A MESSAGE FROM CHAIRWOMAN OF THE BOARD SARAH COLE |
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Dear GMAR Members,
Yay, it’s March! Spring is right around the corner and the market should start picking up.
Did you know March is Women’s History Month? At the GMAR women have been in leadership positions for decades – and women have been the association’s chairperson for 15 out of the last 20 years.
There is some talk circulating online about the value of NAR. I have seen what NAR does up close, and I can say that the value we receive from our membership in NAR is significant. Shannon McGahn, NAR’s Chief Advocacy Officer, recently sent out this video discussing how NAR advances public policies and candidates that build strong communities, increase access to homeownership, and protect private property rights. Certainly, some wrong-headed people at the top made some HUGE mistakes, but the people who work at NAR do a great job for us!
Finally, the 98th REALTORS® Home & Garden Show is on at the Expo Center at the Wisconsin State Fair Park running from March 22 nd – 30 th. I hope to see you there.
Thank you for being a GMAR member.
Sincerely,
Sarah Cole
2024 Chairwoman
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GMAR FAIR HOUSING POSTER CONTEST |
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The contest is sponsored by the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® and the GMAR’s Youth Foundation.
All children and grandchildren of GMAR Members and Affiliate Members are eligible to participate.
This contest is designed to teach children about equal access to housing and promote fair housing. All winners will receive a $100 gift card, and a $250 donation to their school! It is our hope to honor students with the winning entries at their school. Posters will be displayed on the GMAR’s website and social media pages. Winning entries will be selected by the GMAR’s Equal Opportunity Committee.
Entry deadline is April 26th, 2024.
Click here for the contest entry label
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KETTLE MORAINE COUNCIL LUNCH AND LEARN RECAP |
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Thank you to all who attended the Lunch And Learn sponsored by the Kettle Moraine Council! |
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REALTORS® HOME & GARDEN SHOW REALTOR® REPRESENTATIVE
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GMAR Members can volunteer to meet and greet hundreds of consumer show attendees.
Pass out your business cards with show materials and make our attendees feel welcome while marketing your business! This opportunity is reserved for members in-good-standing of the GMAR®.
Submit completed form no later than Thursday, March 14th to Debbie Running at the GMAR Debbie@gmar.com
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NAR TO PROVIDE ABR COURSEWORK AT NO COST! |
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NAR has announced that it will provide its members with no-cost access to the Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation course, helping REALTORS® communicate their value to buyers in this ever-evolving real estate landscape. The ABR® course, a $295 value, focuses on “the key information and skills you need today when working with buyers, so you can be prepared to articulate and demonstrate your value and help buyers understand written buyer representation agreements,” says NAR President Kevin Sears.
From late February through the end of the year, members can complete the course via a live interactive webinar or online at their own pace.
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The GMAR welcomed 58 new members in the month of February! Click the graphic to view a list of the new members. |
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Date: Thursday, March 21
Time: 10:30am - 12:30pm
Location: Ethan Brooks Mortgage Team
11220 W Burleigh St M121 Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Food and drinks will be provided! Take time to invest in yourself and your business - and stand out among the competition as a true market expert:
1. Learn the day-to-day behind the "curtain" as an appraiser!
2. How do appraisers arrive at their final value?
3. Why do ~60% of appraisals come in at exactly the contract price in the Greater Milwaukee market?
4. What is the process of contesting a low appraisal like on the appraiser's side?
5. Bring your own questions, we will have time reserved for open Q&A!
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REAL ESTATE AFTER DARK: UNWIND & CONNECT WITH THE BEST IN THE BIZ |
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This exclusive event caters specifically to industry leaders, offering an electrifying blend of networking and knowledge.
Savor insightful talks from our renowned keynote speaker Tim Riesterer, author & Chief Strategy Officer at Corporate Visions, followed by a dynamic lineup of speakers tackling the hottest trends, from harnessing AI's power to forging relationships that build cash flow empires.
