Global Business Council

GBC Introduces “Travel the World” Series

By: Glo Reber, Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, CRS, CIPS, ABR, SRES, E-Pro, WCR

The Global Business Council has had an extraordinary year. The first Country Spotlight series was introduced. It has given us the opportunity to broaden our perspectives with other countries. Outreach is of such value as we learn how our neighbors conduct their business and how we can assist each other. It provides a greater understanding of the international market and ways to pave the way for our clients coming to the United States. Plus, it opens doors to a positive referral basis from country to country.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR

Starting with Spain, we hosted a real estate professional from Barcelona, Spain, a local immigration attorney, and a local Spanish chef who demonstrated her cooking techniques. Colombia was next on our tour. The President of Colombia’s “Fedelonjas,” the equivalent of our real estate association, welcomed everyone to the session. We had three agents from different parts of Colombia showcase their areas. The NAR Ambassador to Colombia gave us insights into the bridge between the countries. We had a local attorney from Colombia as well as a businesswoman who came to the U.S. and started her own successful business.

Hungary was our third country to visit. Notables such as the President of the Hungarian Chamber of Commerce in Florida, the NAR Global Ambassador to Hungary, and a local business owner presented a beautiful view of their country and information of great value to our attendees.

Don’t miss our upcoming visit with Panama on October 28, and the Bahamas to follow on November 30.

JOIN THE GLOBAL BUSINESS COUNCIL

The GBC has the valuable tools that are available with membership. The goal of the GBC is to broaden our base and reach out to Realtors® so they can benefit from the many programs that we offer.

Even though at this point, you may not be working with an individual either moving to the U.S. or buying a home here from overseas, it is important to know how it works. The number of people looking for second homes or making a move to the U.S. is increasing. Working carefully with your customers to ensure they are aware of every important detail in the transaction is of utmost importance. The Global Business Council provides you with the tools to feel assured of that knowledge and the capability to assist your client.

There are classes offered through GBC to help Realtors® understand the process of working with foreign clients. We have outreach to mortgaged lenders, immigration attorneys and tax experts who can assist the clients in making a smooth transition into the U.S. and providing education on the process and the right steps to follow. The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) is a top Realtor® designation that you can earn at RASM through the GBC. It is the study of different areas of the world, what their customs are, and what is important to know to be able to professionally assist clients. It opens doors for your access to knowledge.

The Global Business Council has enjoyable networking events, too, allowing you to meet your fellow Realtors® who have an interest in international business. GBC celebrated the coming of Fall with a networking get-together and is planning our Holiday celebration. Check out the website at www.myrasm. com/specialty-groups/global and join us for only a $25 membership fee! •