December 2011

Volume 6, Issue 4

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L I S T ED A M A G A Z I N E O F T H E R I C H M O N D A S S O C I AT I O N O F R E A L T O R S ®

INSIDE: • Changes for CVR MLS • A Year in Review and a Look Ahead • RPAC Contributors • Tech Fair • LDA Class of 2011

A Look Back A Look Ahead & Incoming RAR President Scott Ruth with Departing President Cheryl Hamm

From the

President Cheryl Hamm

In her farewell column last year, in commenting upon CVR MLS, 2010 President Karen Smith wrote: “it has been a year of sowing seeds, many of which I hope will come to fruition in 2011.” As the end of 2011 approaches, I’m pleased to report that, indeed, many seeds have borne fruit this year.

All of the technology products launched in 2011 are designed to save members time, money, and effort as well as to enhance their ability to meet the needs of their clients. In the first half of the year, we added DoxBox™ and Authentisign™. The former provides tremendous electronic storage capability (literally an electronic file cabinet of real estate transactions) and the latter allows agents and clients the ability to execute transactions with electronic signatures. These tools provide greater flexibility for those REALTORS® whose clients wish to combine “high tech” with “high touch”.

In June we debuted a completely overhauled Mobile MLS. If you haven’t tried Mobile MLS in the past six months, you don’t know what you’re missing. Mobile MLS literally puts the MLS in the palm of your hand; and the ability to contact your fellow agents is just a click away. Just a couple of months ago, in September, we launched rbiStats, an online statistical analysis of the local housing market. Through colorful graphs and charts, rbiStats provides members with a clear, concise analysis of current market trends. In this day and age, we all know that it’s not enough to provide listing data to buyers and sellers; rather, our value proposition is the wise counsel we offer our clients. For members who wish to hone their market expertise, rbiStats is an excellent tool.

While the MLS was introducing us to a number of new, time-saving technologies, the Association was providing us with a number of opportunities to learn how best to integrate these tools into our daily business practices. In addition, RAR hosted a number of “special” educational, highly topical seminars in 2011 including: RESPA Do’s and Don’ts; a housing forum with Majority Leader Eric Cantor; and most recently, an afternoon with political scientist Dr. Larry Sabato. Dr. Sabato’s pithy commentary served as the introduction for our annual RPAC reception. I’m really proud of the fact that despite the continuing challenges in the market place, so many of you continued to support the REALTOR® Political Action Committee. Combined with our year-round lobbying efforts, RPAC remains the best defense we have against ill-conceived legislation and burdensome regulations that threaten our livelihood.

Speaking of our livelihood, the 2011 Central Virginia housing market is currently on pace to close out the year slightly above or at least at the same level (in terms of units sold) as 2010. That’s quite remarkable given that we had no housing tax credit to spur buying activity this year. And “remarkable” is the word that best describes my year as your president—remarkably fast, remarkably fun, remarkably productive for you, the members. I am honored to have served as your president. I now pass two batons, one to Scott Ruth who will serve as your 2012 President of RAR; and one to Shanna Wiseman, 2012 CVR MLS President. Both Shanna and Scott are smart, dedicated, and hard-working REALTORS® who will do superb jobs. We’re all in great hands.

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L I S T ED • 2 0 11 I S S U E 4

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L I S T ED Volume 6, Issue 4 2011

Contents

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6

Listed Magazine is published quarterly by the Richmond Association of REALTORS , ®

8975 Three Chopt Road, Richmond, VA 23229

Editor-in-Chief Kate Loveluck

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Communications & Marketing Coordinator

Advertising & Sponsorship Lisa Garcia

FEATURE

(804) 422-5009 marketing@RARealtors.com

2011 A Year in Review and a Look Ahead

............................

14

Printing & Production Proforma Graphic Information Services

D E PA R T M E N T S Graphic Design

Association News Tech Fair, LDA Class of 2012, GRI Designees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sattler Creative

4 The publisher does not endorse advertised products unless specifically stated and reserves the right to reject

CVR MLS CVR MLS Technology Updates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2011 Changes for CVR MLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

CVR MLS Training Schedule Janaury - March . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

any advertisements at any time. Any questions about

6 7 8

advertising policy should be directed to the Managing Editor or the Director of Communications and Marketing.

REALTOR® members pay annual dues with a one-year subscription included within their dues. Sponsor and

Government Affairs RPAC 2011 Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 November Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Professional Development New Federal Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

affiliate members receive a subscription to the magazine as part of their member dues. Annual subscription rate for non-members is $25.

Office:

(804) 422-5000

Fax:

(804) 422-5088

Web:

www.RARealtors.com ®

Copyright 2011. Richmond Association of REALTORS .

Leadership Development Academy Class of 2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

All Rights Reserved. Articles of information from the

RAR Real Estate Trends Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

magazine may not be reprinted without the permission

Education Calendar Janaury - March . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

of the Richmond Association of REALTORS®.

Postmaster: Please send change of address to

Meet The Presidents Scott Ruth and Shanna Wiseman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

®

Listed Magazine, Richmond Association of REALTORS , 8975 Three Chopt Road, Richmond, VA 23229

Cover photo by: Chris Smith Location courtesy of Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens

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ASSOCIATION NEWS

CVR MLS Tech Fair, February 23, 2012 at 8975 Three Chopt Rd. Richmond, VA As several new technology tools were introduced to CVR MLS members during the past year, a Tech Fair will be held to help members get better acclimated with these tools through brief classes and demonstrations throughout the day.

Members will also have the chance to explore the newly renovated RAR headquarters and view the new RAR website. Refreshments will be served throughout the day.

RAR Leadership Development Academy Announces its Class of 2012 The Richmond Association of REALTORS’® position of influence and respect as the voice of real estate in Central Virginia is a testament to excellent volunteer leadership.

The RAR Leadership Development Academy was founded in 2009, to ensure this legacy continues. The goal of this program is to develop visionary, service oriented REALTOR® members for professional, civic and community leadership roles through a series of one-day seminars, site visits and experiential learning sessions.

The members of the 2012 Leadership Development Academy are:

Useful URL’s

• Jill Eades • Michael Hogan • Stacy Legge • Jenny Maraghy • John O’Reilly • Carter Ritchie • Kyle Taylor • Patti Williams

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• Andrew Haugh • Danielle Kenny • Susan Magee • Susan Morris • Monica Rawles • Dawn Sclater • Denise Vice • Tanya Winston

2011 RAR Leadership

Cheryl Hamm

Scott Ruth

Karen Smith

Linda Staples Terry

2011 President

2011 President-Elect

2011 Immediate Past President

2011 Vice President

Directors Richard Bower Dawn Bradley Nancy Cheely Amy Enoch John Finn Woody Hogg Congratulations 2011 GRI Designees Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) is the designation that is most recognized for increasing competency and income potential.

Earning the designation also satisfies all of DPOR’s education requirements for license renewal. Congratulations to the following RAR members who earned their GRI designation in 2011: • David Bailey • Martha Clampitt • Yvonne Bailey • Jill Rhyne • Mary Lee Schultz • Susan Stynes • Justin Toney • May Ann Vencill • Mike Weeks Last-Minute Tax Tips With the end of the year approaching, this is a good time to consider tax deductible

Tom Innes Wayne Johnson, Jr. Lummie Jones Mark Joyner Jean Longest Bill White expenses for 2011 and weigh the benefit of expediting early 2012 anticipated purchases, in order to deduct them from 2011 taxes.

