MAR on the Web

Access MAR news, updates, event information and connect with peers by finding MAR on the web. From Facebook to YouTube, MAR is extending its' reach to members, and wants to connect with you today!

 Listen to MAR Podcasts

Mirealtors.com Feature

MAR Government Affairs Vodcast – February Part 1

Watch the first Vodcast of 2012. Super Bowl Edition. Run time: 6:40. 

Watch the Vodcast

Event Buzz

2012 Broker Summit

The Broker Summit Task Force recently met to finalize plans for the 2012 MAR Broker Summit, taking place April 25th at the Sheraton Detroit Metro Airport. Keep a look out for the Broker Summit web site along with detailed event information. The 2012 MAR Broker Summit – Bringing Business into Focus.

Sponsorship Opportunities 

For more Upcoming Statewide Events, visit the MAR Website

In this issue:

MAR-Supported PRE Legislation Remains a Top Priority

Outstanding REALTOR® Association Web Site Contest  

Register Online for 2012 AE Institute 

Achieve Online Registration Closes Friday

MAR Edge: Home & Auto-Owners Insurance 

Work continues this year to provide homebuyers with a fair process when it comes to their property taxes. Senate Bill 349, introduced by Senator Dave Hildenbrand (R-Lowell) allows buyers to take advantage of the Principal Residence Exemption even if they purchase a home after the May 1st filing deadline. Similarly in the House, House Bill 4446, sponsored by Representative Margaret O’Brien (R-Portage) has been introduced mirroring the intent of Senate Bill 349. Senate Bill 349 has passed the Senate Finance Committee and is awaiting further action.

This legislation has become particularly important since “non principal residence” properties, specifically foreclosures, have flooded Michigan’s real estate market in recent years. The current situation prices buyers out of homes by forcing them to qualify for a mortgage at the higher tax rate. Those buyers that are able to purchase after May 1st are consequently stuck with a significant tax burden for the remainder of the year despite making that new purchase their principal residence. These bills would alleviate some of that pressure by creating additional filing dates throughout the year.

MAR staff has been participating in workgroups to further analyze this legislation and come to a consensus with all the parties involved. These bills will more than likely veer from their original language as we have discussed additional filing dates throughout the year as well as allowing a bank owned property to retain its Principal Residence Exemption so that buyers can qualify at the lower rate of taxation. It is our hope that the end, legislation will allow homebuyers the similar tax relief as those who file their Principal Residence Exemption before the current May 1st filing deadline. We will keep you posted as this legislation progresses.

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REALTOR® associations: Enter your member Web site in REALTOR® AE magazine's 10th Outstanding REALTOR® Association Web Site Contest. Enter in categories by association size: Size A (under 300 members), Size B (301-800 members), Size C (801-2,000 members), Size D (2,001-7,000 members), Size E (more than 7,000 members).

Each site will be evaluated on many factors, including organization, content, aesthetics, and ease of use. Contest open to REALTOR® association member sites for members or members and the public in 2012 (not MLSs, sites for the public only, listing sites, or specialty sites).

Learn More

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There's still time to register online to attend the 2012 AE Institute, March 16-20 in Louisville, Kentucky. The 2012 AE Institute will carry on the tradition of being a first-rate opportunity for your professional development and an occasion to learn about key industry issues and trends. Sessions are designed to motivate you, your employees, and your volunteers to that next level of association management and customer service.

Register Online

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There’s still time to register for MAR’s premiere leadership event of the year. Join over 200 leaders from across for the state for the Achieve Conference next week at the Radisson Plaza Hotel in Kalamazoo. Achieve offers engaging sessions with industry experts and many networking opportunities with fellow leaders. Encourage your local leadership to register online before Friday, February 10th.

Achieve – Engaging Leaders – Building Connections

View SCHED

Register Online

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You work hard to help people find peace of mind and security when they are searching for a new home. You are well respected and loyal to your buyers when helping them make one of the most important purchases of their lives.

We understand and respect that kind of loyalty. What’s more, we think it’s time that you enjoy that peace of mind and comfort as well. That’s why Frankenmuth Insurance is offering special discounts to members of the Michigan Association of REALTORS. Savings include a generous discount on auto and home policies. They can also be combined with other discounts available through your independent insurance agent.
 
To locate an independent insurance agent click on this link: http://www.fmins.com/ or call 800.682.6881 or visit the Hartland Insurance Group web site: www.hartlandinsurancegroup.com.

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