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October 2, 2012

    I n   t h i s   i s s u e . . .
 
Events
  • PGCAR 2013 Membership Renewal
        - Payment Now Due!
  • Contracts Alert: 13 Form Updates
        Effective as of October 1
  • Earn Your GRI
        - Classes Start Tomorrow!
  • Congratulations 2013 Officers and Directors
  • Congratulations Award Winners and Honorees
  • WCR: Atlantic City Bus Trip
        - Wednesday, October 17
  • NAR Annual Conference
  • Huge SentriLock Sale
    Homeownership Matters
  • CityLIFT: $20K Assistance to buy in
        Prince George's County or DC
  • Maryland Mortgage Program:
        Alternative for High Credit Buyers
  • Homebuyer Incentives in Prince George's County
  • Consumer Tip: Deck Improvements
        - A Smart Investment
  •  
    The Industry Insider
  • DC and MD CEU
        Sale on All PGCAR Classes
  • Introducing MRIS HomesTM
        The Official Mobile App of MRIS
  • Market Sen$e: 30-Year FRM at All-Time Low
  • August Home Sales Statistics Available Online
  • Sales Coach: Smooth Sales Closings
  • Code of Ethics: #13-1
  • FCU: Benefits for Your Business
  • Free Hands-On MRIS Tools Training
  • 30 Under 30 Application
  • Columbus Day Holiday
  •  
    PGCAR 2013 Membership Renewal
    Now Due ~ Renew at www.pgcar.com
    Invoices for PGCAR 2013 Dues in the amount of $636 are available online. Dues are due and payable as of October 1, 2012. A late fee will be charged after November 30. Association dues are as follows:

    PGCAR Dues $300
    MAR Dues $181
    NAR Dues $155
    Optional RPAC Contribution $35
    Optional Maclin Scholarship Fund Contribution $5


    Thank you for being a part of PGCAR!
    Visit pgcar.com to renew now.
    Renew online to receive an itemized receipt, and show dues payment
    on your PGCAR Order History.


     

    CONTRACTS ALERT!
    Maryland Form Updates Effective as of October 1, 2012


    The Residential Contract of Sale, Listing Agreement and 11 other forms have all been updated as of October 1, 2012. Replace your old forms with the updates! All new forms are available in the PGCAR.com Members Only section. Log in and click on the "Revised" column title to sort all new forms to the top.

    Maryland Contract Form Updates
    Revised October 1, 2012
    A detailed summary of changes and practice tips is available here >

     
    SOLD OUT !!
    GRI 300 Starts TOMORROW
    Wednesday, October 3

    Need a few make-up classes?
    We can accommodate a limited number for individual classes.

      red arrow Module 303: Ethics & Mediation and Arbitration - Wed, Oct 3
      red arrow Module 302: Taxes - Wed, Oct 10
      red arrow Module 301: Environmental / Health Issues Affecting Real Estate - Mon, Oct 15
      red arrow Module 304: Legislative Update & Smart Growth and Land Planning - Thurs, Oct 18
      red arrow Module 305: Real Estate Technology & Trends - Wed, Oct 24


     

    Congratulations to the 2013 PGCAR Officers and Directors


    Congratulations to the 2012 - 2013 PGCAR Board of Directors who were sworn in at the Installation Luncheon Thursday, September 20. We also congratulate our 2011 - 2012 Board of Directors and Committee volunteers on a successful year! Thank you to everyone who participated in voting and the Installation.

    The 2012 - 2013 Board of Directors
    President: Anthony Williams, Long & Foster Real Estate
    President-Elect: John Lesniewski, RE/MAX United Real Estate
    Secretary: Desiree Callender, Desiree Callender & Associates
    Past President: Alease Bowles, RE/MAX Specialists
    Directors: Cheryl Abrams, RE/MAX Specialists
    John Allen, SellState Dominion Realty
    Patricia Dowtin, Long & Foster Real Estate
    Donald Frederick, RE/MAX United Real Estate
    Yolanda Muckle, Long & Foster Real Estate
    Lorence "Chuck" Ottley, SellState Dominion Realty
    Veera Phillips, Keller Williams Preferred Properties
    Willie M. Rhone, Weichert REALTORS®

    Thank You Banquet Sponsors!
    Cerrito Realty, LLC, Mike Cerrito RGS Title
    Long and Foster Real Estate Village Settlements, Inc.


