realtors® and politics august 2013 final files

Thank you for your RPAC donation!

Your support helps us

protect your livelihood.

We have not receivedyour RPAC donation.

Isn’t it worth a few bucks to protect your livelihood?

CONTENTSAugust 2013

FeaturesThank You for Your RPAC Support in 2013! 10

RPAC: An Investment in Your Career 12by Christina Gordillo

What Do I Have to Disclose About a Property Affected 14by Superstorm Sandy?by Barry S. Goodman

New Jersey Voter Registration Application 17

REALTORS® and Politics 18by Michelle Hofmann

Circle of Excellence Application 22

DepartmentsPresident’s View: A Jar Full of Change Can Make a Difference 4by Tina Banasiak

Message From the CEO: Trenton Lawmakers Pass FY 52014 Budget with Little Fanfareby Jarrod C. Grasso

NJAR® Events and Deadlines 6

Legislative Update: Two Major Legislative Successes this June 8by Douglas M. Tomson

Board/Association News 21

New JERSEY REALTOR®

A publication of the New Jersey Association of REALTORS®

295 Pierson Avenue, Edison, NJ 08837

Phone: (732) 494-5616 Fax: (732) 494-4723

Website: www.njar.com

Monthly except for combined January/February

and November/December issues

Jarrod C. Grasso, RCE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Allison Rosen

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS

Advertising Sales

The Cyphers Agency

(410) 280-5451

2013 OFFICERS

Christina “Tina” Banasiak PRESIDENT

Cindy Marsh-Tichy PRESIDENT-ELECT

Eugenia “Jean” Bonilla FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Genette Falk TREASURER

2013 DIVISION OFFICERS

Graeme W. Atkinson ASSOCIATION OPERATIONS

Tg Glazer COMMUNICATIONS ANDPUBLIC RELATIONS

Carol Anderson INDUSTRY ADVOCACY

John Terebey Jr. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

Angela Sicoli PROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT

The New Jersey Association of REALTORS® (NJAR®) provides

legal and legislative updates as well as information on a

variety of real estate related topics solely for the use of its

members. Due to the wide range of issues affecting its

members, NJAR® publishes information concerning those

issues that NJAR®, in its sole discretion, deems the most

important for its members.

The content and accuracy of all articles and/or advertisements

by persons not employed by or agents of NJAR®

are the sole responsibility of their author. NJAR® disclaims

any liability or responsibility for their content or accuracy.

Where such articles and/or advertisements contain legal

advice or standards, NJAR® recommends that REALTORS® seek

legal counsel with regard to any specific situation to which

they may seek to apply the article.

Articles and/or advertisements appearing in the New Jersey

REALTOR® express the personal views of the respective writers

and are not an official expression from the New Jersey Association

of REALTORS® or New Jersey REALTOR ® magazine. All rights

reserved. Reproduction prohibited without permission.

Postmaster send form 3579 Change of Address to: Editor, New

Jersey REALTOR ®,295 Pierson Avenue, Edison, NJ 08837. Non-

member subscription $10.00 annual. Member subscriptions

allocated from annual dues: $3.00.

NEW JERSEY REALTOR® • August 2013 • www.njar.com • 3

You may have noticed the jar image on the cover of this month’s issue. For about half of you, that image is noting that you did not make a REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC)donation* and is posing the question, “Isn’t it worth a few bucks to protect your livelihood?”

According to the National Association of REALTORS® and based upon our total membership, the minimum “fair share” investment is $15 per member this year. That’s a negligible amount,considering this amount goes toward supporting your livelihood. It’s about the same investment you may make in a few visits to Starbucks. Isn’t it worth brewing coffee at home for a week tosupport your career?

I’d like to also recognize and thank the other half of you who have already invested in RPAC thisyear. Your commitment to the REALTOR® organization is invaluable and it is because of involvedmembers like you that we can work to promote a healthy real estate market.

The value of RPAC is best expressed through NJAR®’s advocacy efforts. As you may know, RPACassists political candidates who are supportive of our industry and property ownership. Thissupport builds relationships with policy makers and gives NJAR® and your local board/associationaccess to decision makers when critical issues are up for discussion. As you will see throughoutthis issue, RPAC has helped pass legislation that helps the real estate industry and supports ourprofession. Just recently, the Senate and Assembly passed a law that allows the use of electronicsignatures on real estate contracts. A second piece of legislation is also awaiting final approval fromGovernor Christie, which clarifies that real estate licensees can continue to prepare broker priceopinions/comparative market analyses (BPOs/CMAs). Whether you’ve invested in RPAC or arecurrently ‘riding for free,’ you benefited from the incredible efforts of NAR and NJAR® in lobbying to get this legislation passed and ensure your future as a real estate professional.

A great illustration of the RPAC difference can be viewed in this issue’s feature article, “RPAC: AnInvestment in Your Career” on page 12, which follows several REALTORS® expressing what RPACmeans to them and how it directly impacts their individual businesses.

A good way to think of your RPAC contribution is that it’s a little like union dues – this money goes directly to protecting our industry so we can have productive businesses. Your contributionwill be used to support the election of candidates who represent your interests as a REALTOR® andthe rights of property owners. Don’t waste another second, support your share and make yourcontribution today** by logging in to njar.com or by calling the National RPAC at (202) 383-1194. n

* Contributions include those received and processed prior to July 1, 2013.

* * Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are voluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than the suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal and the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local boards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of each contribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal candidates and is charged againstyour limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to retain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.

PRES IDENT ’ S V IEW

A Jar Full of Change Can Makea Difference

By Tina BanasiakNJAR® President

4 • NEW JERSEY REALTOR® • August 2013 • www.njar.com


In sharp contrast to years past, the 2014 fiscal year (FY) state budget was approved by

both houses of the State Legislature and signed into law by Governor Christie on June 28

without much ado, taking effect on July 1. The $33 billion budget is $1.3 billion – or 4

percent – larger than the 2013 fiscal year and relies on nearly 5 percent revenue growth.

There are several important aspects of the budget that have a direct impact on the real

estate industry in New Jersey you should know about. Notably, for the sixth year in a

row, the state budget contains no tax increases on our industry. The realty transfer fee

will remain the same as in FY 2013 and there will still be no seasonal rental tax or a

tax on real estate commissions.

