Winter Meeting Highlights
REGION 7 CAUCUS UPDATE
NAR – DOJ Agreement
No action is required at this time. NAR has agreed to make changes to the Code of Ethics and MLS policies. The Rules and COE :changes will:
· reaffirm the MLSs and brokerages must provide consumers all properties that fit their criteria.
· prohibit buyers’ agents from representing their services as free to clients.
· Require MLSs to allow licensed real estate agents access to the lockbox, with seller’s approval.
Note, the wording and policy changes are still being determined and no immediate action is required.
NAR Code of Ethics Training – End of 3 year Cycle 12/31/2021
This year marks the end of the 3 year cycle and all REALTORS® are required to complete an NAR Code of Ethics course. Texas REALTORS® and some online providers provide the education as does NAR itself. Your Association Membership status depends on meeting the requirement by 12/31. Check now!
NAR’s C5 Summit
Texas REALTORS® will participate in the NAR C5 – a conference designed to bring together Capital, Connection, Commerce, Community, and Commercial in New York City. TXR will be there to showcase opportunities in Texas commercial real estate.
TREC Information
Although the TREC meeting was postponed due to weather and uncertainties surrounding power and travel, the new forms are approved and will be available in Zipforms and other forms platforms soon. Among the changes being made is a change in the way Option Fees are paid, additional language regarding leases affecting the property, and specific additions for fixtures and smart home accessories. TXR anticipates the newly approved forms will be available in ZipForms by mid-March.
Also, note there is a new Consumer Protection Notice is required as of 02/01/2021.
Starting February 1, 2021, brokers and most sales agents will also have to complete at least 3 hourse of contract related coursework as part of the 18 hour MCE renewal (Does not apply to SAE renewals.)
Legislative Contact Team (LCT)
If you have a working relationship with your legislator or their staff and are interested in being an advocate, please visit the LCT page at www.texasrealestate.com/legislativecontactteams The LCT members will build relationships, and maintain frequent communication with the legislator and their staff. The LCT will also be responsible for reporting on those interactions, responding to TXR Calls for Action and attending meetings as the need arises. The LCT will also be key at the virtual REALTOR® day at the Texas Capital.
Appraiser/Appraisal Work Group
Given the importance of the appraisal in the real estate transaction and the challenges faced by buyers, agents, lenders, and appraisers, TXR has formed the 2021 Appraiser/Appraisal Work Group. The work of the group includes:
· Reviewing processes and obstacles for timely delivery of accurate appraisals
· Analyzing and define geographic competency in appraisal work
· Identifying barriers to entry or retention for licensed Texas appraisers
Membership in the work group consists of four appraisers, six REALTORS® and five lenders
Zipforms (Lone Wolf)
At the end of 2021, Zipforms will no longer be an NAR Member benefit. No Worries! There will be no interruption of service as TXR has proposed to re-activate an agreement with Zipforms for member-wide usage.
TREPAC Honors & Opportunities
In light of recent events, our Region 7 TREPAC Trustees-Hector Alaniz and Debbie Homeier remind everyone, we are the REALTOR® Party. REALTORS® support the candidates who align themselves with our agenda, regardless of party affiliation/ The REALTOR® Party’s agenda is protecting private property rights. It takes all of us to make a difference for Texas Private Property Rights.
And because of TXR influence, Real estate was deemed “essential” during the pandemc. Perhaps that is why $5.1 M was invested by Texas REALTORS® for 2020 and $1.8m ytd.
The TREPAC 5K will be held in April. How about putting a team together?
President’s Circle has been postponed and rescheduled to be held in Marco Island Fl June 20-23, 2021.
Any TREPAC events planned? Please let me know. Vote, Invest Act.
ZILLOW
Zillow is a Texas Broker and is a member of our Association. As such Zillow is entitled to the same rights and privileges of Texas REALTORS® and "Z-bashing" could subject you to a Code of Ethics complaint. Zillow is now getting IDX feed and has made changes in the way it displays listings and agents. However, in Texas, Zillow cannot display Sold Data. In light of the Zillow acquisition of Showing Time, Texas REALTORS® will be offering more information in the coming months, and thank you for being mindful of your professionalism.
I thought you might want to know who your points of contact are throughout Region 7.
Political Involvement Committee Representatives: Pepe Arandas and Warren Hoskinson
TREPAC Trustees – Region 7: – Hector Alaniz and Debbie Homeier
I hope all of you are back in full electrical power status and have running water. This has been a week of winter to remember with brighter days ahead!
If you have something to share around the region, send me the information.
Warm regards,
Reg 7 Regional Vice President 2021-2022
