is GREAT!” Named “One of the Outstanding Five Speakers in the World” by Toastmaster’s International, Jolley’s motivational words will be just what you need to push you and your business to the next level.

Sunday night’s Opening Evening Reception and Expo Kick Off is the perfect place to meet and greet your colleagues and friends. Then, dance the night away with the Craig Woolard Band at our Dance Party.

On Monday, showcase your smarts at the RPAC Trivia Night and Live Auction fundraiser. Not only do guests get to enjoy the humor of the host and crowd-favorite, Bill Gallagher, but the winning team will receive $1,000!

On Tuesday, members can take a chance to win prizes through complimentary bingo. Our final night gathering promises to entertain in the newly renovated DownTime game center, packed with lots of interactive games, TVs and music provided by a D.J.

Once again, members can get their headshots updated for only $10 by Studio 16 throughout Convention. Studio 16 will match each $10 donation and give it to Homes4NC!

Stick around to enjoy one of the stimulating optional activities. Not only will members thank themselves later, but choose from any of the top seven resort activities and 5% of the proceeds will be donated to support Homes4NC! Choose from fly fishing, golf, the spa, gun club, horseback riding, the cascades hike or falconry.

DR. WILLIE JOLLEY

CALENDAR

As of 07/16/14. Schedules and sessions subject to change. CALL 800-443-9956 OR VISIT WWW.NCARCONVENTION.ORG FOR FULL SCHEDULE, COMMITTEE MEETING TIMES AND MORE DETAILS.

BREAKFAST WITH CONCURRENT SEMINAR SESSIONS

HISTORY PRESENTATION

- 11:00am

Note: Committee Meetings are not listed here. Please check ncarconvention.org for full schedule.

ADVOCATE FOR THEIR INDUSTRY

NC REALTORS® exercised their grassroots political power in Raleigh during the 2014 NCAR Legislative Meetings. More than 300 members attended the conference, which included a keynote address by Governor Pat McCrory, a reception honoring RPAC Major Investors and face-to-face meetings with state legislators at the Legislative Reception.

On Legislative Day, NC REALTORS® were bussed over to the Legislative Building to discuss pertinent topics for all homeowners including affordable housing, economic development, workforce housing, homeowners insurance and more. Before meeting with their individual representatives and senators, REALTORS® heard from several elected officials including fellow REALTORS® Senator Rick Gunn and Representative Kelly Hastings, Senator Gene McLaurin, Minority Leader Senator Dan Blue, Representative Paul Tine and Representative Rodney Moore.

Here are just a few pictures from the successful week.

For more photos of the 2014 Legislative Meetings, please visit our Facebook page, Twitter feed, Google+ account and NC REALTORS® Talk blog. Remember to use #NCARLM to search directly.

Top: NCAR President Tomp Litchfield greets Governor Pat McCrory as he enters the Legislative Forum.

Left: Governor McCrory addresses a room full of NC REALTORS® with talks about a “Carolina comeback” in the form of jobs, transportation and tax reform.

Photos by Robin Cooper Photography.

Top: NCAR staff member Robert Broome discusses important talking points for REALTORS® to use when meeting with their legislators.

Left: REALTOR® and Senator Rick Gunn spoke about the importance of regulatory reform during the Legislative Rally.

Left: REALTOR® Kelly Marks and Association Executive Mike Barr from Greensboro meet with Senator Trudy Wade.

Left: REALTORS® Yvonne Schaefer and Asa Fleming, along with CEO and President of the Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®, Tessa Hultz, wait to talk with their legislator.

Below: REALTOR® Tony Smith, Representative Beverly Earle, REALTOR® Cindy Chandler, Representative Bill Brawley and REALTOR® Bertha Pyne pose for a photo during the Legislative Reception at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Below: Senator Floyd McKissick chats with REALTORS® Mary Edna Williams and Connie Corey

Taking care of business

BY CADY THOMAS

Our fellow REALTOR®, Representative Julia Howard champions for the industry every day.

In 1988, when then Representative Betsy Cochrane decided to run for NC Senate, Representative Julia Howard was serving on the town of Mocksville board of commissioners. It was around that time that her friends and fellow REALTORS® encouraged her to run for office to fix the many issues surrounding property management. Those same friends kept true to their word, helping her get elected as they said they would. Howard’s intent was to come in, work hard to fix those issues and leave two years later at the end of her term. Thankfully for us and the people of North Carolina, that was 26 years ago - and she is currently running to give us at least two more years.

At the age of five years old, Howard thought she would follow in her mother’s

footsteps and become a nurse.  Instead, because “God knew better,” she became a REALTOR®.  In 1971 she opened her doors to Howard Realty and later grew her business by obtaining her appraisal license in 1980. Howard credits the traits that make a good REALTOR® in helping her to succeed in the NC General Assembly. Who knows better how to juggle multiple things at once than a REALTOR®? Both professions require organization and self discipline, being able to remember a lot of details and knowing how to prioritize. And, of course, Howard applies the REALTOR® Code of Ethics to her duties at the NCGA.

Now in the majority party for the second time during her legislative career, Howard has learned to take all the tough

choices seriously and to make sure she thoroughly understands the issues.   “I am often times the first car here in the morning and probably the last car to leave at night,” she says. She knows the people elected her to do a job, and that is an honor she takes very seriously. While the pay is not much, leaving every night proud to have done the best she could that day is reward enough.

