eNews

January 24, 2018
Around the Region
by Daryl T. Winand
Elected officials within the metropolitan region are stepping up to their respective podiums in an effort to convey to their constituents, interested parties and each other, their respective successes - past, present and future economic development approaches, transportation and water hurdles and, in general, what they feel constitute the most critical matters to be addressed going forward in their city. Here are a few highlights from the Cities of Beaverton, Happy Valley and King City.

Commemorating 50 Years of the Fair Housing Act
Fair housing is more than a list of dos and don’ts, rights and penalties, and mandatory continuing education. As stewards of the right to own, use and transfer private property, fair housing protects our livelihood and business as Realtors® and depends on a free, open market that embraces equal opportunity. As NAR commemorates 50 years of the Fair Housing Act, they ask that all members of the Realtor® family continue to stand together with them in this commitment.


Zero Energy Homes Emerge
in Portland
Earth Advantage's Home Certification division has launched a new program to encourage the rise of zero energy homes. A zero energy home is defined as one that generates as much energy as it consumes yearly. Their Zero Energy certification is designed to create a standard for homes that wish to achieve a higher standard of energy performance while still maintaining a sustainable approach to building. 

Experts Weigh in on What the 2018 Housing Market Will Bring
Before the passage of the  [Federal] tax bill , experts were anticipating more of the same from the housing market in 2018. The   limited supply of homes for sale was the biggest issue facing the market last year and it will continue to be a problem, particularly in the entry-level market. Although some are predicting those constraints to ease, the persistent low supply is expected to keep driving prices higher.

Multnomah County and Portland Business Income Taxes
If you earn income in the City of Portland and/or Multnomah County, you may be liable for the Portland Business License Fee and/or the Multnomah County Business Income Tax. Both the License Fee and the Business Income Tax apply regardless of where your office or home is physically located. To determine if you owe either (or both) the Fee or the Tax, click the link below.


Humanize Your Marketing in a Digital World
With social media sites like Twitter and Instagram and business networking sites such as LinkedIn and Alignable, it’s no wonder Americans now spend 12 hours a day consuming digital media, according to eMarketer’s latest report. But with all that online frenzy going on, why does it seem increasingly difficult as a real estate professional to connect with actual people and humanize your brand? 

Register Now for Members Edge and the Region 12 Conference
Open to all Realtors®
February 20-22, 2018
Skamania Lodge, Stevenson, WA

Attend a national conference - locally! This three-day event starts Tuesday with a Members Edge networking event and flows into the Region 12 conference! Hear from national speakers on today’s hottest topics, get NAR and RPAC updates, learn NAR leadership tips, hear from key NAR candidates and much more!
 
Highlights: No session longer than 45 minutes, most are 30 minutes. Topics include:
  • Thriving in a low Inventory Market
  • Past Clients and Current Team Members for Future Business Practices
  • How Smart are Smart Homes Getting and Why You Should Know
  • Cyber scams and Security
  • Working with a Connected Buyer
 
You must register separately for Members Edge ($59 early bird pricing) and Region 12 (no registration fee). The hotel has a discounted rate of $159 a night plus taxes (limited amount). You can register for just Members Edge or the Region 12 Conference, but attendees are encouraged to attend both.

Masters Circle Applications due January 26, 2018
Membership in the PMAR Masters Circle recognizes your successful real estate career, a result of your dedication and hard work. Let your customers know that you have a proven track record of success and join today!

Just One Week Left to Pay Your Realtor® Dues!
If you haven’t paid your 2018 dues yet, don’t delay! Avoid a $100 late fee and pay before Jan. 31st at 5:00 p.m. PST. Call Go to www.nar.realtor to pay online and get immediate confirmation and a receipt! Or, call PMAR Membership at 503-228-6595 to make payment with your Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card.