First and foremost, you get the honor of calling yourself a REALTOR®, a term synonymous with professionalism and respect in the real estate industry. Only a REALTOR® is bound to a strict Code of Ethics, which is required training. The public is being educated through an extensive national campaign on what a REALTOR® is, through national primetime TV ads, radio ads, and print ads in newspapers and magazines across the country.
Education
Only a REALTOR® can hold a National Association of REALTORS® Professional Designation, which give you more credibility in the marketplace by ensuring clients of your competency and earning you nationwide recognition as an expert in your field. This all translates to increased profitability!
Designations are earned through many of the Continuing Education Classes that are offered at the SKCAR office, as well as many other classes offered around the county (over 20 per month!) that are both timely and designed to help you improve your business. Once you are a member, you are eligible to attend these classes at a discounted rate.
Legislative Advocacy
SKCAR provides legal and legislative advocacy on public policy issues and others such as transportation, Form 17 issues, Housing Supply, taxation, economic vitality and environmental issues. The Seattle-King County Association of REALTORS® advocacy team is recognized nationally as the most effective in the country. Over 50% of our budget goes to help fight for your interests at the local, state and national levels. Some issues that we are currently working on are:
- Fighting to stop the increase in the REET (real estate excise tax)
- Sign Code Issues
- Growth Management Issues
- Fighting the Big Grab – keeping banking out of real estate
This does not include RPAC, which is a completely voluntary contribution. Only funds from the RPAC (not your dues) go to supporting REALTOR® endorsed candidates (who go through an extensive interview process by a SKCAR team of volunteers) on local, state and national levels.
Legal Services
Being a member also gives you free access to the Legal Affairs Hotline (800.562.6027), which provides legal advice on over 75 real estate related topics. There is also an online library available 24/7 to members.
Publications and Discounts
As a member, you have access to all the professional publications and websites, which give you updates on business trends, government affairs, city and county sign code regulations, local information and tips on how to improve your business. These are a great reference tool and should be your “go-to” source for information!
You are also eligible for discounts on many products and services including insurance, financial services, technology, telecommunications, business needs and much more!
The Perks of Membership!