Some of the expense items REALTORS® can usually deduct are: • Advertising • Legal and Professional Fees • Dues and Subscriptions • Meals and Entertainment • Cell Phone • Supra Fees • Broker fees • Lock box Fees • Education Expense • Office Supplies • Clients Gifts • Internet • Mileage • Postage and Delivery Costs

RAR Home Page www.RARealtors.com

RAR Government Affairs www.RARealtors.com/members/government/default.aspx

Virginia Real Estate Board www.state.va.us/dpor/reb_main.htm

Bill Pay Site www.RARealtors.com/members/default.aspx

Grassroots Action Center www.RARealtors.com/members/government/votervoice.aspx

Virginia Association of REALTORS® www.varealtor.com

CVR MLS Rules and Regulations http://cvrmls.myismart.com

The Real Estate School www.RARealtors.com/members/education/default.aspx

Local Home Search www.REsourceHome.com

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RAR members and CVRMLS users can see and print out a receipt for 2011 Association and MLS-related expenses by logging into their online account and clicking on “view paid and unpaid invoices.” Be sure to check with a tax consultant or accountant with questions concerning the deductibility of an expense.

RAR & CVRMLS Holiday Schedule The RAR and CVRMLS offices will be closed on the following holidays: Christmas – December 23 & 26 New Year – January 2

The REALTOR® Store at RAR For our members' convenience, the REALTOR® Store at RAR carries an expansive and frequently updated selection of open house marketing tools, such as directional signs, open Sunday riders, tent signs and open house guest registers.

The REALTOR® Store also carries basic listing needs, such as information flyer boxes, Preparing Your Home for Sale DVDs, and informational riders. Some of the newly added 6x24 hard plastic riders at 6.00 each are: Garage, __Square Feet, and __Bedroom __Bath.

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CVR MLS

2011 CVR MLS Technology Updates

By John Hicks Technical Education Specialist

CVR MLS added an impressive array of relevant and cutting-edge technology tools and services in 2011. In an increasingly mobile and online real estate marketing environment, members now have at their disposal some of the most powerful and practical digital business tools available. The following tools and services were made available to CVR MLS members in 2011:

1. Instanet Solutions – By adding both DocBox™ and Authentisign™, CVR MLS now provides the full suite of Instanet™ document creation, management and distribution services. The completely paperless online electronic transaction is now possible. Using the Transaction Desk (TD) link in Tempo™, members can now pull up a listing record on their PC and import the information directly into Instanet’s™ Transaction Desk. From there, they can automatically assemble and begin to fill out all necessary documents and forms, store them online, send them to all involved in the transaction for electronic signatures, then distribute them via email or fax. All of these tasks can now be conducted completely electronically.

DocBox™ – Unlimited online storage and document distribution.

With the use of DocBox™, members can access their completed real estate transaction documents from any internet enabled device and distribute them to anyone electronically. The service provides unlimited online storage capacity. Documents can be emailed or faxed to and from DocBox™, uploaded from a PC, or sent to DocBox™ directly from Instanet™ Forms. Included with DocBox™ is the mobile access application DocBox2Go™, which was developed for use with Smartphones, iPads and tablets.

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Authentisign™ – Electronic signature application.

Any document, agreement or contract that requires legal authorization can now be signed electronically. Authentisign™ is simple to use, secure, and maintains a complete paper trail. Whichever method an agent uses to create a digital copy of a document, Authentisign™ will make it possible to sign digitally. In addition to allowing the online execution of agreements, Authentisign™ automatically emails copies with all signatures to those who have signed the document.

2. Mobile MLS by Kurio® – Mobile MLS Access.

Mobile MLS by Kurio® allows members of CVR MLS to access the entire database of MLS listings on any mobile internet enabled device. Users can search for listings, view key information, view all photos, e-mail listings with photos to clients and obtain listing agent and office information. It includes a variety of additional features, such as the ability to view similar listings in the immediate area, search by subdivision, find a property’s Walk Score®, and more.

3. rbiStats – An internet-based supplemental statistics tool.

Members can access regional CVR MLS market trends in a variety of graphs, charts, metrics and formats, then link this information to their websites for customers and clients to view. The CVR MLS rbiStats page provides an intuitive and user friendly market snapshot, as well as an online visualization of a wide variety of market trends. In addition to this CVR MLS member benefit, RBI also offers a subscription service for more in depth market trend information and highly customizable reporting.

4. RatePlug – Interactive, real-time mortgage information for listings. RatePlug allows brokers to deliver interactive, real-time mortgage program, payment and qualifying information to clients right from within Tempo™ listings. The tool also allows brokers a means of promoting affiliated mortgage entities, or displaying up to three preferred lenders of choice. It provides home buyers seeking financing options with a one-stop-shop approach.

5. MLS Resource Center – Valuable reference information.

Accessible from My Sidebar within Tempo™, the Member Resource Center gives members searchable access to CVR MLS Rules and Regulations, upcoming class schedules, RAR and CVR MLS contact information, as well as monthly regional market trend reports from RE Stats and quarterly reports from George Mason University.

With the introduction of these new tools, members have gained access to several of the best technologies the industry has to offer.

The CVR MLS will continue to make strides in time with the evolving digital age of real estate. L

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Short Sale Pending Exemption Removed

2011 Changes for the CVR MLS

By Peggy Lynch, GRI Director of Professional Development and Broker Services

For Central Virginia REALTORS®, 2011 was a year marked by significant listing inventory, an increase in foreclosures and auctions, and economic uncertainty. With these market conditions came changes in buying habits, increased investor activity, and a surge in demand for rental properties and property management services. These issues, among others, prompted a number changes to the CVR MLS rules and regulations, the addition of new fields in TEMPO™, and the development of new transaction related forms.

CVR MLS listings subject to a ratified contract, including those awaiting lender approval, must now be pended in the MLS system within three (3) days of Seller ratification. (Listings subject to a first right of refusal may remain active until the first right has been removed).

Seller Identification The full name of the Seller is required in the TEMPO™ Owner Name field. This requirement proved difficult for some REO listings with a change in the asset managers or holding entity during the course of the listing. In these instances, if the name of the Seller is unknown at the time of listing entry, the term Owner of Record may be entered into the Owner Name field. A Listing Participant or Subscriber must update the Owner Name field within 3 days of obtaining the correct name(s) of the Seller(s). This provision applies only to listings entered with REO, as a selection in the Owned By field. continued next page

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continued from page 7

Auction Listings and Specified List Price

January – March 2012

MLS Training Schedule JANUARY 18

Instanet™ Solutions Class

9am-12pm

(3 hrs CE/PL Electives)

23

Digital Cameras & MLS Photography

9am-11am

(2 hrs CE/PL Electives)

25

Tempo™ CMA

9am-12pm

(3 hrs CE/PL Electives)

25

iMapp™ Tax Records

1pm-3pm

In addition to listings subject to auction by licensed auction firms, a number of listings were entered into the MLS with sales prices that did not accurately reflect what the owner was willing to accept, in the hopes of generating multiple offers. This practice is a violation of the CVR MLS Rules and Regulations, as well as a potential ethical violation for misrepresentation. New rules pertaining to Auction properties have been added to clarify the terms and conditions under which auction properties may be added to the MLS database and the basis for the list price.