Over the years, Howard has achieved many accomplishments in the legislature, specifically recalling two efforts that stand out the most.  The first was when she and now Labor Commissioner Cherie Berry rewrote the NC Welfare Reform plan around 1996 and watched it come into play and start working (although it has

Photos by Robin Cooper Photography.

since been regretfully dismantled). The second effort was the 2013 Employment Securities Commission revisions and being able to almost immediately see how our state debt is being reduced since its enactment last year. On a personal note, she was honored to be awarded Legislator of the Year in 2006, a national honor in which she was elected by her peers from around the country.

Howard has modeled various parts of her life after many. The most important was her grandmother, who while not formally educated, was “one of the smartest people I have known in my life.” She strives to be just as good a human as her and credits her with teaching the lesson to always take the opportunities that are presented in life, even if they produce more hard work.

Additionally, Howard looks to former Representative Theresa Esposito for her poise and character and old seatmate and great friend, former Speaker Harold Brubaker, for his work ethic. She has great respect for Brubaker, also a REALTOR® and appraiser, for who he is and what he accomplished while in office.  Everyday she works hard for her fellow North Carolinians just as he did, and this is why she has continued to serve for 26 years. “You get one thing done and then, unfortunately, there is something else.”

It’s that “something else” that she believes will be fighting an effort to take away the Mortgage Interest Deduction (MID) again next year. “I wish I could say no, that we would not see another attempt to eliminate the MID, but I do, I truly do anticipate that battle.” She believes the MID is probably more important than any other deduction or credit because it truly “builds a stronger economy.” While she’s certain there will be a battle, she strongly attests that it is “critical to keep the MID in NC.”

Even though her duties at the NCGA keep her busy, Howard also has to keep her business running.  To do that, she leans on fellow REALTORS® Jane Whitlock and Connie Kowalske.  She says she could not manage it all without them; “they are great - everyone needs a Jane and a Connie.”

Besides her roles as legislator and REALTOR®, Howard’s most important responsibility is that to her family. She lost her husband 20 years ago to ALS, and since then has focused on her two daughters, their perfect mates and “six of the most wonderful grandchildren, who are my life.” Her granddaughter Sydney is at ECU, studying to be a nurse just like Howard’s mother.

Granddaughter Izzy is at UNC Chapel Hill studying journalism.  Grandson Will, in high school, already received his pilot’s license even before obtaining his driver’s license. Granddaughter Peri wants to be a dentist, and granddaughter Julia, her namesake, plans to go to UNC Chapel Hill and be a cheerleader. And then there’s the youngest grandson, Mason, who is all boy and wants to be an engineer like his grandfather.

In what little free time she has, Howard bakes and buys cookbooks from around the state. She reads the cookbooks in hopes that some day she will make all the yummy recipes.  She compares her passion for baking to making laws –finding enjoyment in putting the pieces together to make something whole and hoping it will work out well.  She even shares with her fellow legislators, who each have their favorites like pound cake, pineapple cake, strawberry cake, chicken pie and quiche. “I’ll probably open a bakery in my next life,” she jokes.

Howard loves her state and the people she serves. North Carolinians are “very kind, gentle, generous, home folks - real folks. We have the best people in the world and I have been all over.” Her love for our small towns and people keep her motivated to see the challenges and want to do what is right for the state. She believes North Carolina is moving in the right direction, but that families need to have time to enjoy the first home they purchase, rather than being under pressure to make the payments. Homeowners should not have to always worry about MID and taxes – they deserve to enjoy what they have achieved.

Howard believes that in order to protect the MID and other REALTOR® priorities, we need more REALTORS® in office. She thinks the typical REALTOR® personality is a great fit for running for office. REALTORS® are people persons and have what it takes to be successful in the political arena.  “We are tenacious in sales and make things happen.” That is exactly what is needed in Raleigh.

She may be small in stature but she is mighty in conviction, work ethic and motivation. We are so proud of our fellow REALTOR® and Rep. Julia Howard and thankful she is a champion on so many issues affecting the future of our industry.

REALTOR® Harold Brubaker, Representative Howard and her granddaughter Julia, a House page this summer.

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BY BRIDGET MCCREA

The fact that more than 95 percent of homebuyers are hitting the Internet first when searching for properties is a double-edged sword for most brokers and agents. On one hand, it levels the playing field in an industry where relationships and “who you know” have been key success drivers. On the other hand, it opens the door to confusion and frustration over exactly how to position yourself in a world where consumers literally see everything online – the good, the bad and the ugly.

To help licensees in North Carolina wrap their arms around this challenge, define and manage both disclosure transparency online and effectively deal with both concepts in today’s digital world, Insight spoke with Nobu Hata, director of digital engagement for the National Association of REALTORS®. Here’s what he had to share:

Q: What is disclosure?

Nobu Hata: Disclosure (things like addenda, property disclosure, etc) is defined at the state level, but there is no one definition or standard of practice for digital disclosure or transparency in real estate and that can be confusing. Is it talking about your last deal on your website? Is it disclosing the list price versus the final sales price of your last listing on your Zillow account? Consumers are at a loss. REALTORS® are at a loss. The struggle lies in who will determine it first, especially as technology companies try to co-opt the narrative. For example, Redfin.com tried to make the process of an offer fully transparent last year, where a listing and selling agent could log in and literally write a blow-by-blow feed of how a transaction was going for the public to read. The reception from the industry

How to use the informationpacked web to establish yourself as the most desirable agent to work with in your market.

was anger and Redfin killed the project. Was that transparency? Some would say yes. Products like this - forcing a notion of transparency on the industry - will be something that REALTORS® will struggle with going forward.

Q: What does transparency mean within the context of real estate?

