Inside the WRA
Inside the WRA with Bill Malkasian
 The November elections are behind us, and the political stage is now set for the next two to four years. I don't need to tell you who won or lost (see page 8 if you're interested in an analysis of the results), but we did reasonably well thanks to the relentless commitment of our membership. In all my years, I have not witnessed a higher level of dedication by
RealtorsŪ, affiliates and staff to an election. To all who put forth the extra effort in helping to get out the
RealtorŪ vote, I sincerely thank you.
The WRA has already begun the process of introducing ourselves to the new power players at the state Capitol. Make no mistake, your association is positioned to be at the decision-making table representing you for the next legislative cycle. The WRA contacts remain strong in all branches of government.
Currently, we are conducting a comprehensive review of all aspects of our political operation to share with our Board of Directors in January. We learned a lot from this campaign experience that will help us in future years.
If anyone has questions please contact me.
Another November happening was the NAR Convention in New Orleans, which was attended by nearly 150
RealtorsŪ from Wisconsin. Topics of discussion that were covered for 2003 ranged from political issues to technology in the workplace. Let me highlight some key issues you need to be aware of:
- Housing Opportunity Initiative. This has become the mantra at NAR. NAR developed the program to help members tap into business opportunities while providing solutions to the housing affordability issues across the nation. NAR will be conducting tons of research in this area in 2003 and will continue recognition awards for
RealtorŪ initiatives in this area. Watch for national PR on this issue in 2003.
- Property Casualty Insurance. Nationally, the issue of obtaining homeowners insurance has become a crisis. NAR has created partnerships with national groups to look at the problem. The question at hand seems to be, is this a market issue or one requiring some legislative solutions.
- VOWS. Yep, you read it right ... Virtual Office Web sites. This was the topic of hottest debate in New Orleans. This new electronic tool has opened up new marketing opportunities for
RealtorsŪ, but at the same time has raised questions on the role of using MLS information on the company Web site. NAR has studied the issue at length but was not ready to endorse a special workgroup report in New Orleans. Expect something next May. In the meantime, your local MLS will be discussing this issue at length.
WRA Chairman Bob Weber has asked that a small Wisconsin workgroup of
RealtorsŪ and MLS staff get together to discuss the Wisconsin implications of this issue in early 2003.
- International Outreach. The concept of homeownership seems to have universal appeal. NAR has committed staff and dollars to creating a worldwide Consortium of Real Estate Associations. In Wisconsin, this topic may not have the appeal it has in other states ... but expect it to be a growing issue in the next few years.
- Enhanced Professionalism. NAR, like the WRA, has renewed its commitment to ensuring its membership meets the professional standards training that is part of the
RealtorŪ membership requirements. Major emphasis on ethics training by local and state organizations to retain membership is being pushed. I'm proud to say that in Wisconsin our professional standards training programming is being beefed up for 2003 with the cooperation of great instructors and the local AE Council. Expect more statewide and regional training in 2003.
- RESPA Reform. Reform is on its way. I am serving at the national level in the oversight area for Governmental Affairs in 2003. One issue that NAR has been studying for over six years is the RESPA law. HUD has signaled strong intent to review and revise the law by rule sometime in early 2003. This issue will be watched very closely by NAR and member firms.
- Banks and real estate. Though not a major issue here in Wisconsin, it's still an important one to watch. NAR has recommitted itself to keeping banks out of the real estate industry. Expect continued battles in this area for 2003.
As I read the tea leaves here in Wisconsin and watch the NAR trend lines form for 2003, the many unknowns and uncertainties we face-like a state budget deficit of nearly $4 billion, a new untested governor, a possible war in Iraq and an economy that has strong underpinnings but just can't get much traction-make for an unclear reading. You may see the light at the end of the tunnel, but not the tracks in front of you. It will be interesting.
In the end, 2002 will be remembered as one of the best real estate markets but the uncertainty of 2003 could cause some trepidation on behalf of consumers.
Lets stay close in the months ahead. I always enjoy talking with you.
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GRI Scholarships Available in 2002-03
by Sandy Bolgrihn
The following GRI scholarships are available for 2002-2003 courses. Applications are available on the WRA Web site at
www.wra.org/resources/GRI_Scholarship.htm
or by contacting Sandy Bolgrihn. The application deadline is Jan. 3, 2003.
Please click here
to view the different scholarships.
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