June 2020
MEMBERS FIRST
NEWSLETTER IN THIS ISSUE •
President’s Message
•
Stellar MLS Renewals
•
Volunteers Needed
•
2020 Scholarship Winners
•
NAR Special Report
•
Women in Real Estate Conference
•
Market Statistics
•
Office Reopening Guide
•
Homesnap Launching Soon
•
New Travel Recommendations
•
June Online Classes
•
Affiliate Business Partners
President’s Message
This project has been going on for quite some time so I wanted to give you an update on our new building. If you haven’t driven by it, you should. Paint is going on the exterior right now and it’s really looking good. It’s two stories, has beautiful porches front and back, and tons of parking is going to be available for you. The building itself is over 8,900 square feet of space. On the first floor we’ll have multiple offices, board room, and the Members Market Store so you can purchase your Realtor® gear. The second floor will have a 4,000 square feet classroom area. We can divide the space to have two classes at the same time or host one huge class. We are going to have state-of-theart audio/visual technology in the upstairs classroom, multiple flat screens around the room, and a couple of 120-inch smart screens. It’s going to be amazing, I’m excited for you all to see it. The project is about half-way complete, and if all goes well, we should have occupancy sometime in early October. We’ll keep you up-to-date on the latest developments, and hopefully we can have our annual Installation and Awards here!
-Joe Johnson 2020 President
194 NEOCITY WAY, SUITE 400, KISSIMMEE, FL 34744
Stellar MLS Renewals
Don’t wait until the last minute, renew your dues today.
TWIS LIZASUAIN
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Stellar MLS has taken proactive measures to ensure that the service you have come to expect remains intact so that you can continue to run your business. Your invoice for the 2020-2021 Stellar MLS subscription year is available for you to review and pay online. You can pay your invoice any time before June 30th but don’t wait until the last minute. For questions or concerns contact us at annualbilling@stellarmls.com (include your name and MLS ID number in your email) or call 800-686-7451 for assistance.
Solutions to Support Your Success Drive growth and exceed your clients’ expectations with top-rated solutions to power your real estate business — all available to you as part of your Stellar MLS subscription! Visit stellarmls.com/products for a comprehensive overview of all your Stellar MLS products, including these popular platforms:
Matrix
Remine Pro
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Realist
Transaction Desk
Public records database.
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Volunteers Needed! Meals On Wheels Are you looking for a way to make a difference in your community? We have opportunties for you that require very little time and will provide a great feeling of happiness. More than a year ago, OSCAR’s Realtors® Care Committee partnered with the Osceola Council on Aging Meals on Wheels program. Meals on Wheels is a home delivered meal service for persons who are unable to prepare their own meals, primarily the frail elderly, who are confined to their homes. Any person, 60 and over, who is physically or mentally unable to prepare a balanced meal and has no one to prepare a meal for them qualifies for the program. There is no income level. They have 33 routes in Osceola County and deliver 5 days a week. Two meals are delivered during the late morning hours: a hot dinner for immediate consumption, and a cold pack for supper. OSCAR has committed to one route in the Neptune Road area of Kissimmee on Monday mornings from 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Two volunteers are needed each Monday. This is your opportunity! We are seeking volunteers from June 22 – December 28, 2020. This is open to all members of OSCAR, not just committee members. If you are interested in volunteering for this rewarding experience, please contact Nancy Hubbard at 407-846-0117 or nhubbard@osceola-realtors.com.
