Archive for the ‘news’ Category
Olympia City Council Meeting 7.20.10 @ 7pm
Monday, July 19th, 2010
1. OPENING
A. A
nnouncements
B.
Approval of Agenda
2. CONSENT CALENDAR (Items of a Routine Nature)
A. Minutes of July 13, 2010 Council Meeting
B. Minutes of July 14, 2010 Special Council Meeting for West Bay Park Grand Opening Celebration
C. Approval of Bid Award for Percival Landing Phase I (Kip Summers, Parks)
D. Approval of Amendment #5 to Percival Landing Professional Services Agreement, Phase 1, for Additional Design Services (Kip Summers, Parks)
E. Approval of Percival Landing Professional Services Agreement, Phase 1, for Construction Management & Support Services (Kip Summers, Parks)
F. Approval to Submit Grant Application for Removal of Priest Point Park Bulkhead (Michelle Stevie, Public Works)
G. Approval to Grant a Utility Easement to Puget Sound Energy (PSE) on the Harrison Avenue Corridor Improvements Project (Sheri Zimny, Public Works)
H. Approval of Intergovernmental Agreement with Washington State Parks & Recreation for Boating Safety (Dick Machlan, Police)
SECOND READINGS – None
FIRST READINGS – None
3. SPECIAL RECOGNITION – None
4. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION (Estimated Time: 0-30 Minutes) (Sign Up Sheets are Provided in the Foyer)
During this portion of the meeting, citizens may address the Council regarding only items related to City business, including items on the Agenda, except on agenda items for which the City Council either held a Public Hearing in the last 45 days, or will hold a Public Hearing within 45 days. Individual testimony is limited to three minutes or less. In order to hear as many people as possible during the 30-minutes set aside for Public Communication, the Council will refrain from commenting on individual testimony until all public comment has been taken. The City Council will allow for additional testimony to be taken at the end of the meeting for those who signed up at the beginning of the meeting and did not get an opportunity to speak during the allotted 30-minutes.
COUNCIL RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS (Optional)
5. REPORTS
A.
Intergovernmental Assignments / Council Committee Chairs
6. STUDY SESSION
A. Discussion with Advisory Committee/Commission Chairs (Cathie Butler, Exec.)
7. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Update on 2010 City Priorities (Steve Hall, Exec.)
8. COMMITTEE REFERRALS
9. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
10. CONTINUED PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS (If needed for those who signed up earlier and
did not get an opportunity to speak during the allotted 30 minutes)
11. ADJOURNMENT
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Olympia City Council Meeting 6.15.10 @ 7pm
Monday, June 14th, 2010
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
7:00 pm
City Hall Council Chambers
900 Plum St. SE
ROLL CALL
1. OPENING
A.
Announcements
B.
Changes to Agenda
C.
Approval of Agenda
2. CONSENT CALENDAR (Items of a Routine Nature)
A. Minutes of June 2, 2010 Special Council Meeting
B. Minutes of June 4, 2010 Special Council Meeting
C. Minutes of June 8, 2010 Council Meeting
D. Approval to Call for Interior Art for the New City Hall (Stephanie Johnson, Parks)
E. Approval of Purchase and Sale Agreement with Diamond Parking for Parking Lot (Tom Morrill, Legal)
SECOND READINGS
F. Amendment to Festival Events Ordinance (OMC 12.72) (General Government Committee) (Cathie Butler, Exec.)
G. Ordinance Providing for Issuance and Sale of Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds in the Amount of $6,585,000 to Provide Funds to Pay a Part of the Cost of Financing Capital Improvements to the System (Jane Kirkemo, Admin. Svcs.) First and Final Reading
FIRST READINGS
None The City of Olympia is committed to the non-discriminatory treatment of all persons in employment and the
delivery of services and resources. If you require accommodations during your attendance at the Council
meeting, please contact us at 753-8447 by 10:00 a.m. the date of the meeting. For the hearing impaired, please
call 753-8270 to be connected to a TTY machine. Thank you.
OLYMPIA CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDAS Week of June 14, 2010
Page 2
3. SPECIAL RECOGNITION
A. 2010 Governor’s Commute Smart Award Recipients (Sophie Stimson, Public Works)
4. PUBLIC COMMUNICATION (Estimated Time: 0-30 Minutes) (Sign Up Sheets are Provided in the Foyer)
During this portion of the meeting, citizens may address the Council regarding only items related to City business, including items on the Agenda, except on agenda items for which the City Council either held a Public Hearing in the last 45 days, or will hold a Public Hearing within 45 days. Individual testimony is limited to three minutes or less. In order to hear as many people as possible during the 30-minutes set aside for Public Communication, the Council will refrain from commenting on individual testimony until all public comment has been taken. The City Council will allow for additional testimony to be taken at the end of the meeting for those who signed up at the beginning of the meeting and did not get an opportunity to speak during the allotted 30-minutes.
COUNCIL RESPONSE TO PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS (Optional)
5. REPORTS
A.
Intergovernmental Assignments / Council Committee Chairs
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Six-Year Transportation Improvement Program and Adoption of Resolution (Randy Wesselman, Public Works)
7. OTHER BUSINESS
A. Downtown Pay Station Parking Zone Ordinance (Steve Friddle, CP&D)
B. Update on Draft Parks, Arts, and Recreation Plan (Jonathan Turlove, Parks)
C. Approval of Changes to Council Committee and Intergovernmental Assignments (Cathie Butler, Exec.)
8. COMMITTEE REFERRALS
9. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
10. CONTINUED PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS (If needed for those who signed up earlier and
did not get an opportunity to speak during the allotted 30 minutes)
11. ADJOURNMENT
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Thurston County Meeting 6-1-10 @ 2PM
Tuesday, June 1st, 2010
Summary of Timed Items
2:00 p.m.) Call Meeting to Order
3:30 p.m.) Board of Health
5:30 p.m.) Public Hearings
2:00 p.m.) Call Meeting to Order
Pledge of Allegiance to be led by Commissioner Valenzuela
Approval of the June 1, 2010 Agenda
Approval of the Board Meeting Minutes from: May 25, 2010
Acceptance of the Work Session Summaries from: April 21, and May 19, 2010
1) County Manager’s Update
a) Item Description: Follow-up on citizen issues.
b) Item Description: Other issues
2) Opportunity for the Public to Address the Board
3) Consent Item “a” through “d”
a) Emergency Services
Item Description: Appointment to the Emergency Medical Services Council
Staff Contact: Lisa Paribello
Motion: Move to appoint Jon D. Ribacchi (Dave) to the Emergency Medical Services Council
for the term of March 1, 2010 ending March 1, 2012.
b) Clerk’s Office
Item Description: A resolution reclassifying position 05R00145 in the Thurston County Pay
and Classification Pay Plan.
Staff Contact: Betty Gould
Motion: Move to approve the resolution reclassifying position 05R00145 from Clerk’s
Judicial Information Specialist to Business Applications Technician II in the Thurston County
Pay and Classification Pay Plan.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Cathy Wolfe, District 1 ♦ Sandra Romero, District 2 ♦ Karen Valenzuela, District 3
Agenda for Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Thurston County
Board of County Commissioners
Agenda of June 1, 2010
Page 2 of 3
c) Commissioners Office
Item Description: Thurston Community Television Operating Agreement Extension.
Staff Contact: John Tennis
Motion: Move approval of the Operating Agreement extension with Thurston Community
Television, which covers the year 2010.
d) Auditor’s Office – Financial Services
Item Description: Approval of the Voucher List.
Staff Contact: Darren Bennett, Financial Services Division Manager
Motion: Move to approve the Voucher List for the week of June 1, 2010
4) Emergency Services
Item Description: Execute Personal Services Contract with Larry L. Fontanilla Jr. M.D.
Staff Contact: Steve Romines, Director
Motion: Move to approve the Personal Services contract with Larry L. Fontanilla Jr. M.D. for the
Medic One Medical Program Director., per Emergency Medical Services Council
recommendation.
5) Sheriff’s Office
Item Description: Request for Proposal for pharmaceutical services for the Thurston County
Corrections Facility.
Staff Contact: Todd Thoma, Chief Deputy
Motion: Move to approve the issuance of a Request for Proposal for pharmaceutical services for
the Thurston County Corrections Facility.
6) Planning
Item Description: Set a Public Hearing – Extension of the Subdivision Moratorium, Ordinance
#13405 as amended by subsequent ordinances.
Staff Contact: Jeremy Davis
Motion: Move to set a public hearing for Tuesday June 29, 2010 at 5:30 p.m., or soon thereafter,
in Building One, Room 280, of the Thurston County Courthouse to consider an extension of
interim Ordinance No. 13405 for an additional 6 months.
7) Public Works
a) Item Description: Resolution and Call for Sealed Bids for 2010 Resurfacing Project (CRP #
40210).
Staff Contact: Diane Sheesley
Motion: Move to approve the Resolution Calling for Sealed Bids for the 2010 Resurfacing
Project (CRP #40210).
b) Item Description: Morningside Professional Services Contract Amendment #2.
Staff Contact: Jack Lane
Motion: Move to approve Contract Amendment #2 with Morningside, and authorize the
Director of Public Works to execute the amendment.
Thurston County
Board of County Commissioners
Agenda of June 1, 2010
Page 3 of 3
Commissioners’ and County Manager Items
a) Item Description: Thurston County Administrative Manual Update
Staff Contact: Robin Campbell, Budget and Fiscal Manager
Motion: Move to approve and authorize the Budget and Fiscal Manager to update the Agenda
Item Summary policy in the Thurston County Administrative Manual.
b) Item Description: Commissioners will report on board work sessions and assigned committee
meetings, providing updates on actions taken as well as upcoming issues.
c) Item Description: County Manager Krupp will review the Board of County Commissioners
schedule for the week of June 1, 2010.
d) Item Description: Adjournment
Motion: Move to adjourn the Board of County Commissioners’ meeting of June 1, 2010.
3:30 p.m.) Afternoon Agenda
Board of Health with a separate agenda and minutes.
5:30 p.m.) Public Hearings
a) Resource Stewardship
Item Description: 2009-2010 Development Code Docket Item A-1 – Modify Maximum Building
Coverage Limits in Specific Rural Zones
Staff Contact: Scott Longanecker
Staff Recommended Action: Move to close the public hearing.
b) Resource Stewardship
Item Description: Working Lands Strategic Plan
Staff Contact: Corina Hayes
Staff Recommended Action: Move to close the public hearing.
c) Planning
Item Description: 2010 Comprehensive Plan Amendments – Olympia, Yelm, Lacey Joint Plans,
Chapter 4 Housing & Homeless Regulations, and Working Lands Policies.
Staff Contact: Jeremy Davis
Staff Recommended Action: Move to close the public hearing.
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Realtor Community Service Day!! 5-21-10
Friday, May 7th, 2010
Yes, it’s true!! Realtor Community Service Day is coming soon!! Mark your calendars NOW!! This is the day fellow Realtors and Associates work together to make our community better!! This year it will be on May 21, 2010 and we will be working on a variety of projects at schools around Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater such as planting plants, cleaning up school grounds and light landscaping in designated areas where help is needed.!! So, bring your gloves, hands tools, wheel barrows, etc. It will be a fun filled day of labor in the sun, followed up with a Lunch Feast at Cabellas sponsored by Stewart Title. To sign up for this wonderful day of Community Service, Becki at TCRA will be sending out Signup Sheets to each Realtor office. If you do not receive one or just want to make sure you do receive one, please contact her at 360-491-3910 or email at otcar@comcast.net to request a Signup sheet. Affiliates of all types of businesses are welcome to request a Signup Sheet!! We look forward to seeing you all there!!
Here’s the itinerary for the day:
Meet at TCRA 7:30am – 8:30am for coffee, donuts, water.
Head out in groups to each of the schools assigned
Lunch at Cabalas Noon-1:30pm
Lunch sponsored by Stewart Title
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BBQ Coming Soon!! 6-11-2010 2:30p
Thursday, May 6th, 2010
Good day fellow Realtors,
The WA Realtor PAC did an incredible job this year protecting our Realtors, the property rights of individuals, and us as Broker/Owners in a very economically challenging time in WA State. And, they’re not done. This recovery is going to take a while and we need a strong presence as our elected officials make tough decisions. We need to support that effort on a local level…yes, it’s fund raising time!
To that end, TCRA is holding our annual RPAC fundraising event, the BBQ and Auction, on June 11th, beginning around 2:30 p.m., at the TCRA office. We hope to see you and your agents/colleagues there. As always, it should be a good time and an opportunity for you to outbid your colleagues, catch up with friends, and contribute in a fun way to RPAC.
As we’ve done in the past, we’re asking for each Broker/Owner in each Realtor office to contribute $200 to $500; in advance. This is the “no guilt” “easy participation” way to support Realtors…just write a check and we’ll do all the work….purchasing the auction items on your behalf, chilling the beer, roasting the dogs…all you have to do is join us!
Seriously, please respond to this email at your earliest convenience and let us know your commitment level. We will happily send a runner to pick up the check and assist you in any way to facilitate these contributions. Just hit reply and let us know what you’d like to donate. We’re not asking for much…but, we do need your support.
Thanks again for your ongoing support in Thurston County. We appreciate it. It makes a difference.
Kim Piper, RPAC BBQ/Auction Committee Chair
Kathy Cross-Reece, RPAC Chair
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VIP!! Tumwater Council Mtg 5/4/10 @ 7pm
Tuesday, May 4th, 2010
AGENDA
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Council Chambers
7:00 P.M.
1. Roll Call
2. Flag Salute
3. Approval of the Agenda
4. Special Items:
a. Proclamation: Red Shirt Day
b. Proclamation: Bicycle Commuter Month, May 2010
5. Public Comment: (for discussion of items not having a public hearing on tonight’s agenda)
6. Consent Calendar:
a. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting, April 20, 2010; Worksession, April 12, 2010
b. The City Council authorizes for payment checks #117543 through #117687 in the amount of $917,168.97
c. Littlerock Road Improvements, Phase 2: Puget Sound Energy Construction Agreement for Schedule 74 Conversion (Jim Shoopman)
d. Ordinance No. O2010-003, 2010 Drainage Design & Erosion Control Manual Update: Set Public Hearing (Dan Smith)
7. Public Hearings
a. Ordinance No. O2010-008, Transportation Impact Fee Program (Jay Eaton)
b. Ordinance No. O2010-002, Interim Provisions for Time Extensions on Approved Phased Preliminary Plats (Roger Gellenbeck)
c. Ordinance No. O2010-004, Time Limitations on Preliminary Plats (Roger Gellenbeck)
8. Council Considerations:
a. Resolution R2010-008, Amending the Tumwater Fee Resolution (Roger Gellenbeck)
b. Award Contract: Littlerock Road Phase 2 (Jim Shoopman)
c. Tumwater Valley Regional Stormwater Facility (Dan Smith)
d. Intergovernmental EMS Contract Revision (John Carpenter)
9. Committee Reports
a. Public Safety Committee (Judith Hoefling)
b. General Government Committee (Ed Stanley)
c. Public Works Committee (Neil McClanahan)
d. Budget Committee (Pete Kmet)
10. City Administrator’s Report
11. Executive Session
12. Any other business to come before the Council
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodations provided upon request, with reasonable, adequate notice.
All regularly scheduled Tumwater City Council meetings are telecast live on Tumwater Television, Channel 26, and are re-broadcast as follows: on Thursdays following the Council meetings at 7 p.m.; on Tuesdays and Thursdays of the following week at 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. To view a videotape of a particular Council meeting, contact the office of the City Clerk at 754-4130.
Back to Council Agendas
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Homeowner’s Club Update
Friday, April 30th, 2010
Dear Directors,
As you know, in Suncadia our Board of Directors had a spirited debate about all aspects of the homeowner club
concept – the wisdom of getting into that business, the timing, the funding source, everything. It turns out that
you are indeed a reflection of the membership. Now that the details of the club concept are becoming known to
our 18,000 agents and brokers, the same concerns you discussed in Suncadia are being raised by our members
and communicated to WR leadership in very strong terms.
In light of the intensity of those concerns within the broader membership, and before proceeding with such a
significant and controversial investment of Washington REALTOR funds, I asked the Executive Committee to
consider slowing down the implementation of the club concept. On Tuesday April 27, 2010 the Executive Committee
met via conference call and decided not to immediately proceed with the incorporation of the subsidiary
corporation. The Executive Committee’s decision necessarily delays the funding of the corporation as well.
Here is some additional background.
Since the club’s business plan and funding source was approved by the Board on April 16, 2010, we have heard
from several major Association stakeholders that have voiced strong opposition to the business plan and/or the
funding source. The stakeholders that voiced their concerns represent many REALTOR offices across the state
and thousands of our members. Their concerns include:
• this is not an appropriate business model for a trade association; we should stay focused on our core
mission
• this will make the club, not individual REALTORS, the first point of contact with consumers and interfere
with our individual brokerage business models
• the business plan is flawed and the venture will not succeed. There also are liability concerns.
• the timing is wrong: agents and brokers are mortgaging their homes to stay in business, losing their
homes to foreclosure and struggling to pay their dues. They will be furious when they hear of this expenditure
• we’ll lose many members and RPAC investments will suffer dramatically
• the funding source is wrong because of timing: we should not be tapping into the Issues Fund when
we know the real estate industry likely will be the target of tax increases in 2011
• the funding source is wrong, period. We shouldn’t use the Issues Fund for anything other than issues.
As you can see, all of these concerns were raised and debated in Suncadia, before and during the Board meeting.
So you are to be congratulated for the thoughtfulness and scope of your discussions. Nevertheless,
after speaking personally with our members one thing seemed clear to me—if we push ahead at this time with
transferring $300,000 from the Issues Fund, we risk badly dividing this association at a time when unity is more
important than ever. Regardless of how you feel about the club concept or how you voted in Suncadia, we need
to listen to our membership. .
After hearing the feedback from our members, the Executive Committee felt the Board of Directors should also
have the benefit of this new information before we act. This is particularly true of the funding decision. Although
the first motion in Suncadia (to incorporate the subsidiary entity) passed rather handily (approximately 65%-
35%); the second motion (to use the Issues Fund) was substantially closer (approximately 55%-45%).
Your next opportunity to discuss this matter face-to face will be at the Fall Business Conference in September.
The Executive Committee will discuss the homeowner club concept and funding in more detail at our next meeting
on June 15 and bring to you a recommendation in September.
As your President, I and the Executive Committee respect the decision of the Board of Directors and take seriously
your charge to implement and oversee the club concept. However we believe that once you have the
opportunity to hear this feedback, you will support our decision to bring the issue back to you for further consideration.
Respectfully yours,
Bill Riley
2010 President
Washington REALTORS®
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Legislative Update!!!!
Wednesday, April 28th, 2010
Washington Realtors® 2010 Legislative Day and the powerful presence of more than 600 Realtors® brought our clear message to legislators in Olympia that real estate is critical to the overall economic recovery. Considering the state’s fiscal challenges, Realtors® significant legislative accomplishments are nothing short of remarkable.
Realtors® Top Legislative Priorities:
1. Real Estate Leads Economic Recovery
On Legislative Hill Day, a record 607 Realtors® hand-carried our message to each member of the Legislature. Our preemptive efforts along with the vigilant work of our Government Affairs committees, the constant presence of Realtors® on the hill, well thought-out advocacy tools, the work of our Key Contacts, strategic lobbying and the unprecedented support of our members were critical to our many victories.
“Great Job Getting the Message Heard”
While threats of a sales tax on services or an increase in the real estate excise tax did not materialize, Realtors® fought an increase in the B&O tax throughout the session. The Senate was first to propose a tax package and it had no direct taxes on the real estate industry. As rumors of an increase in the B&O tax in the House revenue package surfaced, Realtors® were prepared with an all-member call to action, talking points and a full-scale public advocacy campaign to alert the public to the threat of taxes on small businesses. Realtors® were the only major service business actively opposing a proposed B&O tax increase.
On the day the increase was expected to be announced by the House, Realtors® met with the Speaker of the House to reiterate our message. A few hours later the House released its much-delayed revenue package with a B&O increase of .25% on “lawyers, accountants, agents (not real estate), marketing and management consultants.” The House had specifically exempted real estate agents from the B&O tax increase.