Hata: Since what can be disclosed legally is mandated by state legislation, transparency is a local issue and REALTORS® should be taking advantage of it by joining the online conversation. If it’s illegal to disclose or display the final sales price of a listing, for example, agents could instead talk about how many homes they’ve listed or sold in a particular neighborhood and how they sold it. How many views on the MLS listing? How many views of the virtual tour? What pricing strategies were used to sell the home faster? Did the buyer come from effective marketing, through portals or the broker’s website? Throwing information like that on a website or on a blog, for example, tells the story of the sale of a home and far outweighs any arbitrary number that could be construed as “transparent.” At the personal level, it’s getting success stories like positive reviews on Yelp, LinkedIn or Google out in the wild for public consumption. I’ve seen agents turn negative reviews on Zillow into business by apologizing and stating what was learned from the negativity. Is that transparent? Yes.

Q: Why is it important for REALTORS® to be thinking about transparency and digital disclosure online?

Hata: A lot of brokers, agents and industry/association professionals are beginning to grasp the concept, with the biggest challenge being the “locality” of the transparency. So while the Internet is trying to place people into categories, quantify things and rank/rate people – in an attempt to make sense of the vast amount of information that’s online –transparency truly is a local conversation. Although it varies from market to market, REALTORS® need to start talking about it now and start being a part of these conversations, rather than being the results of these conversations.

Q: What tools can agents use to accomplish that goal?

Hata: LinkedIn is usually a great place to go to talk about yourself in a safe environment that’s populated by professional peers and potential clientele. For those looking to do a little more in this area, Yelp has become a great spot to go to and share reviews (the good and the bad). Basically, the idea is to pick a platform and then get out there and share aspects of yourself and your business, and then allow your former clients to share their views. Saying “There’s record low inventory and record low interest rates, sell your home now! Call me!” is no longer good enough. People want a personal connection and embracing review websites like Google, Yelp and LinkedIn is a good strategy.

Improve your reputation by letting your happy clients share success stories. You can also set yourself apart from the competition by adding content on your website that appeals to your clients’ needs and concerns. Break down and demystify the transaction process, share what a home inspector does or what a home warranty covers and explain the difference between homeowner’s insurance and title insurance. I think every agent and broker should have a step-by-step guide on how to buy/sell a home on his or her website, or even a glossary of real estate terms available for their clients.

Q: What else can REALTORS® be doing?

Hata: As a former REALTOR® myself, I learned to talk to my clients upfront and “join the rap” instead of having to find a solution to the problem at a later date (which is really difficult). Engage with your buyers and sellers and talk to them about their expectations. Get away from just talk of transactions, disclosures and everything else that muddies the waters and ask questions like, “Hey, why did you pick me over this other agent?” “What information did you find out about me online?” and “If you had to do this all over again, what is the one thing that you would change?” This will help you determine your differentiation points and figure out where your comfort zone is as an agent. That, in turn, will help you determine how much of your business you’ll want to share online.

Nobu Hata Director of Digital Engagement National Association of REALTORS®

Nobu Hata is the National Association of REALTORS®’ Director of Digital Engagement. An industry veteran since 1996, Hata is a student of marketing, communications trends, social media and technology in the real estate industry, having implemented and adapted various new-school techniques to his successful brick-and-mortar business in Minneapolis, Minnesota for Edina Realty until July 2012.

An accidental speaker, instructor and volunteer member leader since 2009 (NAR YPN, Communications, Equal Opportunity/ Diversity, Strategic Planning Committees), Hata brings to NAR insight and context of agent, brokerage and association issues up the pipeline and delivers valueadded information down, both in-person and through the digital domain.

WEBINAR WEDNESDAY

Three Real Estate Technology and Marketing Trends to Act on Now, Aug. 13, 10 -11 a.m.

Join Hata as he leads an informative webinar on the basics of lead generation in the new media age including the trends and concepts driving buyers and sellers online.

Register at ncrealtors.org.

minutes with...

Zach Schabot of Go Realty

Tell me about your childhood: I grew up in Kingston, N.Y. and had nine years of Catholic schooling… what can I say, I have great penmanship. Halfway through my freshman year, we moved to Raleigh where I finished high school.

When I was five years old, I thought I’d be a… Being the good Catholic school child that I was, my plan was to go to college at Notre Dame and become a doctor. Seriously! I read a bio from when I was six or seven years old and those were my answers. It also said I was going to have a really nice car when I grew up (a Honda, specifically).

Tell me about your family: My parents have been together almost 40 years. I have a big family – some are in North Carolina and the other half are split between New York and Florida. I met my wife Kate in high school. After 11 years of marriage, we are still best friends. It sounds cliché, I know, but I’d still rather spend time with her than anybody else. We have three kids, Tyler who is 7, Emma, 5, and baby Connor, who is only six-weeks old. Emma runs the whole house.

What was your first job? I worked retail at Belk when I was 16. I wore a tie and everything. But, I started my real estate career three days after I graduated college. That Monday, I started selling houses for Beazer Homes and then worked for RE/MAX, prior to my current role at Go Realty. Thirteen years later, I’m glad I did.

What is the most pivotal moment in your career to date? Although I didn’t realize it at the time, leaving RE/MAX to start Go Realty was a huge step. Beazer Homes and RE/MAX are two huge brands, and creating a startup was completely different. That leap of faith was a huge moment for me.

Tell me about your business:  I helped start Go Realty in 2010, and we have grown to four offices and 60 agents. We have created a real estate company around an incredible culture. Our founder, Jim Garman, said let’s create a culture where people do their best work. So far, so good.