Note: Only licensed auctioneers may advertise and auction real property in the state of Virginia.

(2 hrs CE/PL Electives)

31

Instanet™ Hands-on Training for Agents

9am-12pm

(Non-credit course)

FEBRUARY 6

Instanet™ Hands-on Training for Brokers

1pm-4pm

(3 hrs Broker Mgmt.)

8

Tempo™ Effective Prospecting

9am-12pm

(3hrs CE/PL Electives)

8

MLS Rules & Regulations

1pm-3pm

(CE: 1 Ethics & 1 Legal Updates/PL 2 electives)

13

Top 10 Tempo™ Tips

9am-11am

(2hrs CE/PL Electives)

22

Technology Fair

8am-5pm

24

Instanet™ Solutions Class

9am-12pm

(3hrs CE/PL Electives)

MARCH 5

Tempo™ CMA

9am-12pm

(3hrs CE/PL Electives)

15

Instanet™ Hands-on Training for Agents

9am-12pm

(Non-credit course)

19

Instanet™ Solutions Class

1pm-4pm

(3 hrs CE/PL electives)

27

Tempo™ RE Stats

2pm-4pm

(2 hrs CE/PL Electives)

28

MLS Rules & Regulations

9am-11am

(CE: 1 Ethics & 1 Legal Updates/PL 2 electives)

To register, call the Education Department at 804-422-5016 or log onto www.RARealtors.com and click on "Education”

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SUPRA Lockbox Serial Numbers – New field added The SUPRA LB Serial# field in TEMPO™ must now be completed for any listing with lockbox service authorized by a Seller. When Lockbox Call Agent, Lockbox Call Owner, Lockbox Call Tenant or Lockbox Go Direct is selected from the Showing Instructions drop down menu, users are prompted to enter the 8 digit SUPRA lockbox serial number. Note: The requirement to manually populate the SUPRA LB Serial# field is not satisfied by the process of linking a lockbox to a listing through SUPRAweb.

New “Structured Compensation Terms” Field All listings entered into the MLS database must contain an unconditional offer of compensation.

Compensation must be expressed as a percentage of the gross price, a flat fee, or a combination of both. Compensation may be structured as agreed upon by the Seller and the listing broker, provided that the amount of compensation can be calculated by a cooperating broker at the time an offer is prepared. The new Structured Compensation Description field offers the listing agent the ability to describe the details or formula needed to determine his or her compensation for a particular listing. This field may not be used to alter or condition an offer of compensation, or to describe bonus information.

If you have questions regarding these changes to the CVR MLS Rules and Regulations, please contact Peggy Lynch, Director of Professional Development, at 804.422.5006 or Plynch@rarealtors.com. L w w w. R A R e a l t o r s . c o m

G O V E R N M E N T A F FA I R S

2011 Contributors Contributions submitted from Contributions submitted from January 1, 2011 to October 28, 2011

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The Richmond Association of REALTORS® would like to thank its 2011 RPAC contributors. At press time, RAR members had contributed a total of $66,315.

Contributions have helped RAR to fund pro-business, REALTOR®-friendly candidates, ensure that the area’s workforce has a fair chance at homeownership, and maintain professionalism in the real estate industry.

Thank you all for making RPAC such a success!

Ashley Abplanalp

Kelly Blanchard

Jason T. Ciatteo

Willnette M. Dyer

Marcelia Gregory

Todd Acker

Whitney S. Blanchard

Jeffrey Clark

Crystal Dynia

Michael P. Grim

David Adams

James R. Blandford

Stewart A. Clark

Drew J. Eaken

Anne Grindstaff

Sid J. Akens

Andrea Bliley

Thomas Clark

Bromby L. Earle

Deborah B. Hairfield

Marisol Alers

Randey A. Bloom

Freddie B. Coffey, III

Terry L. Earnest

Anne K. Hall

Kate Aliberti

Mary S. Boese

Sharon J. Coleman

Arthur D. Eastlake

Doralyn Hall

Rob Aliberti

Shirley Bonner-Marshall

Charlotte Comfort

Kathy C. Edwards

Susan C. Hall

Clara T. Allen

Charles Boone

Maureen S. Conner

Timothy Edwards

Eric Halverson

Barbara L. Altis

Robin D. Booth

Patrick I. Conner

Ursula D. Edwards

David L. Hamil

Tawana Anderson

H. Richard Bower, Jr.

Charles Conrad

Laura Poole Ellis

Cheryl W. Hamm

Pamela Andrews

Cindy S. Bowles

Michael A. Conway

Robert Ellyson

David Hamnett

Mitch L. Appelrouth

David R. Bowlin, III

Glen Cornwell

Amy Enoch

Patsy J. Hancock

George H. Armentrout, Jr.

Lena Bowling

Hank Cosby

Blake Eudailey

Robin Hanway

Terri S. Armstrong

Dawn Bradley

C. Russell Cosner

Ronald Glenn Evans

Mindy Harden

Wes Atiyeh

Elsie J. Braithwaite

John P. Cougill

Kelly K. Evko

Fred Haren, Jr.

Jackie S. Atiyeh

Eliza Branch

William S. Crostic

Eric Fales

Robert R. Harris

Gail Atkins

Anne M. Brandon

Dwayne Cuff

John E. Farrell

Gina Harrison

Don Atkinson

Elizabeth C. Bray

Sandra C. Cullather

Meaghan M. Farrell

Carolyn Hartz

Wynnie Avent

Robert D. Broaddus, Jr.

Susan Cullen

Wanda Fears

Joseph A. Hatch, Jr.

David L. Bailey

Fran Brooks

Damien Cummings

Bill Ferebee

Peggy Haynes

Jamal Bakari

James F. Brooks

Michael Curley

John T. Ferguson, Jr.

Barbara Henderson

Holly S. Baker

Kenneth L. Brown

Mary Anne Currie

Michelle Ferguson

Annemarie Hensley

Michael Baker

Skye Bruce

Brandon G. Custalow

Dorothy R. Figg

Desiree Hicks

Linda Bakos

Anne Bullock Melton

Richard N. Custalow

David M. Filegar

Elizabeth F. Hines

Michael B. Bakun

Julia Burch

Debra L. Dalton

John S. Finn Jr.

Karen L. Hoerath

Beth Baldwin

Sylvia Burch

Jane Daly

Robert C. Firestone

Debra Hoffman

Josephine W. Bannister

Linda R. Burchett

Sharon Davenport

Chester L. Fisher, III

Woody Hogg

Thelma F. Barbour

C. Gary Burke

Natia Davis

Susan Fisher

Tripp Hogg

Hayden Barnard

Jay C. Burkeen

Pamela B. Davis

Judith Flaig Graffum

Paul Hogge

Cindy S. Barnett

W. Joyce Burkeen

John F. Daylor

Joanne D. Flanagan

Donna Holcomb

Mary Beth Barton

Linda G. Burns

Natasha Delaney

Dianne G. Flournoy

Tera Holland

Robert E. Barton, Sr.

Vernell M. Burton

Jessica DelCarmen

Mahood Fonville, Jr.

Chris Hollister

Michael W. Baughan

Linda Butler

Bret G. Derby

Eileen C. Foster

Glenda Holloway

Rhonda Beale

Marcy D. Caffrey

Steven M. DeWalle

Larry Foster

Kathleen Hooker

Dominick C. Beasley, Sr.