“Due to your grassroots efforts and legislative
leadership in Olympia, you have done a great job getting the message heard that real estate is critical to the economic recovery,”
WA State Rep. Dave Upthegrove, 33rd District, to
Washington Realtors® Legislative Steering Committee
“I am proud to say that the Realtors® had a strong and effective presence in Olympia this past legislative session—starting with your President, Bill Riley. At a time when our residential housing market has suffered tremendously in this recession, the Realtors® were a strong voice for balanced policy and
promoting economic recovery for our state.”
Rep. Bruce Dammeier, 25th District
End Game Proved Tough
As is often the case in a legislative session, the exemption was short-lived and Realtors® were back fighting for the industry as the Senate considered a new revenue package that now included a B&O tax increase on all service businesses, including real estate practitioners. Realtors® worked through the weekend to pass an amendment to exempt real estate in Senate Ways and Means and then again on the Senate floor, to no avail.
Immediately, an all-member call to action was sent and more than 17 percent of our members responded and sent 6000 messages to legislators asking them to oppose a B&O on real estate professionals, the equivalent of a $4 million tax on the industry.
With just a moment’s notice, Realtors® then launched a full-scale, fully-prepared public education campaign that included TV, radio and website ads, and a website where the public could go to send messages to their legislators. This campaign was ready to go, thanks to the early planning of Realtors® leadership who anticipated the threat of tax increases. The campaign drew a lot of attention from the public who sent hundreds of messages to legislators as well as called their offices. Newspapers called to ask about the campaign
Realtors® Defend Real Estate in Special Session
On day one of the Special Session called by Gov. Gregoire to reach a final budget agreement, Realtors® were on the Hill urging legislators to again oppose the proposed B&O tax on real estate professionals. Lennox Scott, Dick Fulton, Rich Bergdahl, George Pilant, Rich Menti, Chud Wendle as well as President Bill Riley and President-elect Phil Harlan arrived at the Capitol on short notice and had select meetings with Senate and House leadership who hold substantial budget negotiating positions.
Four days into the Special Session, Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown met with Washington Realtor® President Bill Riley, Government Affairs Director Nathan Gorton and Director of Policy Bill Clarke and informed them that Realtors® had communicated their message and that the Senate would exempt real estate services from the B&O increase, one of only a few exemptions that Sen. Brown was allowing. An amendment that “Exempts Realtors® from the increase in the business and occupation tax on service businesses” passed the Senate the next day.
While we received support from both the House and Senate during the regular session to exclude real estate from the B&O tax increase, the revenue bill proposed by the Governor to end the Legislature’s final budget impasse reinstated the B&O increase on all service businesses, including real estate.
We responded by publishing an open letter from Washington Realtors® President Bill Riley to the Governor in the Seattle Times and a full-page ad in the Olympian; a radio ad campaign was launched immediately; another member call to action was sent; and, leadership and lobbyists were involved day and night during the final weekend.
Because this compromise bill developed by the Governor could not be amended, Sen. Kevin Ranker, backed by Senate Majority Leader Lisa Brown, worked with a coalition of House members led by Rep. Roger Goodman, to exempt real estate from the B&O increase. In the end, this effort lacked support from the Governor and House leadership and did not succeed. The B&O tax on business services, including real estate brokers and agents, was raised by .3% in the final budget. The .3% increase is scheduled to expire in three years.
Realtors® also opposed the repeal of an existing exemption from the B&O tax for amounts received by a property management company from the owner of a property for the gross wages and benefits paid by the property management company to on-site personnel. Like the B&O increase, Realtors opposed this provision but in the end it was included as part of the state’s revenue-raising measures.
2. Protecting Real Estate Excise Tax Use
HB 3179 and SB 6424 – Though there were no fewer than six measures introduced this session that would have diverted funds needed for roads, water and sewer projects for future homes and businesses to accommodate growth, HB 3179 and SB 6424 were two that stayed alive long enough to concern Realtors®; more than 1300 Realtors® responded to an all-member call to action to urge
“Washington Realtors® may be leading the pack in
expenditures with the most comprehensive push to keep new taxes away from the real estate and construction industries.”
Jerry Cornfield, Everett Herald
legislators to oppose the diversion of REET revenue. Legislators heard the message in both the House and the Senate and removed the language from both bills by amendment.
3. Fair Appraisals for Real Estate Transactions
4 HB 3040 – Washington Realtors® successfully supported the efforts of the Appraisal Coalition of Washington and other stakeholders to pass HB 3040, a measure that will help ensure appraisals are fair, reflect local values and that appraisal costs are completely transparent. Because the Home Value Code of Conduct (HVCC) agreement changed appraiser selection criteria (with the intent of eliminating conflicts of interest on mortgage appraisals), the use of appraisal management companies (AMCs) had become much more prevalent. While HB 3040 is not a direct response to the HVCC, it addresses several areas of concern that have surfaced regarding the appraisal management company industry.
4. Environmental Solutions to Help, Not Hinder Real Estate
Washington Realtors® stopped unnecessary environmental regulations that would have burdened our industry while passing others that protect property and streamline permitting.
4 Protecting Existing Uses: HB 1653 – Realtors® in coalition with a group of stakeholders, supported a bill that protects existing uses and activities in shoreline areas. HB 1653 provides protection from critical area ordinances interfering with legally existing uses and structures. It allows property owners to modify legally existing uses and activities on private property in the shoreline areas.
4 Streamlining SEPA: HB 2538 – Realtors® supported this measure which allows for an upfront State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) analysis that would not require a project specific SEPA analysis. This optionanl process provides predictability for development by conducting the SEPA process upfront and protecting development from appeals.
8 Modifying SEPA: SB 6762 – Realtors® originally opposed this bill to incorporate a new standard and definition of “cumulative impacts” into SEPA for Environmental Impact Statements (EISs). Modifications were made to the bill and Realtors® monitored the bill as it passed out of the Senate until it died in the House committee.
8 Studying Green: SB 6244 – Realtors® originally opposed this measure to provide a definition to Green Home and Energy Efficient Home. It was modified to be a task force study bill. Realtors® monitored the bill throughout the session which passed out of the Senate but died on the last day in the House committee.
Other Realtor® Legislative Priorities:
Realtors® successfully worked on several other priority measures affecting the real estate industry. Below they are listed under the topics of Realtors® Special Committees, which worked to review and watch their progress throughout the session.
Consumer/Business Affairs: Washington Realtors® carefully watched legislation that involves the real estate business and the clients we serve—the transaction and forms, real estate law, real estate research.
4 Real Estate Research: HB 2697 – The Washington Center for Real Estate Research has provided updated resources and information about the market which helps in marketing and advocacy efforts since 1989. For that reason, Realtors® worked to advance this bill, which extends the funding for the Center at WSU for another five years.
4 Commercial Seller Disclosure: SB 6749 – Realtors® supported this measure, prepared by legal counsel for the Commercial Brokers Association, NWMLS and the Washington Realtors®, which provides for a Commercial Property Seller Disclosure form. The disclosure forms are specific in statute. The disclosure of commercial real estate concerns title and legal, water, sewer and onsite sewage systems, structural issues, systems and fixtures and environmental issues.
4 Rental Properties: SB 6261 – Realtors® supported this measure to help limit a landlord’s liability for unpaid tenant utility bills. This bill clarifies that a utility can only collect up to four months of a tenant’s delinquent charges from the landlord, if the landlord had notice of the tenant’s delinquency.
8 Real Estate Agency Law: HB 2689 – Unfortunately, this measure to clarify broker and licensee terms got caught up in some political crossfire. The bill makes the necessary changes for the real estate brokerage agency relationship law to be consistent with the real estate brokers and salespersons law, which takes effect July 1, 2010. Realtors® will be working to get the language fix passed next session.
Land Use/Water Issues: Washington Realtors® promote wise planning and use of resources to accommodate our growing communities.
4 Extension of Comprehensive Plan Review: SB 6611 – Under this legislation, local governments are given three additional years to complete updates to their existing comprehensive plans.
4 Water Rights Permitting: SB 6267 – This measure streamlines the water right application process by developing a list of certified water examiners, expanding the department’s water right cost- reimbursement agreement program, and allowed for expedited permit processing.
4 Consolidating GMA Hearings Board: SB 6214 – Realtors® supported this legislation that consolidates the nine (9) members of the Western, Central, and Eastern Hearings Boards into one new Growth Management Hearings Board, which consists of seven (7) members and is intended to save state resources.
8 Restricting Fully Contained Communities: HB 2412 – Realtors® successfully opposed this attempt to restrict the use of the Fully Contained Community statute (RCW 36.70A.350) in the GMA. Fully contained communities allow for the clustering of non-urban development and thus help to reduce sprawl and provide affordable housing. Fortunately, SHB 2412 did not pass out of the House and died.
Next Year Will Be Even Tougher
Next year the state budget deficit could be twice the $2.8 billion hole that needed filling this year and the temptation to tax real estate, especially with the market recovery, will be even greater.
Realtors® overcame many impasses to pass good bills and stop bad ones. Despite these accomplishments Realtors® did not emerge unscathed and we are determined to continue delivering our message to state legislators and elect those that listen.
There were many that championed our cause courageously this session. Some did not. Help us elect the leaders that do. Help us build the power of Realtors® PAC to protect our industry and our livelihood.
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Spring Business Conference
Wednesday, April 21st, 2010
Communication Connectors
2010 Spring Business Conference Recap
The Spring Business Conference was held at the Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum Washington last
Wednesday through Friday. Communication Connectors highlights the conference to help
you communicate to your members what happened at the committee meetings and at the
Board of Directors meeting.
Board of Directors Meeting
The Directors elected new officers, approved the funding and business plan for a homeowners
club concept, approved a motion regarding General Counsel, and approved the reorganization
plan for the Education Department.
2011 Elections:
President-elect – Faye Nelson, Tri City Association
Treasurer-elect – Vickie Crook, North Puget Sound Association
Vp-elect of Association Operations – Lori Brady, Mason Co. Association
Vp-elect of Business Practices – Kitty Wallace, Kittitas Co. Association
Vp-elect of Education – Ray Spooner, Mid-Columbia Association
Vp-elect of Government Affairs – Paul Chrylser, Snohomish Co-Camano Association
Vp-elect of Information Systems – Tom Cantwell, Sequim Association
The Board approved a motion to establish a club for homeowners.
The club has yet to be named, but it will be a for-profit subsidiary, that will provide non-dues
revenue to Washington REALTORS®. The club will create an enterprise that extends the
relationship between REALTORS® and homeowners in meaningful ways beyond the closing of
a sale and improve and extend the reputation of the REALTOR® brand in Washington state.
The Board also authorized $300,000 to be disbursed from the Issues Fund to the club, and
$250,000 will be disbursed to the subsidiary on January 3, 2011.
The Board of Directors approved an Education Committee restructure
This restructure will allow the business to move more quickly and make decisions more
rapidly. There will be a smaller Board of Trustees and four new standing subcommittees that
meet regularly that include: faculty, curriculum, marketing and designations. These new
subcommittees will focus more directly on the issues at hand. This restructure is a bylaw
change that must be approved in September.
Financial Motions
The Board approved a motion to return $165,000 back to the Issues Fund out of $250,000 that
was allocated for the Housing Education and Marketing Program last April.
The Board voted to rescind the motion passed by the Board of Directors on April 24, 2009
which allocated up to $400,000 from the Issues Fund for the tax credit monetization program.
The money will be released back to the Issues Fund since it was not allowed by the IRS.
Litigation Motion Passes
Since last summer the Executive Committee and Legal Affairs Committee have worked on
establishing litigation management procedure policies for inclusion into the WR Policy
Manual, and the Board of Directors gave their final approval to the policies at this Board
meeting.
The newly adopted procedures will require notice to the President, Executive Committee, and
Legal Affairs Committee if either (1) Washington REALTORS® is sued or is notified that it is
under investigation by a government agency, or (2) if the association files litigation relating to
the operation or management of the association.
The approved policy allows the Executive Committee to establish a Litigation Management
Committee, and provides notification and approval provisions relating to legal settlements.
The Litigation Management Committee will be convened by the Executive Committee, and
can consist of 5 or 7 members, plus the CEO. The members will be selected by the Executive
Committee, must include members from the Legal Affairs Committee, and may include other
individuals who have education or expertise relevant to the pending legal matter. The
Executive Committee establishes the specific role and scope of authority of the Litigation
Management Team.
The Board of Directors will be notified of legal settlements above $25,000, and the Executive
Committee will have authority to settle any legal matter in which the settlement amount is
less than $1 million.
REALTOR® Awards
At the 2010 Awards Luncheon, we announced the winners of the 2009 REALTOR® Awards:
REALTOR® OF THE YEAR
Terry Reynolds – North Puget Sound Association
REALTOR® ACHIEVEMENT
Tom Hormel – Spokane Association
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Randy Hunzeker – Clark County Association
PARTNER OF THE YEAR
Barbara Harns – The Exchange, Spokane
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Aaron Reardon – Snohomish County Executive
AFFILIATE OF THE YEAR
Dean Hayes – Security First Financial
FRANK NARDO GRI SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
Curtis Miller
EDDY AWARD
Steve Klaniecki
HUGH HAWKINS AWARD
Pili Meyer
Government Affairs
2010 Legislative Session: Update
The Legislative Steering Committee met to review the remarkable accomplishments of the
recently-ended 2010 Legislative Session. No sales tax on services was passed and the real
estate excise tax (REET) was not increased. REALTORS® helped pass a bill to regulate appraisal
management companies and halted an attempt to divert REET revenue away from the roads,
water and sewer projects needed for homes and businesses. A new law to provide a
Commercial Seller Disclosure form passed and we stopped unnecessary environmental
regulations that would have burdened our industry while passing others that will protect
property and streamline permitting.
The Committee discussed the battle REALTORS® fought throughout the entire state budget
process to exclude REALTORS® from a B&O tax increase; despite exemptions proposed several
times, in the final days of the Special Session the B&O tax on business services, including real
estate brokers and agents, was raised by .3%.
REALTORS® PAC Trustees Approve Early Endorsements for U.S. Congress
RPAC Trustees considered and concurred with local association recommendations for early
candidate endorsements for the U.S. Congress. Those early endorsements include Reps. Jay
Inslee (District-1), Dave Reichert (District-8), Jim McDermott (District-7) and Adam Smith
(District-9).
Thousands of Dollars Raised to Elect REALTOR® Candidates
Thank you to all who attended the REALTOR® PAC Auction. There were many special items to
bid on from tickets to the Ellensburg rodeo to a Bucket of Champagne autographed by a state
legislator with the message, “REALTORS® Rock!” NAR’s first VP for 2011 Gary Thomas was the
Special Speaker for the event. The Auction was a huge success, raising $10,000 for RPAC.
Missed out of the Auction? Please make your investment here!
http://warealtor.org/government/political_affairs.asp
The Education Core Committee
The committee heard reports from the forum, GRI Governors, DOL, and education staff. The
committee continued its progress of developing the subcommittees. Steve Klaniecki shared
the results of the member survey.
Association Operations Core Committee
The Committee approved recertification of the Thurston County REALTORS® Association as
meeting the NAR Organizational Standards.
The Committee recommended a previously approved change in NAR Director qualifications
be added to the WR Policy Manual.
Spring Conference for 2012 will be held at Semiahmoo in Blaine, WA
Business Practices Core Committee
Annie Fitzsimmons provided the committee with a Legal Hotline update.
Tech Helpline statistics were provided to the committee.
The committee previewed several new membership marketing tools.
The committee shared feedback on the recent Open House event.
Information Systems Core Committee
The Information System Core Committee is going paperless! Each member received a
memory stick loaded with documents, minutes, research and business plans. Future agendas
and supporting documents will be emailed and committee members will be asked to bring
the information on their laptops or mobile devices.
Committee members reviewed the 2010 Washington REALTOR® communication survey and
also participated in a webinar with the Olympia office to review the refreshed website design.
We reviewed the facebook page and the proposed online usage policy. The awards
committee discussed the format of the awards and formed a new committee for next year.
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Realtor Fed Credit Union
Wednesday, April 21st, 2010
REALTORSFCU.ORG
Member Care: 866.295.6038
Dear Member
Did you know that REALTORS® Federal Credit Union is an exciting new REALTOR® Benefit? YOUR credit union offers real partnership and is sensitive to the work habits and lifestyles of busy real estate professionals. We invite you to learn more about the following benefits for businesses.
Industry Leading Rates on Business Deposit Accounts
Several associations and institutes are taking advantage of Certificate Investment and Money Market Savings rates that currently beat ING Bank, E* Trade, Bank of America and Wells Fargo!* We offer flexible terms on Certificates from 3 to 60 months. To open a business deposit account, contact Business Services at 301.355.7575 or email MemberCare@REALTORSFCU.ORG. Enjoy great returns and flexibility while maintaining liquidity. Currently, you can earn up to 1.91 APY** on a 12 month Certificate and 2.43% APY** on a 24 month Certificate. Check current Rates.
Maximize Earnings and Federally Insured Deposit Coverage with SimpliCD
SimpliCD (pronounced “simplicity”) is a certificate of deposit (CD) program that enables REALTORS® FCU’s business account holders to easily manage multiple certificate investments while maximizing federally insured deposit coverage. This turnkey program combines the safety of CD investing with the advantages of competitive rates and consolidated reporting. Investing in CDs has never been easier.
Announcing REALTORS® FCU‘s Partner Program and Free Marketing Tools
There’s an exciting opportunity for your association to become a Partner and earn promotional and financial incentives! Your credit union wants to help your association enhance the value of your membership by promoting the benefit of credit union membership. As a Partner, your association will have access to many free credit union marketing tools. As members join the credit union from your association, you can earn incentives including rate discounts, investment dividend increases, promotional recognition and more. For additional information contact PartnerProgram@REALTORSFCU.ORG.
Have You Joined Yet?
Join REALTORS® Federal Credit Union today! REALTORS® FCU offers Savings, no-fee eChecking with debit card and free ATM transactions at thousands of network ATMs.*** Your Credit Union also offers Investments, Auto Loans, Home Loans as well as Personal Loans & Credit Lines including secured-loans to help build credit. Members enjoy competitive interest & dividend rates on savings, investments and loans and federally-insured deposits. Not a member? Not a problem. Join online today!
Protect Yourself From Online Fraud
REALTORS® FCU periodically sends emails to inform you about announcements, news, special offers and events. We will never ask for any personal information or send a link to download software in conjunction with emails we send. Our emails will always contain our logo, contact information and a myNotices or myNews header. Please contact Member Care to report suspicious emails.
Member Spotlight
We’re here for you. Can’t take our word for it?
How about from a member?
Check out our Member Spotlights
Safe, Sound and Secure
More people are joining credit unions
Learn Why
Comparison based on 4/12/10 RateWatch Deposit Ranking Report. Certificate comparison reflects $10,000 minimum deposit to earn interest on 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60-month terms. Money Market Saving comparison reflects $2,500, $10,000 and $25,000 minimum deposit tiers to earn interest. Rates are subject to change. ING Bank excluded from 3-month Certificate and Money Market Savings rate comparison (products not offered). **APY=Annual Percentage Yield. 1.91% and 2.43% APY effective as of 4/1/10 with minimum deposit amount of $250,000. ***No monthly service fee. Other fees may apply. Surcharge-free ATM transactions within CO-OP Network & CU-24 Networks. Please refer to the Schedule of Fees and Charges at REALTORSFCU.ORG for details.
Must meet REALTORS® Federal Credit Union (RFCU) membership eligibility. Membership requires opening and maintaining a primary share savings account with a $100 minimum balance. Rates, terms, conditions and services are subject to change. RFCU savings are federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) to at least $250,000 and backed by the full faith and credit of the Unites States Government. RFCU is an equal housing lender.
You are subscribed to this email list as TCR@thurstoncountyrealtors.org.
If you no longer wish to receive these announcements, you can unsubscribe instantly.
Copyright REALTORS® Federal Credit Union© 2010. All rights reserved.
REALTORS® Federal Credit Union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.
REALTORS® Federal Credit Union, PO Box 571, Rockville, MD 20848
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FedEx Realtor Benefit
Wednesday, April 21st, 2010
New REALTOR Benefits® Offering
from FedEx OfficeSM (formerly Kinko’s)
Marketing & Business Development is pleased to announce the addition of FedEx Office (formerly Kinko’s) to its REALTOR Benefits® Program roster! NAR Members can now save 20% on select FedEx Office copy and print services, as well as 10% on additional services (such as banners, signage and direct mail) at more than 1,800 FedEx Office locations throughout the U.S.
