For the RECOrd Spring 2012
Transcription
For the RECOrd Spring 2012
F O R T H E RECOrd Published by the Real Estate Council of Ontario • Spring 2012 RECO saves senior from mortgage fraud 2012 Election of directors Meet the candidates New advertising campaign demonstrates the value of a regulated industry Planning a renovation? Resource helps homeowners take right steps 2011 Registrant satisfaction survey results Spring 2012 New advertising campaign demonstrates the value of a regulated industry The video about home inspections contrasts a scenario with a leaky roof where the buyers didn’t get a home inspection with a happy family secure in their dry home, the result of making an informed decision. The open house video shows potential issues that could arise when hosting a private open house. This is contrasted with the benefits that a real estate professional offers, including open house checklists and practical advice. This video prompts buyers to know their rights when it comes to disclosure and highlights the experience and obligations of real estate professionals when dealing with a property that might have been a grow op. B uying or selling a home is the largest financial transaction most people will ever undertake. The process can be a confusing and emotional experience, laden with legalities and complexities that go beyond the day-to day knowledge of most buyers and sellers. Do you know how RECO hElps? That’s why RECO has launched a new advertising campaign directed toward Ontario’s home buyers and sellers asking them to turn to RECO to learn more about the value of a regulated real estate industry. Protecting the public interest in real estate transactions The campaign, which launched the last week of March, is one of the strategic priorities identified by RECO’s board of directors. “I am proud to be part of a regulated profession and want all home buyers and sellers to know the benefits of a regulated real estate industry,” says RECO Chair Keith Tarswell. In addition to RECOnnect, the existing consumer-oriented newsletter, RECO launched a three-part video series for home buyers and sellers on the RECOhelps YouTube channel. The videos, which are meant to generate curiosity, feature scenarios that Ontarians selling or purchasing a home could potentially face. The videos ask buyers and sellers to plan for the purchase and sale of their home and highlight the benefits of a regulated real estate industry. They conclude by telling viewers to “Learn more from RECO, Ontario’s real estate regulator.” Short video clips based on the video series are now airing on 300 Toronto Transit Commission screens in 63 stations throughout Toronto and on 289 screens in professional office buildings throughout the GTA and Ottawa. Learn more from the Real Estate Council of Ontario Ontario’s real estate regulator w w w. r e c o. o n . c a A complementary print advertising campaign is running on all GO Train lines in the province. The ads, which ask buyers and sellers if they know how RECO helps, direct viewers to RECO’s Twitter account, YouTube channel and website. follow us on @RECOhelps Tweeting news and tips important to Ontario’s real estate professionals, home buyers and sellers. GoTrains_vFinal.indd 2 2 3/7/12 3:03 PM Spring 2012 The ten-week advertising campaign will wrap up in early June. Understanding the Code of Ethics Using Best Efforts to Prevent Error, etc. T he Code of Ethics contains several provisions that are subject to interpretation. In this issue, we’ll look at Section 38 – “Error, misrepresentation, fraud, etc.” Section 38 says that a registrant must use his or her best efforts to prevent error, misrepresentation, fraud or any unethical practice in respect of a trade in real estate. The key words in this section are “best efforts to prevent.” But what is meant by “best efforts” and does “prevent” mean that you can’t ever make a mistake? As a registrant, you are obligated to do more than just act in good faith in the course of your work. Reducing the risk of errors, misrepresentations, etc., means you are expected to exercise a level of diligence which rises above that of the average person. Errors and misrepresentations, even when unintentional, can have significant consequences in the context of a trade in real estate. That’s why the Code of Ethics obligations on this subject are so broad. As an example, when taking an MLS® listing, not only should you double-check the data sheet before it is submitted to ensure it is complete and correct, you should also check the listing once it is posted on MLS® to ensure that it has been entered completely and correctly. RECO has received a number of complaints where MLS® listings contained incorrect information due to a keying error that was not caught by the listing sales representatives. The extra effort required to prevent or catch and correct this type of error is small. Verifying your MLS® listings in this manner should be routine. Similarly, if you are representing a seller, you should expend the extra effort required to verify information which they convey verbally. For example, if they say the property taxes last year were $2,500, ask to see the municipal tax bill or use other independent resources to confirm the information. Again, RECO receives numerous complaints about errors in listing information where the listing representative