Accredited Associations have the opportunity to promote the NEW book club to members before the official NAR Commercial launch!
Announcing the NAR Commercial Virtual Book Club! The first read in the new club features Bob Potter, an NAR Commercial Signature Series Speaker, and expert on third-level selling. In his book, Bob shares why you should stop competing on price and find out why clients will choose a winner – you! To participate –first, purchase the book, Selling Real Estate Services: Third Level Secrets of Top Producers at the REALTOR® store. Second, visit the book club launch on August 15 at http://go-to.realtor.org/r/3OS1G5/CM/ZCSK/XL/25KB5/CK/h for instructions on joining the book discussion and free pre-recorded webinars from the author. Finally, join Bob on Friday, September 10th at 1 p.m. CST for LIVE Q&A. Preview the first webinar now!
http://tinyurl.com/ThirdLevel
If you have any questions about NAR Commercial, any of their current programs or just about TCAR, give us a call at 919-228-2588 or email me at kimb@tcar.com .
Monday, July 26, 2010
Sunday, July 25, 2010
NAR Comments on Proposed Commercial Lead Paint Rule
On May 6, 2010, EPA issued an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR) concerning the Renovation, Repair and Painting Program for Commercial and Public Buildings. The purpose of this ANPR was to solicit feedback and comments on a proposed program that would be similar to the one promulgated for homes, which aims to reduce children's exposure to lead dust during renovation activities. In this most recent ANPRM, EPA has requested comments on a variety of issues specific to the regulation of RRP activities in commercial and public buildings.
NAR, in coalition with several other impacted organizations, submitted comments on July 6, 2010 to express a variety of concerns regarding this proposed regulation. In the comments, the Coalition emphasized that EPA must consider the scope of its authority before proceeding with any regulations. The Toxic Substances Control Act limits the Agency's authority to promulgate regulations that govern RRP activities in commercial and public buildings. Among other things, EPA must complete a congressionally-mandated study of RRP activities in commercial and public buildings and the extent to which they create lead-based paint hazards before it can proceed with any regulations. In addition, EPA must consider a variety of factors in any rulemaking efforts related to RRP activities in commercial and public buildings. For example, the Agency should take into account the fact that RRP activities in commercial and public buildings may present very different patterns of exposure to lead-based paint hazards than the RRP activities in residential settings on which the Agency has previously focused.
In addition, EPA should take into consideration the very limited use of lead-based paint in commercial buildings since 1978. EPA must also consider the potential impacts that the imposition of regulatory requirements may have on other national priorities such as increasing energy efficiency. Indeed, the many questions concerning the extent to which RRP activities in commercial and public buildings actually present lead-based paint hazards and the potential consequences of any regulations strongly suggest that the Agency should continue to seek the input of key stakeholders such as the Coalition's members as this rulemaking proceeds. Visit NAR's Homepage on Lead-Based Paint.
NAR, in coalition with several other impacted organizations, submitted comments on July 6, 2010 to express a variety of concerns regarding this proposed regulation. In the comments, the Coalition emphasized that EPA must consider the scope of its authority before proceeding with any regulations. The Toxic Substances Control Act limits the Agency's authority to promulgate regulations that govern RRP activities in commercial and public buildings. Among other things, EPA must complete a congressionally-mandated study of RRP activities in commercial and public buildings and the extent to which they create lead-based paint hazards before it can proceed with any regulations. In addition, EPA must consider a variety of factors in any rulemaking efforts related to RRP activities in commercial and public buildings. For example, the Agency should take into account the fact that RRP activities in commercial and public buildings may present very different patterns of exposure to lead-based paint hazards than the RRP activities in residential settings on which the Agency has previously focused.
In addition, EPA should take into consideration the very limited use of lead-based paint in commercial buildings since 1978. EPA must also consider the potential impacts that the imposition of regulatory requirements may have on other national priorities such as increasing energy efficiency. Indeed, the many questions concerning the extent to which RRP activities in commercial and public buildings actually present lead-based paint hazards and the potential consequences of any regulations strongly suggest that the Agency should continue to seek the input of key stakeholders such as the Coalition's members as this rulemaking proceeds. Visit NAR's Homepage on Lead-Based Paint.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
REALTORS® DENTAL INSURANCE
NEW! Announcing an exclusive member benefit available through NAR’s REALTOR Benefits® Program--
REALTORS® DENTAL INSURANCE
The Marketing and Business Development of NAR is pleased to announce an exciting new benefit available exclusively to NAR members and REALTOR® Association staff-- REALTORS® Dental Insurance (RDI). This benefit is offered through NAR's REALTOR Benefits® Program in partnership with Ameritas Insurance Company and SASid (Smart And Simple insurance development).