     

    Congratulations to our Award Winners


    2012 REALTOR® of the Year: Alease Bowles, RE/MAX Specialists

    2012 Affiliate of the Year: Toll Brothers

    2012 Distinguished Sales Associate Award: Yolanda Muckle, Long & Foster Real Estate

    2012 Distinguished Service Award: Cheryl Abrams, RE/MAX Specialists

    We also extend congratulations to our newest REALTOR® Emeritus honorees!

    Joanne Darling, Darling Real Estate Company

    John Harrison, Pioneer Realty


     

    WCR: Atlantic City Bus Trip


    Women's Council of REALTORS®, Prince George's Chapter
    invites you to join them for their

    Your ticket includes the bus trip, Casino coin package, water, sodas, snacks, mimosas, wine and champagne!

    Pick up:   PGCAR Association @ 9200 Basil Court
    Time:   Depart at 8:30 am
    Return by 8:30 pm
    Questions?   Doris at Doris@DorisKessebeh.com or
    Kathleen at KRollins@VillageSettlements.com



    ALL riders must be 21 or older.


     

    NAR 2012 Annual Conference
    Discover Your Magic!


    Register for the 2012 REALTORS® Conference & Expo as soon as possible. Don't miss out on this once-a-year opportunity.

    Then join REALTORS® from around the world, early next month in Orlando, Florida. The Annual Conference features 100 education sessions, 400 industry exhibitors and dozens of networking opportunities and special events.

    Saturday's General Session features Afterburner, a team of elite military professionals who share combat-proven methodologies to help YOU achieve victory in your rapidly changing business environment.

     

    Huge SentriLock Lockbox and Power Paddle Sale


    Back by popular demand, PGCAR is pleased to announce the continuation of the sale on SentriLock Lockboxes. Lockboxes will be sold as follows:
    • 1 to 9 Lockboxes are $65 each + tax
    • 10 to 19 Lockboxes are $60 each + tax
    • 20 to 29 Lockboxes are $55 each + tax
    • 30 Lockboxes or more are $50 each + tax
    Also, SentriLock has lowered the cost of power paddles to $55 for a limited time. Power paddles must be ordered through PGCAR. If you would like to purchase one or more at this reduced price, please contact Shirley at the Association office.



    Spread the Word to Homebuyers
    Don't miss this event! - could be worth $20,000
    Assistance to buy a home in Prince George's County or DC
    Registration closes by October 3rd!  REGISTER NOW!!


    Where:  DC Convention Center; at the Mt. Vernon Metro stop on the Green/Yellow line
    When: This Friday October 5, 10 am - 7 pm
    This Saturday October 6, 8 am - 5 pm
    What: Complete program details are at www.MannaDC.org
     
    What you must do before the event:
    To qualify, you must:
    • Be under 120% of the Area Median Income
      ($90,300 for 1 person household; $103,200 for 2 person household . . . )
    • Agree to take an 8 hr Homebuyer Education Course

    Can be used in addition to other downpayment assistance!
    First come first serve!


     

    Maryland Mortgage Program
    Alternative for High Credit Buyers


    The Maryland Mortgage Program is again participating in the conventional mortgage market, offering a new option for homebuyers.

    Secretary Skinner told the Maryland Association of REALTORS® board of directors at their annual meeting that the state is partnering with Fannie Mae to create an alternative for borrowers with higher credit.

    Skinner said there would be a substantial savings for many of these borrowers.

    DHCD conventional loans are made possible by Fannie Mae's HFA Preferred program but retain many features of other Maryland Mortgage Program loans.