simply took the seller’s word in good faith. This is not enough. Your approach should be one of trusting the source, but verifying the information on behalf of your client. Your obligation is to take some extra steps to “prevent” error, misrepresentation, etc. As noted above, your actions should reduce the risk of an error beyond that which would exist simply by acting in good faith. It is not expected that you will eliminate all risk of error. In spite of best efforts, mistakes will happen. If you have used your “best efforts” these mistakes will not result in disciplinary action, but may still have adverse impacts on a client. RECO’s errors and omissions insurance program exists as a means of consumer protection in these situations. “Best efforts” require more than just acting in good faith. You need to constantly ask yourself: “What have I done to minimize the chance that there will be errors or misrepresentations in my work?” Don’t forget: RECO has moved After months of preparation, RECO has successfully relocated from the East Tower to the West Tower of the Sun Life Financial Centre. RECO’s new two-floor office has enough space to support Ontario’s growing real estate industry for the next decade. All phone numbers, e-mail and web addresses will remain the same, but our mailing address is now: 3300 Bloor Street West West Tower, Suite 1200 Toronto ON M8X 2X2 Spring 2012 3 Ask the Registrar Q A Q) I live and work in downtown Toronto, but own a cottage in Northern Ontario. Are there any rules that prohibit me from taking listings or showing cottage properties to buyers there? A) Once you are registered under REBBA 2002, you are entitled to trade anywhere in the province, but whether you should is another matter. Someone who is experienced in an urban condo market for example may not know the ins and outs of selling a farm, nor would they have extensive knowledge of septic system requirements, sump pumps, rights of way or shore allowances – all common issues when dealing with rural properties. It’s important that you know your limits and not enter into an agreement where you may not be able to provide knowledgeable and competent service. By entering into an agreement that puts you in a situation that you are unfamiliar with, you are more susceptible to making an error or omission that could lead to liability on your part. If you are asked to represent a friend or neighbor in a setting that you’re unfamiliar with, consider referring them to a local colleague. And whenever in doubt, refer clients to an expert for advice. Related Sections of the Code of Ethics require registrants to: 5) Provide conscientious service and to demonstrate reasonable knowledge, skill, judgment and competence in providing those services. 6) Demonstrate reasonable knowledge, skills, judgment and competence in providing opinions, advice or information. 8) Advise a client or customer to obtain services from another person if the registrant is not able to provide services with reasonable knowledge, skill, judgment and competence AND to not discourage a client or customer from seeking services from someone else. Education Corner MyWeb makes it easy for registrants to find new and interesting courses A s the real estate industry continues to mature, real estate professionals strive to expand their professional knowledge and experience. So it’s not surprising that registrants are keen on finding new and interesting education courses. Fortunately, MyWeb makes it easy to find new courses that cater to a wide range of interests that allow you to keep current with changing trends. New courses are continually approved and added to the course bank on MyWeb. Thirty one NEW courses have been added in the past year alone, including some that take on cutting-edge technology topics like 4 Spring 2012 social media. Other providers are offering more one-time conferences on commercial real estate and other engaging issues. To check out approved courses, login to MyWeb and visit the continuing education page of the education section. You’ll find a list of approved education providers, or you can conduct an advanced search by keyword, delivery method or the number of credits offered. Every time a course is approved, MyWeb is updated right away so you can be sure that you’re always getting the most up-to-date listing. Mark your calendars for RECO’s Annual General Meeting on June 21 RECO’s Board of Directors is pleased to invite you to RECO’s Annual General Meeting, to be held on Thursday, June 21, 2012 at The Old Mill Inn in Toronto. The registration desk will be open at 9 a.m. and the meeting will begin at 10 a.m. A light continental breakfast will be served between 9 and 10 a.m. After the formal business has been conducted, a question and answer session will take place. This is an opportunity to ask RECO’s Board of Directors and management questions about programs, services and industry issues. Questions should be of general interest. Questions related to an individual, a specific situation or regulatory actions against a specific registrant cannot be addressed at a public meeting. Attendees will also have an opportunity to meet with RECO’s Directors and management before and after the meeting. We hope you can join us. If you are unable to attend, but would like to participate in the Q&A portion, please send us an e-mail with your