Donald R. Cahoon

Elmer A. Diaz

Sandra J. Francisco

William D. Horne

Nathan J. Beck

Craig Caldwell

Sylvia D. Diersen

Louise J. Freedman

RoseMarie Howard

Jewell Beckles

Valerie Caldwell

Betsy A. Dinardo

Dara J. Friedlander

Charles K. Hudson

Diane O. Becker

Ethan Call

Emese Doane

Scott Garnett

Jeffrey S. Huff

Alan Behnke

Nickole Campbell

Dennis K. Dodson, II

Wayne Gauthier

Wanda Huggins

Jan T. Benesh

Kathleen Carmichael

Jeffrey W. Donahue

Tom Gaye

Nathan V. Hughes

Westley F. Bennett

Christy Carroll

Marianne O. Donahue

Page C. George

Wally B. Hughes

James Benson

Tommy Carroll

James D. Donohue

Eleanor Goode

Harry Brandt Humphrey, III

Sherry Beran

Janice Carter-Lovejoy

Tim Dudley

David Gould

Nancy Hungerford

Danielle M. Berberich

Wayne Chasen

Gary H. Duke

William G. Grant

Jacqueline Hunter

David A. Berberich

Deane Cheatham, III

Jeanean Duke

James B. Green

Tammy Hux

Jason K. Bhattacharya

Nancy N. Cheely

Connie M. Dunkum

Millie Green

Jenna Hycner

Sarah Bice

Kathy Chenault

John W. DuVal

Patrick Green

Anne Innes

Denise Blaha

Richard A. Childers

Ty Dwyer

Linda Greenlaw

Philip L. Innes

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Thomas N. Innes

Cary H. Lindsey

Anne G. Newkirk

Patricia J. Rogers

Lynn Thomas

Earl M. Jackson

Henry F. Liscio, Jr.

Nina Newton

Terri A. Rogers

Anne K. Thompson

Sheronda Jackson

Susan Gail Lloyd

Cindy Nguyen

Todd D. Rogers

Dianne Thompson

Pamela O. James

Brenda W. Logue

Catherine M. Noonan

Evette T. Roots

Linda Throckmorton

Matthew Jarreau

Dianne W. Long

Justin T. Norris

Virginia R. Rose

Henri Tohme

Sarah C. Jarvis

Jean McGuire Longest

Pat O'Donnell

Amy Rowe

Jack F. Torza

Mark Jeffers

Lizzy Hogg Losi

John F. O'Reilly

Stacey S. Rowe

Meg Traynham

Thomas Jefferson, III

Sherry J. Louka

David A. Ogle

James Rozell

Judy Trevillian

Chuck Jenkins

Patricia W. Loving

Marilyn Oldham

John L. Ruckart, Jr.

Thomas Ji

Regina Lukens

Sandy H. Owens

Scott F. Ruth

Susan D. Tulloch

Bruce D. Johnson

Ryan Mabie

John F. Pace

Patricia R Ryan

David G. Johnson

K. Michael Maloney

Joanne S. Panek

H. Daniel Salomonsky

John Johnson

Judith G. Markowitz

George Panos

Raymond J. Santucci

M. Smith Johnson

James Michael Marr

Jennifer Pardon

Cathy Saunders

T. Graham Johnson

Laura D. Martin

Nita Parrish Pryor

Suzanne L. Saunders

Wayne K. Johnson, Jr.

Angel F. Martinez

David M. Pastore

Dawn M. Sclater

Bonnie Jones

G. Edmond Massie, IV

Robin J. Pearsall

H Clifton Scott, Jr.

Lummie W. Jones

Moe A. Mathews

Joan Peaslee

Rashmi Sekhri

Paulette Jones

William H. Mattox

Janet Pembelton

Cynthia Shaffer

Janette Jordan

Deborah L. Mauldin

George B. Penn, Jr.

Claire R. Shaffner

Angela Joseph

Jeff May

Wayne Perry

Bina H. Shah

K. Mark Joyner, Jr.

Sue Mayo

Alice L. Peterson

Paige Shaheen

Lestra B. Waldrop

Andrea Kampe

Kathleen C McCann

Lisa M. Peterson

R. Scott Shaheen

Cecelia T. Walker

Michael Kane

Scott D. McClaine Jr.

Jeffrey Phillips

Amy Shields

Charles E. Walker

Patricia Kane

Walter Vernon McClure Jr.

Christopher T. Piacentini

C. Frederick Shultz

Whit Wall

Drew Karo

Gwendolyn Walker McCorvey

Sean Pierce

Pam Shultz

Douglas L. Wallace

Paul L. Kastelberg

Mary K. McDonald

Jose A. Pietri

Ivy Shum

Kathleen Walser

Daniel S. Keeton

Rebecca S. McGee

Lloyd M. Poe

Shawn Shurm

Nan W. Walters

Clinton Kelly

Jim W. McTighe

David Pollard

Ashley H. Silveira

Joel W. Walton, Jr.

Alice Kendrick

Mark G. Meitz

David E. Poore, III

Michael Silveira

Robert W Watts

Karen Kern

Amanda Mendoza-Hawkins

Debra C. Potts

Carl Singleton

Marci F. Weinberg

Anahita Khonsari

Elaine Mescan

Anne A. Powell

Christy L. Slaw

Billy S. Wells

Judy J. Kilgour

Albert J Meyer, Jr.

JoAnne Powell

Boyd Y. Smith

Robert A. Whaley

Lisa Kirk-Englehart

C. A. Miller, III

Robert R. Price

George F. Smith

Cheryl B. Whirley

Vladimir Kleyman

Robert W. Miller, Jr.

Austin Pritchard

Karen K. Smith

Susan M. Koechlein

Jane P. Minor

Lynn B. Pritchard

Kennetha M. White

Teresa Snipes-Scott

Jody L. Korman

Emma L. Mitchell

Eric Proffitt

Minnie L. Spiggle

William A. White

John M. Koth

Carrie L. Moeller

Tony Proto

Fredrick Stafford

Barry Krauss

Karen Moeller

Teri C. Pruitt

Betty B. Stagg

Ellen Kreuter

Allen J. Mollen

Kevin W. Puller

James S. Stanley, Jr.

Kristin B. Krupp

Kimberly A. Moore

Cathy L. Pully

Stella Stanley

William R. LaFratta

Teresa Moore

Emily B. Rackley

Pooh Steele

William J. Lahey

Richard A. Mormando

Jaclyn Rackley

Pamela M. Steele

John W. Lake

Diana J. Morris

Graham Rashkind

Karen Stephens

Edward G. Landi

Dorothy Morse

Monica Rawles

Rick F. Stockel, Jr.

Steve Landi

Jennifer Mulligan

Barbara A. Reagan

Kenneth W. Storey

Gail P. Landry

Ann Mullikin

Lee Reams

Kerstin Stoval

Anna Lange

Sarah B. Mumford

Curt W. Reichstetter

Tony Studds

August F. Lange, Jr.

