News & Events

The REALTOR® EDGE

November 2017

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Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

Run for a position on OREA’s 2018 Board of Directors. The following positions are up for election: three Provincial Directors (made up of one each from the Southern, Northeastern and Central Ontario Areas), and two Directors-at-Large.

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

Run for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation’s 2018 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: three REALTOR® Directors (made up of one each from the Central, Southern, and Northeastern Ontario Areas), and one Public Director (Executive Officer).

October

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

May

Real estate teams: Is this trend right for you - team work

Real estate teams: Are they right for you?

Working as a part of a real estate team has pros and cons. Two Ontario REALTORS® discuss why it’s the right choice for them.

Seven tips to show your professionalism

Here are seven ways to demonstrate professionalism to real estate colleagues.

Master the offer process: Join seminar

Handling offers is an exciting but stressful part of real estate. Take part in a seminar to learn about different forms that can help you master the process.

Personal real estate corporations a step closer

Thanks to the success of recent advocacy work, Ontario Realtors are one step closer to being allowed to form personal real estate corporations.

Legal Beat: Make sure clients understand BRA before signing

The clients said they did not understand what they were signing when presented with a Buyer Representation Agreement. A judge offers advice to Realtors to prevent this all-too-common complaint.

New app provides business plan for REALTORS® - New Real estate application

New real estate app to develop business plan

An exciting and useful new app is now available for real estate professionals to develop a business plan and train for success.

Video tutorials explain forms

If you need help understanding and working with standard real estate forms, a short video tutorial can help.

College to stop delivery of real estate education

The OREA Real Estate College will no longer offer educational courses for real estate professionals in the province after December 31, 2020.

Supporters of charities, shelters honoured

Charity work by Ontario Realtors was the focus of a slate of awards presented recently by the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation.

Awards recognize leadership in real estate

Five REALTORS® were honoured at an awards luncheon as part of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) annual conference recently.

Foundation board installed

The 2017 board of directors of the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation was officially installed at the annual OREA leadership conference in Toronto.

April

Time saving strategies for a busy spring

April showers typically bring an increase in business along with the May flowers. Don’t let the fast pace and increased demands of the busy spring season overwhelm you.

Nine ways to show your professionalism

Here are nine steps to demonstrate professionalism to your real estate colleagues.

Save the dates for professional development

Six events across the province can help you develop your skills and knowledge of real estate. Don’t miss Emerge: Moving You Forward with the Tools for Tomorrow.

Governance review explores OREA’s next chapter

Change is on the way for Ontario’s Realtors, as OREA and its members chart a new future for the association following Governance Day at the annual conference.

Legal Beat: Protect yourself, clients from illegal building

Realtors must disclose material facts about a property. Failure to verify the registration status of a newly built home can put you on the wrong end of a lawsuit.

Foundation gives over $1 million to charity

A new milestone has been reached, with more than $1 million given to charity by the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation last year.

New board of directors for 2017

The Ontario Real Estate Association officially installed its new president and board of directors at the recent annual general meeting and conference.

Get to know new OREA president

Ettore Cardarelli of Mississauga was installed as the new president of the Ontario Real Estate Association for 2017 at the annual OREA conference.

Tribute to outgoing president Ray Ferris at conference

The Ontario Real Estate Association paid tribute to outgoing president Ray Ferris at the annual general meeting in Toronto last month.

March

Greener fields? The challenges of rural real estate

Working in rural real estate does not always mean greener pastures. Three Ontario REALTORS® discuss the challenges of rural and recreational real estate.

Seven ways to handle stress

Real estate can be a stressful career. Here are seven tips to handle a stressful day.

Forms to help your daily trading: Join seminar

To learn more about the real estate forms that can help you in your day-to-day trading, sign up for an OREA web seminar (webinar).

RECO: Oral promise spurs complaint

The sellers of this house were told they would receive a rebate on terms and conditions, but that rebate never arrived.

Legal Beat: Dispute over nature of payment

The buyer could not come up with the deposit in this case, so the registrant put up her own money to keep the transaction alive. A dispute ensued when the deal fell apart.

Create home ownership affordability task force, OREA urges government

Representatives of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) urge the government to set up a task force on affordable home ownership.

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

OREA annual conference and governance day

The Ontario Real Estate Association annual conference begins on Feb. 27, and for the first time, it features a Governance Day.

Looking for committee volunteers

Volunteer for a committee as a way to serve your profession and enhance your knowledge and network.

February

Managing in the lean seasons

Winter is often a slow period in real estate. Three REALTORS® from different Ontario cities share their planning and budget strategies to survive the lean times.

Commercial real estate the focus of seminar

Learn more about your role and responsibilities in commercial transactions at an upcoming OREA web seminar.

Research guides decision making

Market and consumer research is crucial to success in real estate. Find out how OREA has enhanced its research capacity to serve you better.

Get help from Customer Service Centre

If you have questions or concerns about your real estate studies, the Customer Service Centre at the OREA Real Estate College can help.

That’s a RAP: New government relations initiative

The REALTOR® Advocacy Project (RAP) is a new initiative to ensure that your voice is heard loud and clear in government circles.

Legal Beat: Court dispute over unregistered trading

Advisory services were provided in this commercial case, and the company billed for its work, prompting a legal dispute over unregistered trading in real estate.