How do you create that environment? There are so many little things we do to set the tone. In 2010, we started opening every meeting with a “good news” section – kind of our own open mic for anyone that wanted to tell their good news, personal or not. We were seeing so many headlines about how awful the real estate market was, so we decided to do the opposite. We wanted to create good energy and office meetings that people love to go to (well, we call it the Go Show instead of an office meeting). We take it very seriously. When you sign up to work here, you sign an agreement that you can be fired for having a bad attitude. One or two people with a bad attitude can undo everything we’re working to accomplish. We also developed “Give it Back,” our service program in which our agents donate $50 from every transaction, the company matches it and it is given to the local charity of their choice. Last year we gave $70,000 through the program.

I’ve seen your offices, what was your vision behind the design and concept? Our concept was Apple Store meets Starbucks; a really clean, crisp, open and inviting atmosphere. We did not want a gatekeeper to be the first you thing you experience, like traditional offices. Instead, we want our customers and colleagues to experience a much different feeling –you’re welcomed and invited in. Some clients even come in and work during the day. We have a constant flow of good people and good energy. We worked with my brother, an architect, on

“Our value as guidance counselors is even more important as technology grows.”

Director of Marketing & Communications Blair Wilburn sat down with Zach Schabot, co-chair of the Information Management Advisory Group, and learned about his innovative business model and fun spin on life.

Photo by Robin Cooper Photography.

our first office and then took that model and varied the style of each location, depending on where we were.

What do you see as the biggest challenges to real estate professionals? Buyers are getting younger and younger, and REALTORS® are getting older and older. Those with experience are challenged with figuring out how to bring in new people and new perspectives. I’m a second-generation guy. My dad’s been in real estate since 1990. He taught me a lot of things about customer service and long-term relationships. I’ve added technology, creativity and a new spin. We owe that to the new generation of people who are going to be in business. There’s also a huge challenge for utilizing technology. It’s not that you need it, you can run a business without some of it, sure, but it’s really hard. It’s hard for agents to keep up with the speed at which technology is changing right now. It’s shifting customer expectations on how quickly they can get information and how fast things should happen. It challenges our sanity, our time and our family lives.

What do you see in the future for real estate? The good news is that real estate agents are becoming more important than they ever have been. A lot of REALTORS® fear technology will replace them, but I think agents are helping consumers cut through the noise. Our value as guidance counselors is even more important as technology grows.

What are you working on now? My current project started because we were looking for really great mobile software for our own agents to run their business and we realized what we were searching for didn’t exist. So, we decided to build it. I’ve never done software and we made lots of mistakes along the way. But, we did something revolutionary in that we included a lot of agents from NC and all across the country during development. Those 4,000 agents helped us shape GoConnect, a 100% mobile platform CRM that helps agents handle their transactions and lead follow-up. We completed beta-testing and launched our iPhone version in April, Android in June and the iPad version in July. We’ve also created GoConnect Broker after realizing

the stuff that agents love to use is not the same stuff that office leaders want them to love to use. Brokers and agents want two different things, so we’re hoping to help bridge the gap.

Sounds exciting – anything else we need to know about GoConnect? We just passed 10,000 downloads in June. Agents are using it 15 times a week. These numbers are showing us GoConnect is becoming a legitimate productivity tool. People love it and we’re getting great feedback. I want NCAR Members to check it out – it’s free to use!

It seems like you’re always on the road. When did you start traveling as a speaker? Last year, I was named by Inman News as a finalist for Most Innovative Real Estate Agent. Naturally, people started to ask what is so great about what I was doing? I started traveling around and answering that question, which also helped me roll out GoConnect. I told the story of why we started, how we do things differently and along the way was able to meet REALTORS® from across the country who helped us test our products. Very few people out there are actually still selling houses and developing technology for real estate agents. I think that’s one of the unique reasons why people enjoyed what I had to say.

What has been your most rewarding or WOW moment?

This year, I’ve been nominated for two new awards with Inman News. I can’t even believe it. All of this has given me the ability to meet so many talented people. As an industry, we are doing really great things. There are generous people all over the world willing to help. I love the people I’ve been able to meet.

What’s on the horizon? I recently wrote a children’s book about the process of building a new house. It’s not going to be part of Oprah’s book club, but it was a fun project and something I’ve always wanted to do and I finished it! I even got to read it in my kid’s classroom. I’m hoping to do one more later this year about moving and what kids experience. I hope to address what their concerns are, it’s a special dynamic. Besides that, I’ll be focusing on learning how to be a dad to three kids!!

Go Realty, Go Cary Office. Photos provided by gorealty.biz.

“We have a constant flow of good people and good energy. “

2014 Officer Candidates and Election Information

It’s that time again! The NCAR elections will be held August 25th-28th and voting will take place online only at ncrealtors.org. The candidates listed on this page have been certified by the NC Association of REALTORS® Certifying/Recruiting Committee, chaired by REALTOR® Danny Brock.

PRESIDENT-ELECT

Kim Dawson, CRS, ABR, GRI, SRES Coldwell Banker Advantage, Chapel Hill Durham Regional Association of REALTORS®

Jay Dowdy

Prudential All American Homes, Fayetteville Fayetteville Regional Association of REALTORS®

ISSUES MOBILIZATION COMMITTEE

Billie Green, CNHS, SPS Beverly-Hanks & Associates, Asheville

Haywood County Board of REALTORS®

REGIONAL VICE PRESIDENTS

Vote for one candidate per region.