Ashaar Munir

Sallie H. Rhett

Donna M. Stvartak

Deborah Y. Lange

Shannon Murray

Jill P. Rhyne

David V. Sussman

Gordon Laroussini

Gloria J. Mykich

Katy Richards

Scot Tanner

Bob Witte

Deborah G. LaVecchia

Hemant G. Naphade

Kelly R. Ricks

Melissa Taylor

Denise Woods-Blevins

James B. Lee

James T. Napier

Barbara J. Robinson

Sue Tepper

David W. Worrie

Mim Leggette

Teresa Nash

Jerry Robinson

Larry Terry

Susan Wright

Sharron L. Leonhirth

Kurt Negaard

Vincent G. Robinson

Linda Terry

Gita Ziegelbaur

Thomas W. LePage

Ali L. Newkirk

Drew B. Roever

Jim Thacker

Cassandra Zimmerman

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Frank Tunstall, IV David B. Turner Nancy Turner Robin Tyler Teresa W. Tyson Sandra Uhorchuk Cheryl R. Valenti James E. Vass Leroy Vaughan Jacquelin E. Wade James L. Wake

Wray White Barrie E. Whitlow Christopher J. Whitney, Jr. Joseph P. Whittle Jeff Wilkerson Lacy W. Williams Norman L. Williamson Chris Wilson Nancy Wilson Sandra O. Windle Susan C. Wingo April Winston Gina E. Winston

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New g n i r ions B t f c e o l E s r d e r b oa Novem ocal B

to L

r o s i v r Supe

s

Faces

Hanover Board of Supervisors The election has brought a majority of new faces to the seven member Hanover Board of Supervisors. In the Chickahominy District, Angela Kelly-Wiecek won the seat vacated

by Bob Setliff and REALTOR® member Sean Davis won the Henry District seat vacated by Chuck McGee. Losing their bids for re-election, South Anna District Supervisor John Gordon was defeated by Wayne Hazzard and Mechanicsville Supervisor Debbie Winans was defeated by W. Canova Peterson.

By Elizabeth Hancock Greenfield, Director of Government Affairs and Member Services

The November 8th election has brought many new faces to Central Virginia’s local Board of Supervisors. The following is a quick re-cap of who will take office in January of 2012.

For the second time in four years, incumbent Supervisor G. Ed Via defeated Kevin Damian for the Ashland Board seat. Mr. Via defeated Mr. Damian by 15 votes in a three way race in 2007.

Winning a three way race, Supervisor Elton Wade will return to office for his sixth term to represent the Cold Harbor District.

Beaverdam District Supervisor Aubrey Stanley, the only Supervisor to run unopposed, will return to serve his seventh term on the Board.

Powhatan Board of Supervisors Chesterfield Board of Supervisors In Chesterfield, four out of the five incumbent Supervisors were re-elected. Supervisors Dan Gecker (Midlothian District), Art Warren (Clover Hill District), Dorothy Jaeckle (Bermuda District), and Jim Holland (Dale District) will return to serve another four year term. Joining the Board in the Matoaca District is former County Fire Chief Steve Elswick. Mr. Elswick defeated first term Supervisor, Marleen Durfee.

Goochland Board of Supervisors The Goochland Board of Supervisors retained only one incumbent, District Three Supervisor Ned Creasey. Ned will be joined

by Susan Lascolette (District 1), Manuel Alvarez (District 2), Bob Minnick (District 4), and Ken Peterson (District 5).

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Like the Hanover and Goochland Boards, the five member Powhatan Board of Supervisors will also see a majority of new faces in January.

First term District 1 Supervisor Joe Walton was defeated by David Williams.

Two retirements opened seats in the Third and Fourth Districts. Barry Hodge won the seat vacated by long term incumbent Bob Cosby (Third District) and Planning Commissioner Bill Melton won the seated vacated by Scott Daniel (Forth District).

Incumbent Supervisor Carson Tucker defeated Tim Gresham for the Fifth District seat.

Running unopposed, Supervisor Jason Moore will return to serve the second district. L

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A Year in Review and a Look Ahead

By Kate Loveluck, Communications & Marketing Coordinator

“e did a lot this year,” exclaimed 2011 RAR President Cheryl Hamm, when asked which association accomplishment of the year she is most proud of. “There was a lot of focus on technology because it was just bursting at us so quickly,” she added.

Cheryl has also enjoyed witnessing a rise in optimism, though cautious, among her colleagues. “It has been a fun journey; we started out with not a lot of hope because of the economy but we ran to the roar, and if we don’t have any real hiccups, we’re going to start coming out of this,” she said. She added that she is particularly excited about the addition of the new commercial contract, as she works in commercial real estate. A number of other initiatives were accomplished this year that are worth a look back.

The General Assembly adjourned in February and the REALTOR® legislative agenda was successful overall, thanks to the help of our business conscious, RPAC supported legislators.

W

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Legislation was passed prohibiting developers from attaching private transfer fees to newly developed property for up to 99 years; lowering the burden of proof for tax assessment appeals; and making adherence to existing laws more manageable.

The online document storage solution DocBox™ was introduced to CVR MLS members in February, offering agents and brokers the ability to archive and access contracts, negotiations, or any other document in a transaction that is faxed, uploaded, or emailed into the system from a mobile phone or computer.

With this virtual document management system, uploaded files can then be accessed anytime, anywhere, from virtually any computer or wireless device with internet access.

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“It has been a fun journey; we started out with not a lot of hope because of the economy but we ran to the roar, and if we don’t have any real hiccups, we’re going to start coming out of this” Also in February, RAR members enjoyed the opportunity to meet and ask questions of a number of political representatives in a private session at RAR’s REALTOR® Day on the Hill. They were also treated to lunch at Old City Bar on Main Street, followed by a tour of either the Governor’s Mansion or the Virginia Capitol.

In March, RAR Hosted a Housing Forum with Special Guest, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, at the University of Richmond Jepson Alumni Center. The event brought together over 200 REALTOR® members and industry experts to discuss federal policies affecting the housing market. The event was part of RAR’s continuing efforts to provide educational opportunities to members that help inform them about economic and legislative affairs affecting their industry. The day was a tremendous success and the event gained national exposure.

In April, RAR staff joined REALTOR® members, sponsors, a number of other volunteers, and 15 local non-profit organizations to help build and repair homes for neighbors in need during Affordable Housing Awareness Week.

Earlier in the month, an educational session was held at RAR that focused on financing options for first-time and low income home buyers. The month ended with a full week of volunteer projects, the homelessness simulation experience Walking in Their Shoes, and a block party.

In May, RAR hosted a workshop for members with special guest speaker Phil Schulman, a real estate attorney and nationally recognized RESPA expert. Schulman led a discussion on the status of RESPA and mortgage lending reform, how the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau will affect real estate transactions, and the HUD Interpretive Rule concerning fees related to the sale of home warranties. He lent his expertise as well as a bit of humor to the discussion, which was followed by a demonstration of Authentisign™, the new addition that joined the Instanet™ Solutions product lineup that month. Attorney Michael Lafayette concluded the session with an overview on some of the legal aspects of digital signature use.

Also in May, RAR formed the Young Professionals Network, a group of career-minded real estate professionals who periodically meet to educate themselves on the latest technology and industry practices, network with fellow REALTORS®, learn more about their region and serve their communities.