    Learn more about this new option >>

    Read more about MMP innovations on the DHCD Blog >>


     
    1. Maryland Homefront: The Veterans and Military Family Program
      Historically low reduced interest rates starting at 2.875% (APR 3.675%) and increased payment assistance for qualified current and former military members. Program Details >>
    2. $30 Million Targeted Areas Initiative for Homebuyers
      First-Time Homebuyers Can Gain Same Benefits in ANY Prince George's County Area

      Reduced interest rates starting at 2.875% (APR 3.675%) for qualified homebuyers purchasing a new primary residence. Program Details >>
    3. Buy Suitland Initiative - NOW in 11 Census Tracts (4 Areas Newly Added)!
      Up to 5% of home purchase price to first-time homebuyers; Up to 7% for local civic employees. Program Details >>
    4. Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta (FHLB Atlanta)
      Up to $15,000 towards a foreclosure purchase; Up to $7,500 toward the purchase of a property located in area approved for NSP funds.
      Program Details >>   Details & webinars for REALTORS® >>
    5. American Dream Downpayment Assistance (ADDI)
      Up to $10,000 to County Homebuyers who have not owned a home within the last 3 years.
      Program Details >>
    6. My HOME
      Up to 5% of the home sale price to qualified homebuyers who have not owned a home within the last 3 years.
      Program Details >>   County My HOME Website >>
    7. Centex Adds Savings to My HOME Program
      Purchase a Centex Home in the Victory Promenade development with My HOME funds and receive seller assistance also. For more information call (301) 350-5875 or email Jennifer Eaddy.
    8. Freddie Mac HomeSteps SmartBuySM
      Offers up to $500 for purchase of a home warranty.
      Home listings and incentive details >>   Sign up for homesteps.com buyer leads >>

    Most of these programs can be used in combination. Information on these and other homebuyer savings are available at pgcar.com. For more My HOME program details, members can login to pgcar.com Members Only.


     

    Consumer Tip: Deck Improvements
    One of Your Best Home Improvement Investments


    According to Remodeling Magazine's 2011-2012 Cost vs. Value Report, a deck is one of the highest value home improvements, returning an average of about 70% of the investment cost.

    This high return deserves to be protected and enhanced with smart, low-cost, high impact additions and features that can increase the deck's appeal.

    Hidden Fasteners for Decking

    Most choose standard deck screws to hold your decks down. But even when installed correctly, they leave the deck covered with dozens of tiny holes. Hidden fasteners on the other hand come in a range of designs and give decks a high-end flawless look. They are a little more expensive than screws though, so expect to pay about $4 per square foot more for this choice.

    Adding Style with Planters

    Adding a variety of planters and foliage is one of the simplest steps to adding character and charm to your deck. From built in versions to the array of pots and containers available, plantings can be used to divide areas, add shade, and soften strategic areas visually.

    Hanging planters, wood planters lined with metal, and terra cotta are among the many options available to you. Depending on the size of the plants you choose, they can leave scenic views open or provide natural privacy screens.

    Cable Railings

    Regulations usually require any deck higher than 2 feet above the ground to have a railing. While railings are an opportunity to add architectural interest to the area, they can also be a problem if they are blocking a scenic view.

    Taming the Sun

    While often a simple umbrella will do the trick, a shade sail offers more coverage and adds a popping visual to deck areas. Cheaper to install and maintain than wooden structures like pergolas and trellises, the sails are produced in fade-resistant knit fabrics in a variety of shapes and colors.

    Get price estimates and other details on these options at HouseLogic.com


     
     

    Earn All MD and DC Required CEU at PGCAR


    All classes are held at PGCAR offices, just off the Route 202 / Landover Road exit of I-495. Find our association office at 9200 Basil Court, Suite 400, Largo, MD 20774. There's plenty of parking.