question to: [email protected]. Be sure to include your full name and the name of your brokerage. While RECO will make every effort to respond to a variety of questions, due to time constraints, it is possible that not all of the questions can be addressed at the meeting. Also, similar questions will not be repeated. All members will receive an invitation in May. Always up-to-date REBBA 2002 at your fingertips RECO often receives requests for hard copy versions of REBBA 2002. To ensure that Ontario’s real estate professionals are always accessing up-to-date versions of REBBA 2002 and its regulations, RECO provides electronic versions available under the About RECO section of the RECO website, as well as links to Service Ontario’s e-Laws resource. Both the PDF and e-Laws versions are readable by smartphone, making them a convenient and portable resource. If you wish to purchase a hard copy of REBBA 2002, please visit Publications Ontario at www.publications.serviceontario.ca. Spring 2012 5 Quick action by RECO saves senior from mortgage fraud R ECO investigators are all too familiar with mortgage fraud and the turmoil it causes for the victims who are left fighting to get their homes back. Unfortunately, in most cases, RECO only becomes aware of the mortgage fraud after the fact when a homeowner realizes they have been victimized. But on one recent afternoon, a tip from a brokerage helped RECO stop a fraudster in his tracks and save a senior from heartache. “It had many signs of a mortgage fraud including someone misrepresenting themselves as a registrant in order to create the illusion of a legitimate transaction,” says RECO’s Deputy Registrar, Bruce Matthews. “But in this instance, we realized that we had an opportunity to act quickly and prevent a fraud from happening.” It all started when a legal assistant at the Toronto law firm representing the supposed seller noticed irregularities in the real estate transaction. She inquired with Sutton Group All Pro Realty, the brokerage that supposedly represented the seller. But Gail Fulton and Doug Lytle, staff members of the brokerage, were shocked to find that they had no record of such a deal. The pair quickly recognized the seriousness of the matter and immediately contacted RECO. 6 he had lived in for over 30 years. Knowing what was at stake left us even more determined to do everything we could.” Fortunately, it was not too late. Prendergast worked with representatives from Service Ontario’s Policy and Regulatory Services Branch to determine that the Land Transfer Office had indeed received and processed an application to transfer the title of the house and to register a $600,000 mortgage against the property. But, crucially, they had not yet certified the transfer. Once RECO informed them of the fraud they halted the transfer process immediately. With RECO’s help, the homeowner returned the title to his name. He can now rest easy knowing his home is safe. “I was surprised and shocked, but even in that first call Brian said everything would be okay,” says the homeowner, who has asked to keep his identity private. “Just an hour and a half later he phoned again to say everything was straightened out.” While RECO’s quick work played a key role in preventing the fraud, numerous individuals from the brokerage, law firm and Service Ontario also deserve kudos for the roles they played. Within a few hours, the urgency of the investigation became clear as RECO’s Manager of Inspections & Investigations, Brian Prendergast, determined that the transaction was fraudulent and put a face to the fraud’s victim: an elderly minister who had no idea that a fraudster was trying to sell his house without his knowledge. “We owe a great deal of thanks to these individuals,” says Matthews. “They paid attention to their instincts and reacted quickly, allowing us to protect this gentleman from fraud.” “Naturally he was shocked and alarmed,” says Prendergast. “We realized that this kind man could have his life turned upside down if he was forced to go through the exhaustive process of rectifying the title to the home While RECO’s efforts prevented the fraudsters from making off with over half a million dollars, they remain at large. York Regional Police continue to investigate. Spring 2012 This potential fraud has a happy ending, exemplifying one of the ways RECO fulfills its mission to uphold the integrity of real estate transactions. MyWeb >> Login https://myweb.reco.on.ca/ Google >> Search MyWeb RECO Members’ Exclusive Web Portal ABOUT RECO CONTACT RECO REGISTRANT SEARCH Keep your e-mail contact information up to date in order to receive important communications from RECO and the online registration renewal process. Welcome, Broker of Record! April 9, 2012 HOME NEWS PROFILE MY EMPLOYEES LOG OUT MY EMPLOYEES My RECO Calendar The “My Employees” feature gives brokers of record and/or branch managers a complete list of all your current employees, online registration renewals ready for your review, online registration renewals that have already been reviewed and a list of employees with other types of applications in progress at RECO. Employees list Renewals Reviewd NEW: If you are a broker of record and/or branch manager, you can now process transfers and terminations online for your employees Online Transfer Application Click on the sub-menus below to view the desired