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Over the summer, Mobile MLS got an extreme makeover. The new user interface is sleeker, more advanced and very user-friendly. More importantly, the new capabilities with this upgrade surpass all aesthetic improvements. During the first week of its launch, nearly 500 members registered to take advantage of this valuable member resource, which is compatible with any internet enabled wireless device, including the iPad. Yet another new CVR MLS member benefit was introduced in September. The supplemental statistics tool rbiStats makes it possible to share local market statistics quickly and easily through charts, graphs and metrics. It also offers an online visualization of a variety of market trends, with the option of a subscription which allows for even more in-depth analysis and detailed customization abilities. Shanna Wiseman, the CVR MLS upcoming President, hopes to see more agents benefit from this member resource during the next year. “The data tables and statistics through rbiStats are useful tools that agents are able to download and use for their presentations. I would like to see an increase in awareness among members on this excellent tool,” she said.

The ability to choose rental properties within the Tempo™ Prospect function to send to customers and clients was enabled in September. The only difference in the process of creating a rental prospect is the selection of the Rental Property Type prior to entering search criteria. Rental properties also became available, upon request by brokers and vendors, as feeds in the IDX program. “As a Property Manager, one of my primary goals for 2012 will be to encourage those REALTORS® who manage rental property to utilize the Rentals section to build a solid and useful database,” Shanna Wiseman remarked.

In October, RatePlug, an additional CVR MLS benefit, was introduced to CVR MLS brokers. This new tool allows brokers to deliver interactive, real-time mortgage programs, payment and qualifying information to clients, right from Tempo™ listings. The tool allows brokers a means of promoting affiliated mortgage entities, or displaying up to three preferred lenders of choice. It provides home buyers seeking financing options with a one-stop-shop approach.

October marked the official graduation of the Leadership Development Academy’s class of 2011. The LDA is a 10-month program designed to develop visionary, service-oriented REALTOR® members for professional, civic, and community leadership roles. continued next page

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continued from page 15

Also in October, RAR held its Real Estate Trends Conference at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The event featured special guest speakers Dr. Paul Bishop, Vice President of Research with the National Association of REALTORS®, and Dr. Larry Sabato, Political Analyst and Director for the University of Virginia Center for Politics. Updates and analysis were provided on the state of the housing market, economic developments, buyer and seller trends, and the state of the political environment.

The Central Virginia MLS initiated a seasonal billboard marketing campaign that ran throughout the year, emphasizing the sentimental aspect of home ownership.

A number of new educational offerings were added over the course of the year, including a broker office policy workshop (which included a sample office policy manual), a commercial contract writing course, a course on commercial property management issues, a Residential Lease Purchase Agreement workshop, a Short Sales & Foreclosures Resource (SFR Designation) Course, a hands-on smartphone course and

Instanet™, DocBox™ and Authentisign™ training (with both classroom and hands-on instruction).

Looking ahead to 2012, Scott Ruth, RAR’s upcoming Preisdent, looks forward to increasing training on the several new technology tools that were introduced over the past year.

“This is the year we really need to work on teaching members how to use all of these tools and how to use data in more effective marketing to consumers,” Scott added.

Scott grew up in Richmond, attending Collegiate School, then the College of Charleston. His career began in private business administration with the family-owned company Metray, Inc., which his father founded and still runs. He has now been with Long & Foster for nine years and as a Managing Broker for seven years at Long & Foster’s Tuckahoe office. Scott describes his leadership style as very hands-on. “I have an agent mentality, but with a corporate perspective,” he explained.

Among Scott’s top association interests are the data and technology products offered to members. “He’s very geeky,” Cheryl Hamm teased. “Data and technology help agents show value proposition to consumers,” Scott explained. He is particularly interested in RE Stats, the IMAPP Tax Database, Mobile MLS and Instanet™ Solutions.

With all the technology training RAR intends to accomplish in the coming year, including a Technology Fair in February, Mr. Ruth has chosen an excellent year to serve as President.

And RAR is fortunate to have a leader in the coming year that will help members tap into their inner geeks as well. L

What’s Missing?

You. Every year, there are legislative proposals that place the real estate industry at risk. Make your RPAC investment now to ensure our continued success. Go to www.RARealtors.com today!

Richmond Association of REALTORS® 8975 Three Chopt Road • Richmond, Virginia 23229 Ph 804.422.5000 • Fx 804.422.5088

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Now More Than Ever

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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Federal Regulations Create Confusion and New Requirements for REALTORS®

By Peggy Lynch, GRI Director of Professional Development and Broker Services

F

irst, there was the Mortgage Assistance Relief Services (MARS) Rule, which was primarily directed at companies that offer loan modification services to consumers.

But, the definition of loan modification service providers was so broad that it was initially interpreted by the Federal Trade Commission to include real estate professionals who provide assistance and negotiate with lenders on behalf of their short sale listing clients. These professionals were subject to certain disclosure and document retention requirements.

NAR adamantly disagreed, and on July 15, 2011, the FTC issued a statement announcing that it would not enforce most provisions of the MARS Rule against real estate brokers and their agents who assist financially distressed consumers in obtaining short sales. Agents who provide short sale negotiation services to individuals other than their listing clients are still subject to the requirements of the MARS rule. But for most agents, the rule is no longer an issue.

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Just When it Seemed That the Storm Had Passed…

We breathed a sigh of relief and thought all of the drama was behind us, but then the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) rolled out the Mortgage Acts and Practices - Advertising, or “MAP” Rule. MAP imposes requirements on those that provide information about mortgage credit products to consumers.

This includes real estate professionals who partner with mortgage lenders and/or convey mortgage related information to consumers, such as giving a consumer a lender’s rate sheet or providing paperwork to pre-qualify a borrower.

The new rule, which went into effect on August 19, 2011, prohibits misrepresentations in commercial communications about any term or terms of a mortgage credit product. A “commercial communication” is defined as both oral and written statements designed to “create an interest in purchasing goods or services”, which in this case would be a mortgage credit product. A “mortgage credit product” is “any form of credit”

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that is offered to a consumer and secured by the consumer’s dwelling. The Rule covers information about any and all mortgage terms, as well as an extensive list of possible mortgage terms. Possible mortgage terms include interest rates; products sold in conjunction with a mortgage, such as credit insurance; amount of taxes; variability of interest rates; and prepayment penalties. Under the MAP Rule, the definition of ‘‘term,’’ is ‘‘any fees, costs, obligations, or characteristics of, or associated with the [mortgage] product.’’ The definition also includes “any of the conditions on or related to the availability of the product,’’ and is intended to cover all aspects of a mortgage credit product without exception.

In other words, if an agent discusses any mortgage terms or products in a “commercial communication” (verbal, printed or electronic), they must include a prominently displayed disclaimer indicating that they are not a mortgage broker and that the information provided should not be relied upon. For example, if an agent were to advertise “no down payment,” “3.5% interest,” “special financing available,” or “monthly payments under $1,500,” that agent would be required to provide specific disclaimer language in a reasonably prominent location.

Other examples of covered communications would be presenting a lender’s mortgage rate sheet to a client or customer, or providing pre-qualification paperwork from a lender or mortgage broker. Agents and firms who share online space with lenders and mortgage brokers should review their sites to determine if and where the required disclaimer language would be required.

The disclaimer should be prominent and separated from other text in the covered statement; as disclaimers in small type, placed at the bottom of a document or buried within the text, may not protect against misrepresentation claims.

email communications. We recommend adding the MAP disclaimer language to automated e-mail signatures to cover any electronic communications that might include mortgage related information. Agents must also exercise caution when speaking with clients, customers and prospects about specific mortgage products, as the disclaimer applies to verbal conversations as well as print materials and communications.