This new program marks the expansion of the long-term relationship between NAR and FedEx, which was established in August of 2002 and has provided significant savings to NAR members on a variety of Shipping Services. Since that time, FedEx acquired Kinko’s and re-introduced it under the brand “FedEx Office”. NAR and FedEx understood the natural fit between real estate professionals and FedEx Office services, and worked to create a program under which NAR members would gain access to special member discounts on a variety of services they use every day. FedEx Office locations are plentiful and provide convenient access to printing and shipping expertise with reliable service when and where you need it. These centers provide a one-stop shop for small businesses as well as an “office on the road” for busy real estate professionals who are often on-the go. More than 200 FedEx Officesm locations operate 24 hours a day every day of the week.
The Fact Sheet below details the new offering and special promotion available to NAR Members. If you have questions about this or the REALTOR Benefits® Program, please contact me at x8269, Ken Burlington at x8360 or Kristin Stafford at x8628.
Thanks,
BOBG
WHAT: New REALTOR Benefits® Program offers NAR members savings on select FedEx Office
Services, as well as an enhanced Rewards Program.
LAUNCH DATE: April 19, 2010
AVAILABLE TO: All NAR members and national, state and local REALTOR® Association staff
1. NEW NAR MEMBER BENEFIT FROM FEDEX OFFICEsm:
20% discount on select FedEx Office black & white and color print and copy services (such as for Brochures, Flyers, Sell Sheets, Newsletters, and Postcards) * Details on services included can be found at realtor.org/realtorbenefits
10% discount off select additional services including non-core black & white and color print copy services, Direct Mail & Finishing services, Signs & Graphics
Excluded services (discounted pricing does not apply to the following services at this time):
Outsourced products or services, office supplies, notary services, shipping services, ink jet cartridges, video conferencing services, equipment rental, conference room rental, Sony Picture Station, gift certificates, specialty papers, custom calendars, holiday promotion greeting cards, or postage. Discounts on custom bid orders, sale items, orders required to be completed in less than 24 hours, or special offers.
Note: Discounts are not combinable and do not apply to any services provided by FedEx Office hotel, convention or other non-retail locations. Promotions or coupons are at the discretion of each FedEx Office location.
Members may also be eligible for volume discounts up to 70% on individual projects.
Members can access FedEx Office Print Online: whether you want printed products to spread the word about a project or you have a quick deadline to meet, FedEx Office Print Online has easy to-use solutions that work hard for busy professionals.
The process is simple:
• Go to the website
• Choose a print product that works for you
• Upload your files
• Preview / Edit
• Check out, and you’re done!
You can choose to print at any FedEx Office location or have final pieces delivered directly to your home or office.
Additional NAR benefit: Starting June 2010, NAR members who enroll in FedEx’s “My FedEx Rewards Program” earn points at a earn rate 25% higher than that offered through the standard “My FedEx Rewards Program”. Benefits of registering include order tracking, ability to save your preferences and incomplete orders, earn Rewards and receive special promotions & updates.
2. NAR MEMBER BENEFIT FOR FEDEX SHIPPING SERVICES:
NAR members already have access to savings of up to 26% on shipping services with FedEx; discounts vary by service:
FedEx Service: NAR Discount:
FedEx Priority Overnight® envelope Up to 26%*
FedEx International Priority® envelope Up to 20%
FedEx Ground® 35-lb. package Up to 12%
* Please note that savings above include the additional 5% savings NAR members receive when they create their shipping labels using FedEx Ship Manager® at fedex.com or other FedEx® electronic shipping solutions.
PROMOTION:
A full launch is set to begin April 2010. FedEx plans to introduce the new benefits through direct mail campaigns, magazine advertisements, and campaigns to members currently enrolled in the FedEx Shipping Program. FedEx also plans to attend NAR’s Annual Convention in 2010.
NAR will utilize all applicable communication vehicles to make members aware of the new FedEx Office Program, including spotlight in the NAR Membership Kit for all members, inclusion in the REALTOR Benefits® summary grid, within NAR’s INS, ListServ and REALTOR Essentials and REALTOR Benefits®-dedicated eNewsletters, in the Association’s “on-hold messages”, and in the REALTOR Benefits® section of REALTOR.org.
PROGRAM PARTNER INFORMATION:
To register for or to obtain more information on the benefits available on FedEx Shipping Services or FedEx Office Services, please visit http://www.fedex.com/nar (best viewed in Internet Explorer). Please provide your NAR membership (NRDS I.D.) # and FedEx Passcode LCRS8P15.
Or call 1.866.869.1171 and mention your NAR membership I.D. (NRDS #) and Passcode 155-13.
Note: you must enroll in the program (FedEx Office, Shipping, & Rewards) prior to visiting a FedEx Office location. The discounts and rewards will be directly linked to your account number.
NAR CONTACT INFORMATION:
Elizabeth Partin Kristin Stafford
Strategic Alliances Account Manager Managing Director, Strategic Alliances
312-329-8379 312-329-8628
epartin@realtors.org kstafford@realtors.org
-or-
Kenneth Burlington
Vice President, Strategic Alliances & Product Management
312-329-8360
kburlington@realtors.org
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B&O Tax Increases for Service Industry
Monday, April 19th, 2010
It has been a busy 36 hours since we last talked to you. I wanted to give you all an update on where we stand right now.
-The House passed the compromise revenue package Saturday afternoon. We worked hard to put together a trailer bill in the house that would follow the revenue package and remove the portion of the bill that taxes Real Estate agents. I would like to thank the following house members for signing on to that bill: Goodman, Van De Weghe, Maxwell, Williams, Upthegrove, Kelly, Conway, Liias, Orwall, Simpson, Appleton, Sells, Blake, Linville, Jacks, Rolfes, Driscoll, Hurst, Takko, and Carlyle and Larry Springer who was the go between for us on this trailer bill. Unfortunately, despite a long list of signers the Speaker decided to not allow any trailer bills at all. We are disappointed by this outcome but are working on other options.
-Now we turn again to Senator Ranker’s heroic efforts for us. This evening Bill Clarke and I met with Senator Ranker to discuss his strategy of running a bill that would make the new B&O Tax Credit work for how Real Estate Agents and Brokers report the B&O Tax. At that meeting he gave us language for a bill that would do just that, and we are now turning our attention to that approach. If passed, this would be a victory. It would be optional for offices to use it, but it would allow agents to be exempt from paying any B&O on the first $42,000 in gross receipts that they bring in, then on a sliding scale between $42,000-$70,000. The full 1.8% rate wouldn’t kick in until after an agent has brought in more than $70,000 in gross commissions. We believe the vast majority of our members would pay less in taxes under this formula then they are now paying at the 1.5% rate.
We will work this bill tomorrow in the House while Senator Ranker works it for us in the Senate. Time is now short and the Legislature will likely adjourn sometime Tuesday. While I am disappointed that we didn’t get the exemption, I believe that ultimately this tax credit will benefit our members, probably even more than an exemption would have. We will have a chance to go into further details at Suncadia, but wanted to give you all a quick update as to where we at right now. Stay tuned with 36-40 hours still left in this session who knows what we could still see.
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Open House 2010
Tuesday, April 6th, 2010
REALTOR OFFICES |
WEBSITES |
| Abbey Realty | www.abbeyrealty.com/ |
| Brunt Management | |
| Budd Bay Five Star Realty | www.buddbay5starrealty.com/ |
| Burger Professionals | www.burgerprofessionals.com/ |
| Capital Realty, LLC | |
| City Realty | www.CityRealtyInc.net/ |
| Coldwell Banker Evergreen Olympic Realty | www.coldwellbanker.com/ |
| Crescent Realty | |
| Deschutes River Realty | |
| Epic Realty | www.homesfromepic.com/ |
| Exit Realty Boardwalk | www.exitrealtyboardwalk.com/ |
| Greene Realty Group | www.greenerealty.com/ |
| Homes on Tour Realty, LLC | www.homesontour.com/ |
| John L Scott – Olympia/Lacey | www.JohnLScott.com/ |
| John L Scott – Yelm | www.johnlscott.com/ |
| Keller-Williams Olympia | www.city-data.com/profiles/13764 |
| Networks Real Estate | www.nwwf.com/about.cfm |
| Nicholson & Associates | www.nichrealty.com/ |
| Premier Properties One | www.premierpropertiesone.com/ |
| Prudential Olympia, Realtors | www.prudentialolympiarealtors.com/ |
| RE/MAX Country | www.country.washington.remax.com/ |
| RE/MAX Parkside | http://www.parksideaffiliates.net/. |
| RE/MAX Four Seasons | www.rmxhomes.com/openhouse/ |
| Reward International Real Estate | www.2733333.com/ |
| Reynolds Real Estate | www.reynoldsrealestate.net/ |
| Riley Jackson Real Estate | www.rileyjackson.net/ |
| SAV & Associates | www.nichrealty.com/ |
| Signature Services Real Estate | www.signatureservice.com/ |
| Van Dorm Realty | www.vandorm.com/openhouse/ |
| Virgil Adams Real Estate | www.virgiladamsrealestate.com/ |
| Windermere Real Estate – Graham | www.graham.mywindermere.com/ |
| Windermere Real Estate – Olympia | www.windermereolympia.com/html/homesrch.html |
| Windermere Real Estate – Yelm | www.windermere.com/ |
| Wise Realty | www.wiserealtyinc.com/ |
| Zip Realty | www.ziprealty.com/ |
Affiliate Members |
|
| Advantage Home Loans | www.advantagehomeloans.net/ |
| Benchmark Home Loans | www.thurstonchamber.com/Incubator/ClientProfiles/benchmark.htm |
| Chicago Title Company | www.ctthurston.com/ |
| Evergreen Home Mortgage | www.evergreendirect.org/page.php?id=237/ |
| First American Title Company | www.firstam.com/ |
| Golf Saving Bank | www.golfsavingsbank.com/home_loans_locations_oly.htm/ |
| HomeStreet Bank | www.homestreetbank.com/index.aspx/ |
| MetLife Home Loans | www.firsthorizon.com/ |
| Northwest Farm Credit Services | www.farm-credit.com/ |
| Olympia Federal Savings | www.olyfed.com/ |
| Sound Choice Inspections, LLC | www.soundchoiceinspections.com/ |
| Stewart Title | www.stewartthurston.com/ |
| The Real Estate Book of Olympia | www.realestatebook.com |
| Thurston County Title Company | www.tctitle.net/ |
| Twin Star Credit Union | www.twinstarcu.com/ |
| Wells Fargo Home Mortgage | www.wellsfargo.com/ |
| Wheeler & Peternell, PLLC | www.bgwp.net/ |
| WIN Home Inspection | www.wini.com/ |
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EPA Highlights Recycling Opportunities!!
Monday, April 5th, 2010
*FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE*
*April 1, 2010*
*EPA Highlights Recycling Opportunities During National Cell Phone Recycling Week*
WASHINGTON** *- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is encouraging citizens to recycle their cell phones during the “second annual National Cell Phone Recycling Week, April 5 – 11, 2010. This joint effort with the EPA’s “Plug-In To eCycling program and leading cell phone manufacturers, retailers, and wireless service providers [ http://www.epa.gov/osw/partnerships/plugin/partners.htm ] will increase awareness about the importance of cell phone recycling to save energy and conserve
natural resources.
“Every recycled cell phone makes a difference,” said Maria Vickers, acting director of EPA’s Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery. “The energy saved by recycling even one cell phone is enough to power a laptop for 44 hours.”
EPA and its Plug-In partners, including AT&T, Best Buy, LG Electronics, RecycleBank,* *Samsung Mobile, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless, are sponsoring promotional activities across the country to highlight the many easy opportunities to turn in phones for reuse and recycling and provide a call to action. If Americans recycled the approximately 130 million cell phones that are disposed of annually, enough energy would be saved to power more than 24,000 homes in a year. Currently, only
about 10 percent of cell phones are recycled.
Reusing or recycling cell phones helps the environment by saving energy and conserving resources. Cell phones and personal digital assistants (PDAs) are made of precious metals, copper, and plastics. Recycling or reusing these devices conserves materials, prevents air and water pollution, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that occur during manufacturing and processing. For every 1 million cell phones recycled, we can recover 75 pounds of gold, 772 pounds of silver, 33 pounds of palladium, and
35,274 pounds of copper.
Donating working cell phones or PDAs can also have social benefits for communities. Many existing recycling programs donate cell phones that are in good working order to charities or provide them to the public for discounted sale.
Plug-In To eCycling works with companies to offer consumers more opportunities to donate or recycle their used electronics. Since the program began in 2003, Plug-In To eCycling partners have recycled more than 360 million pounds of electronics, including televisions, computers and cell phones.
More information on cell phone collection centers near you: http://www.epa.gov/cellphones
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Docusign Approved as Official E-Signature
Wednesday, March 17th, 2010
National Association of REALTORS® Selects DocuSign as the Official and Exclusive Provider of ESIGN Services for NAR’s over 1.1 Million Members, under the REALTOR Benefits® Program.
Marketing and Business Development is pleased to announce that DocuSign, the newest partner under NAR’s REALTOR Benefits® Program, has introduced an all new “DocuSign REALTOR® Edition”, exclusively developed for NAR members. The e-signature service will offer exclusive benefits including preferred member pricing, a REALTOR®- branded online console, REALTOR®- branded e-signature, email templates and 40 DocuSign envelopes.
This fact sheet provides details on this new DocuSign offering available through REALTOR Benefits®. If you have questions about this or the REALTOR Benefits® Program in general, please contact me at x8269 or a member of the Strategic Alliances team listed below.
Thanks in advance,
BOBG
What: NAR members can subscribe to the DocuSign REALTOR® Edition at premier member pricing of 20% off retail. Also included are special features and benefits specifically tailored to NAR members.
Launch Date: Program to be launched March 9th, 2010
Available To: NAR members; NAR, state association and local board staff, all immediate family members.
About DocuSign
DocuSign Inc. is the leading provider of on-demand software services for electronic signature empowering individuals, small businesses and global enterprises to operate faster and more efficiently with greater profitability, enhanced security and compliance. DocuSign is the only Web-based service to securely automate and control the entire electronic document signing process. DocuSign employs the SaaS eSign industry’s only enterprise class SAS-70, fully redundant data center delivering 99.993% uptime for customers over the last 28 months. To date, more than 59 million signature events have been executed using DocuSign.
DocuSign is the official and exclusive provider of ESIGN services for the National Association of REALTORS®’ 1.1 million+ members, under the REALTOR Benefits® Program.
DocuSign’s e-Signature Services
DocuSign expedites the signing process of real estate documents and contracts and ensures compliance with established ESIGN and UETA requirements for a valid electronic signature.
How DocuSign Works
The DocuSign Solution is more than just the e-signature; the solution includes the e-signature with electronic audit trail, DocuSign console and integrated communication stream.
The e-signature includes a unique tracking code that creates an electronic audit trail that allows you to track the history of all documents signed via DocuSign. You’ll know who signed, where they signed and when they signed.
The DocuSign Console offers real-time tracking, control and reporting of the e-signing process. Users are able to access rich functionality with drag and drop “Sign Here” tabs and data fields, and assign recipient signing order to ensure documents are 100% complete with guided signing—even with multiple recipients with multiple documents. And users have the assurance that every envelope is backed with a complete audit trail.
Integrated communications provide for easy communication and management of the routing documents for e-signature. The DocuSign system intuitively sends email notifications to sign, signing reminders for those who are slow to respond or to provide a copy of the signed documents.
DocuSign makes it easy to streamline operations and accelerate revenue with complete visibility and control into the document signing process.
Designed for Mobile
New eSigning process uses smaller pages that load fast, and work with a wide range of mobile browsers, not just the latest iPhone and Blackberry. Designed for Mobile functionality DocuSign offers electronic signing from any Apple iPhone, RIM Blackberry, Google Android, Windows Mobile or any other mobile device. Available with all plans.
SPECIAL NAR MEMBER OFFER:
1. DocuSign REALTOR® Edition is an exclusive eSignature service specifically tailored for and available to members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). Features include:
• REALTOR®-branded online console
• REALTOR®-branded e-signature
• Email templates.
• 40 DocuSign Envelopes
2. NAR members can subscribe to DocuSign REALTOR® Edition at best-in-class pricing of 20% off the standard rates on both the Basic (starting at $15.99/month) and Standard editions (starting at $19.99/month).
3. Payment options include:
• Monthly with no commitment. Cancel anytime.
• Prepaid Annual – Best Value. Save 10% over the monthly rate!
4. Free-Trial 30-day, risk-free guarantee is available on all DocuSign plans. Just cancel before 30-days and the credit card will not be charged.
Subscribers must present a valid NAR (NRDS) member identification number to qualify.
PROMOTIONAL PLAN:
DocuSign is committed to an aggressive marketing campaign to educate members about the benefits available through this new program. This plan includes a strong presence at NAR trade shows, advertisements in REALTOR® Magazine and various real estate publications, specific NAR specials, website promotions and online advertising.
TO SIGN UP OR LEARN MORE: Visit www.Docusign.com/NAR or call 866-219-4318 and mention your NAR membership. You will need your NAR Membership (NRDS) I.D. to receive the preferred pricing.
NAR CONTACT INFORMATION:
Tiffni Williams Kristin Stafford
Strategic Alliances Account Manager Managing Director, Strategic Alliances
312-329-8543 312-329-8628
twilliams@realtors.org kstafford@realtors.org
Ken Burlington
Vice President, Strategic Alliances
312-329-8360
kburlington@realtors.org
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USDA Loans Not Accepted
Friday, March 12th, 2010
USDA Rural Development Loan Applications No Longer Accepted – Effective March 12
Date Posted: Thursday, March 11, 2010
Audience(s): Fulfillment Services Field Support, JV HMCs, JV Managers, JV Ops, Retail All , Retail Fulfillment Services All , Retail Sales All, Sales Field Support
Issue: On March 9, the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development (RD) announced that program funding for the Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program (SFHGLP) will likely be exhausted by the end of April.
In order to ensure the best possible customer experience for our RD borrowers, the following deadlines must be met to ensure RD loans are properly processed:
• Friday, March 12 at 5 p.m. Central time – Deadline for RD applications to be accepted by Wells Fargo.
IMPORTANT: Effective immediately, a Commitment Letter will only be provided for transactions that have received RD 1980-18 Request for Conditional Commitment and RD 1980-21 Request for Single Family Housing Loan Guarantee from the RD office.
If the Commitment Letter has not been issued, Decisioners must suspend transactions until the two RD documents are received.
• Friday, March 19 or sooner – Complete loan packages should be submitted to the appropriate RD office to request the RD 1980-18 Request for Conditional Commitment and RD 1980-21 Request for Single Family Housing Loan Guarantee.
IMPORTANT: Team members are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to submit complete loan packages as soon as possible. However, regardless of the date the loan packages are sent, there is no guarantee that RD program funding will be available.
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STOP .25% Tax Increase Video
Monday, March 8th, 2010
Here is the link to the video NAR will be running to stop the the Senate bill increasing B&O Tax by 0.25% which is = to about $30/transaction for next 3 years. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPmb285C0iY Please pass this info on to everyone!!!
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Olympia Legislative Update!!
Monday, March 8th, 2010
Since the election of three new city council members and the leave of absence of mayor pro-tem Joe Hyer, the Olympia city council has drastically changed from last year. Their first order of business was to down zone the “isthmus” property to last years 35 foot height.
Olympia, like all other cities are updating their Comp Plan and their Critical areas ordinance. They are having public meetings and neighbor input events to ask the citizens what they want Olympia to look like and I see a much different city after the new plan is passed.
Some of the issues on the Olympia’s future agenda are:
1. TDR’s (transfer of development rights) (work session) ???
2. Community Development block grant approvals.(March 9th)
3. Brentridge master plan. (March 9th)
4. Ground breaking of Percival landing project (July 2010)
5. Completion of the NEW City Hall (July-August 2010)
6. The west Olympia access study (March 23rd)
7. The construction bid for fire station # 4 (Stoll Rd.) (April 13th)
Olympia successfully passed a Transportation Benefit District (TBD) and have started collecting the $20.00 license tab fee. They also voted to allow developers to defer the payment of impact fees to the time of occupancy instead of Building permit. (Both were supported and lobbied by Realtors).
