RASCW is committed to working to help end the housing discrimination that still exists today, and to protect the homeownership rights of all to build healthy and inclusive communities. This (and every) month, we ask you to join us in identifying how we can each contribute to making housing equality a reality. Click here to explore resources aimed at engaging you in the education, personal growth, and intentional work needed to achieve fair housing for our communities. Please also watch our social media platforms for additional fair housing information throughout the month.

One highlighted tool is the free online NAR Fairhaven Fair Housing Simulation, which puts you in the shoes of someone experiencing housing discrimination and builds awareness of fair housing issues. Members who complete this in April will be entered into a drawing to win a gift box or $50 gas card!

The WRA recently announced updates to four commonly used real estate transaction forms: the WB-40 Amendment to Offer to Purchase, WB-41 Notice Relating to Offer to Purchase, WB-44 Counter-offer, and WB-45 Cancellation Agreement and Mutual Release. Click here or the image on the right to learn more about these changes, including the mandatory use date for the new forms.

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has more than 90 committees that bring together REALTOR® members from across the country to represent state and local communities and to collaborate to help shape the direction of NAR and the real estate industry nationwide. Being a part of a NAR committee, as with state and local committees, also provides the opportunity for personal and professional growth. If you'd like to get involved and have a voice at the national level, now is the time to start that application process. Click here for details on NAR committees and how to apply. The deadline for submitting an application for 2023 membership is May 13, 2022.

The Realtors Property Resource® (RPR) is one of the many benefits RASCW members receive through their membership. This FREE tool allows residential, commercial, broker, and appraiser members to do in-depth property searches and research, and then create and provide data-rich reports and materials to clients relevant to their search. There is no public or third-party access to RPR - it's just for REALTORS®! Click here if you would like introductory information on RPR. Click here for the complete RPR Learning Center with tutorials and tips on how to make the most of this powerful tool.

In partnership with the Madison Area Builders Association, the Boys & Girls Club of Dane County is in the process of developing a facility that will house a Skilled Trades Training Program with the mission of helping minority and low-income youth become aware of, and prepare for, careers in the construction industry, which is currently facing a significant labor shortage. The construction of the McKenzie Regional Workforce Center, located in Fitchburg, is under way, and will house the program's training facilities and classes. Watch the video on the right and click here for more details on the project and how you can be involved and provide support.

Once you complete the online Ambassador Workshop and enroll as an Ambassador, you can start offering your clients access to new energy efficiency expertise and exclusive perks, including a Welcome Kit with a $125 heating and cooling tune-up voucher and a helpful Home Energy & Maintenance Guide. The kit is co-branded with your business information and sent to your clients on your behalf, at no cost to you, providing an extra touch and added value. Click here to register for an upcoming Ambassador workshop. For more information, visit focusonenergy.com/ambassador, or email Nancy Alberte.

Are you working with buyers who you think would benefit from learning more about the homebuying process? Click here to read about the Home Buyers Round Table (HBRT), which provides information and resources from industry experts to help individuals successfully navigate the Road to Home Ownership. Participation in one of their free Homebuyer Education Workshops also qualifies attendees for available Down Payment Assistance programs. Please reach out to HBRT with any questions!

Click here to learn more about each of our committees. By joining one, your industry knowledge will increase, your networking skills and connections will grow, and you'll have the opportunity to make a real and positive impact on the area real estate community.

If you'd like more information about getting involved with RASCW, please email Erin Volland, RASCW Communication & Engagement Director, at erin@wisre.com.