Recordkeeping Requirements Real estate agents and brokers subject to the MAP Rule are required to keep all covered commercial communications for two years from the date that the communication was made to the consumer. In order to comply with this section, REALTORS® should retain copies of all covered statements, flyers and advertising in each consumer’s file (paper or electronic). This record retention system should become part of the firms’s overall record retention program.

Sample Disclaimer Language “This communication is provided to you for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon by you. [Name of brokerage] is not a mortgage lender and so you should contact [name of lender] directly to learn more about its mortgage products and your eligibility for such products.”

Virginia Implements New Disclosure Requirements There were two significant changes to Virginia’s real estate disclosure requirements that went into effect July 1, 2011. A new Residential Disclosure Form is now required for all covered residential real estate transactions. The new form directs consumers to a page on the website of the Department of

CVR MLS Puts Subscriber Protections in Place

Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). The intent

Remarks entered into the TEMPO™ system are publicly displayed. In order to protect CVR MLS subscribers from liability for the inadvertent mention of loan terms or conditions, CVR MLS has embedded disclaimer language within the templates for all flyers and MLS facilitated communications. This action also covers the MAP archiving requirement as the MLS data, including the required disclaimer is archived for the mandatory two year period.

of this change was to eliminate the need to promulgate a new form each time a new disclosure requirement goes into effect.

Licensees engaged by sellers, purchasers and landlords who have actual knowledge of defective Chinese drywall in a dwelling unit, must disclose that information to the prospective tenant or purchaser. The disclosure is not required for properties where defective drywall has been previously discovered and abated. Property managers and leasing agents should be aware that tenants who are not provided this disclosure within 60 days

Agents Should Exercise Due Care in all Advertising and Conversations

of discovery of defective drywall now have the right to terminate their lease agreements.

While disclosure requirements are covered for information

If you have questions concerning the MAP Rule or any of

included in CVR MLS listing data, there is still potential for

the new disclosure requirements, please contact Peggy Lynch,

exposure in other multiple listing services, client and prospect

Director of Professional Development, at 804.422.5006 or

conversations, as well as online advertising, in flyers and in

Plynch@rarealtors.com. L

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Before participating in the Leadership Development Academy, I was unclear about the roles of RAR and its functions. After a year of being exposed to the processes, functions and staff at RAR, it is clear to me that I want to become more involved. The best part is the relationships that I now have with some of the most dedicated real estate professionals who were part of the Academy. It has

Congratulations Leadership Development Academy Class of 2011 Here’s what recent graduates have to say about their experiences:

been a great experience that I will treasure.

-Kristin Krupp The Leadership Development Academy has been one of the most valued volunteer opportunities I have been involved with, either personally or professionally. Habitat for Humanity, as well as the VAR Legislative Conference – Day on the Hill, helped me realize how important it is

The Leadership Academy has been a great experience.

to become more familiar with and involved in the behind

It not only allowed me to meet some wonderful people

the scenes workings of the RAR. I benefitted professionally

and make new friends, it offered a place to share ideas,

through development opportunities offered in conferences,

gather a better understanding of the RAR organization

workshops and travel. Making new acquaintances, as

and it's processes, and learn about myself.

well as the rewarding experience of being guided by

-Pam Davis

Peggy Lynch, the LDA coordinator, made my year an exceptional experience.

It has been a pleasure to take part in the Leadership

-Diane O. Becker

Development Academy over the course of the last year.

Throughout the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to not only network with a great group of top-producing

The Leadership Academy provided me a great experi-

Realtors but to also meet and interact with the leadership

ence and improved my understanding of what really goes

of RAR. The LDA has given me a thorough insight to the

on to keep our industry moving forward.

functions and importance of RAR as well as some invalu-

-Wayne Gauthier

able training in what qualities and characteristics a true leader possesses. Overall, the experience has enriched both my personal and career goals and has prepared me

I certainly enjoyed and benefited from this class. I devel-

for future leadership positions within the industry.

oped a much better understanding of how our Association

-Jenni Jennings

works for us and what we can do to support it.

-Sally Slate

As part of the 2010-2011 Leadership Development Class I gained great wisdom, knowledge, and experience.

I enjoyed the hands on learning experience through Lead Well Institute and being educated on the ins and outs of

The Leadership Academy helped me realize the impor-

the Association and how it functions. The most fun part

tance of getting more involved in our Association. It gave

for me was Day on the Hill--I enjoyed being amongst

me the training and the confidence I needed for my

hundreds of real estate professionals and meeting several

day-to-day business, as well as important knowledge

prominent leaders in our community. Being a part of the

and drive to pursue any future leadership roles. My

LDA exposed me to several events and opportunities and

participation in the Academy was a very rewarding

also gave me the ability to give back by volunteering my

experience and I'd highly recommend its training

time and talents at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore.

programs to my fellow Realtors®.

I Thank RAR for offering such an awesome program and

-David Adams

think everyone should have this wonderful experience!

-Tamara D. Taylor

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I have always prided myself on being a big picture thinker; little did I know how limited my knowledge was about my job as a Realtor® and my support of RAR. I found out how one person in an organization can make a difference by aiding in the accomplishment of a common goal through

and inspire growth in others.

Creating a vision and

moment that compels people to follow you is a huge responsibility that must be met with integrity, commitment, and a superior work ethic.

-Catina Wright

that organization. It's been an educational experience that I will take with me and spread to others in the years to come. Thanks to Peggy Lynch and all those who helped make the 2011 academy a special experience.

-Wanda Fears

The Leadership Academy experience taught me great values in delegation and time management. I also learned a lot about RAR -- particularly how supportive and community oriented the Association is with volunteer services and RPAC. Leadership Academy was great in

The Leadership Development Academy was a multifaceted experience for me. In addition to learning more about the workings and interrelationships of our Realtor® organizations, I gained skills in delivering informational messages to the media and to clients. What I’ve taken

showing the nuts and bolts of our Association and providing exposure beyond the listing and selling of real estate. The experience was an excellent way to gain several new perspectives.

-Joi Boykins

away from the time I spent with my fellow Realtors® are new friendships and a better understanding of how other agents approach our business.

-Cathy Noonan

I have gained so much from my experience in the Leadership Development Academy. I believe that above everything else, the LDA has connected me with other real estate professionals who want to make a difference

The Leadership Academy redefined my understanding of what is means to be an effective leader. Beyond delegat-

in the community we serve.

-Amy Newman

ing and directing, leadership is the ability to influence

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2011 RAR Real Estate Trends Conference Featuring Special Guest Speakers Dr. Paul Bishop, Vice President of Research with NAR and Larry Sabato, Director of the UVA Center for Politics.

This fall, RAR members gathered at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to hear from economic and political experts on current trends in the economy and real estate market, as well as insights on the political environment and predictions about upcoming elections.

Members arrive in the auditorium and greet one another.

RAR President Elect Scott Ruth gives an introduction.

Dr. Paul Bishop gives his presentation, “When Will the Housing Market Turn the Corner?”

Event sponsor Rocketts Landing shares some development information.