Community Hope Center Food Distribution The Community Hope Center is a program-based project that impacts the low-income, poverty level families and individuals living in and around Osceola County. The primary emphasis is to serve those living homeless or in motels and hotels along Osceola County’s 192 Corridor. This program works to restore dignity and self-sufficiency to those in need in our community through a holistic approach to case management, funds assistance, and life skills. During the first three weeks of May, they held Food Distribution days once a week, providing food assistance to more than 260 households each week. The need is ongoing, and they will continue to serve through the month of June. Volunteers are needed weekly for a variety of tasks from unloading the food trucks, to sorting the food and packing the bags, to directing traffic and distributing the food on the final day. The jobs take place Monday-Wednesday each week so you can select the day and job that works best for you. All volunteers must be able to lift 15-25 lbs., bend, stand, and walk for extended periods of time, unassisted. Volunteers must wear face masks and gloves and you are advised to bring your own. CDC guidelines to follow the 6-foot social distancing rule will be adhered to. We would like to thank several of our Realtors® Care Committee members who volunteered this month: Leslie Hanna, Wanda Linscott, Claudia Solarte and Sue Vasquez. They invite you and your friends to participate in this worthwhile cause. For more information and to see available opportunities to help, check the schedule now at https://signup.com/go/soWdSDM
2020 Scholarship Winners
Our nearly 4,000 members are deeply aware of the importance of education. It is a vital part of the growth and vitality of our community. That is why annually, we provide scholarships to high school seniors. The REALTORS® Care Committee is proud to announce the winners for its annual scholarship. The committee reviewed more than 150 applications from highly qualified candidates, but ultimately only five were chosen. The 2020 OSCAR scholarship winners are Kyomi Cabral of Gateway High School, Gabriel DeCastro of Osceola School for the Arts, Mia Escarment of Osceola School for the Arts, Sarah Khan of Gateway High School and Hafsa Quaakki of Celebration High School. Their exemplary essays, grades, and commitment to our community made a strong impression on the committee. Congratulations!
Replay of the Florida Realtors® District 12 Virtual Conference If you missed out on the Virtual Conference on May 21, you can still watch the Florida Realtors® District 12 Meeting. Watch guest speaker, Lawrence Yun, give an update on the economy and real estate market. Visit the website below to watch the live stream. https://bit.ly/Dist12Meeting
NAR Special Report During this year’s Legislative Meetings held virtually for the first time in the National Association of Realtors history, the Board of Directors passed new advocacy and MLS policies; approved the 2021 budget and funded important legislative and legal programs; ushered in the next slate of association leadership, and honored long-time leaders. And they did it all virtually at a meeting that capped off the 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. Here’s a summary of board actions:
Brokers Can Access Their Own MLS Content
The board voted to establish the right of MLS participants to receive a data feed of their own listing information. The new policy states: A Multiple Listing Service must, upon request, promptly provide an MLS Participant (or the Participant’s designee) a data feed containing, at minimum, all active MLS listing content input into the MLS by or on behalf of the Participant and all of the Participant’s off-market listing content available in the MLS system. The delivery charges for the Participant’s listing content shall be reasonably related to the actual costs incurred by the MLS. The data feed must be in compliance with the RESO Standards as provided for in MLS Policy Statement 7.90. Note: MLSs will not limit the use of the Participant’s listing content by the Participant or the Participant’s designee.
Election of Officers
The directors elected Leslie Rouda Smith of Plano, Texas, as president-elect and Kenny Parcell of Spanish Fork, Utah, as first vice president for 2021. In a contested election, Nancy Lane of Brandon, Miss., was elected 2021-22 treasurer.
No Dues Increase in 2021
The board passed a series of Finance Committee motions including approval of a 2021 budget that keeps dues at $150 per year and estimates a decline in NAR membership to 1.3 million. Current membership is over 1.37 million. Treasurer John Flor, discussing the budget, said the 2021 estimate is conservative-NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun believes the number could reach 1.35 million. If the conservative estimate is accurate, it would result in a budget deficit, Flor said, but NAR is prepared to “manage to reality. Just because we’re budgeted for this, doesn’t mean we have to spend it.”
Change of Jurisdiction Procedures
The board amended the procedure for processing an application for change of jurisdiction that affects the jurisdiction of an existing REALTOR® association. The change addresses concerns raised by local associations and aims to aid panelists in their deliberations while ensuring that all participating associations have a full and fair due process hearing.
Election Rules Change
The board approved a change to the Section J(1-3) of the Campaign and Election Rules Manual, pertaining to endorsed REALTORS® who haven’t yet filed an application with NAR. The change clarifies permissible activities an endorsed REALTOR® may engage in and creates alignment between potential candidates and endorsed candidates to avoid an unintended inequity in the application of NAR’s campaign and election rules in the six months prior to and during the application submission period.