The city will be looking at “Revenue enhancement” including:
1. Levy lid lift (property tax increase)
2. Utility tax increase
3. B&O tax increase
4. Sales tax increase (3/10 of one percent) if allowed by the State Legislature.
I will continue to update this information as future meetings and hearings are scheduled.
DeWayne Granacki
TCRA GAD
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R U Connecting w/ Gen X&Y Buyers?
Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010
VIDEO VIEW IT NOW!! ________________________________________
R U Connecting with Gen X & Y Buyers?
Washington REALTORS® ‘R U Connecting with Gen X & Y Buyers?’ video is available for viewing! CLICK HERE TO WATCH NOW! Watch the video for free or receive three clock hours with a $25 processing fee. 64% of first time buyers are under 35! Tap into the next big wave of homebuyers with instructor Claudia Wicks. Learn the technology and tools to communicate with and sell to the present and future buyers. They are online; they are techno-fused, they are mobile!
Instructor Bio for Claudia Wicks
Trainer, speaker, writer, and Internet marketing innovator, Claudia shows agents how to use Fortune 100 strategiesfrom writing a business plan, to developing a brand, to creating lifelong clients with relationship marketingto build a real estate business they can retire on.
Known for delivering actionable training in an engaging presentation style that emphasizes the practical over the theoretical, Claudia teaches real estate agents how to build a profitable real estate business using successful, scalable strategies. A forward-thinking advocate for making agents accountable for their own success, her concrete approach is based on results gained from her 30 years experience in training tens of thousands of agents in the United Stated and Canada.
A successful agent, broker, manager and Regional Training Director, she has developed and delivered nationally acclaimed training programs for Coldwell Banker and John L. Scott.
As the National Director of Training and Real Estate Content for HouseValues for six years, Claudia is uniquely qualified to show agents how to systematize and scale their business with online marketing. Her knowledge of how to effectively use contact management tools, develop e-newsletters, and apply the steps in her proven Premier Coaching Program offers agents what they need to break through to new levels in their income.
Claudia is a well-respected industry resource and a prolific writer whose articles have been published in Realty Times since 2005. Named one of the top 10 women bloggers in 2006 for her AgentCEO blog, Claudia is a co-founder of Real Estate Base Camp, an innovative new training company. And named 2009 Instructor of the Year for Seattle KS Association of Realtors.
If REALTORS® want continuing education credit, they must fill out an affidavit (which is on the video page) and mail it with a check for $25 to Washington REALTORS® Education, PO Box 719, Olympia, WA 98507.
NOTE: This course is approved for 3 clock hours for real estate.
CLICK HERE FOR THE AFFIDAVIT TO FILL OUT FOR CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT!
Video Price: FREE!
3 Clock hours: $25
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Legislative Update!!
Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010
TUMWATER Update
Tumwater city council has just adopted a strategic plan as they are looking at their comprehensive plan. Their Strategic Plan and Comp Plan will contain an “economic development” platform. REALTORS® were instrumental in developing the plan. It contains 7 goals and action strategies that stimulate economic growth.
Three elements of the plan that were included by Realtors are:
# 1. Consider the timing of impact fees to coincide with the beginning of the impact to the city. i.e., at occupancy not permit application.
#2. Modify the city’s “vesting” ordinance so that vesting occurs at the time a compete plat is FILED and NOT at the time of a building permit.
# 3. Expedited Permitting: Tumwater has been criticized by the development community that it takes too long for a permit application to be approved. Due to a shortage of staff, Tumwater will hire outside permit review services [paid for by the developer] to move the permitting process to a few weeks and not a few months.
Tumwater will be looking at the “Brewery” property, Capitol Way, and Littlerock road for future development.
This plan will have two “public hearings” before final approval. We should all be there and support our additions to the plan. I will let you know when the hearings are scheduled.
A complete copy of the ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN is available at the TCRA Office.
ATTENTION INTERESTED PARTIES: Tumwater has an opening on the Planning Commission and in this year of Comp Plan review, it would be GREAT to have a Realtor on the Planning Commission. If you live in Tumwater and would be interested, please contact DeWayne @ 918-1193
DeWayne Granacki
TCRA GAD
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Here is your chance to join your peers
Monday, November 30th, 2009
Here is your chance to join your peers for a great day of education and fun. Thurston County REALTORS® Association has scholarships to attend the upcoming
REALTORS® Hill Day*
January 21, 2010
All you need to qualify for a scholarship is:
• This will be the first time you have attended.
• You have the interest & desire to spend the day learning about your government.
• You are a current paid member of TCRA
• Recipients must attend January 20, 2010 pre hill meeting, the meeting after hill visits and the Government Affairs meeting after Hill Day 2010.(last Friday of each month, 9am)
Submit your name today to TCRA 360-491-3910
(Prior to December 31, 2010)
________________________________________________________________________
Name
________________________________________________________________________
Office
Contact Number
Tentative Schedule January 21, 2010
Registration Opens
General Session
Local Association Caucuses
Luncheon
Hill Visits
Debriefing Caucuses
Legislative Reception
* Hill Day: during the Legislative Session, Washington REALTORS® members meet together for a day of political education on the current issues effecting their lives and businesses. They visit their Legislators to discuss these issues and share their thoughts.
* Cost of Registration (Only for 1/21/10 event) will be reimbursed with proof of attendance. Please register online at www.warealtor.org.
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New Audio Education from Washington REALTORS® Education!
Monday, November 16th, 2009
Washington REALTORS® Education is now offering audio education that you can listen to online or download to your computer. The course information is free to members and available for 3 clock hours for each course with a fee of $25 per course. To start listening to a course New Audio Education from Washington REALTORS® Education!
Washington REALTORS® Education is now offering audio education that you can listen to online or download to your computer. The course information is free to members and available for 3 clock hours for each course with a fee of $25 per course. To start listening to a course,http://www.warealtor.org/education/audio.asp The courses that we have available are:
So long as the transaction closes before the end of the extended tax program, the buyer will be eligible for the tax credit. With enactment of the extended tax credit program, the November 30 deadline becomes irrelevant. For more information and details regarding the extended tax credit program, visit the National Association of REALTORS website at www.realtor.org.
Bonus Legal Q & A
Question:
Can a buyer claim the first-time homebuyer tax credit if buyer purchases using seller financing?
Answer:
Yes. So long as the buyer obtains the “benefits and burdens” of ownership of the property, then the buyer can claim the credit. This is true even if the seller retains legal title as seller would if the financing document used was a real estate contract instead of a note with deed of trust. Factors that indicate that a buyer has the “benefits and burdens” of ownership include: the right of possession; the right to obtain legal title upon full payment of the purchase price; the right to construct improvements; the obligation to pay property taxes; the risk of loss; the responsibility to insure the property; and the duty to maintain the property. All of these characteristics are true of a typical, arms-length seller financing arrangement using either a note with deed of trust or a real estate contract. For more information and details regarding the extended tax credit program, visit the National Association of REALTORS website at www.realtor.org.
Hotline Attorney Annie Fitzsimmons writes the Legal Hotline Question and Answer of the Week. Please submit questions to legalhotline@warealtor.org or call (800) 562-6027. Please have your NRDS number ready when you call or e-mail the Hotline with your question.
The Legal Hotline lawyer does not represent Washington Association of REALTORS® members or their clients and customers. Research this topic and thousands of others online
Career Help Center
We have scanned and selected interesting tips & tricks articles from a variety of industry publications so you don’t have to. Always check with your broker/owner to see if these practices fit within your company policies.
Promoting Green in Real Estate
Some real estate professionals are transforming the industry by living, working, and educating ‘green.’
Read more
Sixteen Ways to Keep Your Seller Happy
What is the number one thing that home-sellers complain about? According to Jennifer Allan, its lack of commuication.
Read more
Mortgage Rates
Long-Term Rates Fall to Lowest Level in Five Weeks
30-Year FRM Below 5 Percent for Five of the Last Seven Weeks
McLean, VA – Freddie Mac (NYSE:FRE) today released the results of its Primary Mortgage Market Survey® (PMMS®) in which the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage (FRM) averaged 4.91 percent with an average 0.7 point for the week ending November 12, 2009, down from last week when it averaged 4.98 percent. Last year at this time, the 30-year FRM averaged 6.14 percent.
The 15-year FRM this week averaged 4.36 percent with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 4.40 percent. A year ago at this time, the 15-year FRM averaged 5.81 percent.
The five-year Treasury-indexed hybrid adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) averaged 4.29 percent this week, with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 4.35 percent. A year ago, the 5-year ARM averaged 5.98 percent.
The one-year Treasury-indexed ARM averaged 4.46 percent this week with an average 0.6 point, down from last week when it averaged 4.47 percent. At this time last year, the 1-year ARM averaged 5.33 percent.
Government Affairs
Sen. Murray Speaks to REALTORS® about Tax Credit Extension, Support for Housing
“As we all know well, the speed of our overall economic recovery depends on the stability of our housing market,” Sen. Patty Murray expressed in a statement to REALTORS® last week. “And while we have seen signs of stabilization and improvement in areas of the housing market, credit availability and liquidity constraints continue to restrict a strong, swift recovery. I understand these challenges and what they mean to your businesses and livelihood. That’s why I’ve pushed hard to extend an elevated conforming loan limit, raise the FHA loan ceiling, and increase funding for pre and post-purchase housing counseling.”
“Last Wednesday, the U.S. Senate took another critical step to bolster our housing market by passing legislation to expand and extend the homebuyer tax credit. As Chair of the Senate Housing Appropriations Committee, I was proud to be a co-sponsor of this legislation and to fight for its inclusion in the unemployment extension bill. In addition to this measure, I’m currently working with our community banks to identify ways we can improve the credit environment for our small businesses and households which will also have a positive impact on housing. I look forward to continuing to work with all of you to identify additional solutions and steps we can take to accelerate our housing recovery.“
Legislative Days 2010: Join 600+ REALTORS®
Be sure to mark your calendar for January 20 and 21, 2010 when more than 600 REALTORS® will meet and rally together to make their voice heard in Olympia at the largest “Hill Day” in the state. This year, we are encouraging all of our seasoned Leg Day vets to “Adopt-a REALTOR®” for the event. Tell them how exciting it is to bring our message to lawmakers. Bring them along with you and show them the ropes. They will be thrilled! Watch for registration coming soon at http://www.warealtor.org.
Education
Learn the Ins & Outs of Foreclosures!
Short Sales & Foreclosures: What Buyer’s Representatives Need to Know – Another Tour Coming in November!
For many real estate professionals, short sales and foreclosures represent the new “traditional” real estate transaction. Knowing how to maneuver the complexities of short sales as well as how to identify the distinct real estate opportunities in foreclosure are not merely good skills to have in today’s market-they are critical. This course helps students evaluate all available options for distressed homeowners and identify the components of an effective short-sale package. This course looks at how real estate professionals can counsel buyer-clients in the purchase of foreclosure properties. And as a practical resource, this course shows students how consumers can avoid foreclosure in the future. The Short Sales & Foreclosures course counts as a REBAC elective course to be applied towards the ABR designation and also counts as 7.5 clock hours toward real estate license renewal, 7.5 hours for appraisal and 5.75 General Units for LPO’s. This course goes from 8:30am to 5pm except the Tacoma course goes from 9am to 5pm and the schedule is as follows:
• November 17th in Everett @ Location To Be Determined
• November 18th in Tacoma @ Tacoma-Pierce Co. Assoc. of REALTORS Office
• November 18th in Olympia @ Washington REALTORS Office
• November 19th in Vancouver @ New Tradition Homes
~Why Take this Course? Approved toward new NAR Short Sales & Foreclosure Resource Certification!
To qualify for this brand new certification, you must 1) be a member in good standing with NAR, 2) complete this Short Sales & Foreclosures course, 3) complete three 1-hour free webinars (available beginning in October), and 4) submit application to NAR (fee waived through December 31, 2009).
Register Today!
Register Today! GRI 100 Coming to Tacoma December 1-4 & GRI 300 Coming to Silverdale December 8-11
Take the Graduate REALTOR® Institute (GRI) 100 course being offered in Tacoma on December 1-4 at the Tacoma-Pierce Co. Association of REALTORS Office & (GRI) 300 course being offered in Silverdale on December 8-11 at (Location to Be Determined). The course in Tacoma goes from 9am to 5pm and the course in Silverdale goes from 8:30am to 5pm. Each course is 30 clock hours for renewal. “The GRI designation is the most common designation among those who hold any designations, held by 19% of REALTORS” . In today’s competitive business environment, real estate professionals need the advantage of the education one receives in the GRI program. It is the only one that includes Washington State specific information and utilizes in-state instructors. The GRI designation indicates that you have made the commitment to provide a high level of professional service to your clients. GRI 100 topics include: Pricing, Sales & Marketing, Technology, Purchase & Sale Agreements, and Real Estate Finance. The GRI 300 topics include: Business Management, Risk Management Skills, Taxation/Real Estate Investment, and At Home with Diversity. To obtain the GRI designation, GRI 100, 200, 300 levels must be completed and they can be taken in any order.
Register Today!
Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) course being offered in Bellevue on December 7-8!
Washington REALTORS® Education is offering the Seller Representative Specialist (SRS) designation course in Bellevue on December 7-8, 2009 at the Master Builders Association Office. This course offers 14.0 clock hours for renewal and the course goes from 9am to 4:30pm both days. The SRS – Seller Representative Specialist Designation awarded by the SRS Council, LLP, has been delivered nationwide and has received rave reviews. This 2-day, Non-NAR program focuses on providing the real estate practitioner with the tools necessary to represent seller clients in a variety of formats. Particular attention is given to: differing listing models, office policies, field issues, & legal and code ramifications to representing sellers in today’s changing environment. Topics include: manual and e-methods of procuring listings, securing the listing, staging the property and marketing venues, representing the seller client when converting consumer inquiries, co-broking with cooperating agents, protecting the interests of the client when fielding multiple offers, negotiating the offer and inspection phase issues, and following the pending transaction to closing. In order to receive this designation, you must complete the 2-day course.
Register Today!
Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) Designation Course Coming to Vancouver on December 7-8
The Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) Designation course is being offered in Vancouver on December 7-8 at the New Tradition Homes Office. This course goes from 8:30am to 5pm both days and is approved for 15.0 clock hours. This seminar is focused on negotiation training applied to real estate negotiation situations. This course is a non-NAR designation course. This course will cover different approaches, persuasion principles, and the psychology of buying along with role plays, case studies, and group discussion topics. This course will help real estate professionals become skilled negotiators in order to provide a higher standard of service to clients and to better help achieve client goals. Course content includes: How Buyers Buy & Sellers Sell; Building Trust; Identifying Listing/Offer Options for Clients; Persuasion Principles; Power/Emotions/Deadlocks; & Stand Area Motivator Model.
Why Attend:
~98% of buyers believe negotiation skills are “Very Important” or “Somewhat Important” in their real estate agent. *
~Buyers give negotiation skills the lowest satisfaction rating of all agent skills and qualities. *
*According to the NAR 2006 profile of Home Buyers and Sellers.
Register Today!
Have the GRI designation? Join the New GRI Chapter!
Would you like to receive referrals from other GRI’s? If so, a GRI chapter was formed just for GRI designees. Become a charter member today! The REALTORS® Institute is more than twenty-five years old and has graduated thousands of REALTORS®. These professionals find the GRI designation a powerful tool for attracting and building new business. Membership is open to anyone who is a member in good standing of Washington REALTORS® and NAR, and who has earned the GRI designation. Membership dues are only $25 per year. Membership incentives include: $10 off ED CON 2009 and a roster of members emailed to you each quarter. Plus, new incentives are being added frequently!
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity, Apply Today!
GRI Chapter Members: Don’t forget that you can take advantage of this GREAT Offer!
Now any GRI Chapter Member can take GRI 100, 200 & 300 for $59 per class! What a great way to get 30 hours and refresh your GRI knowledge. To register, contact Washington REALTORS® Education @ 800.748.7053.
Online Renewal Packages Offered by Your Realtor Association!
Washington REALTORS® Education offers online renewal packages that are affordable and in a convenient way, receive quality education anytime, anywhere you have internet access! Our online renewal packages allow you to take your real estate training at your pace, in your own space and are for the busy real estate professionals or beginning agents. Save time and money by taking these classes today! Available are the 30 hour renewal package and the 60 hour First-time renewal package. Also available, are other individual courses. For more information or to register, go to www.warealtor.org/education
New Audio Education from Washington REALTORS® Education!
Washington REALTORS® Education is now offering audio education that you can listen to online or download to your computer. The course information is free to members and available for 3 clock hours for each course with a fee of $25 per course. To start listening to a course, CLICK HERE NOW! The courses that we have available are:
Current Issues in Residential Real Estate -Mandatory Core Curriculum – 3.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Annie Fitzsimmons
The Washington State Real Estate Commission and the Department of Licensing have adopted new rules that will require the completion of 3 clock hours of prescribed core curriculum. The 3.0 mandatory clock hours must be included in the 30 hours required for all active licensees. Topics Include *Sellers Disclosure *Current Legal/Regulatory Issues *Licensing Issues
Legislative Update: What Happened in 2009 – 3.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Annie Fitzsimmons
The class will provide critical information for REALTORS regarding changes to real estate laws and related topics arising from the discussions, debates and decisions of the 2009 Legislative Session.
New ‘Short Sales’ Video Class with Annie Fitzsimmons
• From pre-listing to the post closing celebration. Walk through an entire short sale with the Legal Hotline lawyer. Analyze the types of buyers and sellers who should and should not consider participating in a short sale. Learn to recognize the red flags that signal potential fraud and how you can avoid it. Understand the forms and how to use them to achieve your client’s desired outcome. In short, take control of the short sale process by knowing what to do and when to do it to achieve the greatest efficiency for buyers, sellers, lenders and real estate agents.
• 3.0 clock hours
• Once you have viewed the class and want clock hours, you will download and sign an affidavit. Return it to us with a $25 class fee and we will send you a certificate for clock hours. The information is free for members if no clock hours are desired.
• CLICK HERE TO VIEW NOW!
For more information on any of these classes, or to register contact Washington REALTORS® Education at 800.748.7053.
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Online Renewal Packages Offered by Your Realtor Association!
Monday, November 16th, 2009
Washington REALTORS® Education offers online renewal packages that are affordable and in a convenient way, receive quality education anytime, anywhere you have internet access! Our online renewal packages allow you to take your real estate training at your pace, in your own space and are for the busy real estate professionals or beginning agents. Save time and money by taking these classes today! Available are the 30 hour renewal package and the 60 hour First-time renewal package. Also available, are other individual courses. For more information or to register, go to www.warealtor.org/education
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House and Senate pass Homebuyer Tax Credit
Thursday, November 5th, 2009
In case you have not heard, the House passed the bill that will extend and enhance the Federal Tax Credit for first time homebuyers and it also includes some “move up” buyers that have lived in their home for five years or more. The bill now goes to the President for signature.
We have sent a notification to all Washington REALTOR Brokers and we are preparing a public awareness campaign that we can launch as soon as the bill becomes law. We will keep you posted on that campaign. Attached are some Frequently Asked Questions prepared by NAR.
House and Senate pass Homebuyer Tax Credit
Update as of 12:30pm 11/5/09
The House passed the Tax Credit [ within the Unemployment Benefits bill] by a vote of 403-12. It now goes to the President for signature, as early as Friday.
Notice from yesterday….
The US Senate voted 98-0 to pass the Homebuyer Tax Credit [within the Unemployment Bill]. It now goes to the House. We expect the House to pass the bill as well and it could go to the President for signature within the week.
Passage of this bill would be wonderful news for the real estate industry in Washington. In essence, the bill extends the $8,000 first-time homebuyer credit through April 30, 2010 and provides a $6,500 credit to new purchasers who have lived in their current residence for five or more years.
According to Senator Patty Murray, “Extending and expanding the successful homebuyer’s tax credit will help families purchase homes and will provide a much needed boost to the local housing market”.
Download Bill Details
Thank you REALTORS for contacting your Senator and urging them to support this bill. Over 25 percent of our members responded to the call to action and helped push this bill through the Senate. Washington REALTORS are preparing a public relations plan to promote the extension if/when the bill becomes law.