NAR understands the unique needs of its members who, as independent contractors and small business owners, often do not have access to quality and affordable health and welfare insurance. Following the successful launch of a limited medical insurance offering (RCHI), the Association has continued to work with experts in the insurance industry to develop unique offerings to meet this need. REALTORS® Dental Insurance has been custom-designed to offer affordable and valuable large group Dental insurance benefits to NAR members and their families nationwide. Plans provide coverage for preventive, basic, and major dental expenses with the dentist of your choice. There are 4 plans to choose from, and most plans include bonus benefits like orthodontia, cosmetic, dental rewards, and more. The plans are available today in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam and in every state except NH, where state law prohibits it, and NC, where the plan has been filed by the carrier and is pending approval by the state’s Department of Insurance. As soon as North Carolina has been approved, we'll let you know. In the mean time, check it out.
For more information click here
REALTORS® DENTAL INSURANCE
The Marketing and Business Development of NAR is pleased to announce an exciting new benefit available exclusively to NAR members and REALTOR® Association staff-- REALTORS® Dental Insurance (RDI). This benefit is offered through NAR's REALTOR Benefits® Program in partnership with Ameritas Insurance Company and SASid (Smart And Simple insurance development).
NAR understands the unique needs of its members who, as independent contractors and small business owners, often do not have access to quality and affordable health and welfare insurance. Following the successful launch of a limited medical insurance offering (RCHI), the Association has continued to work with experts in the insurance industry to develop unique offerings to meet this need. REALTORS® Dental Insurance has been custom-designed to offer affordable and valuable large group Dental insurance benefits to NAR members and their families nationwide. Plans provide coverage for preventive, basic, and major dental expenses with the dentist of your choice. There are 4 plans to choose from, and most plans include bonus benefits like orthodontia, cosmetic, dental rewards, and more. The plans are available today in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam and in every state except NH, where state law prohibits it, and NC, where the plan has been filed by the carrier and is pending approval by the state’s Department of Insurance. As soon as North Carolina has been approved, we'll let you know. In the mean time, check it out.
For more information click here
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Latest INFO from NAR
President's Podcast: What's Coming Up in Congress
Fresh off of victories in getting the tax credit closing deadline and flood insurance extended, NAR President Vicki Cox Golder outlines what major legislative issues are looming for the real estate industry. These include the financial reform bill, the 502 single-family rural housing loan guarantee program, and carried interest, which impacts commercial real estate. Listen to the podcast
Small Business Lending Bill Advances to Senate Floor
NAR is urging the Senate to OK legislation that would create a $30 billion small business loan fund. NAR also wants the bill to allow credit unions to increase loans to commercial real estate. Similar legislation has passed the house but Senate prospects are unclear. For more information, contact Vijay Yadlapati at 202-383-1090 or vyadlapati@realtors.org
Webinar: How REALTORS® FCU Can Help You
The REALTORS® Federal Credit Union (REALTORS® FCU), created by the National Association of REALTORS®, serves the unique financial needs of REALTORS® and Associations. Join Tom Glatt, President and CEO, to learn more about their competitive interest and dividend rates, which make it a perfect complement to your existing financial portfolio. In addition, REALTORS® FCU has a Partner Program designed to enhance the benefits you already provide to your members. Register for the webinar at 10 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, July 20, and for instructions on accessing the one-hour session.
New REALTORS(R) Land Institute Course
“Beyond Property Lines: What Real Estate Professionals Need to Know About Land” is a course for practitioners who are interested in jump-starting their knowledge about land. Land transactions are complex and require specialized knowledge—from survey methodology to mineral rights. Members can attend the premiere of this new half-day course on Nov. 3, 2010, at the NAR Conference & Expo in New Orleans. Keith Morris, Accredited Land Consultant with Farmers National Company, will serve as instructor.
Fresh off of victories in getting the tax credit closing deadline and flood insurance extended, NAR President Vicki Cox Golder outlines what major legislative issues are looming for the real estate industry. These include the financial reform bill, the 502 single-family rural housing loan guarantee program, and carried interest, which impacts commercial real estate. Listen to the podcast
Small Business Lending Bill Advances to Senate Floor
NAR is urging the Senate to OK legislation that would create a $30 billion small business loan fund. NAR also wants the bill to allow credit unions to increase loans to commercial real estate. Similar legislation has passed the house but Senate prospects are unclear. For more information, contact Vijay Yadlapati at 202-383-1090 or vyadlapati@realtors.org
Webinar: How REALTORS® FCU Can Help You
The REALTORS® Federal Credit Union (REALTORS® FCU), created by the National Association of REALTORS®, serves the unique financial needs of REALTORS® and Associations. Join Tom Glatt, President and CEO, to learn more about their competitive interest and dividend rates, which make it a perfect complement to your existing financial portfolio. In addition, REALTORS® FCU has a Partner Program designed to enhance the benefits you already provide to your members. Register for the webinar at 10 a.m. CDT on Tuesday, July 20, and for instructions on accessing the one-hour session.