REGION 3

Bruce Gates, ABR Coldwell Banker Advantage, Goldsboro

Goldsboro Wayne County Association of REALTORS®

Bertha Pyne, ePro, GRI, CRS

Selective Homes, Inc., Greenville Greenville-Pitt Association of REALTORS®

REGION 4

Brett Bushnell Tri Local Realty, Chapel Hill Greater Chapel Hill Association of REALTORS®

Greg Payne, CCIM Pickett-Sprouse Real Estate, Durham Durham Regional Association of REALTORS®

REGION 6

Phil Rector Rector Realty, Winston-Salem Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®

REGION 8

Leslie Fisher, GRI HM Properties, Charlotte Charlotte Regional REALTOR® Association

REGION 9

David Wall Wood Investments, Inc., Arden Asheville Board of REALTORS®

REGION 10

Linda Trevor, ABR, CRS, ePro, PMN, CLHMS Re/Max United, Cary Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®

FINANCE & BUDGET COMMITTEE

Vote for three candidates.

Kevin Green Berkshire Hathaway HomeService, Greensboro Greensboro Regional Association of REALTORS®

Paul McGill, GRI, ePro McGill Realty, Winston-Salem Winston-Salem Regional Association of REALTORS®

Chris Livengood Intracoastal Realty Corp., Wilmington Wilmington Regional Association of REALTORS®

Bruce Williams, CRS, GRI, ePro

Bruce Williams & Associates, Inc., Calabash Brunswick County Association of REALTORS®

NAR DIRECTORS

Vote for one candidate.

(Number of candidates to be elected will be determined after July 31, 2014)

Tom Barton, NCCREA Thomas A Barton, New Bern Neuse River Region Association of REALTORS®

Cindy Chandler, CCIM, CRE, DREI, ITI Chandler Group, Charlotte Charlotte Region Commercial Board of REALTORS®

Mary Edna Williams, GRI, CRB, CRS, ABR, CLHMS, CDPE Re/Max Preferred Associates, Raleigh Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®

Meet the Staff: Administration

ANDREA BUSHNELL

Title: Executive Vice President

Why members would contact you? I am responsible for the overall performance of the association on behalf of the REALTOR® members.

How long have you been with NCAR? 4 years

Where were you before? The Oregon Association of REALTORS® for 14 years and prior to that, in a private law practice.

Education: Law School was one of the most transformative experiences of my life. It taught me how to analyze and think through any problem. Being a music performance major (first love) as an undergraduate I learned incredible discipline. And then there is the English degree... so many interests and so much to learn! Can I go back to school?

Guilty pleasure? Watching the Food Network, a great football game or old Law & Order reruns with two cats on my lap, my dog by my side, a glass of Oregon wine and my iPad close by....

What are you currently reading? The Lonely Planet guide to China in preparation for a much anticipated vacation.

What’s your favorite song on your iPod right now? Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings” performed by the London Philharmonic, but I’m also pretty fond of the original version of “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey, “Gabriel’s Oboe” (The Mission) by Ennio Morricone as performed by Yo-Yo Ma and the Mumford & Sons album Babel. I love ALL music so this is a difficult question for me!

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Professional musician (cello)

DENISE DALY

Title: Membership Records Coordinator/ Bookkeeper

Why members would contact you? Any questions regarding the association and its services and benefits.

How long have you been with NCAR? 171/2 years

Where were you before? Bookkeeper for a Property Management Company. Related designations/experience: e-PRO, Property Management

Guilty pleasure? Lazy days at the lake (with our dogs, of course!)

What’s your favorite song on your iPod right now? “Fire” by The Pointer Sisters

What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received? Pretty much whatever Oprah tells me.

SHERRY HARRIS

Title: Administrative Assistant

Main job function: Process RPAC checks and work with Accounting.

How long have you been with NCAR? Eleven years the first round, had a fiveyear vacation and then have been back 12 years come October.

Where were you before? Pilot Life Insurance Company

Guilty pleasure? Spending time with my grandchildren and spending time at the beach.

What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received? Enjoy every day to its fullest; don’t wish for tomorrow because you’ll end up wishing your life away.

BRYAN JENKINS

Title: Chief Financial Officer/Chief Operating Officer

Why members would contact you? I am responsible for the financial operations and general operations of the association. I can assist members with a variety of questions pertaining to association’s operations and finance.

Clockwise from top left: Donna Peterson, Caroline Main, Denise Daly, Bryan Jenkins, Phyllis Lycan, Andrea Bushnell, Sherry Harris.

Photo: Robin Cooper Photography

How long have you been with NCAR? Approximately, 5.9 years. Give or take.

Where were you before? I was an Audit Manager with the CPA firm Bernard Robinson & Company, LLP in Greensboro.

Education: B.S. in Accounting from UNC-Greensboro

Related designations/experience: Licensed by NC as a C.P.A.

Guilty pleasure? Double chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and covered with chocolate syrup. Then running 7 miles.

What are you currently reading? A variety of children’s books to my daughter (3 1/2) and son (1 1/2).

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Veterinarian

What’s the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received? Do your best and as long as you have done that, hold your head high and be proud of what you have accomplished.

PHYLLIS LYCAN

Title: Financial Manager

Why members would contact you? Any questions pertaining to credit card charges, invoices, checks, etc. from NCAR.

How long have you been with NCAR?

16 years

Where were you before? I worked at Ciba as a temporary employee during their process of moving the accounting department to New York.

Education: BBA from Marshall University

Guilty pleasure? Watching my grandchildren play sports or cheer.