NAR Frequently Asked Questions
Homebuyer Tax Credit Changes
National Association of REALTORS® Government Affairs Division
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20001
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions on the changes to the Homebuyer Tax Credit
Question: Existing homeowner credit: Must the new house cost more than the old house?
Answer: No. Thus, for example, individuals who move from a high cost area to a lower cost area who meet all eligibility requirements will qualify for the $6500 credit.
Question: I am an existing homeowner. On October 25, 2009, I signed a contract to purchase a
new home. I have lived in my current home for more than 5 consecutive years and
am within the new income limits. I will go to settlement on November 20. If
President Obama has signed the bill by the time I go to settlement, will I qualify for
the new $6500 tax credit?
Answer: Yes. The existing homeowner credit goes into effect for purchases after the date of enactment (when the bill is signed). There is no reference to the date of contract for the new credit. The provision looks solely to the date of purchase, which is generally the date of settlement.
Question: I am a firsttime homebuyer but was not within the prior income limits at the time I
entered into my contract to purchase on October 30, 2009. I will be covered,
however, by the new income limits. If the new rules have been signed into law by the
time I go to settlement, will I be eligible for a credit?
Answer: Yes. The new income limitations go into effect as soon as the President has signed the bill.
The income limit and other eligibility rules will look to your status as of the date of purchase,
which is the settlement date. So if the new rules have been signed when you go to settlement,
you should be eligible for the credit (or a portion of the credit if you’re within the phaseout
range).
Question: I am an eligible existing homeowner. I have a fair amount of equity in my home. I
have found a home with a nonnegotiable price of $825,000. Will I be able to use any
of the $6500 tax credit?
Answer: No. The $800,000 cap on the cost of the purchased home is firm at $800,000. Any amount above $800,000 makes the home ineligible for any portion of the credit. The $800,000 is an absolute ceiling.
Question: I owned my home for 10 years, but sold it two years ago year and have been renting
since. If I purchase a home, will I be eligible for the $6500 tax credit if I meet all the
other eligibility tests?
Answer: Yes. Because you lived in the home for more than 5 consecutive years of the previous 8, you will qualify for the $6500 credit. For example, Say John and his wife bought a home in 2000
and lived there until 2008 when he got a divorce. Whether John has been renting or bought in
the interim, he WOULD INDEED be eligible for the credit because he owned a home and
occupied it as his principal residence for 5 consecutive years out of the last 8 years. The
keyword here is “consecutive.” As long as he lived in that house for 5 years straight what he
did since 3 years doesn’t impact eligibility.
Question: I am an eligible firsttime homebuyer. I entered into a contract to purchase on
November 1, 2009. Do I have to go to closing before December 1? How does the
extension date affect me?
Answer: You do not have to close before December 1. Once the legislation has been signed, it will be as if the Nov 30 date had never existed. Therefore, so long as the contractAnswer: You do not have to close before December 1. Once the legislation has been signed, it will be as
if the Nov 30 date had never existed. Therefore, so long as the contract settles before April 30
(or July 1, worst case), the purchaser will be eligible for the credit.
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Rent vs. Buy Video
Thursday, October 29th, 2009
Follow the adventures of Bob and Sally as they learn about renting versus buying a home.
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$8,000 TAX CREDIT SPANISH VIDEO
Wednesday, October 14th, 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXI8LNCJ47k
The about address will give you a video, in Spanish, please feel free to down load and use.
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3 clock hours approved for Lenders and Real Estate Agents!!
Tuesday, October 13th, 2009
3 clock hours approved for Lenders and Real Estate Agents!!
THIS 3 HOUR CLASS WILL COVER:
• Methods of Foreclosure – Judicial vs. Non-Judicial
• Statutes that govern foreclosures
• Timeframes
• Lien priority & elimination
• The role of the Trustee and Title Company
• Pitfalls of buying properties at the auction
• Alternatives to Foreclosure – Short Sale, Forbearance, Loan Modification
• Other issues – Bankruptcy, Insurance claims, Homeowner’s Association Liens
Location: TCRA Building, 510 Stoll Rd
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Time: 1pm-4pm
Cost: $30
RSVP: 360-350-6760
Limited seating, call now to RSVP your spot!!
Kathy Powell and Kami Clark
First American Title
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2009 Award Application Forms
Monday, October 12th, 2009
IMPORTANT – YOUR SUGGESTIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ARE VALUABLE TO OUR AWARDS COMMITTEE. PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO FILL OUT THIS FORM AND MAIL OR FAX TO THE ASSOCIATION OFFICE.
Thurston County REALTORS® Association
2009AWARD NOMINATIONS
It’s Time to Nominate Someone Special For
“REALTOR® of the Year”
“REALTOR® Special Achievement Award”
“Affiliate of the Year”
“Citizen of the Year”
“Long Time REALTOR® Spirit”
“REALTOR® Community Service”
“Partner of the Year”
The Awards Committee is seeking nominations for the above awards. Take a moment now to nominate someone you feel deserves special recognition for a job well done. All you need to do is fill out the information below and return to the Association office. The recommendation will then be turned over to the Awards Committee for further consideration.
I WOULD LIKE TO NOMINATE THE BELOW LISTED PERSONS FOR THE FOLLOWING AWARDS
REALTOR® OF THE YEAR
Nominees reflecting REALTOR spirit and professionalism, activity in civic affairs, activity in local association, activity in State Association, National Association, and overall business accomplishments.(Must be a member in good standing for at least 5 years.)
Name of Nominee:_________________________________________Firm Name:___________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
REALTOR® SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Nominees selected for REALTOR spirit and professionalism, extra ordinany effort on a REALTOR committee or task force, activity in civic affairs, activity in local board, educational courses attended and designations earned, and business accomplishments.(must be active member in good standing for a minimum of 18 months)
Name of Nominee:________________________________________Firm Name:______________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:_________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR
Nominees selected for contributions toward activity in local association, and encouragement of professionalism, promotion of REALTOR projects/activities, business accomplishments, and activity in civic affairs.
Name of Nominee:_______________________________________Firm Name:______________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:_________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
RETURN BY November 16, 2009
Thurston County REALTORS® Association
510 Stoll Road, Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 491-3910 FAX (360) 491-1347 Email: TCR@thurstoncountyrealtors.org
LONG TIME REALTOR® SPIRIT
Nominees selected for REALTOR spirit and professionalism, continuing over a long period ot time, accumulative activity in civic affairs, accumulative activity in local board, designations earned, and business accomplishments.
Name of Nominee:________________________________________Firm Name:______________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:_________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
CITIZEN OF THE YEAR
Nominees reflecting community spirit and professionalism, contributions with regard to our industry, activity in civic affairs, activity in local association, and overall business accomplishments.
Name of Nominee:_________________________________________Firm Name:___________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
AFFILIATE OF THE YEAR
Nominees selected for contributions toward activity in local board and encouragement of professionalism, business accomplishments, educational courses attended, and activity in civic affairs.(member in good standing and active in real estate related industry for a minimum of 18 months)
Name of Nominee:_______________________________________Firm Name:______________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:_________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
REALTOR® COMMUNITY SERVICE
Nominees selected for contributions toward activity in civic affairs and activity in local association.
Name of Nominee:_______________________________________Firm Name:______________________________________________
Reasons why you feel this person should be considered:_________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
RETURN BY November 16, 2009
Thurston County REALTORS® Association
510 Stoll Road, Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 491-3910 FAX (360) 491-1347 Email: TCR@thurstoncountyrealtors.org
Now is the time to look back over the past year and remember the great job(s) your fellow REALTORS® have taken part in or done for the Real Estate industry and/or for our growing community of Thurston County
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Mortgages and Interest Rates
Thursday, October 8th, 2009
Pass it on! Here is a cute video that explains the impact of interest rates on your mortgage payment and some very good reasons to take advantage of today’s interest rates!
You have permission to forward this to clients and others in your office. You can even embed the video into your website/blog by getting the code directly from YouTube.
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Candidates for 2010 TCRA election of Officers & Board
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
Candidates for 2010 TCRA election of Officers & Board
President-Elect
Kathy Cross, REMAX Four Seasons
Secretary
Kathy Powell, First American Title
Gen Lane, Stewart Title
Treasurer-elect
Kim Piper, REMAX Four Seasons
Affiliate Director
Eric Prehm, Stewart Title
Jackie Ashley, Hydro-Physics
Local Commercial Director
Lisa Cosmello, REMAX Parkside
State Directors
Sandy Lorenz, Van Dorm Realty
Gregory Moe, Windermere Real Estate
Bill Hutchinson, City Realty, Inc
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FHA: The Best and & Fastest Mortgage Finance
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
September 16
11:30AM Registration
12:00 – 3:00PM Presentation
FHA: The Best & Fastest Mortgage Finance
Option for your Clients Today!
No Cost
TCRA Office, 510 Stoll Rd SE, Olympia, WA
Call or email to reserve your place.
491-3910
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Golf Tournament Next Friday Sept 11
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
September 11
8:30AM Shotgun Start
GOLF TOURNAMENT
Call Stacie at 491-3910
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First Time Buyer Financing Options
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
September 4
11AM-1PM
First Time Buyer Financing Options – Speaker: Lisa DeBrock, Manager, Homeownership Division
Washington State Housing & Finance Commission
Cost: FREE
Seating is Limited, pre-registration requested. Call Brianna at 786-6900
Location:TCRA Office, 515 Stoll Rd SE, Olympia
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TCRA General Membership Lucheon Meeting
Thursday, September 3rd, 2009
Sept.18, 2009
Call to reserve your seat (Please note all reservation must be prepaid) 491-3910
Pre-registration: $20
At the DOOR: $25
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REALTOR University FREE Webinar Summit
Thursday, August 20th, 2009
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ED CON
Tuesday, August 18th, 2009
2009
Hilton Airport Inn Hotel
October 12th & 13th, 2009
v SeaTac, Washington
Register Today!
Cindy White 20 Tips from a Broker
Classes ranging from high tech to high touch will keep you informed and enthused. Washington R
ealtors
Call 1.800.748.7053 for more details or go online to www.warealtor.org.
Special Early-Bird Price!
Register online by August 15th, 2009 for only $149.00
(includes: 15 clock hours, continental
breakfast, coffee, trade show and box lunch);
$179
(also includes Tuesday’s Keynote
Lunch-Speaker NAR Economist Jed Smith).
Continued on Next Page
Thanks to Our Sponsors
Fax: 360.357.6627
Phone: 800.748.7053
Mail: WA R
PO Box 719
Olympia, WA 98507
ealtors® Education
Washington
Chapter
Jed Smith is Managing Director, Quantitative Research with the National Association of Realtors ®. Before joining NAR he worked as an economist with the U.S. Postal Regulatory Commission, addressing the economics of processing and delivery issues, with an emphasis of estimating costs as a function of residential and commercial sector activity. Other experience has included working as a consultant with KPMG, as a planner for the Washington Gas company, and as a business analyst for the General Electric Company. He has provided input on a variety of housing, commercial sector, tax, and planning issues. His Ph.D. in economics is from Purdue, and he was awarded an A.B. in economics with honors by Hamilton College.
during short sale negotiations? What are the new changes to the WA State Deed of Trust Act? We will answer these questions and more.
Schedule of Events
Mail: WA R
ealtors® Education, PO Box 719, Olympia, WA 98507
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Septic System Repair Financial Assistance Program
Wednesday, August 5th, 2009
Thurston County Environmental Health
Septic System Repair
Financial Assistance
Program
Loans and grants are available to Thurston County
homeowners to
failing septic systems.
fi nance the repair or replacement of
Eligibility
1. Property must be located in Thurston
County.
2. Property owner must apply for the loan (renters
cannot apply for loans).
3. Septic system must be failing, which means
sewage is surfacing outside, backing up into the
house, or a Marine Shoreline Repair (see below).
Thurston County Environmental Health will
verify the eligibility of all systems.
4. House must not be for sale.
5. Repair cannot be used for remodeling,
expansion or addition, nor can additional living
units be connected to the system.
6. Loans/grants may be used to connect to public
sewer.
Loans
Any Thurston County homeowner with a failing
septic system may apply for a low-interest loan.
• Loan interest rates are from 1% to 3.5% for
qualified applicants. Interest rate is
determined by the income of the applicant and
the cost of the repair or sewer connection.
• There is no loan origination fee, and the repayment
term can be up to 20 years.
• The loan is secured by a promissory note and
deed of trust (creating a mortgage on the
property).
• A credit report, tax history check, and title
search will be completed for all applications.
• Loans must be repaid by the homeowner.
Before the property can be sold or transferred,
the loan must be paid off.
Grants
Grants are available for Marine Shoreline Repairs
or for homeowners with limited incomes.
does not have to be repaid.
a portion of the total cost of system replacement. Grant
awards can range from $1,000 to $6,000, and are based
on a percentage of the repair cost.
A grantNOTE: Grants cover only
To be eligible for a grant:
1. Repair must be one that requires a County permit
( or city permit if connection to sewer),
AND
2. Estimated repair cost must be at least $2,000,
AND
3. One of the following:
• Owner’s gross annual income is $40,000 or less,
• Owner is enrolled in the senior or disabled tax
exemption by County Treasurer, or
• Repair quali
fi es as a Marine Shoreline Repair.
Marine Shoreline Repair
Marine Shoreline Repair includes the following:
• Any septic system failure on a marine waterfront
property
• Biomax or other obsolete system that no
longer has manufacturer support
• Septic systems located less than 50 ft from a
marine shoreline that cannot properly treat
sewage
• Seepage pit on property next to the marine
shoreline
How Do I Apply or Get More Info?
Contact Debra Baker at 360-754-3355, ext. 7521
(TDD line at 360-754-2933) to verify your eligibility
and get a loan application.
Submit your loan application and last year’s federal
tax return to the Thurston County
Permit Assistance Center (PAC),
2000 Lakeridge Dr. SW, Olympia,
WA 98502, attention: Debra Baker,
Environmental Health Division.
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Get These Resources to Help Your Business – FREE!
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009
| Get These Resources to Help Your Business – FREE! |
The ‘Right Tools, Right Now’ initiative offers a wide range of tools. Here are just three of the many resources you can now download for FREE through NAR’s ‘Right Tools, Right Now’ initiative.
Getting It Sold
Get the staging conversation going with your seller and help them sell faster.
Order your copy for FREE
Relocation Reports
Win relocation clients before they ever visit your area.
Order your copy for FREE
2009 Member Profile
Find out what members like you are doing in this changing market.
Order your copy for FREE
Visit ‘Right Tools, Right Now’ homepage to see all FREE and AT-COST products and resources that are part of NAR’s ‘Right Tools, Right Now’ initiative. Listings are updated monthly, so check back often!
These special product prices are exclusively available to REALTORS®. To access these and the hundreds of other downloadable products for FREE, member login is required at the REALTOR.org website.
Members love ‘Right Tools, Right Now’ – click here to view a short 3 minute video showing how some have benefitted.
If you don’t know your login, click here or call NAR’s Information Central at 1-800-874-6500.
If you haven’t downloaded an eProduct before, click here to find out how, or call NAR’s Information Central at 1-800-874-6500.
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Short Sales & Foreclosures:What Buyer’s Representatives Need to Know
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009
Short Sales & Foreclosures:
What Buyer’s Representatives Need to Know
Don’t Miss Another Short Sales & Foreclosures Tour!
For many real estate professionals, short sales and foreclosures represent the new “traditional” real estate transaction. Knowing how to maneuver the complexities of short sales as well as how to identify the distinct real estate opportunities in foreclosure are not merely good skills to have in today’s market-they are critical. This course helps students evaluate all available options for distressed homeowners and identify the components of an effective short-sale package. This course looks at how real estate professionals can counsel buyer-clients in the purchase of foreclosure properties. An as a practical resource, this course shows students how consumers can avoid foreclosure in the future. The Short Sales and Foreclosure course counts as one REBAC elective course to be applied towards the ABR designation and also offers 7.5 clock hours for renewal. The course goes from 8:30am to 5pm except the course in Tacoma goes from 9am to 5pm and the schedule is as follows:
September 1st @ Silverdale Beach Hotel in Silverdale
September 2nd @ Washington REALTORS in Olympia
September 3rd @ Tacoma Assoc. of REALTORS in Tacoma
Instructor: Pili Meyer, ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES, e- Pro
Pili Meyer is a full time associate broker with Coldwell Banker Uptown Realty in Port Angeles, WA. She has been licensed since 1986 and an instructor since 1994. She is a consistently effective agent and loves the fact that there are so many different aspects of the business. Her experience-and success–in the trenches bring a reality and relevance to the classes she teaches. As a Master Instructor in Washington and Oregon, she is in demand as a speaker at state conventions around the country. Besides being a top producer in real estate in Port Angeles, Pili has been active in the Realtor® Association. She is a past president of the Washington Realtors® and currently serves as a National Association of Realtors® Director. She has been named Realtor® of the Year by her local association and Washignton Realtors. In 1999, she was named Hugh Hawkins Instructor of the Year in Washington. She has also been honored by the Soroptimist International of Port Angeles with their Woman of Distinction award.
For more information or to register contact Washington REALTORS® Education at 800.748.7053 or CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TODAY!
Our Price:
REALTOR Early Price $75/$99 REALTOR Regular Price
Non-Member Early Price $99/$129 Non-Member Regular Price
Early Price is 10 days before the class starts
Regular Price will be charged if register within 10 days of the class starting
Washington REALTORS® Education
email: education@warealtor.org
phone: 1.800.748.7053
web: http://www.warealtor.org/education
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HUD HIGHLIGHTS August 2009
Tuesday, August 4th, 2009
HUD HIGHLIGHTS
August 2009
HUD e-Briefs from Alaska, Idaho, Oregon & Washington
Martha Dilts, Region X Deputy Director 206/220-5356 Leland Jones, Editor
REFINING REFI’S
HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan has announced that, by August 15th, FHA insured borrowers will be able to seek a Making Homes Affordable loan modification and “significantly reduce their monthly mortgage payments.”In guidelines released on July 30th under authority of the Helping Families Save Their Homes Act of 2009, lenders and servicers are expected to use partial claims to defer the payment of some amount of outstanding mortgage principal through an interest-fee, subordinate mortgage that does not come due until the first mortgage is paid off. FHA also will pay an incentive to loan servicers for every FHA loan modified under the program. Bringing this “important tool to the table,” says the Secretary will enable FHA borrowers “to modify their mortgages in the same manner as so many others who are taking advantage” of the program. For more, read FHA Mortgagee Letter 09-ML-23 at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page?_pageid=73,7774665&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
DON’T FHA-GET!
HUD Seattle,, FHA’s Santa Ana Homeownership Center and the Washington Mortgage Lenders are holding a 3-day FHA Lenders Update from September 15th to 17th in Sea-Tac. It’ll give you everything you need to know – and more – about FHA underwriting, processing, appraising and making FHA work for your firm and your customers. Register on-line at http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/events/swa091509.pdf
* * * NEWS TO MUSE * * *
HUD USER has announced that the proposed Fiscal Year 2010 Fair Market Rents to be published in The Federal Register on August 4th already are on-line at www.huduser.org/datasets/fmr.html.
BRIEF BRIEFS
Low Income Housing Institute and Enterprise Community Partners celebrates grand opening of the 49-unit, HUD-assisted Bart Harvey, a residence for low-income disabled or homeless 62 and older in Seattle. . .USDA awards $5.3 million to Priest River, Idaho and $9.5 million to upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure. . .Community Frameworks breaks ground for 30 town homes in Spokane. . .American Institute of Architects selects Green Lake Residence in Seattle as one of 20, 2009 Small Project Award winners that succeed “no matter the limits of size and scope”. . .Maggie LaMont named chair of the Oregon State Housing Council, succeeding a retiring Larry Medinger. . .King County Housing Authority wins 100 and Tacoma Housing Authority wins 50 family unification vouchers to reunite foster children with their families . . . Journal of Business reports Spokane United Methodist Homes to build 38-unit senior housing complex in Spokane Valley. . .Portland Bureau of Housing & Community Development wins a 2009 IEDC Excellence in Economic Development Award. . .Idaho and Oregon associations of REALTORS among 25 groups to win Foreclosure Prevention & Response grants from the National Association of REALTORS. . .His Eminence Archbishop Alex Brunette offers blessings at the grand opening of the 56-unit Frederic Ozaman House and at the ground breaking for the 51-unit Monica’s Village Place, both in Seattle and both projects of the Archdiocesan Housing Authority. . .Saying she knows “how much of a challenge it is” to administer Housing Choice Voucher programs, “especially during a recession,” HUD Assistant Secretary for Public Housing Sandra Henriquez says HUD shortly will award remaining $11 million of $100 million set-aside as well as another $30 million to public housing agencies prevent the termination of families from program.