Additionally, this new budget establishes a $40 million contingency fund for rebuilding

after Superstorm Sandy. This will help New Jersey move forward with the rebuilding

process and will cover any shortfalls in funding by the federal government without

reducing resources for other key priorities in our state.

Educational funding, the largest aspect of a homeowner’s property tax bill, has reached

another historic milestone in the state’s 2014 budget. For the third year in a row, state

support has increased, granting new funding of approximately $100 million. This brings

the total state aid to schools to nearly $9 billion and ensures that no school district will

receive less K-12 formula aid than the amount provided in FY 2013. With New Jersey being

ranked in the top ten states to raise a child for the 15th consecutive year – this year, ranked

fifth – the additional state funding and the expected positive impact on homeowners’

property taxes, we can expect new residents to want to live in our great state.

Another important aspect of the budget as it relates to housing is the continued

funding for the Senior and Disabled Citizens’ Property Tax Freeze. With $214.2 million

earmarked in the FY 2014 budget, more than 159,000 beneficiaries will continue to

receive the benefits in addition to an expected 34,000 new recipients. Furthermore, the

homestead property tax rebates, available to residents who meet certain income and

other qualifying criteria, will help an additional 800,000 New Jerseyans.

As always, NJAR® encourages all REALTORS® to stay involved in the political and

legislative process. Contributions to our government affairs efforts at the local, state,

and federal levels help advance the REALTOR® message. As the “Voice of Real Estate

in New Jersey,” it is paramount that every NJAR® member stands ready to act to

protect the real estate industry and private property rights. n

Trenton Lawmakers Pass FY 2014 Budget with Little Fanfare

By Jarrod C. GrassoNJAR® Chief ExecutiveOfficer

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

“We must

consult our

means rather

than our

wishes.”

-George Washington

NJAR® Events & DeadlinesAug. 1, 2013 – Oct. 31, 2013


Aug. 14 NJAR® Superstorm Sandy Seminar9:00a.m.-1:00p.m. New Jersey Association of REALTORS®

Stockton Seaview HotelGalloway, N.J. • (732) 494-5616njar.com/account

Aug. 26-27 Leadership Summit NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®Chicago, IL • (800) 874-6500

Sept. 2 NJAR® Office Closed - Labor Day

Sept. 10 NJAR® Executive Committee Meeting11:00 a.m. NJAR® Executive Officers Meeting

NJAR® Presidents-Elect MeetingEdison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616

Sept. 10 NJAR® Board of Directors Meeting1:00 p.m. Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616

Sept. 19 New Jersey REALTORS® Care DayNorth Central Jersey Association of REALTORS®along with NJAR® Housing OpportunityFoundationVarious locations throughout north N.J.(973) 425-0110 or (732) 494-5616

Sept. 19 New Jersey REALTORS® Care DayMiddlesex County Association of REALTORS®along with NJAR® Housing OpportunityFoundationVarious locations throughout Middlesex County(732) 442-3400 or (732) 494-5616

Sept. 20 NJAR® Good Neighbor Award Application Due5:00 p.m. njar.com/story/339

Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616

Sept. 23 RPAC of New Jersey Deadline for NJAR®Circle of Excellence Sales Award® Creditnjar.com/account

Oct. 16 2013 Leadership Seminar 9:00 a.m. New Jersey Association of REALTORS®

Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616

If you are going paperless and no longer wish to receive the printversion of “New Jersey REALTOR®,” please email [email protected] withyour full name, contact information and request. Please note thatthis may take two to three months to process.

iPad Users, search ‘NJREALTOR’ in the App Store and download the FREE app.

Smartphone Users, visitmobile.qmags.com/NJAR and view the magazine formatted

for your mobile device.

Access archives and back issues, in the ‘Magazine Article Search’at njar.com/mag.

Read New Jersey REALTOR ®

While You’re On-the-Go!


LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Two Major LegislativeSuccesses this June

By Douglas M. Tomson

Every year, state legislators, legislative staffers, lobbyists and public advocates joinin together in the waning days of June to take part in a tradition – the passage ofthe state budget, usually one of the last acts of legislators before they recess for thesummer.

Another large aspect of June that even the most non-political observer may noticeis that hundreds of pieces of legislation are also voted on in those last few days. Infact, it’s often the best time to see politicians and lobbyists alike pushing for bills toreceive a final vote in the hopes of getting their bills to Governor Christie’s desk tobe signed into law. NJAR® was certainly part of the cavalcade this year as we werepushing for two major pieces of legislation: E-Signature legislation and BrokerPrice Opinion/Comparative Market Analysis (BPO/CMA) clarification legislation.

For a little background information, currently, both federal and state electronicsignature acts (ETAs) exist. When a state ETA is adopted, it supersedes theprovisions of the federal law. The way New Jersey’s ETA was originally written, itomitted e-signatures as a valid signature on real estate contracts, though thefederal law does permit it. With such a great impact on New Jersey’s REALTORS®,NJAR® believed that explicit clarification in the state’s law was necessary to helpour industry move forward.

Bill A-3818, sponsored by Assemblyman Singleton (D-7); Assemblyman Wimberly(D-35) and Assemblyman Webber (R-26) and Bill S-2242, sponsored by SenatorLesniak (D-20) and Senator Scutari (D-22) were introduced to allow the use ofelectronic signatures on real estate contracts to be consistent with federal law.

After moving quickly through the committee process in February and March, thebills had their days for a full floor vote. The General Assembly approved the bill 76-1 and the Senate approved the bill 40-0. The bill now heads to the Governor’sdesk for his consideration.

The next bill came about a little differently. As you are most likely aware, the NewJersey Board of Real Estate Appraisers (Appraisal Board) declared that BPOs areappraisals and therefore subject to the jurisdiction of the Appraisal Board. They

RPAC of New JerseyWhere Every Dollar Counts

$600,000

$550,000

$500,000

$450,000

$400,000

$350,000

$300,000

$250,000

$200,000

$150,000

$100,000

$50,000

$644,025

$317,594

*As of July 1, 2013


New Jersey Legislative Bills

Douglas M. Tomson

Douglas M. Tomson isNJAR®’s Director of Government

Affairs. He can be reachedat (732) 494-4720 [email protected].

The following are some of the bills NJAR® is tracking that may be heard in the upcoming months of the New Jersey legislative session.

A3889 – Spencer (D29), Amodeo (R2)/S2599 – Whelan (D2),Greenstein (D14)Requires consideration of increased property value due to dune construction in determining compensation provided for condemned beachfront property.

