May 2024 Newsletter

Sponsored by:

With the Idaho Primary just around the corner on May 21st, now is the time to ensure that you are prepared to vote. Here’s everything you need to know to be ready for Election Day!

Make sure you are registered to vote! If you’re not sure about your registration status, visit voteidaho.gov to check and update your voting details and registration information.

Plan Your Vote

Whether you are heading to your polling location on Election Day, voting early, or requesting cast an absentee ballot, having a voting plan is key. Make sure you take time to:

Find Your Polling Location: Information is available on voteidaho.gov to help you find where to cast your vote on May 21st.
Vote Early: Avoid the crowds and vote at your convenience. Many counties and cities have early voting locations in courthouses and city halls. Check in with your community to see what your early voting options are.
Request an Absentee Ballot: If you are unable to make it to early voting on on election day, you still have time to request an absentee ballot. Visit voteidaho.gov for more information, and make sure to give yourself plenty of time to receive and fill out your ballot!

Idaho REALTORS® Endorsements

We believe it’s important to support candidates who advocate for the real estate community. For a comprehensive list of Idaho REALTOR® endorsed candidates, visit our website.

NAR's Mid Year Legislative Meetings

The NAR Mid Year Legislative Meetings are just a few days away. If you are traveling to Washington DC, don't miss our Mid Year Highlight Guide which includes information about the Convention Center, special events for IR Members, and suggested NAR sessions to attend. For more information, make sure to review our guide before you travel to Washington D.C.

Visit our Website

IR Staff Update: Welcome Marilyn Whitney!

Idaho REALTORS® wants to welcome Marilyn Whitney as our next Director of Education and Events, joining our office on May 20th. Marilyn possesses an extensive background in education and event coordinating from her time in Idaho State Government including as the Executive Director of IDeal, Deputy Superintendent of Communications and Policy with the Idaho Department of Education, and Deputy Chief of Staff/Sr. Special Assistant for Education and Government Services with the Office of Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter. Marilyn's expertise in education policy and community engagement will be an incredible asset to our organization. Please join us in welcoming Marilyn to the Idaho REALTORS® team!

The day after the primaries, join us for our Primary Debrief Wednesday Webinar (Wednesday, May 22nd at 1:00 PM MT). This webinar will feature a discussion between our Max Pond (Government Affairs Director) and Jason Risch (IR Legal Counsel), as they discuss the primary results and what these could mean for the general election in November. This is your opportunity to get insights directly from our experts and understand the implications for our industry.

June Wednesday Webinar: Conversations with Steve Sims

Join us on June 5th at 1:00 PM MT/12:00 PM PT for our Wednesday Webinar with Steve Sims, author of "Go For Stupid." This one-hour session is your chance to hear from a speaker who knows how to turn big ideas into real-world success. Steve will share his straightforward strategies for building strong relationships and creating memorable experiences that do more than just close a sale.

Steve Sims is known for his direct, no-nonsense approach to business and life. He cuts through the fluff and focuses on what truly works. During the webinar, he’ll cover effective communication, making the most of your connections, and practical tips for everyday negotiations. Whether you’re looking to improve your personal skills or boost your business, Steve’s insights are designed to be clear and immediately useful. Tune in for a session that promises real advice you can use right away. Register today and don't miss your chance to join us for one of the most significant Wednesday Webinars this year!

Idaho REALTORS® Scholarship Applications Are Now Available

Idaho REALTORS® are awarding two $2,500 scholarship, and five $1,500 scholarships in 2024. Scholarship opportunities are available to high school seniors and full-time students (12+ credits) enrolled in a college, university, or equivalent full-time students in a vocational-technical school, for the 2024-2025 school year. Students must be a United States citizen to apply.

Preference will be given to students:

Studying real estate or a related field
Attending colleges and universities within the state of Idaho
Past or present employees of a REALTOR® office or Affiliate business
Family members of Affiliates or REALTORS® that are active members of Idaho REALTORS®

*Deadline for applications is June 17, 2024 at 5:00 pm (MT)* Submit completed applications and required attachments to:

Idaho REALTORS® Communications Director, Nick Stout nstout@idahorealtors.com.

Download the Application Form

More Details Available HERE

SAVE THE DATE: Idaho REALTORS® Convention

Save the date for the Idaho REALTORS® 2024 Convention, taking place in Boise at the Boise Centre, this October 1st through 4th! This week-long event will feature a variety of educational classes, keynote address, a board of directors and membership meeting, and the inaugural celebration for IR President Elect - Julie Anglesey.

This is a must-attend event for all Idaho REALTORS® looking to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the industry, network with fellow professionals, and participate in the governance of the organization.

Stay tuned for more announcements and information about early bird registration and convention details. We can't wait to see you there!

COURSES:

May 8th - 9th

GRI 101 - Taxation & Investment Property; Tax & Self-Employed

Hosted at Coeur d'Alene Regional REALTORS®, Coeur d'Alene ID

GRI 101 Taxation and Investment is a crucial course for REALTORS®, covering key tax-related issues. It includes the latest updates on deductibility of real estate taxes for primary residences, changes in mortgage and home equity loan interest deductibility due to 2017 tax reforms, and revisions to IRC 1031 Exchange tax rules. The course also addresses how these changes affect deductions for real estate investment properties, vital knowledge for REALTORS® to assist their clients and manage their own finances. Additionally, GRI 101 offers strategies for buying, holding, and selling investment real estate and outlines major tax deductions for self-employed individuals, including the new 20% Qualified Business Income Deduction available from 2018.

May 13th - 14th

Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) Certification Course

Hosted at Boise Regional R EALTORS®, Meridian ID

The Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) certification is designed for real estate professionals aiming to enhance their negotiation skills. This program equips REALTORS® with advanced techniques and tools to become effective negotiators on behalf of their clients. Benefits of this certification include improved negotiation skills, insights into underlying issues in negotiations, strategies to deal with various personalities and situations, and the ability to navigate through the different objectives of parties involved in a transaction. It's an ideal program for those in real estate looking to become adept at handling complex negotiation scenarios.

May 21st - 22nd

GRI 201 - Business Planning & Technology; Sales & Marketing

Hosted at Pioneer Title Company, Boise ID

The GRI 201 course, led by Rich Sands, MS, CRS, is a comprehensive program divided into two key segments: Business Planning & Technology and Sales & Marketing. In the Business Planning & Technology section, participants will learn to develop a business plan tailored to their individual style and goals, exploring the latest technology and media tools to enhance communication and efficiency in their business operations. The Sales & Marketing segment focuses on identifying new business sources by understanding consumer needs and cultural differences. It covers specialization, expertise, and resources, aiming to improve interactions with buyers and sellers. Participants will also learn to craft effective marketing strategies targeting specific consumer demands, and develop counseling techniques for client needs. The course concludes with strategies for securing repeat and referral business, equipping participants with a well-rounded skill set for success in real estate.