New REALTORS(R) Land Institute Course
“Beyond Property Lines: What Real Estate Professionals Need to Know About Land” is a course for practitioners who are interested in jump-starting their knowledge about land. Land transactions are complex and require specialized knowledge—from survey methodology to mineral rights. Members can attend the premiere of this new half-day course on Nov. 3, 2010, at the NAR Conference & Expo in New Orleans. Keith Morris, Accredited Land Consultant with Farmers National Company, will serve as instructor.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Governor Perdue Signs Final State Budget into Law
Governor Perdue signed into law Wednesday (June 30th) the $19 billion final state budget package that passed the NC House and Senate this week. The House passed the budget with a vote of 66-50 and the Senate passed the budget with a vote of 28-15. This was the first time the General Assembly approved a budget on time, before the start of the state’s fiscal year (July 1st), since 2003.
Upon signing, Governor Perdue predicted that the state budget would create and/or retain 20,000 jobs over the next three years through a small-business tax credit and new transportation funding.
House and Senate Democrats who negotiated the final budget stated that this state budget closes an $800 million budget gap by reducing spending by more than 3 percent. Republicans argued, however, that the state budget spends too much during an economic recession and does not prepare for the potential $3 billion budget shortfall in 2011 when federal stimulus funds will run out and temporary tax increases passed last year are set to expire.
As previously reported, one of the final major provisions remaining for budget negotiators last week involved an anticipated $490 million from Congress for state Medicaid funding. Given the recent stall in Congress to pass the bill containing the state Medicaid funding, budget negotiators had to develop a contingency plan to close the Medicaid funding gap. The contingency plan contained in the final budget will take effect January 1, 2011 if necessary, giving Congress additional time to pass the bill supplying state Medicaid funds. If applied, the contingency plan would first take $30 million from the special fund to pay for disaster relief and $35 million in the lottery funds. After those funds are exhausted, the state would cut Medicaid provider rates by 1 percent, withhold up to $139 million in pension contributions and cut state government across the board by 1 percent, which would total $178 million.
With the budget completed it is likely that the legislative session will conclude next week. Many expect the General Assembly will adjourn by next Friday, July 9th.
Upon signing, Governor Perdue predicted that the state budget would create and/or retain 20,000 jobs over the next three years through a small-business tax credit and new transportation funding.
House and Senate Democrats who negotiated the final budget stated that this state budget closes an $800 million budget gap by reducing spending by more than 3 percent. Republicans argued, however, that the state budget spends too much during an economic recession and does not prepare for the potential $3 billion budget shortfall in 2011 when federal stimulus funds will run out and temporary tax increases passed last year are set to expire.
As previously reported, one of the final major provisions remaining for budget negotiators last week involved an anticipated $490 million from Congress for state Medicaid funding. Given the recent stall in Congress to pass the bill containing the state Medicaid funding, budget negotiators had to develop a contingency plan to close the Medicaid funding gap. The contingency plan contained in the final budget will take effect January 1, 2011 if necessary, giving Congress additional time to pass the bill supplying state Medicaid funds. If applied, the contingency plan would first take $30 million from the special fund to pay for disaster relief and $35 million in the lottery funds. After those funds are exhausted, the state would cut Medicaid provider rates by 1 percent, withhold up to $139 million in pension contributions and cut state government across the board by 1 percent, which would total $178 million.
With the budget completed it is likely that the legislative session will conclude next week. Many expect the General Assembly will adjourn by next Friday, July 9th.
Friday, July 2, 2010
NCAR Partner of the Month
Think BIG and save along the way! Your NCAR membership entitles you to discounts on UPS ground, air and international shipping every time you ship. Whether you send 50 shipments a month or two shipments a week, the savings add up. With UPS, even small businesses save big! Click here to sign up: www.savewithups.com/enroll/ and enter the promotional code: SER213!
Take advantage of the discounts and remember it is possible to pay for your membership if you take advantage of what NCAR offers to their members.
*Video*
Also, in 2007 the Partners Program released an interactive DVD-ROM to increase member awareness of the REALTOR® Partner Program. The DVD is now slightly dated as they have acquired and dropped partners since the release. However, NCAR is working to take parts of the DVD and use them on their social media sites and website. Check out the first clip: http://www.youtube.com/user/ncrealtors
Take advantage of the discounts and remember it is possible to pay for your membership if you take advantage of what NCAR offers to their members.
*Video*
Also, in 2007 the Partners Program released an interactive DVD-ROM to increase member awareness of the REALTOR® Partner Program. The DVD is now slightly dated as they have acquired and dropped partners since the release. However, NCAR is working to take parts of the DVD and use them on their social media sites and website. Check out the first clip: http://www.youtube.com/user/ncrealtors
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