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RAR Education Calendar

January - March 2012

JANUARY 17 18 18 19 20 23 23 24 25 25 26

PL Mandatory- Ethics/Agency/Law (3 hrs PL Ethics, Agency & Law) Instanet™ Solutions Class (3 hrs CE/PL Electives) GRI (Module-TBD) CE Mandatory 8 hrs CE/PL Electives 8hrs Broker Office Policy Workshop (4 hrs CE Legal Updates or Broker Management) Digital Cameras & MLS Photography (2 hrs CE/PL Electives) Broker CE 8 hrs Tempo™ CMA (3 hrs CE/PL Electives) iMapp™ Tax Records (2 hrs CE/PL Electives) HAFA Short Sales-Homes Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program

(ABR elective)

8:30am-5pm 9am-12pm 8am-5pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 8am-12pm 9am-11am 9am-5pm 9am-12pm 1pm-3pm 9am-5pm

(3 CE Legal Updates, 1 Agency, 3 electives/PL 3 Law, 4 electives)

30 31

Effective Contract Writing (3 hrs CE Contracts/3 PL Offer to Purchase) Instanet™ Hands-on Training for Agents (Non-credit course)

9am-12pm 9am-12pm

FEBRUARY 2 6 8 8 9 10 13 15 16 20-21

PL Mandatory-Ethics/Agency/Law (3 hrs PL Ethics, Agency & Law) Instanet™ Hands-on Training for Brokers (3 hrs Broker Mgmt.)

Tempo™ Effective Prospecting (3hrs CE/PL Electives) MLS Rules & Regulations (CE: 1 Ethics & 1 Legal Updates/PL 2 electives) CE Mandatory 8 hrs CE/PL Electives 8 hrs Top 10 Tempo™ Tips (2hrs CE/PL Electives) GRI (Module-TBD) Commercial Event (TBD) (Sponsored by the Commercial Division) ABR Core Course (CE:2 hrs FH, 1 Law, 3 electives, 3 Ethics, 4 Agency,

8:30am-5pm 1pm-4pm 9am-12pm 1pm-3pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 9am-11am 8am-5pm 9am-11am 9am-5pm

1 Contracts/PL 3 hrs each Ethics, Agency, RE Law and 2 electives)

23 24 27 29

Technology Fair Instanet™ Solutions Class (3hrs CE/PL Electives) Residential Lease Purchase (2 hrs CE Contracts/PL Electives) Advanced Contract Writing (3 hrs CE Contracts/PL Offer to Purchase)

8am-5pm 9am-12pm 9am-11am 9am-12pm

MARCH 1 5 5-7 6 7 8 9 14 14 14 15 15 19 19 21 22 27 28 29

PL Mandatory-Ethics/Agency/Law (3 hrs PL Ethics, Agency & Law) Tempo™ CMA (3hrs CE/PL Electives) Pre-Licensing Broker Law Quadrennial Ethics (3 hrs CE/PL Quadrennial Ethics) Commercial Transaction Workshop (2 hrs CE Contracts&2 Legal Updates/PL 4 electives) CE Mandatory 8 hrs CE/PL Electives 8 hrs Prop. Mgmt. Mini Series: Application Process (2 hrs CE Law/PL electives) PM Mini Series: Top 10 Leasing Mistakes (2 hrs CE Law/PL electives) PM Mini Series: Evictions & Collections (2 hrs CE Law/PL electives) Broker CE 8hrs Instanet™ Hands-on Training for Agents (Non-credit course) Fair Housing (3 hrs CE/PL Fair Housing) Instanet™ Solutions (3 hrs CE/PL electives) GRI (Module TBD) Quarterly Membership Meeting (Topic TBD) Tempo™ RE Stats (2 hrs CE/PL Electives) MLS Rules & Regulations (CE: 1 Ethics & 1 Legal Updates/PL 2 electives) SFR-Short Sales & Foreclosures (ABR elect) (CE: 2 hrs Legal Updates, 3 Contracts & 3 electives/ PL: 3 Offer to Purchase & 5 electives)

For more information or to register, please contact: The Real Estate School / Tel: (804) 422-5016 E-mail: edu@RARealtors.com or log onto www.RARealtors.com and click “Education”

8:30am-5pm 9am-12pm 9am-5pm 9am-12pm 9am-12:30pm 9am-5pm 9am-5pm 8am-10am 10am-12pm 1pm-3pm 9am-5pm 9am-12pm 9am-12pm 1pm-4pm 8am-5pm 9am-12pm 2pm-4pm 9am-11am 9am-5pm

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Meet the 2012 Presidents

Scott Ruth, 2012 RAR President Firm & Years in Real Estate I joined Long and Foster Tuckahoe Office in December 2002 as a real estate agent. In 2004, I became the Assistant Manager at The Tuckahoe Office and then Broker in 2005. I have been with Long and Foster since that time.

into the real estate business with Long and Foster. As my position has transitioned over the years into management, I have truly enjoyed the educational opportunities with my coworkers that the Broker position has offered and helping others succeed in this business.

Favorite Regional Tradition REALTOR®fest is one of my favorite real estate events that our industry offers. It is a chance to network with other agents in our area, hear excellent training forums by top business educators, and to hear from a key note speaker who offers a different perspective on the industry. The trade show allows us to see the latest industry related products and services available.

Experience at RAR Member of MLS committee, RAR Board of Directors, RAR Budget & Finance Chair in 2011, President Elect 2011

Favorite Vacation Spot I have several vacation spots that my family loves to take advantage of. Most of these locations are on the water. Charleston, South Carolina is one of my favorite places to get away outside the Commonwealth; however, in Virginia, the shores of Virginia Beach and the banks of the Rappahannock River are two of my favorite local places.

How did you get involved in real estate?

After working with my father for seven years in the contracting business of the convenience store industry, I entered into the Real Estate industry to grow my own business as a REALTOR®.

With a great deal of respect for Dick Nelms and Pace Fonville, and encouragement from friends and family, I decided to enter

Hobbies/Activities outside the office I am fortunate to have four incredible children and a wonderful wife; I love nothing more than being outdoors with them all, whether it is on the water boating, surfing or fishing; or in the woods exploring, camping or hunting. As a family, we do our best to take advantage of all the activities and events Virginia has to offer.

Designations Managing Broker of the Tuckahoe Office of Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc., Associate Broker Designation

Property Management Committee for several years, and currently on the Virginia Association of REALTORS® Property Management Council

Shanna Wiseman, 2012 CVR MLS President Firm & Years in Real Estate I’ve worked as a Property Manager for Parr & Abernathy Realty, Inc. for eleven years Designations I was named the Virginia Association of REALTORS® 2010 Ann Swearingen Property Manager of the Year (this isn’t a designation, but I am pretty proud of this) Experience at RAR Served on the CVR MLS Board of Directors, served as CVR MLS Committee Chairman, 2011 Property Management Council Chair, 2008 SVAR President, Chair of the SVAR Banquet Committee for several years, Chair of the SVAR

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How did you get involved in real estate?

In high school, I worked for Parr & Abernathy as an office runner and obtained my license when I was 18 years old.

When I graduated from George Mason University in 2000, I began working full time as their Property Manager.

Favorite Regional Tradition I enjoy outdoor concerts and events.

Favorite Vacation Spot Anywhere there is an ocean and sand! Sometimes for a quick getaway, I enjoy sitting in the woods during hunting season.

Hobbies/Activities outside the office I enjoy working and running my Labs in field trials and hunt tests, deer and waterfowl hunting, reading, relaxing on the beach, and working out at the gym.

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