information. Renewals For Review Online Termination Application Employee list Online Transfer/Termination Renewals of review Status Renewals reviewed Online transfer applications Applications in Progress REGISTRATION INSURANCE EDUCATION Online termination applications Online transfer/termination status Applications in progress << March 2012 >> S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Online transfers and terminations coming soon! T ime is of the essence when it comes to many real estate transactions, and RECO wants to ensure that registrants are able to get back to trading as quickly as possible when transferring to a new brokerage. ADVERTISING GUIDELINES PUBLICATIONS REBBA 2002 REGISTRAR’S BULLETINS & GUIDELINES COMPLAINTS INSPECTIONS This spring, RECO will launch a new online transfer and termination process on MyWeb. The service will be accessible to branch managers and brokers of record, who will have the opportunity to complete transfers and terminations for their employees with only a few clicks of a mouse. As long as all information entered is accurate and complete, immediate confirmation of the transfer or termination will be provided. Terms of Use Industry Links Sitemap Under REBBA 2002, registrants cannot trade in real estate while their application for transfer is being processed. Currently, the paper application process is managed quickly with applications being processed within a few days. However, the introduction of online transfers and terminations will reduce processing time to mere minutes. “We’ve had great feedback and uptake from registrants for the existing online renewal process,” said RECO Registrar Allan Johnston. “Introducing the online transfers and terminations feature is the next step in our commitment to enhancing convenient and efficient registration services.” Last year, RECO processed more than 6,500 transfers and 2,300 terminations. Watch for more information about the online transfers and terminations service in the coming weeks. Resource helps homeowners take right steps when planning renovations R eal estate professionals are often looked upon for more than assistance in buying and selling a home. In some cases, you may be asked for referrals for certain other services. A typical request may be for someone to help with the renovations to a recently purchased fixer-upper. To make it easier for homeowners, you may want to refer them to Ontario’s Ministry of Consumer Services website www.sse.gov.on.ca/mcs. The Ministry created a home renovation resource for homeowners to help them know their rights when hiring a contractor and to provide them with helpful tips along the way. Some of the tips include: • • • • Have a detailed plan Before you start your renovation or repair work, make sure you know exactly what you want and how much you want to spend. Choose a reputable contractor Ask for recommendations from friends and neighbours. Check websites like RenoMark or call your local homebuilder’s association. Make sure you have a complete, written contract Never sign a blank contract. Be prepared when you pay Never pay the full amount of the contract before the work is completed to your satisfaction. Spring 2012 in the Interaction with RECO staff and directors helps keep real estate professionals informed about RECO’s activities and gives RECO an opportunity to hear directly about issues that are important to the industry. There are a number of events on RECO’s calendar in the coming months. Be sure to drop by and talk to RECO staff and remember to follow @RECOhelps on Twitter for updates to our calendar of events. 12-15 Apr 17 Apr 17-18 Apr 19 Apr 24 May2-3 May9 May10 May11 June21 Apr International Home & Garden Show, International Centre, Mississauga Southern OREA area meeting, Hamilton 16th Annual Infonex Professional Regulation and Discipline conference, Toronto The Oakville, Milton and District Real Estate Board, Halton Symposium & Trade Show London & St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® Trade Show Toronto Real Estate Board REALTOR® Quest 2012 Northeastern OREA area meeting, Rama 8 Spring 2012 Kitchener Waterloo Association of REALTORS® XPO 3.0 Central OREA area meeting, Toronto RECO Annual General Meeting, Toronto 2012 Election of Directors — Here are your candidates Election of Directors is conducted by online voting only. Online voting instructions were mailed to registrants the week of April 9, 2012. Online voting closes at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 17, 2012. The content contained in the candidate profiles is supplied by each candidate. Region 1 Michael Appleton, Salesperson Sage Real Estate Limited, Brokerage, Toronto E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 23 VOTE FOR MICHAEL APPLETON-YOUR ADVOCATE AT RECO Our industry is currently being attacked on all fronts by the government, consumers and biased media. RECO’s clear mandate is one of consumer protection. I feel it is important that the Directors of RECO display a tempered judgement and grounded sensibility in facilitating any dispute between the general public and those in the real estate industry. It is of extreme importance that the real estate salesperson be fairly represented and protected in this environment. MY CREDENTIALS: - Active real estate salesperson (for 23 years) - Manager (for 10 years) of a successful