Legal Action Funding
The board approved legal action funding for an Illinois property rights case, a new Jersey case involving independent contractor status, and a Missouri case involving REALTORS®’ ability to provide floor plans without violating an architectural copyright.
Diversity and Inclusion
The board passed a motion to recognize the AE and president of state associations that have a functioning Diversity and Inclusion Committee with the goal of increasing diversity and inclusion both in the profession and in volunteer participation.
Professional Standards
The board approved a change to the Code of Ethics and Arbitration Manual to require an explanation when a member files an amended complaint. The goal is to give respondents a full and fair opportunity to defend themselves against the new allegations without necessitating continuance of a hearing.
Housing Finance
The board approved a set of principles on use of GSE funds, describing under what terms Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac should be allowed to invest in functions outside the scope of their credit guarantee business. The motion specifies that any investments made by the GSEs outside their core mission should be focused on the direct or indirect needs of housing.
Tax Policy
Directors approved a policy in favor of a federal Homeownership Tax Credit that would incentivize taxpayers to purchase and own a primary residence. Ideally, according to the policy, the tax credit would be for households that no longer itemize deductions, would provide a higher benefit in the first year, and would recognize geographic housing cost differences.
California Property Tax Measure
Directors adopted a motion to provide $4 million in support for a proposed ballot initiative in California that improves on residential property tax portability for homeowners over 55 and those who are disabled. The initiative will enable seniors and disabled buyers to stay in their community and open more housing inventory for buyers.
HEROISM & TRIUMPH OVER ADVERSITY Keynote Speaker // Kirstie Ennis Sponsored by GREATER TAMPA REALTORS® Marine Corps Helicopter Door Gunner Amputee Seven Summits Climber Paralympic Snowboarder Hollywood Stuntwoman Realtor®
NEW DATE SEPT. 30, 2020 Tampa Marriott Water Street, Tampa, FL ALSO FEATURING
2020 MC // Leigh Brown WOMEN REALTORS® RECENTLY SURVEYED WERE ASKED...
What obstacles stand between you and leadership roles? What’s your biggest challenge? What and who inspires you?
ATTEND THIS YEAR’S WOMEN’S CONFERENCE FOR LIVELY DISCUSSION AND SOME SURPRISING ANSWERS.
REGISTER NOW
floridarealtors.org/WIRE #WIRE2020
Additional Sponsors: FLORIDA RRC CHAPTER / WOMEN’S COUNCIL OF REALTORS® FLORIDA / WISE AGENT
Register Now For The Women In Real Estate Conference The one-day Women in Real Estate conference (WIRE), presented by Florida Realtors, features a high-profile roster of speakers — women of influence in the real estate profession. The 2020 WIRE conference will take place Wednesday, September 30, at Tampa Marriott Water Street, 505 Water St., Tampa. Cost is $125 with online registration. After September 23, registration will be $150 and handled on-site. WIRE's goal is to educate, empower and promote women in the real estate profession.
Inman Connect Now will bring together the Inman community in ways that have never before been possible. There will be speakers and presenters from all corners of the industry and thousands of agents, brokers, executives, tech professionals, entrepreneurs and investors in one place. As a benefit, you have an Inman subscription and will receive $100 off registration fees for this conference. If you do not know your login information, visit Inman’s website (https://www.inman.com) and go to the “log in” screen and click “Forgot”. Enter the email address you use for your Stellar MLS account. An email will send shortly after to reset the password. You must log in to your Inman account to receive the discounted ticket. Register now for the conference at: https://www.inman.com/event/connect-now/
All Properties Market Statistics
Most Common Flaws Found During Home Inspections
In a study of more than 50,000 residences, here are the top 10 defects found during home inspections.
advertising
54.9%
54.8%
OF REPORTS
Faucets and shower heads need servicing
54.5%
OF REPORTS
Exterior caulking/ sealant missing
53.7%
5 THINGS TO DO
OF REPORTS
Doors need adjusting/servicing
OF REPORTS
Outlet or light switch problems
48%
OF REPORTS
No circuit breaker (GFCI) protection
45.1%
IF YOU’RE SELLING YOUR HOUSE DURING THE PANDEMIC
OF REPORTS
Missing or defective smoke alarms
45%
OF REPORTS
Cosmetic sheetrock cracks or nail pops
40.5%
OF REPORTS
Fixtures and/or bulb problems
33.9% 33.9%
OF REPORTS
Electrical service panel problems
1
Sources: Forbes, USA Today
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2 3 4 5
OF REPORTS
Interior caulking, grout and sealer are missing.