NJAR® Position: SupportThis bill amends the state eminent domain law to provide "just" compensation forproperty owners whose homes were condemned to construct a dune or conductbeach replenishment. NJAR® supports this legislation so homeowners arecompensated adequately if their property was condemned to make way for dunes or beach replenishment projects.

A S S EMB LY B I L L H I S T O R Y :2/26/2013 – Introduced and referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee

S E N AT E B I L L H I S T O R Y :2/21/2013 – Introduced and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee4/25/2013 – Reported out of committee with amendments, 2nd reading in Senate

A3890 – Eustace (D38), Schepisi (R39)/S2598 – Smith (D17), Whelan (D2)Provides limited exemption from local land use restrictions to allow certainexisting structures to be raised to highest applicable flood elevation standard.

NJAR® Position: SupportThis bill exempts properties in flood zones that are required to elevated under FEMAelevation standards and DEP rules from local variance requirements. NJAR® supportsthis legislation to provide property owners in flood zones with a means to elevate theirproperties as required without having to endure the long and costly local land useprocess to do so.

A S S EMB LY B I L L H I S T O R Y :2/26/2013 – Introduced and referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee5/13/2013 – Reported out of committee with amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly5/20/2013 – Passed by the Assembly, received in Senate without reference, 2nd reading

S E N AT E B I L L H I S T O R Y :2/21/2013 – Introduced and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee4/25/2013 – Reported out of committee with amendments, 2nd reading in Senate

A3920 – Barnes (D18), Ramos (D33)Creates New Jersey Coastal Commission; reallocates certain funds from DEP tocommission; and appropriates $20 million.

NJAR® Position: OpposeThis bill creates the New Jersey Coastal Commission coastal CAFRA areas fromMiddlesex County to Cape May County. NJAR® opposes this legislation as it createsanother layer of government approvals required to do any work and will make theprocess of obtaining CAFRA permits more difficult for those living in these counties.

A S S EMB LY B I L L H I S T O R Y :3/14/2013 – Introduced and referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee

S E N AT E B I L L H I S T O R Y :5/13/2013 – Reported out of committee withamendments, referred to Assembly AppropriationsCommittee

SUPPORT MONITOR OPPOSE

went further to say that anyone preparing a BPOwho is not licensed as a real estate appraiser may be guilty of the unlicensed practice of appraising and therefore subject to hefty fines.

In response, the New Jersey Real Estate Commission(REC) also issued a statement that said real estateagents can prepare BPOs under their license authoritybecause the law states that they can prepare CMAs andthe two terms are interchangeable. BPOs/CMAs arewidely accepted in the industry and have been usedfor decades in New Jersey and other states, but aredifferent than appraisals. The REC believes that allBPOs/CMAs must clearly state that they are not thesame as appraisals, which are required in certain real estate transactions.

Obviously, with two conflicting statements, it createdconfusion about what New Jersey real estate licenseescould actually prepare, so NJAR® stepped in to lobbyfor clarification of state laws. Bill A-3718, sponsoredby Assemblyman Diegnan (D-18); AsseblywomanHandlin (R-13) and Assemblywoman Stender (D-22),and Bill S-2551, sponsored by Senator Van Drew (D-1);Senator Scutari (D-22) and Senator O’Toole (R-40),clarify current state law to define BPOs and CMAs asinterchangeable terms to be in line with federal lawas well as 45 other states.

A-3718/S-2551 both had last minute June votes, withthe General Assembly passing the bill 76-0 and theSenate passing the bill 37-0, and now head to theGovernor’s desk for his consideration.

I want to personally thank all of the members whotook part in our Calls for Actions and helped get thebills through the legislature and on the Governor’sdesk for him to consider. Numerous members of the legislature contacted NJAR® to tell us they werevoting for the legislation in part because so many of you told your representatives of its importance to our industry. Please visit njar.com and ourFacebook page at Facebook.com/NJREALTORSfor updates on when these bills are signed into law by Governor Christie. n


Thank You for Your RPAC Support in 2013!

The contributions to the REALTORS®

Political Action Committee (RPAC)are more important than ever! Asone of the main methods ofensuring that REALTOR® issuesmaintain relevancy, RPAC’snonpartisan efforts at all levels of

government help achieve legislative outcomes that protect privateproperty rights, as well as the livelihoods of

REALTORS® in New Jersey and across the United States. NJAR®

would like to recognize those members who have already investedin the future of the industry by contributing to RPAC.

The following is a list of RPAC of New Jersey donors as of June 15, 2013. Each of whom has contributed more than $250 to helpensure that the REALTOR® voice is heard. For those who have not supported RPAC yet, there is still time to make a 2013contribution. Visit njar.com/account to make a donation today! n

NAR RPAC Hall of FameRoseanne CittaChristina Clemans

Mary DavisDrew Fishman

Charles Oppler Ned Ward

Gloria Woodward

Graeme AtkinsonJanet BartonAnnekee Brahver-KeelyBurlington Camden CountyAssociation of REALTORS®

Nelson Chen

Allan “Dutch” DechertEastern Bergen County Boardof REALTORS®, Inc.

Genette FalkBarry GoodmanJarrod Grasso

Randy Lyn KetiveRose LaPiraDavid MaloGloria NilsonPassaic County Boardof REALTORS®

Andrea SchlosserRobert SouthwickTRENDUnited Association of REALTORS®

RPAC of New Jersey Hall of Fame Platinum Level (Over $15,000 throughout career)Judy ApplebyGene AzzalinaChristina BanasiakEric BirchlerRosanne CittaChristina ClemansMary DavisDrew Fishman

Bonnie FitzgeraldMarlyn FriedbergGloucester Salem Counties Boardof REALTORS®

William HanleyHunterdon/Somerset Associationof REALTORS®

Roger Love

Middlesex County Associationof REALTORS®

Middlesex County MLSMonmouth County Associationof REALTORS®

North Central Jersey Associationof REALTORS®

Ocean County Board of REALTORS®

Charles OpplerRealSource Associationof REALTORS®

Ann SchuldAngela SicoliNed WardGloria Woodward

Charter Golden “R”Ned Ward Gloria Woodward

Sustaining Golden “R” (Annual Contribution of $2,000)Christina ClemansMary Davis

Drew FishmanCharles Oppler

Sustaining Crystal “R” (Annual Contribution of $1,500)Judy ApplebyChristina Banasiak

Rosanne CittaEastern Bergen County Board ofREALTORS®

Cindy Marsh-TichyAngela Sicoli

Sterling “R” (Contribution of $1,000-$2,499)Eric BirchlerNancy BuninCape May County Associationof REALTORS®

Cape May County MLSNelson Chen

Allan “Dutch” DechertGenette FalkDavi FialkGeorge FinelliJarrod Grasso

G reater Union County Associationof REALTORS®

Randy Lyn KetiveRose LaPiraPamela MonroeOcean City Board of REALTORS®

Michael OpplerBowen PakAlexander PerrielloSusana SaraivaDouglas TomsonRobert White

RPAC of New Jersey Hall of Fame Gold Level (Over $10,000 throughout career)


New Jersey REALTORS® are improving the lives of people in their local communities, the state, across the nation and around the world! NJAR® wants to recognize your

outstanding service efforts. Share your story youcould receive funding for your deserving charity!