Toronto real estate brokerage - Top real estate sales trainer (for 26 years) with three major real estate corporations - Popular teacher at TREB (with a curriculum of 5 CEU courses) for the past 20 years - Only person in the history of Canadian real estate to win the Real Estate Institute of Canada’s Morguard Literary Award four times (in 2000, 2001, 2004 and 2005) in a nationwide competition for the best article on the real estate industry My objective for running in this election is to “equal the playing field” in providing as much protection to the real estate salesperson as is currently being enjoyed by the consumer. My skills in negotiating and conflict resolution will enable me to be a strong advocate for YOU at RECO. I need your vote in order to start protecting your interests. Thank you. Robert Joseph Buckler, Salesperson Century 21 Heritage Group Ltd., Brokerage, Thornhill E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 1.5 As a recent Realtor®, specializing in residential sales & leasing (mostly condominium), I bring a wide variety of experience including several years of condominium management. I launched my own consulting firm, Beredan Management & Consulting Inc. in 2009, which specializes in providing a variety of condominium consulting services to developers, condo corporations, and condo management firms. In 2006, I obtained my Registered Condominium Manager (R.C.M.) designation, offered by the Association of Condominium Managers (ACMO) and have taught Condominium Law for ACMO ever since. I have developed and edited property management course materials for ACMO, the Canadian Condominium Institute-Toronto chapter, as well as the Institute of Housing Management. I am a Court-Appointed Administrator for two Condominium Corporations in the Toronto area to restore these communities back to health. I am a current volunteer sitting on the Canadian Condominium Institute-Toronto Education and Toronto Real Estate Board Condominium committees. I formerly sat on the ACMO Professional Development committee for six years. I also chair the city of Vaughn’s Property Standards Committee. I look forward to the privilege of representing my colleagues in real estate to uphold RECO’s standards and professionalism within our industry. David Esho, Broker Homexperts Real Estate Inc., Brokerage, Brampton E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 23 I am a former Economics Professor turned Realtor with an educational background in Economics, Marketing and Administrative Studies. A civic minded person who ran for the Office of Regional Councillor in the City of Brampton, Peel Region. My speciality is selling and leasing residential properties. I also have extensive experience in selling & leasing commercial and investment properties. I will like to work on a committee that will bring RECO closer to the 3 levels of Government. Real Estate is an important segment of the economy which often act as a catalyst to a buoyant economy. Walter Lear Hayde, Broker Re/Max Legacy Realty Inc., Brokerage, Mississauga E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 11 Immediate Past President 2011 and Current Chair of the Nomination Committee and Director 2005-2012 of the Mississauga Real Estate Board (MREB) Chair of Membership, Education and Related Services during my tenure. Committee Member of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) Arbitration & Ethics Panel 2012-2013 Committee Member of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) Standards Forms Committee 2010-2013 Panel Member on the Arbitration Roster (Residential Division) of the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) 2007-2009 Panel Member on the Professional Standards Complaint Review Roster of the Toronto Real Estate Board 2011-2013 President of the Indo-Christian Cultural Association (ICCA) 2007-2009 and presently serve on their Executive Committee. I am a firm believer in organized real estate and the contributions made by thousands of volunteers at the Local, Provincial and National Boards and Associations, I respect the need to protect the public’s interest in one of the largest transactions they will ever make when purchasing their homes or investment properties. I believe that the role played by REALTORS® is very important and that we adhere to the highest levels of competency, integrity and professionalism when representing both Clients and Customers. As a Real Estate Broker and an Accredited Buyer Representation, ABR® I enjoy working with people and the true test of my success is the referral business I receive from past clients as an endorsement of the services I have provided. I look forward to serving as a Director on RECO to further increase my knowledge/skills to serve the interests of others. George Kalkounis, Salesperson Southvale Realty Inc., Brokerage, Toronto Email: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 5 Mechanical Engineer with more than 40 years experience with the Provincial Government and large corporations in numerous fields/function of Real Estate Development, Construction, Facility Management and Administration of large Real Estate portfolios – provided leadership and direction to teams involved in development and implementation of policies and standards promoting government initiatives/priorities and performance. Expert in real estate matters particularly