“HOME, SWEET (and HEALTHY) HOME”
Boise is the place to be September 15th to 17th if you’re committed to making houses as healthy as they can be for those who call them “home.” Among the featured speakers at this year’s Idaho Healthy Homes Conference are Ruth Ann Norton of Coalition to End Childhood Lead Poisoning, Wesley Priem of the Michigan Department of Community Health, Eileen Gagney of the American Lung Association and Barbara Ross, EPA’s Regional Lead Coordinator. For more, visit www.hud.gov/idaho
THREE-PEAT?
Befitting our climate, it “rained” revitalization last fall with the Bremerton, King County and Seattle housing authorities winning three of the six HOPE VI Public Housing Revitalization grants competitively awarded by HUD in 2008. Can it happen again? We’ll see. On July 14th, HUD Secretary Donovan announced the opening of the 2009 competition for $113 million in HOPE VI funds. Saying it’s time “to take the lessons learned” from the 248 HOPE VI grants HUD’s already awarded, he also said extra points would be awarded to applications that promote green development and energy efficiency and to applications that implement a “comprehensive, high-quality, results-oriented earl education program” Applications are due November 17th.
.
WELCOME.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has named Jim Norlund, owner of Norland Carpentry in Anchorage and the former Director of Public Assistance for the State of Alaska, as director of USDA Rural Development in Alaska, Wallace Hendrick, former general manager of Esco Supply, as director of USDA Rural Development in Idaho and Mario Villanueva, director of Catholic Charities Housing Services in Yakima, as USDA Rural Development in Washington.
INVET-MENT
HUD will be providing an additional 650 rental housing vouchers for homeless veterans served by Department of Veterans Affairs medical clinics and hospitals in American Lake, Anchorage, Boise, Portland, Roseburg, Seattle, Spokane, Vancouver, Walla Walla and White City. The new vouchers are over and above the 450 vouchers for homeless veterans that HUD awarded to Northwest housing authorities under the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program. The vouchers, said HUD Secretary Donovan, will provide those who “have put their lives on the line” permanent housing and, in collaboration with local Continuums of Care, “critically needed supportive services.”
BRIEF BRIEFS TOO
HUD awards almost $5.5 million in Recovery Act funds under the Tax Credit Assistance Program to help “jump start” stalled affordable housing projects in Alaska. . .Urban League of Portland releases State of Black Oregon report that finds “ black Oregonians remain at or near the bottom of every meaningful social and economic measure”. . ..Yakima Habitat for Humanity celebrates 25 years and 126 homes worth of service to the community. . .Twin Falls selected as Idaho’s 21st Heritage City for “protecting” historic properties. . .Former Long & Foster Companies President and CEO David Stevens sworn in as Federal Housing Administration Commissioner. . .HUD okays $23 million loan to build 25-unit hospital to replace one almost 50 years old in Grand Coulee. . .Looking Glass – a Eugene group that helps homeless young people but was itself made homeless by fire – has returned to its old home, now newly-rebuilt. . . Washington State Housing Finance Corporation proposes to allocate Recovery Act funds under Tax Credit Assistance Program to eight projects to provide 456 units of affordable housing in Centralia, Graham, Renton, Seattle, Spokane, Toppenish and Yakima that have been stalled or adversely affected by the economic downturn. . .Saying they’ll “not only help our vulnerable neighbors” but also “create well-paying jobs,” Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels announces award of $8.1 million to rehabilitate nearly 200 units of housing for low-income seniors and to build 70 units of workforce housing. . .Work is well underway on 36-unit Adams Square Family Center that will “greatly expand” the Tacoma Rescue Mission’s efforts to give needy women and families an opportunity to live happy, productive lives”. . .Spokane Urban Ministries celebrates grand opening of 47-unit Walnut Corners. . .HUD competitively awards $18.3 million in Indian Housing Block Grant and Indian Community Development Block Grant funds under the Recovery Act to Chilkoot Indian Association, Cook Inlet Housing Authority, Akiachak Native Community, and Yakutat Tlingit Tribe in Alaska; Coeur d’Alene Tribal Housing Authority in Idaho; the Coos, Lower Umpqua & Siuslaw Tribe and Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde in Oregon; and the Kalispel Tribe, the Cowlitz Tribal Housing Authority and the Suquamish Tribe in Washington.
FROM FEAR TO FAVOR
How things change. “The vision of farm worker housing connotes certain stereotypes for some people, Hacienda Community Development Corporation executive director Pietro Ferrari recently told The Portland Oregonian. “That’s what we were up against” three years ago when it unveiled plans to build a 24-unit complex for farm workers and their families in Molalla. “The best we hoped for was indifference.” But now that the award-winning and “green” Plaza Los Robles is up and occupied, “the city’s fear of farm worker housing,” The Oregonian noted, have melted “into pride.” In fact, it notes, when housing developers come to town looking for sites, city officials “routinely suggest” a drive by the complex as “a perfect example,” said planning director Shane Potter, “of the sorts of projects we’d like to see more of here.” It has become, added the City Manager John Atkins, “a real community asset,” introducing a lot of Molalla residents to “families who are earning a living, buying groceries and hardware and supporting this town.”
SPEAKING OF WHICH. . .
Oregon Housing & Community Services has announced that, between now and December 31st, it will accept applications for $2.3 million in remaining tax credits to “construct, acquire and/or rehabilitate” housing for low or very low income farm workers. For more, contact Loren Schulz 503/986-2008.
QUOTE TO NOTE
“If you haven’t been to Mountain View lately you ought to pay it a visit and see what a great job Cook Inlet Housing Authority has been doing to build new homes and clean up an old neighborhood.” – Mike Jens in July 29th Anchorage Daily News after “a few of us decided to jump on our bicycles and, in the spirit of the Tour de France,” did “our own Tour de Anchorage.”.
BRIEF BRIEFS THREE
HUD Deputy Secretary Ron Sims spends a day in Portland, meeting with local officials and partners and touring Central City Concern’s 24-unit Taggart Manor which is slated to receive CDBG funds under the Recovery Act to save energy and cut water consumption. . .Daily Bee reports Bonner Community Housing Agency and Planet Construction have launched partnership to build at least 10 affordable homeownership units in Seven Sisters area of Kootenai County using USDA’s Section 502 program for financing. . .Downtown Emergency Services Center breaks ground in Seattle for the 83-unit Canaday House, its eighth Housing First complex for chronically homeless men and women. . .Seattle Housing Authority and City’s Office of Housing announce plans to award 50 project-based rental vouchers to non-profits to “subsidize replace housing for units that were demolished during the redevelopment of the High Point community”. . . 31 “Bike & Build” college students from Virginia “take a break” from their 3,900 cross-country ride to help Habitat for Humanity build a house in Idaho Falls. . .University of Oregon head men’s basketball coach Ernie Kent and players attend dedication ceremony for new basketball court at Village Oaks complex in Eugene. . .More than 500 at-risk homeowners sit down with lenders and housing counselors at Foreclosure Prevention Workshops in Everett, Seattle and Tacoma. . . KMVT-TV reports that “dozens of students” from College of Southern Idaho’s Abriendo Caminos program spend three days preparing housing in Twin Falls’ El Milagro neighborhood for top-to-bottom paint jobs. . .Seattle Housing Authority to use Recovery Act funds to transform first floor of Jefferson Terrace into respite care center to allow Public Health-Seattle & King County to provide homeless “a safe place to heal after being treated and discharged from local hospitals”. . .Keystone Apartments in Spokane opens Neighborhood Networks computer centers. . .American Planning Association sets September 9th deadline t apply for HUD Secretary’s Opportunity & Empowerment Award.
MAKING HISTORY
The Medford Mail-Tribune reports that Tim Ellis, an appliance salesman, is the very first Oregonian to receive a grant through HUD’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program to buy a foreclosed property. “I was happy I found a suitable house in the right neighborhood” for his wife Tan and 2-year-old son Michael. “We’re pretty excited,” he said, adding that the grant will reduce his monthly payments by about $200. The NSP program was created to help cities deal with upticks in abandoned and foreclosed properties. Medford is receiving $459,200 under the program, about a third of which will go to buyers earning 50 percent or less of the area’s median income. The balance will go to those earning up to 120 percent of median. While Ellis is excited, he’s also a little nervous. “I thought, “Holy cow! I’m buying a foreclosure,” he said. “What do I do now?” But thanks to an A-B-C’s of Homebuying class, he’s got a good idea. “Fix it up!” Since the program requires him to live in the house for five years to gain full equity, looks like he’ll have plenty of weekends to do exactly that.
SAVING HISTORY
First impressions matter. That’s why the City of Nampa decided in 2006 to use part of its CDBG funding from HUD to restore the facades of buildings in its historic district. The program’s brought “downtown back to life,” says The Idaho Post Tribune, citing increased traffic in businesses that have had face-lifts. It’s also won awards for Nampa from the Association of Idaho Cities and Preservation Idaho. “It’s pretty amazing that people have put the time and money into these properties that otherwise would be neglected,” says Dan Everhart of Preservation Idaho. Amazing? Yes. Smart, too, which is why the City has allocated even more CDBG funds to restore even more historic buildings.
CONGRATS
To William Rainford, associate professor of social work at Boise State University, for being selected – from a pool of 260,000 candidates – as Catholic Charities USA 2009 Volunteer of the Year. The volunteer effort “closest to his heart”? The Interfaith Sanctuary in Boise, a shelter built “with help from many volunteers across many faiths,” tells The Idaho Statesman. His “most urgent” local priority? “Legislation to promote mobile home tenants.” Why does he volunteer? “It’s a ministry for me.”
FUNDING-MENTALS
August 1st deadline to apply for Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle Affordable Housing Program funds. . .August 3rd deadline to apply for IRS grants to provide training “to volunteers” who offer “free tax counseling and assistance to elderly individuals in the preparation of their Federal tax returns”. . .August 7th deadline to apply for HUD Indian Community Development Block Grant program. . .August 7th deadline to apply for HUD Hispanic Serving Institution Assisting Communities grants. . .August 7th deadline to apply for HUD Doctoral Dissertation grants. . .August 11th deadline to apply for HUD Public Housing Family Self-Sufficiency Program grants. . .August 14th deadline to apply for USDA Rural Utilities Service and National Telecommunications & Information Administration grants and loans to deploy broadband infrastructure in rural and underserved areas. . .September 4th deadline to apply for Department of Labor Energy Training Partnership grants. . .September 14th deadline to apply for EPA Indoor Air Pollutant Reduction grants. . .September 18th deadline to apply for HUD Fair Housing Initiatives Program grants. . .September 18th deadline to apply for HUD Resident Opportunity & Self Sufficiency (ROSS) grants. . .September 24th deadline to apply for USDA Rural Community Development Initiative grants. . .September 29th deadline to apply for Department of Labor Pathways Out of Poverty renewable energy training grants. . .November 17th deadline to apply for HUD HOPE VI Public Housing Revitalization grants.
COMING UP
Webinar on the A-B-C’s of FHA’s Energy Efficient Mortgage. Register on-line at www.hud.gov/emarc/index.cfm?fuseaction=emar.addRegisterEvent&eventId=148&update=N
HUD & Housing Assistance Council hold “Building Rural Communities with CHDOS” workshop in Boise, August 5th and 6th. Visit www.hud.gov/apps/calendar/event.cfm?state=id&record=9532&scheduleID=9293&calendarID=16
Annual conference of Pacific Northwest Lenders Association in Blaine, August 9th to 12th. Visit www.pnmlc.com/pnmlcsemi/htdocs/index.php
Alaska Municipal League holds annual conference in Palmer, August 12th to 14th. Visit www.akml.org/conferences.html
HUD Seattle hosts Federal Labor Standards training for public, tribal and tribally-designated housing authorities, August 17th, Seattle. Register on-line at www.hud.gov/emarc/
HUD Portland hosts Federal Labor Standards training for housing authorities, August 19th, Portland. Register on-line at http://www.hud.gov/emarc/index.cfm?fuseaction=emar.addRegisterEvent&eventId=173&update=N
Washington Affordable Housing Management Association holds annual conference, August 20th to 21st, Bremerton. Visit www.ahma-wa.org/
HUD Seattle hosts Federal Labor Standards training for CDBG and HOME grantees, August 24th, Seattle. Register on-line at www.hud.gov/emarc/
HUD Spokane hosts Fair Housing Act workshop, September 2nd, Spokane. Visit www.hud.gov/apps/calendar/event.cfm?state=wa&record=8907&scheduleID=8668&calendarID=52
HUD Seattle hosts Recovery Act Update teleconference for faith- and community-based organizations, September 9th. To participate, please contact Leland.jones@hud.gov
HUD Idaho hosts “Taking Faith & Community-Based Organizations to the Next Level” workshop in Pocatello, September 11th. For more, contact brian.dale@hud.gov
HUD Seattle, FHA Santa Ana Homeownership Center and Washington Mortgage Lenders Association host three-day FHA Lender Update, September 15th to 17th, SeaTac. Visit www.hud.gov/apps/calendar/event.cfm?state=wa&record=9727&scheduleID=9488&calendarID=52
Idaho Healthy Homes Conference, September 15th to 17th, Boise. Visit www.hud.gov/apps/calendar/event.cfm?state=id&record=9658&scheduleID=9419&calendarID=16
Annual Conference of Alaska Association of REALTORS, September 15th to 19th, Fairbanks. Visit www.alaskarealtors.com/convention/convention.htm
Idaho Association of REALTORS Business Conference & Expo, September 16th to 20th, Coeur d’Alene. Visit www.idahorealtors.com/Default.aspx?page=events
16th annual Housing Washington affordable housing conference, September 29th & 30th, Spokane. Visit http://www.wshfc.org/conf/
HUD & EPA host Northwest Children’s Environmental Health Forum & Expo in Tukwila, October 1st & 2nd. Visit http://www.chenw.org/CEHforum.html
84th Annual League of Oregon Cities Conference, October 1st to 3rd, Portland. Visit http://www.orcities.org/Conference/tabid/806/language/en-US/Default.aspx
Northwest Environmental Business Council hosts Brownfields Redevelopment Conference, October 14th & 15th, Tacoma. Visit www.nebc.org
Idaho Housing & Finance Association hosts 2009 Idaho Housing Conference, October 19th & 20th, Boise. Visit http://www.2009housingconf.com/
Association of Idaho Cities hosts Idaho Energy & Green Building Conference, October 21st to 23rd, Boise. Visit http://www.idahocities.org/
* * * *
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The Golf Tournament is coming fast, get your team together NOW!
Thursday, July 30th, 2009
Golf Team Registration Form
Registration: Team Captains to check in at Capitol City Golf Course 7:30 a.m. Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. (scramble format).
Fee: $75.00 per TCRA member, $85.00 for non-TCRA members.
Includes your green fee, golf cart and lunch. Each team consists of a Captain (TCRA member) and three players. Full payment MUST be made upon registration. First come, first serve.
Mulligan: $5 a piece (unlimited amount) or one $10 Long-Drive Mulligan
Lunch Only: $18.00. Come even if you don’t play! Advance prepaid reservations MUST be in by Monday September 7th.
Reserve Your Team Early—Payment Must Be Turned in With Registration!
LIMITED TO THE FIRST 144 PLAYERS
GOLFERS
1. Captain_____________________________ Company______________________________________
2. Player______________________________ Company______________________________________
3. Player______________________________ Company______________________________________
4. Player______________________________ Company______________________________________
Make checks payable to TCRA and deliver or mail to:
Thurston County Association of REALTORS
510 Stoll Rd, Olympia, WA 98503
Checks, Visa and MasterCard accepted.
Please call Randy Reynolds at Reynolds Real Estate @ 360-412-6731
or email questions to info@reynoldsrealestate.net
Friday September 11, 2009
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Free Webinar
Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
| SALES & MARKETING TOOLS |
| Free Webinar: Use Social Media to Get Results |
| Register today for a July 30 Webinar on how you can use social media to land new business. This free webinar, sponsored by the Young Professionals Network and REALTOR® Magazine, will feature three real estate pros who will share how they’ve successfully leveraged social networking in their business and how you can do it too. Read more… http://www.realtor.org/rmohome/webinars?&WT.mc_id=LS072209&CAT=Sales |
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Member Benefits/Special Offers for REALTORS
Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
| MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS/SPECIAL OFFERS FOR REALTORS® |
| Technology Tools and Savings from NAR’s REALTOR Benefits® Program |
| The REALTOR Benefits® Program offers members a variety of solutions from partners who can give you a leading advantage in technology. Partner offerings include a computers, printers and peripherals from Dell and Lenovo, the RELAY® online transaction management system, domain services from InternetCrusade® and more! For more information¸ visit… http://www.REALTOR.org/realtor_benefits/technology.html?&WT.mc_id=LS072209&CAT=Mem |
| Power Up Your Technical Know-How with the All-New e-PRO® |
| NAR’s newly updated and enhanced e-PRO® Technology Certification Program is now state-of-the-art but it’s still easy to master the tools you need to thrive in today’s online real estate market. Learn best marketing practices and get an in-depth look at the new “Web 2.0 and Social Media Course.” For a limited time, you can enroll in e-PRO® for only $299 for NAR members, a $60 savings on the NAR member price of $359. For more information¸ visit… http://www.realtor.org/narlservredirect.nsf/pages/NT000013E2?OpenDocument&WT.mc_id=LS072209&CAT=Mem |
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NAR School of the Future
Thursday, July 23rd, 2009
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Seller Disclosure Act takes effect July 26th
Thursday, July 2nd, 2009
Q:
Is it true that Forms 17 and 17C are changing again soon and that all exising Forms 17 and Forms 17C will have to be replaced?
A:
On July 26, 2009, the revised Seller Disclosure Act takes effect causing significant changes to both Form 17 and Form 17C. The seller of any property subject to the Seller Disclosure Act that is listed on or after July 26 must complete the new version of the forms.
If the property is already listed and subject to an existing purchase agreement by July 25, seller should not complete the new version of the form. The only exception to this is that if the existing sale fails, then the new version of the form must be given to any buyers who purchase the property on or after July 26, 2009.
If the property is currently listed and remains unsold as of July 26, then listing agent must discard the existing form 17 or form 17C and have seller complete an entirely new form to give to any buyers after July 26. Listing agents should be certain to remove any old Forms 17 and 17C from the attached documents section of their MLS listings first thing on July 26 and replace them with the newly completed, new forms.
It is absolutely essential that all hard copies of Form 17 and Form 17C be destroyed not later than July 26. Changes were made to the forms throughout so there is no way to simply substitute a single page or two from the new form into the old form. If use of the revised form is necessary, seller must complete the entire new Form 17 or Form 17C.
None of the exemptions to the Seller Disclosure Act were modified in any way. Any property that is currently subject to or exempt from the Seller Disclosure Act remains that way after the revised law takes effect.
Additional information relative to the revised Seller Disclosure Act is available on the link below. All REALTORS® are encouraged to read the linked legal bulletin, prepared by legal counsel to the NWMLS, as it contains additional, necessary information regarding related forms revisions and a seller’s obligation to amend the Seller Disclosure Act after it is given to a buyer.
http://www.nwmls.com/wr/LB182.html
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HUD HIGHLIGHTS July 2009
Wednesday, July 1st, 2009
HUD HIGHLIGHTS
July 2009
HUD e-Briefs from Alaska, Idaho, Oregon & Washington
Martha Dilts, Region X Deputy Director 206/220-5356 Leland Jones, Editor
JUMP START
Hoping to “jump start affordable housing construction,” HUD Secretary Donovan has announced the award of $8.3 million to Idaho, $27.3 million to Oregon and $43 million to Washington under the Tax Credit Assistance Program (TCAP) established by the Recovery Act. One by-product of the nation’s financial crisis has been reduced investments in Low Income Housing Tax Credits that provide incentive for investors to provide private capital to developers of multi-family rental housing for lower-income families. HUD;s awarding the TCAP funds by formula to state housing finance agencies – Idaho Housing & Finance Association, Oregon Housing & Community Services and the Washington Housing Finance Commission –to enable them re-start stalled, but qualified housing To maximize job creation, priority will be given to projects that can begin immediately and be completed by February 16, 2012. The TCAP award to Alaska is expected to be announced shortly.