AGES.COM
10
Check out more market statistics on our website! Visit: osceolarealtors.org/statistics/
COVID-19 Office Reopening Guide Office Reopening Guide COVID-19
EXECUTIVE AND EMERGENCY ORDERS ARE EXPIRING AND RELAXING FOR MANY AREAS OF THE STATE. Brokers are wondering whether they can open the doors to their office. The real question is whether you AND should open your doors. Since you cannot eliminate all risks,FOR a cautious, measured approach EXECUTIVE EMERGENCY ORDERS ARE EXPIRING AND RELAXING MANY AREAS OF THE is suggested to minimize health risks. Below are some of the many factors to consider: STATE. Brokers are wondering whether they can open the doors to their office. The real question is EXECUTIVE AND EMERGENCY ORDERS ARE EXPIRING AND RELAXING FORa MANY AREAS OF THEapproach whether you should open your doors. Since you cannot eliminate all risks, cautious, measured STATE. Brokers are wondering whether they are can some open the doors to their office. real question is is suggested to minimize health risks. Below of the many factors to The consider: whether you should open your doors. Since you cannot eliminate all risks, a cautious, measured approach • Determine the short-term and long-term function of • Prominently post safety policies throughout the is suggested to minimize health risks. Below are some of the many factors to consider: the office. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) office. business and workplace planfunction for • suggests Determinea the short-term and long-term of Prominently post handling safety policies the • Plan for the safe of mailthroughout and deliveries. changes to the office function because of COVID-19. the Thethe Centers for Disease Control (CDC)of office. Consider temporarily personal • office. Determine short-term and long-term function • Prominently post safety suspending policies throughout the the a office. Thefor Centers Control suggests a business and for workplace plan for(CDC)for • Create budget initial andDisease ongoing expenses deliveries. • office. Plan for the safe handling of mail and deliveries. suggests a business and workplace plan for •• Plan for theyour safeventilation handling ofsystem mail andto deliveries. changes to the office function because of COVID-19. technology, office enhancements, cleaning and Consider temporarily suspending personal Evaluate achieve changes to the office function because of COVID-19. Consider temporarily suspending personal COVID-19-related • other Create a budget for initialexpenses. and ongoing expenses for deliveries. maximum air filtration and circulation. • Create a budget for initial and ongoing expenses for deliveries. technology, office enhancements, cleaning and • Have the office cleaned and rearrange all furnishing Evaluate ventilation toareas achieve • Make useyour of any availablesystem outdoor to allow for technology, office enhancements, cleaning and • Evaluate your ventilation system to achieve other COVID-19-related expenses. to achieve social distancing. You may need to maximum air filtration and circulation. greeting customers and as places for collaboration other COVID-19-related expenses. maximum air filtration and circulation. the overall number ofrearrange people you have in the • reduce Have the office cleaned and all furnishing with risk of viraloutdoor transmission. Makereduced useofof any available outdoor areas to allow • Have the office cleaned and rearrange all furnishing •• Make use any available areas to allow for for office and enhance ventilation. to achieve social distancing. Youmay mayneed need to to to achieve social distancing. You as places for agents collaboration greetingcustomers customers and as places for collaboration • greeting Establish a limit ofand 10 customers, and reduce the overall number people you have in ina the the with risk of office viral transmission. reduce the overall number ofofa people you have • Develop and update as need plan for offering withreduced reduced risk of viral employees in the attransmission. any one time. If square office enhance ventilation. •• Establish aa limit of of 10 customers, agents and office andand enhance ventilation. continually clean, disinfected office environment footage dictates, consider fewer than 10 people. Establish limit 10 customers, agents and • Develop and update as need a plan for offering a employees in the office at any one time. If square with CDC guidance. • consistent Develop and update as need a plan for offering a Also, verify any maximum local order. employees in the office at set anyby one time. If square continually clean, disinfected office environment footage dictates, consider fewer than 10 people. continually clean, disinfected office environment • Minimize shared spaces, and to the extent practical footage dictates, consider fewer than 10 • Determine whether people visiting the office will consistent with CDC guidance. Also, verify any maximum set by local order. people. consistent with CDC guidance. at least initially, delay the use of breakrooms, coffee Also, verify any maximum set by local order. wear face coverings, gloves or other personal • Minimize shared spaces, and to the extent practical • Determine whether people visiting the office will