This isn't your typical stuffy conference - it's a chance to connect, recharge, and propel your career. Join us for an unforgettable night where the deals aren't just on paper, they're forged in laughter, shared ideas, electrifying energy.
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DECODING SHORT SALES AND FORECLOSURES |
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Your guide to confidently navigating distressed properties
Date: Thursday, March 14
Time: 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM Location: RE/MAX Forward 5000 S Towne Drive, Ste 110 New Berlin, WI 53151
Topics Covered:
Short Sales
We’ll cover short sales procedures, timelines, commissions, lender and offer requirements, and more.
Foreclosure
Selling properties in foreclosure and homeowner foreclosure rights.
Bankruptcy
How loan modification and bankruptcies affect title and the ability to close transactions.
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Make sure you are a part of Wisdom Wednesday for an exclusive event entitled "Smart Money Moves to Make Before the Tax Deadline" presented by The Derocher-Culbertson Team of Country Financial.
Our speakers will teach financial strategies and insights to maximize your wealth before the tax deadline. Learn about tax-saving tactics and other great ways to protect your wealth. This is perfect for anyone looking to optimize their financial game. Register today using the link below!
We’re excited to host this event in the beautiful Lake Lounge at Brookfield Lakes (off Bluemound, not too far from Lifetime Fitness in Brookfield). Doors open at 11:30 AM, lunch will be served at 11:45 with the training at 12 Noon sharp.
The training will be done by 1pm but we will have a Q & A and networking to follow for those who can stick around. You’ll be out and on your way by 1:30pm at the latest.
Some will, most won’t. We want to be the some!
Date: March 20th
Time: 11:30am
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REALTORS® LUNCH AND LEARN
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Date: Thursday, March 14, 2024
Time: 11am - 1 pm
Location: Mukwonago High School
Learn about district student performance, academic and activity programs, fiscal updates, and information about the upcoming referendum for a new 6th-8th grade middle school and elementary renovations to add four-year-old kindergarten classrooms.
11:00 - Arrival
11:15 - Tour the recently-renovated Mukwonago High School
11:45 - Lunch provided by MHS culinary arts students
12:00 - District presentations and Q&A
To view the full flyer click here.
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WOMEN'S COUNCIL OF REALTORS® EVENT
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The Women’s Council of REALTORS® is EXCITED to announce that they will be hosting International Keynote Speaker, Award-Winning Performer, and American Ninja Warrior, Alex Weber on Thursday March 21, 2024, 11:00am to 3:00pm at The Brookfield Conference Center located at 325 S Moorland Rd., Brookfield, WI 53005.
Alex has positively impacted over 3.5 Million people worldwide to overcome their challenges, fears, and even failures to achieve their highest goals!
But not only has Alex talked the talk as an in-demand international speaker, he’s walked the walk as an elite competitor on NBC’s Emmy-nominated series American Ninja Warrior. Well, more like, leaped the leap! This wildly popular TV show has sparked a global phenomenon to the extent that hundreds of thousands of people apply, and only a few hundred are given the rare opportunity to compete. Alex is the only person to host and compete on NBC's American Ninja Warrior.
Alex’s greatest passion is championing your highest leadership & performance potential by giving you his Unstoppable System!
Click here to view the flyer.
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HEART & HOMESTEAD - EARNED DOWN PAYMENT INCENTIVE TRAINING |
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Please join Washington County for an in person formal training session on how your homebuyers can access this program.
Date: Tuesday, March 12
Time: 9:00am-11:00am
Location: Moraine Park Technical College West Bend Auditorium – 2151 N Main St, West Bend, WI 53090
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Columbia Savings & Loan Association
2020 W. Fond du Lac Avenue
Buying a home can be an overwhelming process, and knowing where to turn for help and funding can be difficult. Let PWSC Bank equip you with things you should know when planning for a home at our upcoming seminar, including:
- The basic steps in buying a home
- How banks look at credit
- Types of mortgage loans and their benefits
- Available grants and down payment assistance
- Things to avoid leading up to home closing
Seminar Dates and Times
Friday, March 15, 12 pm and 5pm
Thursday, June 27, 12 pm and 4 pm
Friday, October 4, 12 pm and 5 pm
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THE GREATER MILWAUKEE ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
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Fox Brook Park – Beach House Planting Project
May 8th from 9am-12pm
Come help Fox Brook Park Staff while they plant 500 small pots around their beach house.