Are You a Good Neighbor? NJAR® Wants to Thank You!

The 2013 NJAR® Good Neighbor Award winners will receive donations to their community service organizations of choice, as follows:

First Place - $2,500 | Second Place - $1,500 | Third Place - $1,000Each day, REALTORS® are paving the way for a better tomorrow.

NJAR® thanks you for your incredible volunteer efforts.

Submit an application for yourself or another worthy REALTOR®.Download the entry form & complete rules at njar.com/story/339.

Deadline: September 20, 2013

* Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are voluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than the suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute withoutreprisal and the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local boards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of each contribution is used by RPAC of New Jerseyto support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal candidates and is charged against your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of NewJersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to retain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.

NJAR® President’s Club (Contribution of $500 - $999)Graeme AtkinsonEugenia BonillaTara ChurpakovichKarla Cino

Maria DarganJohn DiNizioBonnie FitzgeraldChris Joo

Ellen KaleJorge LedesmaJudith LewisMin Lim

Robert OppenheimerFrank RealiLydia RussoRobert Russo

Daren SautterAndrea SchlosserBruce ShapiroJoanne Vossler

NJAR® Capitol Club (Contribution of $250 - $499)Maritza AlemanNancy BielenErin BrownIn ChangMarie CordnerDaniel CorriganLarry DePalmaDavid DePaolaDiane DisbrowBruce Elichman

Sharon FisherWilliam FlaggRoberta GalkinGeraldine Grassi-YurachekRobert HelversonEnrique HernandezSusan HughesSusan HunterDenise JasinskiMichael Joffe

Robert KatzWilliam LinterisMark McKennaNancy McKerahanAlireza MemarTheresa MillikenJudith MizzoneHeather MoffittGloria MonksSallye Nordling

Michael PraticoMaria RampinelliHelen RebmannMary Lou ResnerAdam ReynoldsKerin RicciLaura RubinfeldRhoda RussoMary SgobbaChandrika Singh

Walter SmolenskiPatricia TahanCarol TangorraJohn TerebeyCarol Van SavageJohn WaltersJohn Zennario

NAR President’s Circle (Annual commitment of $2,000 to support federal candidates or a National Political Party Committee)

Christina BanasiakChristina ClemansMary Davis

Alan “Dutch” DechertDrew FishmanJarrod Grasso

William HanleyRandy Lyn KetiveRose LaPira

Gary LargeCindy L. Marsh-TichyAngela Sicoli

Douglas TomsonRobert White


RPAC: An Investment in Your Career

The REALTORS® Political ActionCommittee (RPAC) is one of bestinvestment tools REALTORS®

have in their pocket.Since 1969, RPAC haspromoted the election ofREALTOR®-friendlycandidates throughoutthe country as the voiceof REALTORS® inWashington, D.C.,Trenton, and in yourlocal communities.RPAC is the onlypolitical grouporganized forREALTORS®,run byREALTORS®,and existssolely tofurtherissuesimportant to

REALTORS®.

RPAC is fundedthrough voluntary

contributions from members of the REALTOR®

association to assist in the election of candidates whosupport the real estate profession, our industry andprivate property rights. This is money given freely byREALTORS® in recognition of how importantcampaign fundraising is to the political process.

Perhaps the most important aspect to keep in mind is that no matter what amount you’re able to give, it still matters. From your fair contribution of $15contribution to $1,000 or more, every dollar enablesRPAC to invest in candidates who support our industryand issues. 100 percent of RPAC contributions are usedto support REALTOR®-friendly candidates – 70 percentgoes towards state and local offices and 30 percent is

sent to the National Association of REALTORS® tosupport congressional candidates.

RPAC is a non-partisan organization and does not buyvotes. RPAC simply enables REALTORS® to sustaincandidates that support the issues that are importantto their profession and livelihood. Being included inthe debate when decisions are made about the realestate industry is crucial to advancing the profession.

Take a look at why some of your fellow REALTOR®

members invest in their career.

Michael Oppler, a member of theEastern Bergen County Board ofREALTORS® (EBCBOR) and brokerassociate at Prominent PropertiesSotheby's International Realty inHillsdale, N.J., is a dedicatedsupporter of RPAC. When asked whyhe invests in RPAC, Oppler said, “I

can think of no other function that we as REALTOR®

members can help to become better funded and morefunctional, than when we support the advocacy of ourown interests.” For this very reason, he “treats RPAC ashis client.” REALTORS® have a fiduciary relationshipwith their client that’s only met when a deal is done. Ifthey don’t invest in their work, they don’t reap thebenefits. And REALTORS® know that if they don’tsatisfy their client and close the transaction, they don’tget their paycheck.

When communicating with his clients, Oppler, like allREALTORS®, is expected to protect and promote theinterests of the client. Taking this one step further, heencourages non-investors to protect their business byusing an interesting assesment. He says, “OneREALTOR®… who gains a listing, simultaneouslycauses other REALTORS® to lose that same listing.However, RPAC operates opposite this fashion. Whereelse can REALTORS® contribute in a way that protectsand promotes all REALTOR® interests in a more fittingway than by supporting RPAC?” He encourages new

Michael Oppler

By Christina Gordillo


Christina Gordillo is NJAR®’s Legislative & Political AdvocacyCoordinator. She can be reached at [email protected].

and existing REALTORS® to protect their industry as a unified voice through RPAC.

In addition to promoting the RPAC cause, Oppler isinvolved in REALTOR® issues on a local, state andnational level, most notably in his tenure on NAR’sYoung Professional Network Advisory Board andRPAC Major Investor Council.