as relate to engineering, design, development, construction, project management, contract administration, purchase and sales, leasing, development of contractual agreements and handling of related legal matters; proficient in negotiations and expert in using latest technology related to systems and services. Willing to contribute to the support of RECO’s mandate. Spring 2012 9 2012 Election of Directors — Here are your candidates Election of Directors is conducted by online voting only. Online voting instructions were mailed to registrants the week of April 9, 2012. Online voting closes at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 17, 2012. The content contained in the candidate profiles is supplied by each candidate. Region 1 continued Brian Madigan, LL.B, Broker Re/Max West Realty Inc., Brokerage, Toronto E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 7 Real estate broker, commercial and residential, real estate litigation advisor, venture capitalist and educator, approved RECO Education Provider (Disclosure Laws), Continuing Education Course Developer and Instructor (Agreement, Chattels and Fixtures, Surveys, Boundaries and Adverse Possession, Competition Law, Family Law, Estate Planning, Risk Management, Liability under Law of Torts), published over 2,300 articles on real estate for the consumer emphasizing ethical practice by real estate practitioners, developed independent comparative performance index for real estate; served as mediator and arbitrator in real estate matters; accepted as expert witness by Superior Court of Justice in Ontario related to professional standards; graduated Osgoode Hall Law School in 1974, practiced law in Toronto for 25 years, commercial and negligence litigation, professional discipline experience as advocate, prosecutor and chair, professional liability experience; over 1,000 court appearances including Superior Court of Justice and Ontario Court of Appeal; closed over 5,000 real estate transactions; served on Board of Public Hospital, Foundations, and Chairman of Investment Committees for publicly funded pension plans, advisor to Insurers underwriting corporate governance policies; previously Speaker, Canadian Bar Association, Lecturer, Law Society of Upper Canada, Instructor Bar Admission Course; Director, numerous non-profit organizations. As a member of the RECO Board, I would encourage professionalism, foster education, permit accredited specialization, allow personal incorporation of real estate practices. Please confirm your commitment by exercising your right to vote! Renuka Selvakumar, Broker of Record Royal Properties Realty Ltd., Brokerage, Ajax E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: -Practicing Real Estate since October 2007 to Present -Practicing as a Mortgage Agent since June 2008 to Present -Broker of Record for Royal Properties Realty Ltd., Brokerage since June 2010 to Present -Principal Broker for Mortgage Alliance R&R Mortgages since May 2011 to Present -Sri Meenatchy Amman Society – Vice President 2010-Present (Member of Board of Directors) -Volunteered for Red Cross 1998 -Weston C.I. Treasurer of the school governing body 1998 -Sri Meenatchy Amman Society-Leader of Youth Club 1998-2000 -Assisted fund-raising events for Rick Johnson MPP and Christine Elliott MPP 2008 -Sri Meenatchy Amman Society – Treasurer 2006-2009 (Member of Board of Directors) -Coordinated Walkathon for Breast Cancer Society “Walk for Hope in August 2011 -Coordinated fund raising events for SickKids Foundation “Holiday Gala 2010” and “Old Hollywood Gala 2011” Expertise include: -Teaching and Training Real Estate at the office -Compliance Officer for both Real Estate and Mortgage Firm Robert Soproney, Salesperson Re/Max Realty Enterprises Inc., Brokerage, Mississauga E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Member of RECO Discipline and Appeals Committee (Since 2000) TREB Hearing Panel (10 years) MREB Investigation/Hearing Panel (1995-2000) MREB Director 1998/99 MREB Chairman of Operations/Social Committee Chair/Member of Nomination Committee/ Years Registered: 4.6 Years Registered: 37 Web Design Committee. City of Mississauga – Public Advisory Committee – 3 terms (9 years), last term as Vice-Chair. When elected expect my duties to be carried out in a precise conscientious manner, no disappointments! Scott C. Webster, Broker Sutton Group-Associates Realty Inc., Brokerage, Toronto E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 10 Manager/Broker – Sutton Group-Associates Realty Inc. 2010 – Present Manager/Broker – Trinity Global Realty/GMAC Real Estate 2009-2010 National Director of Member Services – GMAC Real Estate Canada 2005-2009, overseeing approx. 