* * * NEWS FLASH * * *
HUD Secretary Donovan announces that the refinance option under the Making Homes Affordable program will be expanded to borrowers who are current but are up to 125 percent “under water” with their Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac- guaranteed mortgages. Previously, the option was open to those 100 percent “under water.” For more, visit http://www.hud.gov/news/release.cfm?content=pr09-104.cfm
FHA COMES TO PORTLAND
As of May 31st, FHA was on its way to issuing a record number of mortgage endorsements in 2009. Want to find out why so many lenders, REALTORS and buyers are turning to FHA to buy a home or refinance a mortgage? Attend a free, one-day FHA Update with presentations by FHA’s Santa Ana Homeownership Center on Wednesday, July 15th at The Nines Hotel in Portland. For more, visit http://www.hud.gov/apps/calendar/event.cfm?state=or&record=9652&scheduleID=9413&calendarID=41 .
BRIEF BRIEFS
HUD Secretary Donovan announces creation of $312 million Disaster Recovery Enhancement Fund to encourage states to “design forward-thinking” recovery plans cutting risk of death or damage in future disasters . . . Coeur d’Alene unveils “two-pronged” 10-year plan to end chronic homelessness . . . Earth Advantage Institute of Portland report says Energy Star or LEED certified homes sold for 9.7 percent more in Seattle and “3 to 5 percent” more in Portland than “non-green” houses. . . Street Roots establishes new Web site at www.rosecityresources.org to provide “most updated list of services and information for people living in crisis” in the greater Portland area. . .HUD awards 48 additional vouchers to Alaska Housing Finance Authority and 100 to King County Housing Authority for the non-elderly disabled. . .Catholic Charities Housing Services celebrates grand opening of Rose of Mary Terrace apartments for the elderly in Yakima. .. .Idaho Statesman says “more than 2,000 volunteers” turned out, “starting at sunrise,” to fix up 91 homes as part of Neighborhood Housing Service’s 27th annual “paint the town” event in Boise. . ..Bend Habitat for Humanity celebrates 20 years and more than 70 homes worth of achievement. . .Labor Secretary Solis announces award of $7.6 million in YouthBuild grants to Anchorage, Bellingham, Bend, Corvallis, Everett, Medford, Olympia, Portland, Seattle, Spokane, Tacoma and Yakima to assist “out-of-school youth in obtaining their diplomas or GEDs while providing occupational training in the construction industry.”
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
The June 22nd Federal Register noted that the 2009 Appropriations Act provided funding for 4,000 new Housing Choice Vouchers for non-elderly disabled families. Some 1,000 of these vouchers, it adds, will go to non-elderly families transitioning out of nursing homes and other institutions into the community.” To help “better design the distribution” of these vouchers, HUD would like to hear your comments about
“threshold factors used to distribute” the vouchers, “whether HUD should establish a more performance-based method” for distribution and how “State institutional transition programs” can “work effectively” with housing authorities receiving these vouchers. Comments due to HUD’s Office of Housing Choice Voucher Management & Operations by July 13th. For more, contact Phyllis.A.Smelkinson@hud.gov
.
IN YOUR BACK YARD.
Want to know the what, where and how much particulars of HUD Recovery Act spending in your back yard? Visit www.usda.gov/recovery/map.
HOUSING TRUST
The Washington Housing Trust Fund has awarded more than $62 million for construction of 35 multi-family complexes in 17 counties across the state. The projects will add or preserve some 1,100 housing units, with more than a third going to the elderly and 85 percent to households at 50 percent less of the area median income. “We’re going to do everything in our power to make sure we build something the community’s proud of,” Franklin County Board member Manterola told The Tri-City Herald. The Bureau won $3.5 million to build a 96-bed facility for farm workers who, said The Herald, have “camped on state land” where they’ve “had conflicts with anglers and problems with waste disposal.”
SPEAKING OF WHICH. . .
The Oregon Department of Housing & Community Services has awarded nearly $26 million in grants, loans and tax credits for the construction or rehabilitation of 435 units of affordable housing for, said Deputy Director Rick Crager, “families whose living situations are jeopardized by the troubled economy.” The projects in Ashland, Astoria, Cave Junction, Dallas, Eugene, Hood River, North Bend, Ontario, Portland, Rogue River, Roseburg, Springfield and Tigard, he added, provide “economic punch to inject important construction jobs into the Oregon economy.”
BRIEF BRIEFS TOO
City of Everett to host foreclosure intervention workshop at Cascade High School on Thursday, July 23rd, City of Seattle and Urban League to host “tackling mortgage problems” workshop at Cleveland High School on Friday, July 24th while City of Tacoma to hold “foreclosure intervention workshop” on Saturday, July 25th at Tacoma campus of Evergreen College . . . FHA issues Mortgagee Letter 2009-19 establishing a new approval process condominium projects to insure mortgages on individual units effective for all case numbers on or after October 1st, 2009. . . Master Builder Association of King & Snohomish Counties celebrates – on YouTube – the 100th anniversary of the founding, in Seattle in 1909, of nation’s first homebuilder association. . .Treasury Department relaxes IRS restrictions that would prevent tribes from apply for and using $2 billion in tax-exempt bonds under the Recovery Act “for the same types of projects as states and local governments”. . .Washington Housing Finance tells Seattle Times that HUD housing counselors “helped 2,681 homeowners in the past 12 months, and all but 37 avoid foreclosure”. . .,Bellingham Herald reports on opening of City Gate in downtown Bellingham as permanent housing for “about two dozen” former inmates of the county jail with “mental health and drug problems” who otherwise, says jail chief Wendy Jones, “revolve in and out, between the county jail, one of the hospitals or treatment centers and, primarily, the streets:. . . Portland State University’s Margaret Van Vilet named director of City’s Housing Bureau. . .U.S. News & World Report picks Bremerton-Silverdale, Corvallis and Anchorage as three of nation’s top 10 housing markets over next 10 years. . .Fairfield, Idaho, Battleground, Washington and Netarts and Myrtle Creek, both in Oregon, win $29.2 million from USDA Rural Development improve water and waste disposal systems. . .On July 26th, Washington Community, Trade & Economic Development becomes the Washington Department of Commerce. . .HUD and American Planning Association set September 9th as deadline to apply for 13th annual Secretary’s Opportunity & Empowerment Awards.
EEM-PORTANT
In accordance with the Housing & Economic Recovery Act of 2008, on June 10th FHA issued Mortgagee Letter 2009-18 eliminating the $8,000 cap on the amount of eligible energy-efficiency costs that can be added, through an Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM), to the base maximum FHA-insured mortgage. The new limit is now the lesser of 5 percent of the value of the property or 115 percent of the median area price of a single family dwelling or 150 percent of the conforming Freddie Mac limit. Read the Letter at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page?_pageid=73,7774665&_dad=portal&_schema=PORTAL
HOMEOWNER HELP
Saying “now, more than ever, it is crucial that American families make informed decisions,” HUD Secretary Donovan that HUD is now accepting applications for more than $58 million – up $11 million from last year – in housing counseling grants “to help families find and preserve housing.” Awarded competitively to HUD-approved counseling agencies, $47 million will go for comprehensive counseling, $8 million for reverse mortgage counseling, $2 million for loan document review counseling and $1 million for fair lending and mortgage fraud counseling. Applications are expected from 400 organizations and are due July 17th.
ON WARD SELF SUFFICIENCY!
HUD has set August 11th as the deadline for public and Indian housing authorities to apply for $12 million in Public Housing Family Self Sufficiency grants. The grants are awarded competitively to help public housing residents “to increase earned income and financial literacy, reduce or eliminate the need for welfare assistance, and make progress toward achieving economic independence and housing self-sufficiency.” Last year, 37 housing authorities in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington won more than $3.6 million under the program. http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/grants/nofa09/grpphfss.cfm
GET THE LEAD OUT
HUD is now accepting applications, due July 20th, for $69 million in Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control and $48 million in Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration grants. Applications are due July 20th. For more, visit http://www.hud.gov/offices/lead/09NOFA/leadcombo.cfm
QUOTE TO NOTE
“We’ve invited you here this week to see for yourselves how housing authorities across the country are using HOPE VI as a platform for innovation, building green and energy efficient affordable housing. You’ll learn about the New Columbia development in Portland, Oregon – how a complex originally designed to provide housing for defense workers during World War Two was transformed from a dilapidated, isolated public housing development into the vibrant mix of retail stores, apartments, townhomes, a public school, and senior housing it is today. You’ll hear how a dedicated rapid service bus line connects residents to a nearby light rail line and to downtown Portland, increasing access to jobs, services and opportunity. You’ll also hear how sustainable, green building has a clear connection to better health as well. Right now, we can predict morbidity rates and life expectancy by zip code. Zip code! But as we saw at Seattle’s High Point development, an early commitment to building green can be a big part of rejecting that certainty for millions of children and lower costs in the long run. As High Point’s Breathe Easy Homes pilot program showed, by adding green features specifically designed to reduce asthma triggers, the number of asthma-free days increased, and mold—which often causes dangerous respiratory infections—was completely eliminated. With unplanned doctor’s visits declining as well, Seattle’s housing authority was able to reduce one of the strains on our health care system which drive premiums up for everyone.” – - HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan on June 25th at the HOPE VI Green Building & Energy Efficient Development Conference in Washington, D.C.
GREEN un-BUILDING
Want to know how much 571 wood-frame houses weigh? Ask the Bremerton Housing Authority. Because that’s how many World War II-era houses the Authority is demolishing as the first step in its HOPE VI revitalization of the West Park neighborhood. The answer? Almost 38,000 tons of old windows, floors and siding. Of which, it’s worth noting, the Authority will recycle – and re-sell – all but 2,400 tons, cutting demolition costs by $138 a ton and saving the Authority $4.7 million. Read all the nitty-greeny details at http://www.hud.gov/local/wa/news/2009-06-10.cfm
BRIEF BRIEFS THREE
Treasury Secretary Geithner announces award of $2 million each in Recovery Act Community Development Financial Institution funds to CASA of Oregon in Newberg and Albina Bancorporation in Portland to “increase lending in their target area”. . .Journal of Business says Federal Home Loan Bank of San $1.5 million to Spokane Housing Ventures towards purchase and expansion of Clare House complex for the elderly. . .Meridian high school students finish construction of their first “green” Habitat for Humanity house. . . Archbishop Alex J. Brunett of Seattle offers a blessing at the opening of Archdiocesan Housing Authority’s Frederic Ozanam House , a 56-unit facility for chonically-homeless, elderly men. . .Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle launches competition at www.fhlbsea.com for $2.6 million in Affordable Housing Program funds “to acquire, construct, and/or rehabilitate affordable housing”. . .USDA Rural Development awards $ 815,000 in disaster relief funds to Shoalwater Bay Tribe, Neah Bay Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson Land Trust and Port of Klickitat in Washington and Mercy Corps Northwest and CCD Development Corporation in Oregon. . .Washington State Bar Association launches telephone hotline – 1-877-894-4663 – staffed by 270 volunteer lawyers to help homeowners at risk of foreclosure have access to legal advice. . .Idaho Press Tribune says City of Nampa wins “orchid” from Preservation Idaho/Idaho Historic Preservation Council for its HUD-funded downtown façade renovation program. . .Cook Inlet Housing begins demolishing abandoned car wash in Anchorage that will be replaced by affordable, 12-unit Mountain View Lofts. . .Northwest Indian College on Lummi reservation near Bellingham confers the first 4-year degree in its 23-year history. . .KPVI-TV says town of Roberts gives “green light” to Eastern Idaho Community Action’s $2 million Lakeview Apartments that will house 23 farmworker families. . .More than 75 potential buyers attend City of Tacoma showcase of available vacant properties in East Tacoma neighborhood. . .Alaska Housing Finance okays $2.2 million loan to Retirement Community of Fairbanks Inc. for 20-unit Raven Landing Apartments.
CONGRATS
To the cities of Hoquiam, Walla, Mont lake Terrace, Everett, Puyallup, Issaquah, Pasco, Richland and Kennewick and King, Benton and Franklin counties as winners of the 2009 Smart Communities Awards for “outstanding achievements” in growth management that, said Governor Chris Gregorian, “make Washington a great state in which to live and do business.”
CONGRATS TWO
To Corvallis, McMinnville, Salem, Bandon, Dayton, Hillsboro, Klamath Falls, Medford, Philomath and Portland’s St. John’s Town Center for selection as Oregon’s newest Main Street communities.
FUNDING-MENTALS
July 10th deadline to apply for USDA Rural Development Section 533 Housing Preservation grants. . .July 13th deadline to apply for the Recovery Act’s Indian Housing Block Grant competition. . .July 17th deadline to apply for Neighborhood Stabilization Program II grants to stabilize neighborhoods “damaged” by foreclosures and abandoned properties. . .July 17th deadline to apply for HUD Housing Counseling grants. . .July 20th deadline to apply for Recovery Act Lead Hazard Control grants. . .July 21st deadline to apply for Energy Efficient, Green Communities component of Recovery Act’s Public Housing Capital Improvement Grant program. . .August 1st deadline to apply for Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle Affordable Housing Program funds. . .August 3rd deadline to apply for IRS grants to provide training “to volunteers” who offer “free tax counseling and assistance to elderly individuals in the preparation of their Federal tax returns”. . .August 7th deadline to apply for Indian Community Development Block Grant program. . .August 11th deadline to apply for Public Housing Family Self-Sufficiency Program grants.
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The American Clean Energy and Security Act
Wednesday, July 1st, 2009
NAR Legislative Analysis
The American Clean Energy and Security Act
National Association of REALTORS
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20001
® Government Affairs Division
Houses Passes Climate Bill with Energy Labeling Exemptions
The U.S. House of Representatives approved H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act by Reps. Waxman
(D‐CA) and Markey (D‐MA). The bill, re‐numbered H.R. 2998, includes NAR‐supported provisions, championed by Rep.
Perlmutter (D‐CO), that exempt existing homes and buildings from the bill’s provisions to build upon an existing Energy
Star energy labeling program.
After multiple consultations with the NAR Climate Presidential Advisory Group, the NAR Land Use, Property Rights and
Environment Committee, and state associations who had dealt with energy audit legislation at the state level, the Land
Use, Property Rights and Environment Committee directed NAR staff to concentrate on the real estate provisions in the
bill. As a result, NAR issued calls for action and made this a talking point for Capitol Hill visits during its recent Midyear
meeting.
Overall, Realtors succeeded in making a number of positive changes to the bill. Thanks to Realtors, the House‐approved
bill:
•
Does not create a federal energy audit requirement for real property;
•
information labels.
Exempts existing homes and building from any federal guidelines for new construction energy efficiency
•
Prohibits the implementation of any labeling during a sales transaction.
•
Leaves the decision to states as to whether to require energy audits, disclosures, etc.
•
improvements and reduce their energy bills;
Provides property owners with significant financial incentives, matching grants and tools to make property
•
Clean Air Act;
Prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating residential and commercial buildings under the
•
Eliminated an early proposal to allow citizens to sue over minor climate risks under the Clean Air Act; and
•
grants and credit for upgrades in mortgage underwriting.
While H.R. 2998 includes many positive changes, NAR will have additional opportunities to make further changes to
address unresolved issues, such as the bill’s building energy code targets. The Senate must still pass its version of an
energy and climate bill. There would be a House‐Senate conference committee to reconcile differences between the
House and Senate bills. The timing for a vote in the Senate is not clear as the Environment and Public Works Committee
still must develop the climate provisions to “cap and trade” carbon emissions. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources
Committee has approved energy provisions that are more realistic and preserve state flexibility to develop and enforce
building codes. While the bill as approved by the House represents a significant improvement over the bill that was
introduced, NAR will continue to work to address these issues as the legislative process continues.
An NAR summary of climate issues, which summarizes NAR policy, may be accessed on Realtor.org. Here is the link:
Establishes green building incentives for HUD housing, including a loan program for renewable energy, block
http://www.realtor.org/fedistrk.nsf/c2c6e17e27e92119852572f8005cd953/4c238a3be8220682852573d4006f1dfc?O
penDocument
Legislative Contact:
Austin Perez,
Helen Devlin,
aperez@realtors.org, 202‐383‐1046hdevelin@realtors.org, 202‐383‐7559
Regulatory Contact:
Russell Riggs,
rriggs@realtors.org, 202-383-1259
NAR Myths and Facts
The American Clean Energy and Security Act
National Association of REALTORS
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20001
® Government Affairs Division
Myths and Facts: Home energy labeling
On June 26, the House of Representative approved H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act. Since
then, there have been many reports about the bill and NAR’s position that are based on incomplete information.
Here are the facts:
Claim:
“The bill mandates energy audits and labeling before any home in America is sold.”
Fact:
have required energy audits and labeling at the time of sale. However, Realtors succeeded in making many positive
changes before the bill passed. Many published reports are not based on the version of the bill that was considered
by the House. As approved, the bill:
• Does not create energy audit requirement for real property at time of sale.
• Exempts existing homes, multifamily and commercial buildings from any federal energy labeling guidelines
such as the existing federal Energy Star label program (section 204(m)), and
• Leaves the decision entirely to state governments whether to pass a law to require labels, but expressly
prohibits labeling during a transaction (Section 204(h)).
The bill does not create a federal energy audit or labeling requirement. As introduced, the original bill would
Claim:
“The bill federalizes building codes.”
Fact:
would be given 1 year to bring their state codes into compliance with the new national standards. If a state fails to
do so, the federal government would set and enforce the state’s energy codes.
Throughout the bill’s development, NAR has worked as part of a broad real estate coalition to address concerns
with the House bill’s building‐code provisions. While we supported committee amendments to limit these
provisions, the amendment to strike the section was unfortunately voted down along party lines.
NAR will redouble its efforts in the Senate where the energy committee has reported bipartisan alternative to the
House’ that sets more realistic energy reduction targets while preserving state and local authority. If and when
the Senate takes up its bill and it reaches a House‐Senate conference to resolve the bill differences, we will
undertake the necessary efforts and activities to ensure onerous provisions are not imposed on real estate
markets.
The bill would create a national building code standard that improves upon building energy efficiency. States
Claim:
“NAR supports a “Cap and Tax” bill”
Fact:
they need to improve property and save money on their energy bills. As passed, the bill:
• Does not create a federal energy audit requirement for real property;
• Exempts existing homes and buildings from any federal guidelines for new construction energy labeling.
• Leaves the decision to state government whether to pass a law and label, but specifically prohibits any
labeling during a sales transaction.
• Prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating carbon emissions from residential and
commercial buildings under the Clean Air Act;
• No longer includes provisions to bolster a private right of action under the Clean Air Act that would have
allowed citizens to halt construction over minor risks – whether real or imagined;
• Offers property owners with matching grants and diagnostic tools to make property improvements that
saves energy; and
• Provides green building financial incentives for HUD housing, including a loans, block grants and credit in
underwriting for energy improvements.
NAR supported moving legislation to the Senate that provides home owners with the resources and tools
NAR Myths and Facts
The American Clean Energy and Security Act
National Association of REALTORS
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, Washington, DC, 20001
® Government Affairs Division
At the direction of the NAR Board of Directors and Land Use, Property Rights and Environment Committee, NAR
concentrated on the real estate provisions in the bill. While there were many NAR‐supported changes to the House
bill, NAR will continue working to address the remaining issues as the bill winds its way through the legislative
process.
Claim:
“NAR should have read the bill.”
Fact:
development of the 308‐page amendment. The energy labeling exemption for existing real property was included
on page 45. The House bill is available to the public at the Library of Congress’website: http://thomas.loc.gov/.
The real estate provisions are in Title 2 beginning on page 320.