What are you currently reading? I read several magazines, NCAR e-mails and whatever book my granddaughter wants me read to her as she goes to sleep.

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Mother

CAROLINE MAIN

Title: Receptionist

NCAR STAFF CONTACTS

Why members would contact you? I answer the phones and any general NCAR questions.

How long have you been with NCAR? 21/2 years

Where were you before? In school.

Guilty pleasure? Eating ice cream!

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up? Teacher

DONNA PETERSON

Title: Executive Assistant

Why members would contact you? Provide staff support to the EVP; liaison to Executive Committee, Board of Directors, NAR Directors, Elections, Awards.

How long have you been with NCAR?

38 years

Where were you before? Who can remember?

Next issue: Events, Legal, Professional Development

Members of the NCAR staff can be reached by telephone at 800-443-9956 during normal business hours Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staff members are listed below, by department, with their respective email addresses. Greensboro Office: 4511 Weybridge Lane, Greensboro, NC 27407 Raleigh Office: 421 Fayetteville Street, Suite 1109, Raleigh, NC 27601

Administration

Andrea Bushnell Executive Vice President abushnell@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4222

Bryan Jenkins Chief Financial Officer bjenkins@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-294-3112

Donna Peterson Executive Assistant dpeterson@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4221

Phyllis Lycan Financial Manager plycan@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4224

Denise Daly Membership Records Coordinator/ Bookkeeper ddaly@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4223

Sherry Harris Administrative Assistant sharris@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4230

Mike Buescher Director of Business Development mbuescher@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4228

Robin Cooper Partner Program Manager rcooper@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-217-1047

Caroline Main Receptionist cmain@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4220

Communications & Marketing

Blair Wilburn Director of Communications & Marketing bwilburn@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4228

Mckenzie Hamrick Communications Specialist mhamrick@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4227

Samantha Ashburn Electronic Communications Manager sashburn@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4226

Tyler Helms Technology Manager thelms@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4225

Events

Mandy Lowe Events Director mlowe@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4236

Keri Epps-Rashad Meeting Planner and EXPO Manager kepps-rashad@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-217-1049

Government Affairs

Cady Thomas Director of Government Affairs cthomas@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 919-573-0996

Robert Broome Director of Regulatory Affairs rbroome@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 919-573-0994

Adair Collins Director of Political Communications acollins@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 919-573-0992

Mike Landes Political Specialist mlandes@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 919-573-0984

Kristin Miller RPAC Manager kmiller@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 919-573-0995

Nicole Arnold Local Government Affairs Director narnold@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4237

Legal

Will Martin General Counsel wmartin@ncrealtors.org

Kay Bailey

Legal Assistant/Legal Programs Coordinator kbailey@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4235

Professional Development

Ellie Edwards Director of Professional Development eedwards@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-808-4231

Monica Huckaby Professional Development Coordinator mhuckaby@ncrealtors.org

Direct Dial: 336-217-1051

A Permanent Force: How REALTORS® are Changing the Game at the Legislature

In the summer of 2013, the North Carolina General Assembly placed tax reform on its legislative agenda. Unfortunately for REALTORS® and homeowners, a number of legislators pushed to eliminate North Carolina’s mortgage interest deduction.

Caught in a political firestorm, the North Carolina Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS® cranked up the campaign heat. They made a major push on television, digital advertising and other paid media. Ultimately, a full repeal of the deduction was headed off, but the campaign exposed a need.

“We realized that we had to do something different,” said Andrea Bushnell. “That kind of boom and bust communication is not sustainable. So we got together with NAR and talked about how to build a base of homeowner and REALTOR® support that is ready to go when we need it.”

NCAR and NAR decided to ramp up their lobbying efforts outside the General Assembly. The goal was simple. Instead of waiting until the legislative session to quickly educate voters on an issue, communications with homeowners would start early and often. Also conversations between legislators and the REALTORS® outside of the legislative session would be increasingly prioritized.

build on existing legislative outreach and provide new resources. “It all really starts with our membership,” said Tomp Litchfield, board President for NCAR. “So many of our local leaders are already doing great work in engaging their REALTORS® in the legislative process. We wanted to help them expand those efforts to even more of their colleagues and to local homeowners.”

It’s not just a matter of building an email list. If you get into a legislative battle, you can buy an email list and create an entire paid marketing campaign around an issue. The goal is to change the game in 2015.

NC HOMEOWNERS ALLIANCE

“We’re seeing that last minute calls to action that cost a lot of money and generate a ton of form emails or calls don’t make the same impact,” said Cady Thomas, Director of Government Affairs for NCAR. “What surprises people is how much you can impact legislators with informed, personalized communication from supporters. It’s the type of constituent/legislator interaction that doesn’t happen overnight.”

And so the North Carolina Homeowners Alliance was reborn.

In some ways, the effort is old school: educate a base of voters, convince them of your position, and prepare them to personally connect with legislators. The difference is in how you connect with that base of voters in the new communications age.

“If a homeowner is already educated on your issue, it doesn’t take as much effort to mobilize that person once the General Assembly starts,” Bushnell said. “And the great thing is that there are so many ways to keep engaging those homeowners through social media, email and even face-to-face outreach.”

In June, the Alliance started taking the message directly to homeowners. Setting up booths at large community events throughout the summer and fall, the Alliance field team is talking to homeowners and asking them to sign up for our cause. The Alliance also works with local REALTOR® associations to

Let’s say it’s March 2015 and one particular State Senator is uncertain on an issue. The Alliance can go into its cutting edge database and find voters in that district who have liked our posts on Facebook, met one of our volunteers at an event and even come to another event. We want those voters calling that undecided State Senator, writing personal letters or even attending meetings. One group of five informed voters showing up at the Senator’s office is worth 1,000 form emails.