water stations, conference • and Minimize shared and torooms. extent practical protective equipment (PPE). The personal use PPEwill at your at least initially,spaces, delay the use ofthe breakrooms, coffee • wear Determine whethergloves people theofoffice face coverings, orvisiting other and water stations, conference rooms. protective equipment (PPE). The use of PPE at your at least delay the use of breakrooms, coffee • Plan for initially, regular and proper cleaning and disinfection request or coverings, voluntarily gloves may trigger Occupational wear face or other personal • (1) Plan regular areas and proper cleaning andfrequency disinfection request or voluntarily may triggerThe Occupational and water stations, conference rooms. of: allfor common considering the Safety and Health Act compliance requirements. protective equipment (PPE). use of PPE at your of: (1) all common areas considering the frequency Safety and Health Act compliance requirements. use; shared office equipment • of Plan for(2) regular and proper cleaningsuch and copiers, disinfection request or voluntarily may trigger • Develop and communicate a plan Occupational for when a of use; (2) shared office equipment such copiers, • Develop and communicate a plan for when a telephones, faxfax machines and computer of: (1) all common areas considering the stations; frequency Safety and Health Act compliance requirements. customer, agent employee positive telephones, machines and computer stations; customer, agent oror employee testtest positive for for and (3) (2) high-touch surface areas as of use; office equipment such COVID-19. • COVID-19. Develop and communicate a plan for when a and (3) shared high-touch surface areassuch such ascopiers, doorknobs, elevator buttons, stairwell railings, etc. telephones, faxelevator machines and computer stations; doorknobs, buttons, stairwell railings, etc. customer, orfamiliarize employee test positive for In additiontoagent toOSHA, OSHA, familiarize yourself •• In addition yourself withwith • Make hand sanitizer readily available customers, and (3) high-touch surface areas suchtoto as frequently asked questions for the Equal • Make hand sanitizer readily available customers, COVID-19. frequently asked questions for the Equal agents employees. Opportunity Commission and and American doorknobs, elevator buttons, stairwell railings, etc. agents andand employees. Employment Opportunity Commission American • Employment In addition to OSHA, familiarize yourself with • Require sick people to stay home. with Disabilities Act requirements related to Make hand readily available to customers, • Require sicksanitizer people to stay home. with Disabilities requirements to COVIDfrequently askedAct questions for therelated EqualCOVID19 in the workplace. • If customers are allowed in the office, consider an and employees. 19 in the workplace. Employment Opportunity Commission and American • Ifagents customers are allowed in the office, consider an appointment-only scenario to prevent customers • If you make any changes to your license locations, • appointment-only Require people to home. Act requirements related tothe COVIDscenario to prevent • please Ifwith youDisabilities make any to changes to your license locations, from sick congregating in stay reception areas.customers remember change your address with 19 in the workplace. congregating in reception areas. please remember to change your address with the • from If •customers are allowed in theregarding office, consider Department of Business and Professional Coordinate between agents their usean of office, tobetween minimize occupancy and maximize safety. Department Business Professional appointment-only scenario toregarding prevent customers • Regulation. If you make of any changesand to your license locations, • Coordinate agents their use of Regulation. from congregating in receptionand areas. please remember to change your address with the office, to minimize occupancy maximize safety. Department of Business and Professional • Coordinate between agents regarding their use of RISK CANNOT BE ELIMINATED COMPLETELY, but these are measures that prioritize safety. Regulation. office, to minimize occupancy maximize safety. Please be sure to read the and important information hyperlinked to this document. Also refer to state
Office Reopening Guide
RISK CANNOT BE ELIMINATED COMPLETELY, but based these on areconditions measuresinthat safety. and local orders that govern conduct and may vary yourprioritize specific area. Please be sure to read the important information hyperlinked to this document. Also refer to state Recommended Safety Measures for may Vacation Rentals: EFFECTIVE MAY 6, 2020 and local orders that govern conduct and vary on conditions in your specific area. RISK CANNOT BE ELIMINATED COMPLETELY, but based these are measures that prioritize safety. Effective May 2020, following measures information are recommended as minimum for vacation rentals Please be18, sure tothe read the important hyperlinked tostandards this document. Also referthat to are state EFFECTIVE MAY 6, 2020 accepting reservations and guests forconduct any lengthand of stay: and local orders that govern may vary based on conditions in your specific area.