As Chair of Communications forMonmouth County’s YPN, MarissaFerrari, a Broker-Salesperson atKeller Williams E. Monmouth inShrewsbury, N.J., knows theimportance of investing in herindustry. Ferrari says that throughher investment in RPAC, she has

seen the impact of what the “power in numbers” hasdone for her business. Over the years, she has seenRPAC working for her when closing deals. “Sometimesall a client needs is that one impactful benefit ofowning a home to be sure that home buying is worth itfor them. When something has a positive effect on myclient’s wallet and the benefits are easily recognizable,it’s a no-brainer for them,” Ferrari said in reference tothe Mortgage Interest Deduction, which RPACcontinuously fights to protect.

Ferrari has been in the real estate industry since shewas 18-years-old while earning her Bachelor of Sciencedegree in Business Economics at Rutgers University.Upon graduation, she obtained her broker’s license and over the years has been involved in REALTOR®

issues through her REALTOR® office and the MonmouthCounty Board of REALTORS®. Through her involvement,she learned about RPAC and made her initial investment.By having personally invested in her business, Ferraritakes note of RPAC benefitting her work as a REALTOR®.She says she will continue to invest and encouragesothers to invest so that RPAC can continue to preservehomeownership tax policies, making homeownershipmore affordable for her clients.

Nick Manis, broker-of-record with Manis REALTORS® in SouthBrunswick, N.J., said he invests inRPAC because he understands therole RPAC plays in the real estateindustry. Manis said he knows thatthe REALTOR® industry cannot function without RPAC because

it continuously helps him conduct business in thehousing market as a whole.

When asked why he invests, Manis said, “In New Jersey,as well as locally, RPAC supports politicians that are in favor of helping the real estate industry succeed. We need politicians that introduce legislation thatbenefits our industry. Currently, legislation forREALTORS® providing BPOs/CMAs is being worked out by New Jersey Association of REALTORS® withmembers of the N.J. Legislature.”

“We cannot limit the functions our clients have beenaccustomed to us providing them. NJAR®’s strengthcomes from their competent staff and a healthy fundedRPAC,” said Manis. Without RPAC, REALTORS® in theGarden State could have lost the ability to provide thevital services their clients expect from them. However,with the support of RPAC, NJAR® was able to work with members of the legislature to introducelegislation to continue to allow NJ REALTORS®

to perform BPOs/CMAs.

Manis encourages others who really want to besuccessful in this business to invest because RPACeducates REALTORS® with the issues affecting theirbusiness. He will continue to spread this messagethrough his involvement on a local, state and national REALTOR® level, most notably through his chairmanship of the NJAR® Political AffairsCommittee and his tenure on NAR’s HousingOpportunity Committee.

If you’re still not certain about RPAC after readingabout these three leaders in your profession, take amoment to think of RPAC as an investment inyourself. The best professional investment you canmake in your business. RPAC is the best insuranceagainst poorly designed small business and commercialreal estate legislation. If members aren’t giving theirfair share to RPAC, they're not doing all they can tobetter their profession, business and community. Bydonating to RPAC, you are making an investment inprotecting your business by allowing RPAC to investin candidates who support real estate issues andprivate property rights. n

Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC arevoluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than thesuggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal and the NationalAssociation of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local boards will not favor ordisfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of each contribution isused by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC ofNew Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federalcandidates and is charged against your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of NewJersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to retain your entire contribution for use insupporting state and local candidates.

Marissa Ferrari

Nick Manis

What do I have todiscloseabout a property affected by

By Barry S. Goodman, Esq.Superstorm Sandy?

You have a listing to sell or lease a home that was

affected by Superstorm Sandy. What do you have

to disclose about any damage or possible damage

resulting from the storm? What is the best way to

disclose any information that you do provide?

What duty do you have to determine if there has

been any damage as a result of the storm? What

is the potential liability if you pass along

misinformation from the owner?

Superstorm Sandy may have been a catastrophic

storm, but the laws that apply to your duties and

liabilities have not changed. However, since

applying them to Superstorm Sandy may present

certain challenges, you must be aware of what

your duties and responsibilities are and how they

apply to Superstorm Sandy.


Sandy Damages Summer 2013


The Applicable Laws Let’s start with the basics. The New Jersey Real Estate

Commission (REC) requires every real estate licensee

to make a “reasonable effort to ascertain all material

information concerning the physical condition of every

property for which he or she accepts an agency or which

he or she is retained to market as a transaction broker.”

Such a reasonable effort must include not only asking the

seller or seller’s agent about any physical conditions that

may affect the property but also a “reasonable inspection of

the property to determine if there are any readily observable

physical conditions affecting the property.”

As a result, if you accept a listing to lease or sell property

affected by Superstorm Sandy, you must ask the owner

about any damage related to the storm and do a visual

inspection of the property to determine, as best you can, if

there was any damage to the property. Any physical damage

to the property then must be disclosed to a potential buyer

and, if applicable, a potential tenant.

Under the Consumer Fraud Act, if you make any

misrepresentation to a buyer or tenant, including innocently

passing along a misrepresentation by the owner, you may

be liable for treble damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. One

way to limit that liability would be to use a Seller Property

Condition Disclosure Statement (Disclosure Statement)

in the manner set forth in Section 19.1 of the Consumer

Fraud Act. Under Section 19.1, a real estate licensee is

not liable for punitive damages, attorneys’ fees or both

for communicating any false, misleading or deceptive

information provided by or on behalf of the seller if the

following two conditions are met:

1. the licensee had no actual knowledge the representation

was false, misleading or deceptive; and

2. the licensee made a “reasonable and diligent inquiry”

to ascertain if the information was false, misleading

or deceptive.

One way to satisfy the “reasonable and diligent inquiry”

requirement is to use a Disclosure Statement in the form

approved by the Division of Consumer Affairs, as long as

the licensee informs the buyer that the seller is the source

of the information and, prior to making that communication

to the buyer, the licensee “visually inspected the property

with reasonable diligence to ascertain the accuracy of the

information disclosed by the seller,” which is the same

standard as required by the Commission’s regulations. Of

course, the seller, not the licensee, must fill out the Disclosure

Statement and the licensee should sign the Disclosure

Statement confirming that the licensee has done the visual

inspection that the licensee is required to do.

What should I disclose and how should I disclose it?