Legislative Contact:
Austin Perez,
Regulatory Contact:
Russell Riggs,
Legislative Contact:
Helen Devlin,
NAR reviewed the entire amendment and bill before taking a position. NAR was directly involved in theaperez@realtors.org, 202‐383‐1046rriggs@realtors.org, 202‐383‐1259hdevelin@realtors.org, 202‐383‐7559
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SALES & MARKETING TOOLS
Thursday, June 25th, 2009
| Share Your Best Low-Cost Prospecting Idea |
| Prospecting doesn’t have to be costly to be effective. And in today’s market, everyone can benefit from some new wallet-friendly ideas for attracting new customers. REALTOR® magazine wants to hear (and see) your most effective prospecting ideas that won’t break your budget. The best ideas will be featured in an upcoming slideshow on our Web site. To apply online http://www.realtor.org/rmosurv2.nsf/prospecting?OpenForm&WT.mc_id=LS062409&CAT=Sales |
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MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS/SPECIAL OFFERS FOR REALTORS®
Thursday, June 25th, 2009
| Right Tools, Right Now – June Articles & Information at No Cost |
| Stay on top of current industry trends and information with FREE June articles and information thanks to NAR’s RIGHT TOOLS, RIGHT NOW, including “7 Recession-Busting Steps to Take Your Business Higher”, featuring tips to improve your financial mindset and identify growth areas in your market and “Mr. Internet: Use Facebook to Get Face Time”, a great resource to help you learn a new way to generate business. New offers each month! Read more… http://www.realtor.org/prodser.nsf/RightTools/EnhancedServices?OpenDocument&wt.mc_id=RT0090&WT.mc_id=LS062409&CAT=Mem |
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Wednesday, June 24th, 2009
NAR Creates “Right Tools Right Now” Program
To help REALTORS® meet their clients’ needs and succeed in today’s economic climate, the National Association of REALTORS® is offering its roster of business-building resources to members for free or at significantly reduced costs through the association’s ‘Right Tools, Right Now” initiative.
“NAR is the most trusted resource for real estate information, and we want to ensure that REALTORS® have easy access to these powerful resources in today’s market,” said NAR President Charles McMillan. “Every NAR division is contributing to this initiative so that REALTORS® can better service their clients and enhance their business.”
For more information on the products, publications, service and enhancements available through the “Right Tools, Right Now” initiative, visit http://www.REALTOR.org/RightTools.
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What Can and Cannot be recycled.
Wednesday, June 24th, 2009
FYI for Thurston County residents:
The Fourth of July is quickly approaching and fireworks will soon fill the air. Thurston County Solid Waste would like to remind residents what to do after the smoke settles. Once you clean up the debris from your fireworks display, these materials go in the trash bin only. Please do not place them in the recycling or the organics. While some fireworks packing does indeed contain paper or cardboard, there are many other items attached that make it non-recyclable such as the shiny coatings, plastic bases or tubes, and explosive residuals. These other materials contaminate the recyclables.
Speaking of contamination, we want to remind residents to please follow the recycling rule of “when in doubt, throw it out”. When residents are uncertain about the recyclability of an item, they often place it in the recycling bin “just in case”. Unfortunately this theory adds great expense to the recycling process due to extra sorting and having to dispose of the non-recyclable items.
The only plastics allowed in recycling are diary tubs and the narrow neck bottles and jugs. Plastic bags, deli containers, clamshells, toys, Styrofoam, and of course, diapers are prohibited. Ammunition and hypodermic needles do not belong in the recycling either and pose a danger to staff that work on the sorting lines. Placing incorrect items in your residential recycling may result in your bin being tagged by the hauler or not collected.
There are plenty of resources to help you determine what can and cannot be recycled. Just go to the Thurston County Solid Waste website at http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/wwm/Recycling_and_Disposal/Recycle/Prepare_Materials_Home.htm for the Yes/No list. This information is also on your bin label and comes as a billing insert on the back side of your annual calendar. If you don’t find the answer for a specific item, please call your hauler or Thurston County at 357-2491 and we will be happy to help.
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Open House 2009
Tuesday, June 23rd, 2009
REALTOR OFFICES |
WEBSITES |
| Abbey Realty | www.abbeyrealty.com/ |
| Brunt Management | |
| Budd Bay Five Star Realty | www.buddbay5starrealty.com/ |
| Burger Professionals | www.burgerprofessionals.com/ |
| Capital Realty, LLC | |
| City Realty | www.CityRealtyInc.net/ |
| Coldwell Banker Evergreen Olympic Realty | www.coldwellbanker.com/ |
| Crescent Realty | |
| Deschutes River Realty | |
| Epic Realty | www.homesfromepic.com/ |
| Exit Realty Boardwalk | www.exitrealtyboardwalk.com/ |
| Greene Realty Group | www.greenerealty.com/ |
| Homes on Tour Realty, LLC | www.homesontour.com/ |
| John L Scott – Olympia/Lacey | www.JohnLScott.com/ |
| John L Scott – Yelm | www.johnlscott.com/ |
| Keller-Williams Olympia | www.city-data.com/profiles/13764 |
| Networks Real Estate | www.nwwf.com/about.cfm |
| Nicholson & Associates | www.nichrealty.com/ |
| Premier Properties One | www.premierpropertiesone.com/ |
| Prudential Olympia, Realtors | www.prudentialolympiarealtors.com/ |
| RE/MAX Country | www.country.washington.remax.com/ |
| RE/MAX Parkside | http://www.parksideaffiliates.net/. |
| RE/MAX Four Seasons | www.rmxhomes.com/openhouse/ |
| Reward International Real Estate | www.2733333.com/ |
| Reynolds Real Estate | www.reynoldsrealestate.net/ |
| Riley Jackson Real Estate | www.rileyjackson.net/ |
| SAV & Associates | www.nichrealty.com/ |
| Signature Services Real Estate | www.signatureservice.com/ |
| Van Dorm Realty | www.vandorm.com/openhouse/ |
| Virgil Adams Real Estate | www.virgiladamsrealestate.com/ |
| Windermere Real Estate – Graham | www.graham.mywindermere.com/ |
| Windermere Real Estate – Olympia | www.windermereolympia.com/html/homesrch.html |
| Windermere Real Estate – Yelm | www.windermere.com/ |
| Wise Realty | www.wiserealtyinc.com/ |
| Zip Realty | www.ziprealty.com/ |
Affiliate Members |
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| Advantage Home Loans | www.advantagehomeloans.net/ |
| Benchmark Home Loans | www.thurstonchamber.com/Incubator/ClientProfiles/benchmark.htm |
| Chicago Title Company | www.ctthurston.com/ |
| Evergreen Home Mortgage | www.evergreendirect.org/page.php?id=237/ |
| First American Title Company | www.firstam.com/ |
| Golf Saving Bank | www.golfsavingsbank.com/home_loans_locations_oly.htm/ |
| HomeStreet Bank | www.homestreetbank.com/index.aspx/ |
| MetLife Home Loans | www.firsthorizon.com/ |
| Northwest Farm Credit Services | www.farm-credit.com/ |
| Olympia Federal Savings | www.olyfed.com/ |
| Sound Choice Inspections, LLC | www.soundchoiceinspections.com/ |
| Stewart Title | www.stewartthurston.com/ |
| The Real Estate Book of Olympia | www.realestatebook.com |
| Thurston County Title Company | www.tctitle.net/ |
| Twin Star Credit Union | www.twinstarcu.com/ |
| Wells Fargo Home Mortgage | www.wellsfargo.com/ |
| Wheeler & Peternell, PLLC | www.bgwp.net/ |
| WIN Home Inspection | www.wini.com/ |
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Fannie Mae Confirms Short Sales Commissions Policy and Establishes Appeals Process
Monday, June 22nd, 2009
In discussions between NAR and Fannie Mae, Fannie Mae has reconfirmed its short sale commission policy and established a process for REALTORS® to follow if issues arise. On February 24, 2009, Fannie Mae sent Announcement 09-03 to its servicers instructing them not to negotiate commissions on short sales below the amount negotiated by the listing agent, unless the commission exceeds 6 percent. The Announcement reminded servicers that third party approvals (i.e., private mortgage insurers) may be required and can affect commissions. In response to concerns raised by NAR that some servicers of Fannie Mae loans are unaware of this policy or believe it is not binding, Fannie Mae has established a process for NAR members when short sale commission issues arise.
- Step 1: Determine whether the loan is owned or guaranteed by Fannie Mae. Only the holder of the loan is allowed to do this, so do so in the presence of your client or after obtaining their written permission.Visit www.fanniemae.com/loanlookup, or
If you don’t have convenient internet access, call: 1-800-7FANNIE (8am to 9pm Eastern Time)
- Step 2: If the servicer is unaware of or disagrees with the policy, provide a copy of Announcement 09-03 to the servicer and negotiate an appropriate commission based on the listing agreement (up to 6 percent).
- Step 3:Contact Fannie Mae if the dispute is not resolved directly with the servicer. Be prepared to provide the property address, name of owner, and Fannie Mae loan number (if available):Call: 1-800-7FANNIE (8am to 9pm Eastern Time), or
Email: Resource_center@FannieMae.com.
Fannie Mae Announcement 09-03 (2/24/09)
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MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS/SPECIAL OFFERS FOR REALTORS®
Thursday, June 11th, 2009
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In addition to saving up to 21% on select FedEx® services, REALTORS® can now also enjoy an additional 5% discount on FedEx Express® shipments when you create a shipping label on fedex.com or with another approved FedEx electronic shipping solution*. As a participant in NAR’s REALTOR Benefits® Program, FedEx offers NAR members the best savings on shipping solutions to help their business succeed. To get these discounts, provide code LCRS8PXX when enrolling at fedex.com/nar or calling 866-869-1171. * Some restrictions apply. See website for details. Read more… |
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Xerox, a REALTOR Benefits® Program partner, just announced a new first-of-its-kind solid ink multifunction printer with breakthrough color pricing. The new ColorQube 9200 Series printers use solid ink, print up to 12 x 18″ documents, and produce 90% less waste than comparable laser printers. Get high quality printing while using regular copy paper. Whether you are printing postcards, open house flyers, ad proofs or relocation packages, your color documents will always look professional. NAR members enjoy special savings on Xerox products. For more information and the chance to WIN a Trip for 4 to Universal Studios Hollywood, visit http://www.xerox.com/FinallyColorIsLessSweepsNAR. To be eligible to win, you must enter by 07/09/09. Read more… |
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RESORT & VACATION PROPERTIES |
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Be one step closer to earning your RSPS certification by enrolling in the Resort and Second-Home Markets Course in San Diego, CA. Read more… |
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SALES & MARKETING TOOLS |
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REALTOR® magazine is interested in hearing from brokers who’ve decided to cut back on work space to save money and improve efficiency. We also want to hear from sales associates about how office-space reductions are affecting you, for better or for worse. Read more… |
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HUD Guidance on Monetizing the Tax Credit; New REALTORS Benefits
Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009
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To: All REALTORS® From: Charles McMillan, 2009 NAR President Re: HUD Guidance on Monetizing the Tax Credit; New REALTORÒ Benefits Dear Fellow REALTOR® , I want to take just a few minutes to update you on some important developments on the regulatory front and highlight two excellent new member benefits. As you know, NAR held our first-ever Real Estate Summit during the Midyear Legislative Meetings in May. The event was a resounding success. Please take a few minutes to watch the video and listen to what top government officials and industry experts had to say about the challenges we are facing. http://www.realtor.org/meetings_and_expo/midyear_and_trade_expo/real_estate_summit As a direct result of our Summit, we have made progress on two critical issues: improving the short-sale process and HUD’s efforts to monetize the first-time homebuyer tax credit. My latest podcast includes updates on both topics. Please listen and send to your fellow members. http://www.realtor.org/about_nar/presidents_report/_podcast_archive/mcmillan_hudguidlines_20090602
Public Policy wasn’t the only hot news from NAR in May. We also unveiled two great new member benefits.
First, the REALTORSÒ Federal Credit Union opened its “doors” and already has nearly 1,000 members. I encourage all REALTORSÒ to join today for low rates on auto loans and very competitive returns on savings. Second, NAR is now offering REALTORSÒ Core Health Insurance. This guaranteed-acceptance, limited medical insurance program is being offered at an affordable price for members in most states who are under the age of 65. Plans start as low as $70 per month and you have the freedom to choose your doctor and hospital.
https://secure.sas-it.com/realtorcore/launch.aspx?roi
Again, these are just a few of the ways we continue to work on your behalf. For updates on all of our efforts on the legislative and regulatory front – and for the latest on the Right Tools, Right Now program – please visit Realtor.org today. With your help, I have no doubt that we will continue to move forward, “United Toward Tomorrow,” in the months ahead. Sincerely,
Charles McMillan, CIPS, GRI |
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BUY BOOSTER
Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009
Calling it “another important step toward accelerating the recovery of the nation’s housing market,” HUD Secretary Donovan announced at a speech before the National Association of Home Builders that FHA will allow homebuyers to apply the Recovery Act’s new $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit toward the purchase of an FHA-insured home. State housing finance agencies and certain non-profits can now ‘monetize” up to the full amount of the tax credit of up to $8,000 (depending on the amount of the mortgage) so that borrowers can immediately apply the funds toward their down payments. Home buyers using FHA-approved lenders can apply the funds to their down payment in excess of 3.5 percent of appraised value or their closing costs, which can help achieve a lower interest rate. Current law does not permit approved lenders to monetize the tax credit to meet the required 3.5 percent minimum FHA down payment. Families can only access this credit after filing their tax returns with the IRS. The Home Builders estimate that “monetarization” will stimulate some 160,000 home sales. For more, see FHA Mortgagee Letter 09-15 at www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/letters/mortgagee/index.cfm
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Easy & Handy Audio Education Available!
Tuesday, June 2nd, 2009
Washington REALTORS® in association with The Lones Group has developed an Audio Education program. We offer Audio Education so you can earn clock hours while driving in your car, in your office, or relaxing in your own private setting. These are state of the art audio CD’s that you get to keep after you purchase them! You can also get downloadable files to download straight to your computer without shipping costs! To order your audio education today, contact The Lones Group at 360.527.8904 or CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE ONLINE!
The following classes are available:
• Baby Boomers Bootcamp – 3.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Denise Lones
• Making Sense of Buyer Agency Contracts – 3.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Pili Meyer
• The World’s Greatest Sales Techniques – 4.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: JJ Johnston
• Best of the Legal Hotline – 4.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Annie Fitzsimmons
• Practical Aphorisms for Avoiding Attorneys & Other Horrors – 4.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Doug Tingvall
• The Agent of Tomorrow…What top agents do to succeed! – 4.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Denise Lones
• New Statewide Forms – 3.0 & 6.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Annie Fitzsimmons
• Mandatory CORE Curriculum – 3.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Annie Fitzsimmons
• NAR Code of Ethics – 3.0 Clock Hours – Instructor: Denise Lones
For more information on any of these classes, or to register contact Washington REALTORS® Education at 800.748.7053.
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Cash-At-Closing Progress Report
Wednesday, May 27th, 2009
Efforts to get the $8,000 first time homebuyer credit available to the buyer at closing have stalled at the IRS office. The Governor has signed the legislation that allows the Washington State Housing Finance Commission to make the funds available. Washington REALTORS® have provided the money to guarantee the program and all that is left is some sort of mechanism to ensure that when the borrower receives the $8,000 from the IRS, those funds are dedicated to pay off the bridge loan. Since working with an agency the size of the IRS is tenuous, we are working on alternatives to make this program available by the end of June. We will keep you updated!!
Housing Education/Marketing Campaign
As we work on securing our investment in the cash-advance program, we are developing a clock-hour credit class that will make you an expert regarding the financing options, tax credits and housing assistance programs available to your clients. The class will be posted on our website and free to view. Only those members that want the clock hours will be charged.
We are currently creating the public service announcements and paid media commercials so we are ready to launch our marketing campaign once the cash-at-closing program is available. Our message will emphasize the perfect market to purchase a home including affordable home prices, low interest rates and the variety of homes available.
(Articles Provided by the Washington Association of REALTORS®)
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Realtor Community Service Day 2009
Wednesday, May 27th, 2009
The 2009 Thurston County Realtor Community Service Day was headed up by Paul Oczkewicz and Joleen Harlan and consisted of cleaning up one of the Bread N Roses’ homes that they rent to very low income families in the Downtown Olympia area. Cleaning up included filling a huge dumpster with items from inside the home as well as a number of trailers with grass & weed clippings. Take a look at this incredible transformation and all of those Realtors who helped!! (Click here to see Photos…)
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MongoFAX!
Thursday, May 21st, 2009
Have you tried MongoFAX yet? Accelerate your business in 2009 with this free Washington REALTORS® member benefit. MongoFAX empowers all Washington REALTORS® to instantly scan, and email hardcopy paper-based documents as searchable PDF files. All you need is an ordinary fax machine and WAR’s designated MongoFAX Email Cover Page. With MongoFAX REALTORS® are able to eliminate courier, mail, and overnight delivery costs. In addition, users are able to dramatically reduce paper and toner expenses, close deals faster, and deliver cleaner documents while automatically maintaining a digital email trail of all transactions.Try It Now!
REALTOR FEEDBACK:
“We love it! Numerous agents in our office use it, and it’s very easy and efficient. I have a scanner on my desk that I used to scan offers and then e-mail them to clients as a PDF file, but now I can just bypass that time-consuming step and do it straight through MongoFax. I especially like that you send ME a copy of the file, too – a great benefit! MongoFAX has saved us time, money, and hassle – our agents have been VERY pleased to receive this service – especially as a benefit of their dues dollars!
As a Board member of the local association, I’m thrilled to be able to link this directly to dues dollars. We get complaints all the time about the tangible benefits of being part of the association and this makes that conversation MUCH easier! Thanks!!!” –Kristy Buck, REALTOR®, Shelton, WA
MongoFAX Online Training!
Whether you are first hearing about MongoFAX or a seasoned user, you are invited to participate in a live training class hosted daily by a certified MongoFAX Account Manager. These “webinars” are held online, last about 15 minutes, and cover everything you need to know about the service and its applications.
Training is not required but highly recommended. Click here to register for one of our upcoming webinars, or contact the MongoFAX Training team at training@mongonet.net.
MongoFAX Customer Support: 1-866-482-2229
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REALTORS® FCU
Thursday, May 21st, 2009
The new REALTORS® Federal Credit Union is in the process of developing a suite of member business (the credit union term for “commercial” services). In order for us to gauge the amount of resources we need to put toward this development, we are conducting a “mini” survey of the State Associations and Local Associations of REALTORS® to determine possible need for member business loans over the next 12 to 18 months.
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Tax Credit Advance
Thursday, May 21st, 2009
The new Housing Tax Credit Advance Loan Program. The program is not up and running yet, but we are finalizing the details and we should be ready to roll it out within the next few weeks (or so)! In the meantime, there are things your clients can do right now to be eligible and ready once it is up and running.
As you are aware, the 2009 Economic Recovery and Revitalization Act included a “refundable” tax credit worth up to $8,000 for taxpayers who purchase their first home between January 1 and November 30, 2009.
In Washington, REALTORS have focused our efforts on the development of a Housing Tax Credit Advance Loan Program to make the equivalent of a first-time homebuyer’s tax credit (up to $8000) available to borrow for down payment through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission.
The Housing Tax Credit Advance Loan Program, the first of its kind in the nation, is being developed through a partnership that includes the Washington Realtors, Washington State Treasurer’s office, and Washington State Housing Finance Commission, which was authorized in the recently passed state budget. That budget must still be signed by the Governor.
Details of the program are still being refined, but here are the basics:
- Attend a Free Homebuyer Education Class – Home buyers can attend a Washington State Housing Finance Commission Sponsored Home Buyer Education Seminar; this 5-hour seminar is a requirement for receiving a loan from the Commission.
- Other Loans Are Available Now: Look into the House Key Program for first mortgages for first-time home buyers; and, there are Second Mortgage Loans for Down Payment Assistance available through the Commission when using the House Key Program. There are down payment assistance programs for those with disabilities, for teachers, veterans and those who live in certain rural areas! There is even a conventional first mortgage loan available right now through the Express Loan Program for first-time home buyers that can be used in conjunction with the House Key Plus Down payment Assistance Program!
- Refer them to a participating lender now: Have them meet with a House Key trained loan officer and determine if the client qualifies for a mortgage loan according to FHA, VA, Rural Housing Services (RHS), or conventional loan standards.
Information and help with all these services are available through the Washington State Housing Finance Commission’s Homeownership Division.
REALTORS can call Lisa DeBrock for more information at 206-287-4461. Or email Lisa at Lisa.DeBrock@wshfc.org
Thank you so much for contacting us at the Washington REALTORS.
We will be sure to let all of our members know in detail about the Housing Tax Credit Advance Loan Program as it progresses.
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