The prospects for this kind of comprehensive campaign have caught the eye of the national association’s Issues Mobilization Committee. That’s why NAR is helping to fund the effort in partnership with North Carolina’s REALTORS®. The goal is for it to serve as a national model.

“There is not another REALTOR® Association in the country attempting anything like this program,” said Andrea Bushnell. “And in the end, we are confident that these efforts will result in the North Carolina Association of REALTORS® being the most progressive, innovative and strongest political organization in Raleigh.”

Be sure to check out the NC Homeowners Alliance Facebook page for the latest happenings and visit nchomeownersalliance.org to learn more.

In today’s hectic business world, who has the time to research vendors or check out how to get more for your money? The North Carolina Association of REALTORS® has taken the guesswork out of this tedious task with the REALTOR® Partners Program. Through this program, NCAR members receive special discounts on the products and services they use most.

INSURANCE SERVICES

Receive special rates and discounts for your car, home, boat, RV, motorcycle and more. nationwide.com/NCassociationofREALTORS

1-866-238-1426

Save on major medical plans, enhanced dental and vision plans with low premiums and great coverage. fcmrealtorbenefits.com

919-876-9610

Receive access to comprehensive real estate errors & omissions insurance, underwritten by XL Insurance. pearlinsurance.com/ncar

800-289-8170

Access to an array of health benefits offered only to NCAR members; specific offers depend on product. ncar@worksiteassociates.com Jay Hill at (855) 411-2436, ext 12

BUSINESS SERVICES

Enjoy discounts on office supplies, furniture, technology products and copy and print services. ncar@ncrealtors.org

800-443-9956

Employ your staff with preferred customer pricing and service fees as low as 2%. outstaffing.com/ncar

888-OUTSTAFF

Save up to 30% on overnight shipping; 16% on select ground shipping; and up to 10% on business services. savewithups.com/ncar

800-325-7000

Receive 5% on gift card sales, discounts on select appliances and discounts on oil change services, tires and parts. commercial.sears.com/ncar

800-215-3979

TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

Receive 15% discount on email marketing, social media marketing and online surveys. verticalresponse.com/ncar

800-443-9956

Save 20% on web design orders including XSites websites, XSellerate e-mail marketing and XSites IDX. alamode.com/agent

1-800-ALAMODE

FORMS

Free access to zipForm®Plus including seamless integration solutions for e-signature and option to add to mobile devices. ziplogix.com

800-443-9956

Receive discounted rates for Formulator Desktop® and the New! Formulator Online®. formulator.com

800-499-9612

MORE INFORMATION

Contact

Forms Guy explains new Additional Signatures Addendum to “Krankie” Member

BY: WILL MARTIN | GENERAL COUNSEL

DEAR FORMS GUY, Somebody just told me that 19 residential forms have been changed recently. Nineteen! Are you kidding me? I demand an immediate explanation! SINCERELY, Krankie

DEAR KRANKIE: One too many cups of joe this morning, eh? Well, don’t have a cow, as Bart Simpson might say. With one exception, the changes that took effect are technical in nature, most of them to clarify existing wording or improve the format of a form. In fact, in all the years I’ve worked on the NCAR forms, I can’t recall a year where fewer substantive changes have been made. Also, although there is one new form, we’ve eliminated two others, so we’ve actually reduced the number of residential forms by one. Sincerely, Forms Guy.

KRANKIE: Well, that’s good to hear. What’s the “one exception” you mentioned?

FORMS GUY: It’s a new form called the “Additional Signatures Addendum.” It was created to provide additional lines for the identification and signature of parties to a form when the number of parties exceeds the number of pre-printed signature blanks in the form.

Contact Will Martin at wmartin@ ncrealtors.org if you have a suggested discussion topic for Forms Guy.

KRANKIE: Good. So let’s say I want to write an “Offer to Purchase and Contract” (form 2-T) on a property owned by three sisters, all of whom are married, and there aren’t enough signature lines for “Seller.” Would this new form work for that situation?

FORMS GUY: Yes. Two of the sellers would be identified on the contract, and the “extra” four sellers would be identified on the “Additional Signatures Addendum.” In addition, you would list the addendum in the “Other Provisions and Conditions” paragraph of the contract and attach it to the contract.

KRANKIE: Wait a minute. I thought there were three seller signatures lines in the contract. Why did you say two sellers would sign the contract?

FORMS GUY: As a result of the creation of the “Additional Signatures Addendum,” a decision was made to eliminate the third “Seller” and “Buyer” signature lines and replace them with signature lines for an “Entity” seller and/or buyer, such as an LLC, corporation, partnership or trust. That’s one of the formatting changes I alluded to.

KRANKIE: Excellent. I have another question. Let’s say in my hypothetical situation the buyers have to sell their existing home,

so a “Contingent Sale Addendum” needs to be attached to the offer. Would an “Additional Signatures Addendum” also have to be signed by the additional sellers and attached to the “Contingent Sale Addendum?”

FORMS GUY: Excellent question, Krankie. I can tell you’re bright, if a bit irritable. The answer to your question is no. The “Additional Signatures Addendum” has been designed so that if it is used with an “Offer to Purchase and Contract” containing one or more addenda, the “Additional Signatures Addendum” only needs to be signed one time by the additional parties, so long as--listen carefully because this is important--the addenda to the contract are identified in the blank space provided in “Additional Signatures Addendum.”