Although the questions about what should be disclosed

and how to disclose it may be fact specific, there are

certain general questions that routinely have been asked

relating to Superstorm Sandy that easily can be answered

based upon REC’s regulations and the Consumer Fraud

Act’s requirements. The following questions and answers

therefore will provide general guidelines concerning

what should be disclosed and how to disclose it.

How do you answer the question, “Was theproperty involved in a flood?”

If the property was involved in a flood, or had other

significant water damage from Superstorm Sandy,

and the agent is aware of that fact, the answer to that

question must be “yes.” Under the REC’s regulations,

the agent must disclose “all information material to

the physical condition of any property which they

know or which a reasonable effort to ascertain would

have revealed.”

What duty does an agent have to know aboutstorm-related issues? Should agents inquire abouthow high the water infiltrated the home, whatrepairs were done and what was done to repair the property, treat mold, etc.?

An agent must make a “reasonable effort to ascertain all

material information concerning the physical condition

of every property” that he or she accepts for listing as

required by the REC’s regulations. This includes an

inquiry to the seller/landlord and a visual inspection for

readily observable conditions. The agent therefore should

ask the seller/landlord about these issues and conduct

the required visual inspection.


Can you add questions to the listing agreement orseasonal application to get more information aboutdamage or whether the property will be availablefor the summer season?

There is no prohibition against adding such questions.

However, it is advisable for an agent to consult with

his/her broker before adding such questions in order to

ensure compliance with office policies.

Is there liability for a real estate licensee forpassing along information gained from aseller/landlord about storm damage?

No, as long as the information is accurate. However,

agents may be liable for failing to relay such

information of which they are aware or for passing

on misinformation, even if they did not know the

information was wrong.

Can additional questions be added to theDisclosure Statement about storm damage,previous flood claims, etc.?

Yes, if, in the agent’s opinion, it is appropriate to do

so under the particular facts and circumstances of a

transaction. However, it is advisable for an agent to

consult his/her broker before adding such questions

in order to assure compliance with office policies.

If a separate Disclosure Statement that was notapproved by the Department of Community Affairsis used, is there liability for a real estate licensee?

The approved Disclosure Statement includes the

minimum required disclosures to protect agents from

liability for treble damages and attorneys’ fees under

the Consumer Fraud Act when it is properly used. The

use of another form of disclosure would not provide

that protection.

Should a disclaimer be included in the MLS thatthe property has suffered storm damage?

Such a disclaimer is not required. It is recommended

that damage from Superstorm Sandy should be treated

the same as any other damage to property that is being

listed. It should be disclosed, preferably in a Disclosure

Statement or at least in some other writing.

What if repairs have been completed by theseller/landlord?

All damage and repairs should be disclosed to a

buyer/tenant by the seller/landlord and, to the extent

known, by the listing agent in order to avoid any liability.

Since some homes have sustained significantdamage as a result of the storm and insurance hasnot covered all the repairs, not everything has beenrepaired in those homes and they often are beingsold “as is.” In this situation, what is the bestapproach?

The same disclosures should be made whether or not

a property is being sold “as is.” Failure to disclose or

misrepresenting a material fact may be a basis for a

buyer to void a contract and seek damages.

Are there any new regulations and other laws thatan agent must follow when the agent deals with aproperty that was affected by Superstorm Sandy?

No. An agent should apply the same principles to any

property affected by Superstorm Sandy that the agent

would apply to any other property. For example, under

the Commission’s regulations, the agent must disclose

all material information pertaining to the physical

condition of the property just like they must for any

other property, which must include the agent

undertaking a visual inspection of the property and

making inquiries of the seller/landlord about the physical

condition of the property. All this information then must

be disclosed to potential buyers/tenants in the same way

it would be disclosed for any other property.

Although Superstorm Sandy presented unique challenges

for the people of New Jersey, the duties and obligations of

real estate licensees have not changed. Therefore, you must

apply the REC’s regulations and the rules applicable to the

Consumer Fraud Act as you would in any other situation. If

you do that, you will steer clear of any legal storm that

otherwise would have been created by Superstorm Sandy. n

Barry S. Goodman, Esq., a partner in the lawfirm of Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis,

LLP, focuses his practice on real estatebrokerage and other real estate-relatedmatters, as well as antitrust suits and

corporate shareholders’ and partnershipdisputes. He is the General Counsel for the

New Jersey Association of REALTORS®.

Barry S. Goodman, Esq.


Sample N.J. Voter Registration ApplicationAlso available at njar.com/story/531


By Michelle Hofmann

Gloria McCauley can’t recall the precise moment when her

real estate career melded with political activism, but the

transition was smooth. She accepted an appointment to

Hillsborough Township’s Economic Business Development

Commission. Over the years, McCauley, 47, a broker and

sales associate with Hillsborough’s RE/MAX Preferred

Professionals, occupied a variety of political seats before

arriving at her current role as a committee-woman for

the Hillsborough Township Committee. In 2010 and 2012,

she served as deputy mayor and was unanimously elected

mayor in 2011.

McCauley says the service-oriented nature of real estate and

elected office make for a good fit. Whether they are affecting

change, seeking improvements in the community, raising

money, helping to elect political candidates, or fighting for

private property rights, McCauley says real estate agents

have a vested interest in the communities they serve.

“Because I am involved in real estate and my community,

other REALTORS® often talk to me and tell me their

thoughts. And I can bring back the knowledge of everyone.

Even though I am a Republican, I am working for everybody.

So if there is a great idea, I can take that back to the right

folks,” she says.

In addition to being mayor, McCauley has occupied positions

on the Hillsborough-Millstone Municipal Alliance, parks and

recreation commissions, the senior citizen housing council,

the sign review committee, the sustainable Hillsborough

committee, and the finance committee.

Timing keeps her coming back. “People say in politics you

should be in for a year and move on, but as you know, a year

in government doesn’t get a lot accomplished. As you go on,

you continue to learn more. And while I am here, I like to

know that the master plan that they have in place continues

to move forward, and the right decisions are made,” she

explains.

It’s also a confidence booster. “I feel like I know the [realestate] industry. For the 14 years I have been in business

REALTORS® & Politics

now, it has been a positive. I think people genuinely knowand want to know that people in real estate are involved inthe community somehow. People see us going the extramile,” she says.