    Starting this Wednesday, October 3
    GRI 300 Series Begins
    13.5 MD Legislative Update CEU
    and 12 MD Elective CEU
      8:30 am - 4:00 pm

    This Saturday, October 6
    MREC Required Supervision
    3 MD Required or Elective CEU
    Larry Hudson 9:30 am - 12:30 pm

    Next Thursday, October 11
    DC Legislative Update
    3 DC Required Legislative Update CEU
    Prabhjit Singh 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
    DC Fair Housing & Predatory Lending
    3 DC Required Fair Housing CEU
    Prabhjit Singh 1:30 pm - 4:30 pm

    Next Friday, October 12
    Financing Issues / Update
    3 DC Required Financing Issues / Update CEU
    Michael Chelst 9:30 am - 12:30 pm

    Complete CEU Schedule >>


     

    Sale on All PGCAR Classes
    Special Pricing through End of Year


    Sale Tag

    All PGCAR Members and REALTORS® Save Huge on ANY CEU offered at PGCAR!

    Register for ANY 3 CE class for $18 early bird, $33 regular.
    Register for ANY 1.5 CE class for $11 early bird, $26 regular.

    Hurry to www.pgcar.com/real-estate-ceu today >>


     
     

    Introducing MRIS HomesTM
    The Official Mobile App of MRIS


    Say so long to your desktop! Now you can login with your MRIS credentials to access agent-only information anytime, anywhere.
    1. Text "MRIS" to 87778 for a download link
    2. Find it in all app stores including iTunes Store, Google Play Store and BlackBerry App World
    3. Visit MRIS.com/Mobile
    Download the app today to your phone and tablet >>

    Contact Sue Pinder for more information or to schedule her to speak at one of your upcoming office meetings.


     

    Market Sen$e: 30-year Fixed-Rate Mortgage at All-Time Low


    Results released last Thursday, September 27, showed mortgage rates dipping past their previous average record lows, helping to bolster an already improving housing market. All, except the 5-year ARM, set new all-time record lows.

    Freddie Mac Vice President and Chief Economist Frank Nothaft said fixed mortgage rates continued to decline, largely due to the Federal Reserve's purchases of mortgage securities, and should support an already improving housing market.

    "For instance, the S&P/Case-Shiller® 20-city home price index rose 1.2 percent over the 12 months ending in July, reflecting the largest annual increase since August 2010," Nothaft said. "Moreover, 16 of the cities saw positive growth, led by Phoenix's 16.6 percent gain. Additionally, new home sales in July and August had the strongest two-month pace since March and April 2010."

    Freddie Mac reports the following averages for the week ending September 27, 2012:

    • The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 3.40%, down from 3.49%.
    • The 15-year fixed-rate mortgage averaged 2.73%, down from 2.77%.
    • The 5-year Treasury-indexed hybrid ARM averaged 2.71%, down from 2.76%.
    • The 1-year Treasury-indexed ARM averaged 2.60%, down from 2.61%.
    Freddie Mac's Weekly Primary Mortgage Market Survey >>

     
     

    Detailed Home Sales Statistics for Prince George's County
    Available online, announced on PGCAR Facebook

    My HOME Program

    Detailed statistics for August 2012 are now available at www.pgcar.com/stats >>

    Like us on facebook to be the first to see the next release of home sales statistics. While you're there, add yourself to the Find a REALTOR® Directory to give homebuyers and sellers yet another way to find you.


     

    Sales Coach: Bring Your Sale in for a Smooth Landing.
    Follow Through at the End of the Deal


    Home Sales Coach You've brought all your resources together to connect qualified buyers and sellers and now you have a comfortable number of new clients.

    While it might feel like you can finally relax and let business take care of itself, now is when you need to be your most active, making sure all the details remain in place as your deals start rounding toward home.

    While a few little bumps in the road near closing might not derail the deal, it is highly likely they could keep you from getting future referrals. And, after all that hard work, do you really want to jeapordize what you've built, right at the end?

    Check out these practical tips to help protect your deal, your reputation, and your potential for referrals.

    Keep a Detailed Record of Client Preferences

    If you interview your clients to get a written record of their needs at your first meeting with them, you can keep this handy anytime you schedule an interaction.