• Maintain adequate time between the conclusion of a guest stay and the check-in of the next guest stay for appropriate cleaning andMAY sanitation. EFFECTIVE 6, 2020 • Clean and disinfect all frequently touched surfaces in the property between each guest stay. • Wash all linens, dishware and other service items available for use by guests between each guest rental. • Provide sufficient soap and surface sanitation supplies for guests to utilize in the vacation rental property during the guest’s rental period. • Ensure adequate safety protocols are in place and publicly displayed, in line with guidelines from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), regarding shared or multi-residence amenities such as pools, gyms and other communal spaces.
Other Best Practices: • Use mobile platforms for customer service and communication with guests, including the acceptance of payments by mobile or electronic methods. • Minimize direct guest contact with property owners or managers through remote check-in and check-out procedures. • Post signage or other notices regarding the cleaning practices that are completed prior to each stay. • Display signage or notices to guests in the rental property to frequently remind guests to take steps to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including the wiping and sanitation of touched surfaces.
Homesnap has partnered with Facebook Marketplace to make it easier to promote homes for rent and provide a new audience for your Stellar MLS rental listings. Coming later this month, you will have the option to distribute your rental listings from Matrix to Facebook Marketplace via Homesnap. How Will it Work? You will be able to distribute to Facebook Marketplace from the Listing Distribution section inside of Matrix. Once your rental listing is made active, it can take up to 48 hours to start displaying on Facebook Marketplace. All leads will be emailed directly to the listing agent. For more information follow the link to view a short introductory video of this new feature from Homesnap: https://bit.ly/Homesnapfeature
Florida Realtors® Benefits Tech Helpline
Everyone has tech troubles from time to time. The Florida Realtors® experts are here to help you with everything from software upgrades to diagnosing computers. The Florida Realtors® Tech Helpline is available to answer members’ questions. Call: 407.587.1450
COVID-19 & FAIR HOUSING
YOU CAN: Ask customers about recent travel Decline to drive customers to showings
Hours: Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET.
Legal Hotline
Legal Hotline Offers Free Information for Members. Florida Realtors® Legal Hotline attorneys answer questions about real estate license law & related real property issues. Attorneys also offer legal interpretations of the FR/Florida Bar contract and other standard business forms and contracts. Call: 407-438-1409 Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., Monday - Friday
YOU CAN’T: Discriminate against any particular segment of the population. Be sure to ask ALL clients the same screening questions based on current, factual information from trusted public health organizations.
Source: NAR
New Travel Recommendations Travel Recommendations Cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have been reported in all states, and some areas are experiencing community spread of the disease. Travel increases your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19. CDC recommends you stay home as much as possible, especially if your trip is not essential, and practice social distancing especially if you are at higher risk of severe illness. Don’t travel if you are sick or travel with someone who is sick.