KRANKIE: In my hypothetical, would the two sellers who sign the contract form still have to sign the “Contingent Sale Addendum?”

FORMS GUY: Yes. All parties who are identified on the contract itself and who sign the contract should sign any addendum to the contract.

KRANKIE: Is the “Additional Signatures Addendum” being added to the pre-printed list of available addenda in paragraph 15?

FORMS GUY: Yes.

KRANKIE: Is the “Additional Signatures Addendum” only for use with the contract?

FORMS GUY: No. Although the addendum will appear as form 3-T in the Forms Library under Joint Forms since it is being jointly approved by NCAR and the NC Bar Association, it has been designed for use with any residential form. For example, in addition to the other versions of the contract (vacant lot/land and new construction), the addendum can be used with a listing agreement or a property management agreement, or one of the notice of termination forms.

KRANKIE: Okay, back to my hypothetical with the six sellers. Would it be okay for me to get an “Additional Signatures Addendum” signed in blank by all the sellers? That way, I could make copies and just fill in the name of the form it’s being attached to without having to get the sellers to sign it!

FORMS GUY: Forgive me for saying so Krankie, but that would be a really, really dumb thing to do. The reason somebody signs a document in the first place is to signify that he or she is a party to it and is agreeing to whatever the document says, right? Attaching to a document an “Additional Signatures Addendum” that has been pre-signed in blank could raise serious questions about whether the persons who had signed the blank addendum had agreed to and/or understood the document to which the addendum was later attached. That could call into question the legal enforceability of the document, not to mention your worthiness to practice real estate brokerage.

KRANKIE: Okay, forget I mentioned that idea. Another question—can the addendum be

used to add another party after a contract has been created?

FORMS GUY: You’ll find a “Note” at the top of the addendum stating that the form should not be used to add new parties after a contract has been formed.

KRANKIE: Why is that?

FORMS GUY: Well, let’s say you have an existing contract with one buyer and the buyer’s lender is requiring that the buyer’s spouse be added to the contract. It’s not as simple as just identifying the new buyer on the “Additional Signatures Addendum” and attaching it to the contract. That’s because all the parties to the existing contract would also have to sign something to signify their agreement to the additional buyer being added. In other words, adding a party to an existing contract is an amendment to that contract, and the “Additional Signatures Addendum” was not designed to amend an existing contract.

KRANKIE: Okay, thanks. Last question--all the technical forms changes you mentioned. Is there some place I can read a summary of them?

FORMS GUY: Yes. There’s a bullet-point summary of all the residential forms changes on the Legal Department page of the NCAR website at ncrealtors.org under Standard Forms/Summary of Forms Changes. The summary includes links to marked-up copies for those who want to see the exact changes that have been made.

KRANKIE: Okay, thanks Forms Guy. By the way, I don’t drink coffee.

FORMS GUY: Then you might consider taking it up. Best wishes, Krankie!

Top 10 Things to Know about the New NCAR Website

NCAR has launched a new and improved website that promises a consistent and user-friendly experience. Although there are many new features available, here is a list of 10 things to take note of when checking out the site.

1. Login Info. As a member of NCAR, you have exclusive access to the members-only side of the new website, just as you did on the previous site. The only difference is your login info has changed. Your username is now your NRDS number, and your password is the word “password.” Once you login for the first time, you may change your password to something more secure by clicking on My Profile, under Member Services.

2. Interactive Homepage. Right away you’ll notice new interactive features on the homepage. We have reorganized things a bit and have added a new menu bar to help guide you to the most important features on the site. We have colorful graphics reminding you of registration deadlines, member discounts and other website features and the NCAR calendar will always display on the homepage. The members-only homepage also has four blue buttons for quick access to certain parts of the site in one easy click.

3. My Account. This section of the website allows you to view your current activity with NCAR, including classes, events and committees in which you are involved. There is also a new e-commerce feature that gives you the option to sign up for classes and events, make an RPAC investment and control your personal account settings, at any time online.

4. Public Page. One big change to the new website is that there will be distinct differences between what’s visible to the public and what’s visible to members. The public-facing side of the site gives an at-a-glance view of the association, its purpose and mission. There’s also a section explaining the many benefits of using a REALTOR®.

5. Find a REALTOR®. We now have a REALTOR® directory available on both the public and members-only sides of the new website. The public will have access to an up-to-date database where they can search for a REALTOR® by name, office, location and even languages spoken. The search results reveal names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses of NCAR members.

6. More News. The new site will constantly be updated with news and member information. These stories will be displayed on the homepage, as well as in the Headlines section. The NCAR Twitter feed will also be displayed

in both the Headlines and Government Affairs sections. You will always have access to the latest information about your industry and association.

7. Streamlined Events. You will continue to have the option to register for classes and events online but using a new e-commerce feature will help to streamline the process with more customizable features.

8. Calendar. The NCAR calendar is now displayed directly on the homepage for quick and easy access to the many events and classes offered. We’re excited about our new calendar and its new features – including custom views, search functions and access to driving directions and maps.

9. Video Archives. NCAR works hard to keep you up-to-date with the latest trends and information through videos and webinars. We’ve created a special section on the new site to display all of our current videos so members can view them at any time.

10. Responsive Design. Between home showings, client meetings and community involvement, today’s REALTORS® are always on the go, so we kept that in mind when redesigning the NCAR website. The new site features responsive design, so it can be easily accessible on any device, especially tablets and mobile phones.