Volunteers will be helping with planting, watering, and mulching these new varieties of plants around the building.
If volunteers are interested in this project they can sign up directly by clicking the register here button below.
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MILITARY RELOCATION PROFESSIONAL (MRP) COURSE |
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The Military Relocation Professional (MRP) Certification Course is on March 13 at the Wisconsin Club. The fee is $50. This can be paid by mailing a check to the GMAR office or by calling GMAR with a credit card. Light snacks will be offered.
When military staff and their families relocate, the services of a real estate professional who understands their needs and timetables makes the transfer easier, faster, and less stressful. This certification focuses on educating real estate professionals about working with current and former military service members to find the housing solutions that best suit their needs and take full advantage of military benefits and support.
The Military Relocation Professional Certification course counts towards earning NAR's Military Relocation Professional Certification as well as one REBAC-elective course toward the ABR® designation.
Click here to view the flyer.
Contact Michelle Kohn if you have any questions and if you would like to register michelle@gmar.com
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GMAR YPN COFFEE WITH CORI
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Date: Tuesday, April 9th
Time: 9-11:30am
Location: WAWM Rec Center; 2450 S 68th St, West Allis, WI 53219
Join GMAR YPN for a morning of enlightenment as we explore the latest developments in real estate with the Wisconsin REALTORS® Association (WRA). Hosted by GMAR YPN, this event features Cori Lamont, Senior Director of Legal and Public Affairs at WRA, who will discuss recent legislative changes and industry trends. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to real estate, join us for valuable insights and networking opportunities
Reserve your spot today!
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Event Date: May 15, 2024 from 9:00am-3:00pm
Event Location: MLS Parking Lot
12300 W. Center Street
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Event Phone: 414-778-4929
THIS EVENT IS FOR GMAR MEMBERS ONLY.
To sign up for a slot please register below.
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YOUTH FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS
ARE AVAILABLE!
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The Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS® Youth Foundation will award seven $1,000 scholarships to children or grandchildren of GMAR members during 2024.
Members must have maintained their relationship with the GMAR continuously for at
least three (3) years. Deadline to apply is March 31, 2024.
Click the button below for the application.
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Take the mystery out of how to become a successful home inspector!
- In person training (not online) = higher success rate
- When you pass the exam - we'll pay you the exam fee!
- Learn from the largest home inspection company in Wisconsin instead of just the school
- No sales pitch. Just results
Sign up now! The next class starts March 25, 2024.
Click here to view the full flyer. |
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VOLUNTEER WITH SECURE FUTURES! |
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SecureFutures, are in need of more volunteers for our Money Coach program this spring!
SecureFutures, founded in 2006, equips teens with money management skills, tools, and mentoring so they can achieve financial capability, reach their goals, and strengthen their communities. SecureFutures' life-changing financial mentoring program, Money Coach, is in need of more volunteers to serve as mentors for the spring semester!
Money Coach is a semester-long (10-week) program that focuses on teaching 3 components to students: creating a budget, tracking expenses, and opening a bank account. There are two roles to choose from: Group Coach and One-on-One Coach. Coaches will meet with their students every other week for 60-90 minutes.
What if I'm not a financial expert?
You do not need to have a financial background to volunteer; all are welcome! Training is provided and required for new volunteers and those who have not volunteered in the current school year.
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HOUSING, RACE, AND EQUITY WORKSHOPS |
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You're invited to attend Milwaukee Habitat's new workshop which is open to volunteers, supporters, and the public.
Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity’s Housing, Race and Equity Workshop is a 2 hour interactive, discussion based, opportunity to better understand how local history has impacted our housing patterns. By examining primary sources and data maps we’ll seek to understand how segregated housing was a conscious institutional choice and the very real effect these decisions have had on the Milwaukee metro area. After looking at recent housing trends, we’ll have the opportunity to make a commitment to affordable housing and learn a few ways to take informed action.
After signing up you'll receive a calendar invite for the event that includes the location!
Dates:
- Wednesday, March 13th, 9am-11am (We Energies on North Avenue in Milwaukee)
- Wednesday April 10th, 9am-11am (We Energies on North Avenue in Milwaukee)
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Founded in 1927, The Equitable Bank began with a mission to ensure Milwaukee area families had access to quality housing. Today, as a full-service bank recognized as a leader in residential real estate lending in Milwaukee, we prioritize a personal customer service approach. Our 6-branch network is committed to providing a comprehensive suite of financial services, including deposit products, investment services, commercial lending, and personalized business banking features.
What makes your company stand out in your industry?
At The Equitable Bank, our focused commitment to our customers sets us apart in the industry. We prioritize their best interests, fostering an environment of openness, honesty, and education throughout the homebuying process. As a community bank, we understand the importance of actively participating and contributing to our local community, especially with a keen focus on assisting first-time homebuyers in achieving the dream of homeownership and building equity.
Our local expertise, utilizing local and seasoned appraisers, ensures precise assessments tailored to the local real estate market. With almost a century of experience in residential lending, we excel in delivering efficient services through creative mortgage solutions and effective techniques, always prioritizing the customer's best interest.
How can a REALTOR® help their client(s) by using your product/service?
A REALTOR® can enhance their clients' experience by choosing The Equitable Bank for financing. We tailor solutions with common-sense underwriting, offering flexibility, competitive rates, lower down payments, and specialized finance options. Our in-house processing, after-hours availability, and local advantage ensure quick, efficient transactions with a high closing ratio. With a personalized approach, we prioritize clients, guaranteeing a seamless and satisfactory homeownership journey.
What’s your outlook for the industry in 2024?
As we look ahead to 2024, we are optimistic about the housing market. The anticipated lower interest rates are expected to stimulate homebuyer demand, making homeownership more accessible and we are hopeful to see an increase in housing inventory. At our institution, we are committed to facilitating these positive trends by offering competitive mortgage rates, personalized service, and innovative lending solutions. Our goal is to support responsible lending practices and contribute to the sustainable growth of the housing market.
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GMAR MEMBERS-ONLY FACEBOOK GROUP |
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Join our members-only Facebook group! This group was created for our members to connect with each other and discuss industry-related questions/concerns as well as to keep you informed on association news and updates. If there are any specific topics you would like to see more of, please let us know!
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DISCOVER MILWAUKEE RELOCATION GUIDE |
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The GMAR is once again sponsoring the Discover Milwaukee Relocation Guide. Covering Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington, and Racine counties. It is the Greater Milwaukee region’s #1 source for anyone looking to move or relocate to Wisconsin’s largest metro area.
Limited quantities of the publication are available at the GMAR office, or by contacting Metro Business Publications at pcanon@discovermilwaukee.com.
GMAR members also have the opportunity to highlight their experience and expertise in a special section for Relocation Specialists. For rate information, contact Maribeth Delforge at 262-796-0224, or mbdelforge@discovermilwaukee.com.
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REAL ESTATE SUPPLY STORE NOW AT MINUTEMAN PRESS - BROOKFIELD |
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The real estate supply store is now located ONLY at Minuteman Press - Brookfield location (13680 W. Capitol Drive). Store hours are M-F between 8:30 AM and 5 PM. Contact Minuteman Press-Brookfield for more info at (262) 781-9622! |
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Comments, Suggestions, or Questions?...
Let us know how GMAR can improve what we offer to you as members of our organization. Your feedback helps us to make quality improvements to our programs and benefits, so we appreciate it! Click here to e-mail feedback to the GMAR.
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Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS®
11430 W North Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53226
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