Essential Travel (outside your local area) Some travel may also be essential, like:
• Travel to provide medical or home care to others • Travel necessary for a job considered an essential service The following travel recommendations provide advice about how to prevent getting and spreading COVID-19 if you must travel. Don’t travel if you are sick or plan to travel with someone who is sick. Considerations if You Must Travel If you must travel, there are several things you should consider before you go: • Clean your hands often. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Wear a cloth face covering in public. Cover coughs and sneezes. • Avoid close contact with others. Keep 6 feet of physical distance from others. Avoiding close contact is especially important if you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19. • Pick up food at drive-throughs, curbside restaurant service, or stores. Do not dine in restaurants if that is prohibited by state or local guidance. Types of Travel Some types of travel (bus, plane, train) may require sitting next to others for a period of time. Travel may also expose you to new parts of the country with differing levels of community transmission. And, if you’re infected, your travel may put others at risk– along the way, at your destination, and when you return home. If you must travel, consider the following risks you might face, depending on what type of travel you are planning: • Air travel: Because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes, most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights. However, there may be a risk of getting COVID-19 on crowded flights if there are other travelers on board with COVID-19. • Bus or train travel: Sitting or standing within 6 feet of others for a prolonged period of time can put you at risk of getting or spreading COVID-19. • Car travel: The stops you need to make along the way could put you and others in the car with you in close contact with others who could be infected. • RV travel: Traveling by RV means you may have to stop less often for food or bathrooms, but RV travelers typically have to stop at RV parks overnight and other public places to get gas and supplies. These stops may put you and those with you in the RV in close contact with others who could be infected. State and Local Travel Restrictions or Orders If you must travel, follow any state and local travel restrictions currently in place. It is possible that some state and local governments may put in place travel restrictions, stay-at-home or shelter-in-place orders, mandated quarantines upon arrival, or even state border closures while you are traveling. For more information and travel guidance, check with the state or local health department where you are, along your route, and at your planned destination. Just because there are no restrictions at the time you plan to leave does not mean there won’t be restrictions in place when you arrive. Lodging Staying in temporary accommodations (hotels, motels, and rental properties) may expose you to the virus through person-to-person contact and possibly through contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. If you must stay in a hotel, motel, or rental property: • Take the same steps you would in other public places—for example, avoid close contact with others, wash your hands often, and wear a cloth face covering. • When you get to your room or rental property, clean and disinfect all high-touch surfaces. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, remote controls, toilets, and sink faucets. • Bring an EPA-registered disinfectant and other personal cleaning supplies, including cloths and disposable gloves. • Wash any plates, cups, or silverware (other than pre-wrapped plastic) before using. Road Trips If you must travel, be aware that many businesses (such as restaurants and hotels) may be closed. Anticipate your needs before you go: • Prepare food and water for the road. Pack non-perishables in case restaurants and stores are closed. • Bring any medicines you may need for the duration of your trip. • Pack a sufficient amount of alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) and keep it in a place that is readily available. • Book accommodations in advance if you must stay somewhere overnight. • Plan to make as few stops as possible, but make sure you rest when you feel drowsy or sleepy. • Bring an EPA-registered disinfectant and other personal cleaning supplies. • Don’t travel if you are sick or plan to travel with someone who is sick. Is it safe to travel to visit family or friends? Traveling to visit friends and family increases your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19. It is possible for someone to have COVID-19 and spread it to others, even if they have no symptoms. Getting infected may be especially dangerous if you or your loved ones are at higher risk for severe complications from COVID-19. People at higher risk for complications need to take extra precautions. Although it can be hard to remain apart from loved ones during challenging or stressful times, try to connect with them in other ways, using video chats or phone calls.