85 locations throughout Canada TREB Professional Standards Review Panel 2011-Present Real Estate is my passion and I am focused on the betterment of the real estate industry as a whole, I believe that as a member of the board of directors of RECO I will be a in a position to add real value and assist in shaping policies and strategies that speak to the needs and wants of our members in a meaningful way. I have a broad mix of experience in the real estate industry and have excelled at every role I have filled. I believe that my past experience and drive to succeed make me the ideal candidate for a seat on the RECO board of directors and I ask for your vote to make it a reality. Region 2 Mike Cusano, Broker Re/Max Escarpment Realty Inc., Brokerage, Hamilton E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 21+ Re/Max Escarpment Realty Inc., Brokerage – Broker/Manager. President in 2007 of the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton Burlington with past and current involvement on many RAHB committees and task forces. Two term Provincial Director from Southern Ontario for the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) – Provincial jurisdiction including Hamilton, Burlington, Niagara, Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Brantford, Guelph and Simcoe. Past Chair of OREA Finance and Audit Committee. RECO-REALTOR® Relations Task Force, Education Committee and Instructor Review Panel. During my term as an OREA Director, I believe I have demonstrated to you, my resolve for effective delivery of education programs, continued E&O insurance review and a framework for guidance during CCD issues. As a dedicated volunteer, I have a passion for understanding REBBA 2002, while being ever mindful of promoting effective communication and balance between RECO, Consumer Protection and the Registrant. I believe strongly in the real estate professional’s value message earmarked to the consumer, that of being Educated, Regulated, having Expertise and Knowledge. I am committed to provide, open communication with Registrants and effective representation at the RECO Board of Directors table. I respectfully ask for your vote. Thank you. 10 Spring 2012 2012 Election of Directors — Here are your candidates Election of Directors is conducted by online voting only. Online voting instructions were mailed to registrants the week of April 9, 2012. Online voting closes at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 17, 2012. The content contained in the candidate profiles is supplied by each candidate. Region 2 continued Leroy D. Dirckx, Broker of Record Atlas World Real Estate Corporation, Brokerage, Lions Head E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 20 I have worked in real estate since I was 18 years of age. I am currently an owner and the Broker of Record of Atlas World Real Estate Corporation; now with four offices in Grey and Bruce counties. I have a degree in Philosophy from York University in Toronto and have spent most of my life since then both living and working in rural Ontario. I am accomplished in recreational real estate with a strong presence in small business, residential and investment real estate. I have committee work experience on my local board and am committed to strengthening the perception of Realtors® with the public in all of Ontario George Lavallee, Broker Century 21 Home Realty Inc., Brokerage, Mannheim E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 34 I have a B.Sc. from the University of Pennsylvania. I owned my own office for 28 years and currently licensed as a Broker. For the past 6 years I have been on the RECO Board of Directors thoroughly enjoying the challenges of participating in such a professional, caring group. I have been Chairman of the Board 2010, Chair of the Insurance, Finance, Governance, Commercial Real Estate Advisory Group and Audit Committees., plus having served on the Legislation and Regulations Committee and Registrar’s education group. In 2005 I was President of Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors and have served on numerous Committees and task forces plus I am a member of the Guelph & district Association of Realtors, having served 6 years on their finance team. I was the Century 21 district Council Chair for District 7 representing south central Ontario on the national level. In my opinion it is imperative to have some experienced people on the RECO board as I witnessed that when I first got on the Board and found it very helpful. This is my last possible term as there is a 3 term limit and I look forward to serving the Board as I am always prepared for meetings, actively participating and trying my utmost to be fair to all parties concerned. Region 3 Barbara Brindle, Broker Re/Max Chay Realty Inc., Brokerage, Barrie E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Years Registered: 22 Barbara was licensed in 1990 and received a lifetime achievement award in 2010. Her passion for the profession led her to become an Instructor for the Ontario Real Estate Association in 1997 and she taught the Provincial Licensing courses for OREA for several years to new licensees. When mandatory continuing education evolved, she was selected by OREA to present the RECO Legal Update Course and the CREA Code of Ethics to Realtors across Ontario. Barbara became an approved Instructor for the Real Estate Training Institute of Ontario in 2000 where she delivered continuing education to thousands of Realtors across Ontario and the Atlantic Provinces while maintaining a successful Real Estate practice in Barrie. She has an in depth knowledge of the Regulatory requirements set out by the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act and she is astutely aware of matters affecting the industry today. In addition to her Brokers Licence, she holds a P1 License with the Law Society of Upper Canada and specifically studied Tribunals, Legislation and Administrative Law in matters pertaining to Real Estate. Her desire to contribute to