Charles Oppler, 55, broker-owner of Prominent Properties

Sotheby's International Realty in Franklin Lakes, N.J. says

his political profile is not lost on clients. Oppler started

selling real estate in 1981. He was asked to serve on the

Eastern Bergen County Board of REALTORS® in the late

1980s. “One thing led to another. They liked me at the

state level,” says Oppler, who served as president of the

New Jersey Association of REALTORS® in 2004.

Oppler expanded his horizons and chaired the National

Association of REALTORS®’ Political Action Committee

(RPAC) – a nonpartisan group that helps elect candidates

who support private property rights and other issues which

directly impact on the real estate industry – in 2009. He

served as NAR’s special liaison for large firm relations in

2011 before landing in his current role as the 2013 NAR

party disbursement liaison, overseeing the money that gets

spent and allocated on the advocacy level and on elections

and candidates.

From flood insurance programs to mortgage-interest

deduction and government-sponsored enterprises, Oppler

keeps his eye on the issues. Staying informed, he says, is

good business and makes good sense. Whether he’s is talking

with state legislators or educating homebuyers and sales

associates, Oppler says his political experiences have given

him confidence, which in turn translates to clients.

“Being high profile and being successful breed success,”

he explains. “Moreover, if we didn’t do what we do, we

wouldn’t be able to defeat some of the measures that come

up in Congress or create a heavy call for action with our

Congress and senators. We wouldn’t be able to say, ‘Hey,

this is not a good thing for homeowners,’ ” he adds.

In 2006, Oppler assisted the NJAR® lobbying team in

fighting and defeating a proposed Plainfield ordinance

increasing the certificate of occupancy fees as well as the

alterations/renovation permit fees. “That was a pretty

silly ordinance. And we were able to defeat it,” he says.

For many Seaside Park, N.J. residents, Judy Appleby, 65,

ABR®, SRES, RSPS, broker-owner for Appleby Realty, is

the local champion of zoning and property rights.

“[Pay] attention to zoning. It is the pivotal thing that

controls our property, and we must be vigilant to any

proposed changes; this is where government steps in

and changes our usage. If there are any attempts to

change the zoning, I watch for this. This is important.

You have to do it on the offensive, not the defensive,

because once something is passed, it is hard to take it

away,” she says.

Like Oppler, Appleby believes political activism and real

estate go hand in hand. Although always active on a local

level, Appleby tossed her hat into the political rings shortly

after getting her real estate license in 1976. Appleby has

twice been the president of the Ocean County Board of

REALTORS® (2003 and 2006); served as NJAR®’s president in

2010; and has been a NJAR® director, division officer, and

committee chairperson. On a national front, she’s served on

NAR’s land use, property rights and environment committee.

Simply put, she believes the best way to control your

environment politically is to get involved. “People will

often tell me that they feel I know more about this town

than many others, so the fact that people think I am

knowledgeable hasn’t hurt me,” Appleby says.

Admittedly, practitioners say being politically active isn’t

always easy. “People would ask me why I would put my name

on the line. But I always tell people point blank that to me,

this is my way of doing business: to do what is right for the

community, regardless. I have always spoken up and

been outspoken about any issue,” Appleby says.

Like Appleby, McCauley feared the fallout from showing

her political cards. “I was very concerned when I got into

business. People always said, ‘don’t talk about politics or

religion,’” McCauley says. “But it cuts both ways. Some

people who are extremely political would probably not call

me for their real estate needs if they feel strongly about it.”

In addition to having the ability to stand for your beliefs,

experts say politically active associates must have balance.

Oppler devotes 10 to 15 hours a week to political pursuits.



But he admits that affecting legislative change can be time-

consuming. Still, he says there are many smaller roles –

voting or wearing a campaign button, for instance – that can

make a statement in no time at all. Looking to test the

political waters? Start simple and local.

“You can control more at the local level than you can at the

state level,” Appleby explains.

Still, be prepared to yearn for more. Experts say the addictive

notion of political pursuits can make it hard to keep simple

political aspirations in check. “The more you get involved,

the more people want you to do. So you have to learn to

draw a line in the sand. You have to learn how to say, ‘no,’”

Appleby adds.

While it can be hard to balance a real estate career, family

life, and politics, politically savvy brokers like Oppler say the

reward is worth the effort. “Everything starts locally and the

builds up from there if you really want to get involved. It

takes a lot more time sometimes that you think it does.

Some weeks it might take four or five hours. But then there

may be a major issue on the horizon that you have to deal

with,” he adds. “There is never a right time. You just have to

get started.” n

Michelle Hofmann is an award-winning real estate writer.She can be reached at [email protected].

Think you don’t have time to pursue your political aspirations?Advocacy doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Some brokersmight spend 10 hours working on an election campaign.Other agents spend 20 minutes writing a letter or sendingan email to their local legislator or city council member.No matter the path, there are plenty of simple ways to getactive in politics:

• Know the issues and educate your co-workers aboutupcoming elections, the issues, and the candidates.New Jersey state initiatives and open seats can be foundat the New Jersey Department of State homepagenj.gov/state. Or visit the New Jersey Legislaturenjleg.state.nj.us/bills/billview.asp for information on state bills, constitutional amendments, andresolutions.

• Get to know your NJAR® representatives by visiting theNJAR® Facebook page at Facebook.com/NJRealtors

• Find out your legislative representatives’ views onimportant issues. Call, email, or write to yourrepresentatives and share your views. Contactinformation for state legislators can be found atnjleg.state.nj.us/members/roster.asp. Also visithouse.gov or senate.gov for federal legislators.

• Register to vote by visitingstate.nj.us/state/elections/voting-information.html;you can view a sample voter registration form on page 17

• Volunteer your time to a political campaign or insupport of a candidate:

• Host a meet-and-greet to raise awareness aboutcurrent issues. Invite candidates or representatives to speak to family, friends, colleagues.

• Wear a campaign button.

• Start a conversation about local property values by asking homeowners if you can post a campaignsupport sign in their yard.

• Host a phone bank at your local office. Campaigns use phone banks staffed by volunteers or paid staff to educate the public about issues, remind people tovote, and identify potential supporters. Real estateoffices make great host sites for phone banks, andREALTOR® and community volunteers can work intwo-hour shifts.