June Online Class Calendar Assistance Animals & the Law
6/2/2020
1:00 pm-3:00 pm
2CE
This course provides real estate professionals with a comprehensive overview of the Fair Housing Act and how its disability protections relating to Assistance Animals continue to evolve. This course will review the definition of a “Disability” under the Fair Housing Act, the distinctions between service and emotional support animals, and in-depth review of what is considered a “Reasonable Accommodation” under the Fair Housing ActRegister: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN__13yNHMxQ4ui0AcZllWL1w
Core Law - Minimize Legal Risk
6/5/2020
9:30 am-12:30 pm
3CE
This course fulfills the Department of Business and Professional Regulations Core Law requirement to renew your real estate license. Identify the different types of property ownership, identify two benefits provided to owners of principal residences by the Constitutional Homestead in Florida, describe the various types of liens on property, demonstrate knowledge of the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890 and identify the requirements placed on licensees by the Federal CAN-SPAM Act. Register: https://mcusercontent.com/8281e70ea44d35aeb6dab6993/files/7ccb5f5d-2dcd-4810-97c6d2c2c27fd431/20.06.05_Core_Law_Minimize_Legal_Risk_Flyer.pdf
Code of Ethics
6/10/2020
9:00 am-12:00 pm
3CE
Mandatory ethics training requirements for new and continuing Realtor members was established by the National Association’s Board of Directors at the 1999 Annual Convention and went into effect for all active Realtor members January 1, 2001. The policy dictates that all active members must take a code of ethics class once every two years. The applicable dates are the same for all Realtors irrespective of when they join. The current cycle begins January 1, 2019 and ends December 31, 2021. Register: https:// us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tTqV8RKTSdCfVosnTjbZ4g
Core Law
6/10/2020
1:00 pm-4:00 pm
3CE
This course provides an advanced look into real estate law beyond the basic sales associates’ course. This course is not designed to make participants legal experts, but rahter to help them identify and understand legal issues that arise. The more a licensee knows, the better he or she can work with customers and safeguard them from legal complications. This understanding will also help licensees avoid serious complications and minimize risk for themselves and their brokers. https://us02web. zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_UcXweoG0TYKWhnJuxXATKA
Probate 101
6/15/2020
11:00 am-12:00 pm
0CE
This class is designed for attendees who would like to understand the technical information needed to sell a property under Probate. Exploring all factors involved in the probate process (including emotional understanding), this class will distinguish between various types of tenancies and the rights of surviving descendants, heirs, tenants, and trustees. This class will also explore probate as applied to homestead, corporations, life estates, and more. Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_GDZOHfRWTR-owEsb87gvzA
Go Global - Jumpstart Your International Business
6/16/2020
9:00 am-12:00 pm
3CE
This program is a step-by-step guide and “how-to” for both beginning and veteran real estate professionals who are looking to expand their and veteran real estate professionals who are looking to expand their business and bottom line. These are tried and true techniques and strategies developed by the instructors themselves and proven successful over time. Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_XblFA9vSREqdO6Uk-ZQ23w
Go Global - Risk Management For the International Practitioner
6/16/2020
1:00 pm-4:00 pm
3CE
International buyers and sellers have played an increasingly important role in the U.S.A. real estate market over recent years. As a result, more and more real estate professionals are working with customers from other countries. There is rising affluence throughout the world, and buyers come from a wide variety of countries to purchase U.S. real estate, drawn by “bargain-priced” homes, desirable lifestyle, favorable currency exchange rates or finding a safe haven for themselves and their money. More real estate professionals than ever have now worked with an overseas buyer or seller. They are attractive as customers because: The majority of sales are cash purchases and Foreign purchasers typically buy higher prices homes. Pat will guide you through the maze of working International Buyers and expanding your business, all while reducing your risk. Register: https:// us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_wNdgo3wPQDq0Awira_ JK-g
Legal Aspects of Technology and Real Estate
6/22/2020
1:00 pm-2:00 pm
0CE
This class will discuss intersection of legal issues related to technological improvements in real estate. The class will cover topics such as the effect of electronic signatures, the rules of regulation of online and email marketing campaigns from both a state and federal level and the evolution of a completely electronic closing process, including the novel Remote Online Notarizations. The class will further cover various security issues related to wire fraud and online recording. Lastly, the class will discuss legal issues related to marketing practices including copyright and trademark infringement. Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RIPB9r0yQKCVOtUUoMTJ_A
FIRPTA and the Real Estate
6/22/2020
2:30 pm-3:30 pm
0CE
Transaction Foreign investors have long been investing in U.S. real estate. With competitive real estate values and Florida’s natural beauty, real estate agents will come across more Foreign Buyers and Sellers! Investors purchasing or selling U.S. property interests from or to foreign persons are required to withhold 15% of the amount realized on the disposition. This seminar covers What is FIRPTA and the purpose?, FIRPTA requirements in the FR/Bar Contract, How to determine if you are in a FIRPTA transaction, Explain the FIRPTA foreign withholding tax rules, Understand the exceptions to the FIRPTA tax, Who is liable for FIRPTA tax, and Definition of a U.S. Citizen. Register: https://us02web. zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_DET8nRKrQ3y07BEWvy-B6g
IMPORTANT: REGISTERING FOR CLASS These courses are available for active OSCAR members only. If you have any questions, please contact our Education Department at education@osceola-realtors.com.
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