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15,000 REALTORS Rally in DC to Show Support for Homeownership
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SWRA REALTORS were among 15,000 REALTORS nationwide who came together for the Rally to Protect the American Dream last Thursday, May 17. The rally was part of National Association of REALTORS' week-long Midyear Legislative Meetings, during which REALTORS and guests meet with members of Congress, federal regulators and industry experts to address pressing real estate issues.
"As the leading advocate for homeownership and housing issues, REALTORS want our country's current and future leaders to understand the vital role real estate plays in both the long and short-term health of this nation," said rally participate and 2012 SWRA Chairman, Dennis Morgan. "Today's rally was a clear message that everyone should have the opportunity to pursue the dream of homeownership...". Click here to read the full article published in the Daily Times.
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SWRA Seminars & Events
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Short Sales FAQ Webinar Set For June 5
June 5; 10:00am-11:00am - Register (once logged in, access the Events Calendar)
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With the increase of short sale listings, today's REALTOR needs to be knowledgeable about the unique processes involved with these transactions to best serve their clients. In the upcoming webinar Short Sale Basics: Answering Frequently Asked Questions, Bill Garrett, an experienced short sale negotiator, will address FAQ about short sales from pricing to settlement. Click here to learn more.
Looking for even more information regarding short sales and foreclosures (and to earn education credits too!)? The Association of REALTORS School will be holding the Short Sales & Foreclosures (SFR) Designation course in July.
REALTOR/Builder Happy Hour Coming to West Chester Tomorrow Night!
May 24; 5:00pm-7:00pm @ Mas Mexicali Cantina - No Registration Required
 The annual REALTOR/Builder Happy Hour is a great way for REALTORS and Builders alike to network with each other to meet the housing needs of their clients.
Join SWRA and the Home Builders Association of Chester and Delaware Counties for the 5th Annual REALTOR/Builder Happy Hour tomorrow night, May 24 (5:00pm-7:00pm) at Mas Mexicali Cantina, West Chester. Mas features a rooftop deck and unique setting, FREE appetizers and drink specials and the opportunity to submit your business card at the door to have a chance to win gift cards and unique prizes provided by our Affiliate members. We hope to see you there!
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Association Tips:
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It's difficult to know as a REALTOR or home owner what to do next when mold is found. It usually comes as a surprise when a perspective buyer requests a mold test. It's even more shocking when the results indicate a mold problem. How then is a REALTOR to properly direct clients to get the mold removed, and keep the mold from reappearing?
Mold usually stems from excess moisture. Having a proper ventilation and dehumidification is a must. Fix any leaks quickly to prevent further damage. When in doubt, request the help of a mold remediation expert.
Professionalism Tip: Deadline for Depositing Funds into Escrow Account
The Association has taken a few calls about this issue in recent weeks. Please let this tip serve as a reminder of the requirement and exception to the rule. Section 35.324 of the rules and regulations of the State Real Estate Commission state that "a broker shall deposit money belonging to another into an escrow account by the end of the next business day following its receipt in the real estate office where the escrow records are maintained." There is an exception that allows the money-if tendered by check-to be held pending the seller's (or lessor's) acceptance of the offer. This exception applies only if the buyer and seller have agreed in writing. The PAR Agreement of Sale provides that written permission in paragraph 2 (c) [last sentence].
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Association News
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Association Office Closed on Monday, May 28
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Please note that the Suburban West REALTORS  Association office will be closed on Monday, May 28 in observance of Memorial Day. The office will reopen on Tuesday, May 29 at 8:00am. Members seeking assistance are encouraged to use the Suburban West website or contact the staff prior to 5:00pm on Friday.
"On the Move" Lists Updated
In an effort to provide SWRA members with the most updated information available on the whereabouts of REALTOR members, the REALTORS on the Move and Offices on the Move directories are updated on a bi-monthly basis. Included is the latest information on members switching offices, offices moving to new locations and the establishment of new offices and branches. Additionally, previous "on the move" lists are archived on our website.
Have you switched offices? Let Suburban West know by accessing this easy form and send it back to the Association. For questions, please contact Tina Lavelle at 866-495-SWRA.
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SWRA Forums
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The Future of Chester County: REALTOR Lawyer Forum
June 7; 12:00pm-1:00pm - Register (once logged in, access the Events Calendar)
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Join members of the Chester County  Council for the upcoming REALTOR/Lawyer Forum: Chester County, A State of the County, as they will be on hand to discuss and answer your questions about the present and future of Chester County. Chairman of the County Commissioners (Chester County) Terence Ferrell and councilman Ryan Costello will be the presenters.
As always this forum is educational and a networking opportunity to REALTORS and Lawyers. The cost of this session is $7.00 (includes lunch) and pre-registration is required by June 5 at noon.
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| Reminders: |
Help SWRA Celebrate Vinnie Pagnini at her Retirement Party! Suburban West is celebrating the career of one of its most important staff members. Vinnie Pagnini is retiring after 21 years of faithfully serving the membership. To honor her contributions, we're throwing her a party and all members are invited to join us in wishing her well! This informal open house is scheduled for Wednesday, May 30 (4:00pm-6:00pm) at the Suburban West office in Malvern. The event will feature light appetizers, wine and beer. In lieu of a gift, please send in a postcard (click here to access) with your favorite story or best wishes for Vinnie. Please note all postcards (preferably in color) should be sent to the Suburban REALTORS Alliance at 100 Deerfield Lane, Suite 230, Malvern PA 19355 or emailed to Gail Parke. Please note the deadline to register is May 25. We hope to see you there!
FREE Seminars Scheduled for June: Our June seminar schedule is packed with FREE events on a variety of topics. Take advantage of your REALTOR membership by registering for the following training events:
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