    Developing buyer and seller worksheets can be a fast way to make sure you have your bases covered and keep consistent records for each client. By including a section for special needs, you can have a cheat sheet to consult as you finish your deal to make sure there wasn't anything important your client already mentioned that you might have missed.

    Follow Through

    For example, if a mortgage commitment is delayed, call the lender and the clients's agent immediately to see if there are outstanding problems.

    If a client has a question about a sale, answer them right away... don't wait and let them be forgotten, only to come back and haunt you at closing.

    Be Proactive

    You're standing in the living room of a million dollar property with a prospective buyer and to your surprise, they ask to see a contract then and there... but you don't have one.

    Keep a binder with your most important documents with you at all times. These are the tools of your trade, so don't get caught without them -- make sure you have a working pen with you at all times too!

    Check out more details on these and many other closing tips at RealtorMag.com


     

    Case #13-1:
    Preparation of Instrument Unrelated to Real Estate Transaction

    Client A dropped in to see his friend, REALTOR® B, who had recently provided professional services to Client A's company. Client A said that his company was sending him on business to the Far East; that the trip would involve a good deal of air travel in remote areas; and that he would like to leave a power of attorney with his wife while he was gone "just in case." He asked REALTOR® B if he would prepare a power of attorney for him and REALTOR® B said, "It's a simple document. I'll be glad to prepare one for you," and did.

    This action came to the attention of the Grievance Committee of the Board of REALTORS® , which, after review, filed a complaint with the Board's Professional Standards Committee, charging REALTOR® B with a violation of Article 13 of the Code of Ethics.

    REALTOR® B's defense was that he understood Client A's request to be essentially for a real estate service since from his general knowledge of Client A's personal affairs, he knew that Client A could have no reason for giving his wife a power of attorney except to put her in a position to act in a real estate transaction. He contended that because his preparation of a legal document was directly related to real estate matters, he had rendered real estate, not legal, service to Client A.

    Based on your understanding of the Code of Ethics Article 13, how do you think the Professional Standards Panel ruled?

    Find out here >>


     

    Get Benefits Built for Your Business
    Real Estate Loans and Lines of Credit from REALTORS® FCU


    Learn about a variety of credit solutions to meet the day-to-day demands of your business as well as capital to fund your growth at www.realtorsfcu.org.

    • Business Lines of Credit to ramp up inventory or fund seasonal cash flows. REALTORS® FCU offers both revolving and closed-end credit programs.
    • Business Term Loans to provide funds for the purchase of equipment, vehicles, inventory or other fixed assets.
    • Business Real Estate Loans for purchasing or refinancing owner-occupied commercial real estate. REALTORS® FCU offers a number of financing options, all without a prepayment penalty.

    Join the only credit union designed to meet the unique needs of REALTORS® like you!


     

    Free Hands-On MRIS Tools Training at PGCAR

    MRIS 201: Maximize Your Productivity with MRIS October 23, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
    This class introduces the often overlooked tools and features available as an MRIS customer benefit that are designed to save you time and money.

    MATRIX 301: Success With Stats October 23, 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm
    Using MRIS.com and Matrix, find and gather statistical information you can use to understand and discuss the market with your clients to showcase your expertise.

    Visit www.mris.com/training for details and registration. Advance registration with MRIS is required.


     

    30 Under 30 Application is Now Open!


    Are you 29 or younger and having a phenomenal year? NOW is the time to apply for international recognition as one of 2013's 30 Under 30. REALTOR® Magazine will announce and showcase this year's rising young stars in the real estate industry next June 2013.

    But the application deadline is January 15, 2013. Don't delay until the busy holiday season to apply and ask for recommendations in support of your selection.

    30 Under 30 Web Site >
    30 Under 30 FAQ and Contest Rules >

     
     
    The PGCAR office will be closed next Monday, October 8th for Columbus Day.
    Have a safe and happy holiday!



    Prince George's County Association of REALTORS®
    8300 Corporate Drive, Suite 100  :  Landover, MD 20785
    Phone 301-306-7900  :  Fax 301-306-8273  :  www.pgcar.com  :  ©2012 PGCAR

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