• Contribute* to NJAR®’s political action committees.RPAC is the only New Jersey political group run by and for REALTORS®. To make an RPAC contribution*,send a check to your local board or association. Makethe check payable to the REALTORS® Political ActionCommittee. Alternatively, RPAC contributions can bemade online at njar.com/account. RPAC exists tosupport issues that matter to the real estate industryand REALTORS®. To contribute to RPAC or find outmore about how to get involved at the local, state andnational levels, visit njar.com/account or call the NJAR®

Government Affairs Department at (732) 494-5616.

*RPAC Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions toRPAC are voluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute moreor less than the suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without reprisaland the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or localboards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed.70% of each contribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and localpolitical candidates. Until RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent toNational RPAC to support federal candidates and is charged against your limitsunder 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect toretain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.

When Starting Out, Keep it Simple

Board/Association News

The Passaic County Board of REALTORS® Advocacy Committeehosted a meet-and-greet luncheon with local mayors onWednesday, June 5 at the PCBOR office. Chairperson DanaWilliams and Vice Chairperson John P. Reilly, Jr. facilitated the event. The purpose of the session was to connect theorganization to the communities the members serve. Mayors

and other town officialsfrom Hawthorne, Totowa,Wayne, Oakland, ElmwoodPark, Woodland Park,Riverdale, North Haledon,Little Falls, PomptonLakes and Pequannockwere all in attendance.

PCBOR Meets the Local Mayors

PCBOR members meet with mayors andtown officials.

The North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS® recentlyraised $5,000 to donate to the the G.I. GO Fund. The G.I. GoFund is a non-profit organization that assists returningveterans with their transition back to civilian life. The Fundassists in providing employment, educational opportunities,access to housing and a direct path to benefits.

NCJAR Lends a Hand toG.I. Go Fund

NCJAR President Ilene Horowitzpresents a $5,000 check to NickManis, Co-Founder of G.I. Go Fund.


The Monmouth County Association of REALTORS® (MCAR)was proud to sponsor the Women's Council of REALTORS®’'Bras for a Cause' event held recently at Merri-Makers Caterersat the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, N.J.

Sponsors created "themed" bras that were worn by all male models and auctioned off to support the AmericanCancer Society Breast Cancer Awareness and their 100th

year celebration. Over $15,000 was collected and the MCAR bra, "Knock Out Breast Cancer" was the highest bid of the night at $2,000.

MCAR Participates in ‘Brasfor a Cause’

2013 MCAR President Al Veltri and Senior VicePresident Robert White show off their best assets at the recent ‘Bras for aCause’ fundraiser.

On May 17, NJAR® CEO Jarrod C. Grasso was inducted into the prestigious Dr. Almon R. “Bud” Smith, RCE, AELeadership Society during the NAR REALTOR® MidyearMeetings in Washington, D.C.

The Bud Smith Society recognizes those associationexecutives who have proven to be leading contributors,dedicated to the industry and profession. Much like a fellows program, members will play an active, ongoing role as innovators and mentors for the AE community.

Inductees must have demonstrated that they have advanced their association through their personalinvolvement at local, state and national levels; provided

leadership that hasbenefited theorganization,members or otherassociation executives;or have made othersignificantcontributions thathave benefited theorganization.

NJAR® CEO Receives PrestigiousAward

NJAR® Leadership and Grasso (center) atthe Bud Smith Society Luncheon.

The NJAR® Circle of Excellence Award program consists of two awards:the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Award and the NJAR® Distinguished SalesClub®.

The NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® recognizes those memberswho have demonstrated excellence in the field of salesmanship. Inaddition to earning units for sales/ listings volume, members can alsoearn units for involvement in the industry and association.

2013 NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award®

and NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club®

Applications Now Available!

The NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club® recognizes those members who achieved the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® for ten or more years (need not beconsecutive).

The deadline to submit the 2013 NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award®

application or the NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club® application to your primary local board/association is close of business on Friday, January 10, 2014. There will be no exceptions to this deadline.

Application Changes:The 2013 NJAR® Circle of Excellence Award Committee met and reviewed last year’s application. Besides minor housekeeping and date changes, there were no significant changes made for the 2013 application.

How to Apply:Follow these easy steps to submit your application(s):

1. Visit njar.com/story/93 and download the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® application or completethe online form (you must print when finished.) If applicable, download the NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club®

application and print when finished.

2. Consider making an RPAC (REALTORS® Political Action Committee) contribution of $100 or more to earn oneindustry unit towards your NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® application (deadline: September 23, 2013).


Requirements: The 2013 NJAR®Circle of Excellence Award level requirements are as follows:

Bronze: $2.5 Million and 15 Units Minimum or 30 Units

Silver: $6.5 Million and 20 Units Minimum or 70 Units

Gold: $12 Million and 25 Units Minimum or 90 Units

Platinum: $20 Million and 30 Units Minimum or 125 Units

3. Pay your application fee(s) online atnjar.com/coepayment.php. Print a copy of your receiptand attach it to your printed application(s) above. Keep a second copy for your records. You will becharged the full amount at the time of payment.

4. Submit a hard copy of your completed application(s)and receipt to your local board/association later thanclose of business on January 10, 2014.

How to Make an RPAC Contribution:

• Send your check to your primary local board/associationso that it is received by close of business on September31, 2013. To qualify for one industry until towards yourNJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award, yourcontribution must be a minimum of $100. Please makeyour check payable to: REALTORS® Political ActionCommittee.

• Credit Card and check contributions may also be madeonline by visiting njar.com/account or by calling NJAR®

at (732) 494-5616.*

Questions?

If you have questions upon filling out the application orcalculating forms, please see page one of the application forthe contact information for the Regional Representatives ofthe NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® Committee.

For a technical issue when filling out the online form on Form Simplicity, please contact the Tech Helpline at (866) 900-9681.

For general questions on the online application & e-payment system, the advertising rules, enforcement and penalties, or other general questions, contact NJAR® Communications Coordinator Colleen King at (732) 494-4715 or [email protected].

* Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are voluntary and areused for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than the suggested amount. You may refuseto contribute without reprisal and the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associationsor local boards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of eachcontribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC ofNew Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal candidates and ischarged against your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it mayelect to retain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.


M A R K E T P L A C E

Advertise TodayTen times a year, REALTORS® statewidedepend on New Jersey REALTOR® as a keysource of industry news. Approximately40,000 strong, New Jersey Associationof REALTORS® (NJAR®) members are a key professional business audience

throughout New Jersey.

For more information or to reserve space,call Cindy Stambaugh at 410.647.5869

realtors® and politics august 2013 final files

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