the profession is demonstrated by her continued efforts to bring quality training and development to her peers. She is an approved Instructor for the National Association of Realtors® and facilitates several designation programs such as the ABR, SRES, CIPS and CRB to Realtors across Canada. She welcomes the challenge and opportunity to serve as a Director with the Real Estate Council of Ontario and be a voice for the members of Region 3 Glenda Brindle, Broker Royal LePage Team Realty, Brokerage, Ottawa E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Chair: for RECO Finance Committee – 2008-2009 Insurance Committee – 2007-2008 + 2010 – 2011 Governance Committee–2009-2010 Legislation & Regulations Committee – 2011 – 2012 Commercial Real Estate Advisory Group – 2011 – 2012 RECO Director Current - 2012 RECO Chair – 2010 RECO Vice-Chair – 2009 Ottawa Real Estate Board President – 2004 Director – 1999-2003 2nd Vice President of Ottawa Board Chairman of Political Action Committee and Chairman of MLS Committee Member: For RECO Audit Committee – 2007-2008 Governance Committee–2008-2011 Premium Stabilization-2010-2011 Finance Committee-2011-2012 Insurance Committee – 2006-2007 + 2011 - 2012 Ottawa Real Estate Board Served as a member on various committees. Served on Task Forces when required. OREA – Communications Committee and served as a Governor for the Realtor Care Foundation. I am seeking re-election to continue to be your voice and bring your concerns to RECO. Please feel free to call me with any questions you may have. It has been an honour to serve my fellow Brokers and sales representatives. Laura Roberge, Salesperson Re/Max Lakeshore Realty Inc., Brokerage, Cobourg E-mail: [email protected] Area(s) of expertise, committee experience (RECO, real estate, other), additional comments: Past Governor on the Board of Directors (Ontario Real Estate Association Foundation) Past President of the Northumberland Hills Real Estate Board & Committee Member for 8-10 years Past Chair of the Northumberland United Way On-going Committee member of Northumberland Hills Hospital Years Registered: 25 Years Registered: 25 Past fundraiser for Northumberland Hills Cancer Walk & Dragon Boat Survivor Thrivers Member of the Cobourg Rotary Club Recipient of 2 Civic Awards from Town of Cobourg Recipient of the National Volunteer Award from the Government of Canada Recipient of the Hall of Fame Award from Re/Max & 3 Platinum Awards in 2004, 5 + 9 Spring 2012 11 Meeting the needs of Ontario’s registered real estate professionals 2011 Registrant Satisfaction Survey Results T his past fall, RECO invited all registrants to participate in a registrant satisfaction survey. The survey is conducted every two years and is a valuable tool for evaluating RECO’s efforts in meeting the needs of Ontario’s registered real estate professionals. “The survey is an excellent opportunity to hear from registrants about the effectiveness of RECO’s programs and activities and to look at opportunities for improvement,” said Keith Tarswell, Chair of RECO’s board of directors. “Hearing directly from industry professionals is the best way for us to tailor our services, programs, publications and communications to meet the needs of Ontario’s growing real estate industry.” In total, 7,554 registrants from across Ontario completed the survey. The results indicate that while the overwhelming majority of registrants (87 per cent) find RECO to be meeting or exceeding service standards, there are also areas for improvement. Opportunities exist to increase awareness of RECO’s collection of registrant-focused publications and resources, and to enhance industry knowledge about the distinctive roles of RECO and the Ontario Real Estate Association. Registrants are increasingly moving towards a preference for online communications, and 50 per cent would like to see RECO become more involved in social media communications. In response to the preference for online communications, For the RECOrd will now feature three electronic editions and one print edition. You can expect to receive the Summer, Fall and Winter editions electronically, and the Spring edition in your mailbox. We’ve also increased our social media presence with timely tweets, a LinkedIn account and our YouTube channel. Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the survey. Your input is valuable and serves as an important pillar for determining how RECO delivers its programs, services and communications in the years to come. Do you have any comments or inquiries about the For the RECOrd newsletter? Please send them to: [email protected]. Real Estate Council Of Ontario 3300 Bloor Street West, Suite 1200, West Tower, Toronto, Ontario M8X 2X2 Tel: 416-207-4800 Toll-Free: 1-800-245-6910 Fax: 416-207-4820 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Real Estate Council Of Ontario 3300 Bloor Street West, Suite 1200, West Tower, Toronto, Ontario M8X 2X2 PM #40041338 Disclaimer: While ReCo makes every effort to ensure that the information in this publication is current and accurate, ReCo does not warrant or guarantee that it will be free of errors. The information contained in this publication is not intended to cover all situations. It is general information only and users/readers are encouraged to seek their own independent advice for particular fact situations. 12 Spring 2012