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

Looking for volunteers

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and contribute to the real estate profession. Volunteer for a committee as a way to serve your profession and enhance your knowledge.

Save the date: OREA annual conference

The Ontario Real Estate Association’s annual assembly meeting and Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation annual general meeting take place on March 1 in Toronto. These events are all part of the OREA 2017 Conference.

January

“Unreal” estate – Protecting buyers of unbuilt property

When buyers purchase an unbuilt property, common problems can arise. Three REALTORS® discuss ways to guide buyers through the pre-construction phase.

Positive response to ad campaign

A new phase of the ad campaign launched this past fall to promote the value of using a REALTOR® has had tremendous positive results, statistics reveal.

Nine things to do in real estate’s slow season

Don’t waste the quiet time. Use your days wisely this winter to prepare for the busy season.

Quiz: What kind of real estate athlete are you?

A fun and interactive quiz helps you figure out what kind of REALTOR® athlete you are.

New Year’s webinar: Updates on 2017 standard forms

Find out what’s new in real estate forms and clauses in 2017. Join OREA’s upcoming web seminar.

Save the dates: Upcoming webinars on standard forms

Nine webinars are being offered in 2017 to help you learn more about the standard forms and clauses used in real estate transactions.

Legal Beat: Contract may not be void if both sides treat it as valid

In this commercial case, a judge ruled that the parties had continued to act on the APS after the insurance clause date had expired.

Apply to win prestigious leadership award

If you’re new to real estate, involved in organized real estate or dedicated to community work, you can apply to win a prestigious award that helps you hone your leadership skills.

Looking for volunteers

First-time buyers get a tax break

Effective January 1, first-time home buyers will get a financial break on the purchase of their new home that is double the previous amount.

Political affairs conference a success

The political affairs conference held recently in Toronto was a great success, with the Ontario Real Estate Association event drawing members from across the province.

December

Tough closings: Expect the unexpected

What should be the final, smooth step in a transaction can be fraught with complications. Three REALTORS® discuss closing problems and how to prevent them.

What’s new in real estate forms for 2017: Save the date

Find out what’s new in real estate forms and clauses in 2017. Join OREA’s upcoming web seminar.

Saying goodbye to your childhood home

The sale of the home in which you grew up can be an emotional experience. Editor Mary Ann Gratton discusses the impact of this milestone on herself and her family.

Call for candidates – OREA

Are you interested in running for a position on OREA’s board of directors? Find out more.

Call for candidates – Foundation

Are you interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation board of directors? Find out more.

Looking for volunteers

Apply to win prestigious leadership award

If you’re new to real estate, involved in organized real estate or dedicated to community work, you can apply to win a prestigious award that helps you hone your leadership skills.

Legal Beat – Size of deposit may affect forfeiture

In this commercial case, the buyers did not fulfill their side of the contract. The judge weighed in on whether the proposed penalty fit the damages suffered by the seller.

Save the date for OREA annual conference and AGM

The Ontario Real Estate Association’s Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care® Foundation Annual General Meeting take place on March 1 in Toronto. These events are all part of the OREA 2017 Conference.

November

Work-life balance in real estate

Finding time for your personal life can be a challenge in real estate. Three REALTORS® share their lessons for balancing work and personal time.

Residential leasing issues: Join seminar

Residential leasing is a specific type of real estate that can bring challenges involving landlords and tenants. Learn more at an upcoming web seminar.

The rise of heritage conservation districts

More than 22,000 heritage properties exist across the province today. Robert Hulley, an award-winning conservationist and former REALTOR®, explores the growth of this market niche.

Let’s talk about forms: OREA reaches out

The number and complexity of forms can be overwhelming in real estate. That’s why OREA launched the Forms Update Outreach Project. Learn more about this highly successful initiative.

RECO decision: Ad and listing agreement mislead sellers

A handwritten note to the sellers stated that if their property did not sell in 30 days, the brokerage would buy it at the highest price offered by the market. A registrant’s failure to properly document the details led to a RECO complaint.

Call for candidates – OREA

Are you interested in running for a position on OREA’s board of directors? Find out more.

Call for candidates – Foundation

Are you interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation board of directors? Find out more.

Legal Beat: Easement dispute prompts court cases

Access to a waterfront property became a point of dispute in this case. The issue hinged on whether the property required an easement of necessity.

OREA welcomes Tim Hudak as new CEO

After 21 years of distinguished public service in the Ontario legislature, Tim Hudak will join the Ontario Real Estate Association as Chief Executive Officer.

Ed Barisa retires as CEO of OREA

After 16 years as Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Real Estate Association, Ed Barisa has announced his retirement.

In memoriam: Keith Teetzel

Keith Teetzel, a former long-time Executive Director of the Ontario Real Estate Association, died on Oct. 15.

October

Disclosure and stigmatized properties

Stigmatized properties present a special challenge in real estate, and REALTORS® should be aware of their disclosure obligations.

New ad campaign promotes REALTOR® value

An exciting new advertising campaign that promotes the value of using a REALTOR® to consumers was launched by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Commercial real estate the focus of events

If you want to expand your knowledge of commercial real estate, come to one of two events organized as part of OREA’s fall Emerge lineup.

Legal Beat: Have a FINTRAC plan

Does your brokerage have a plan to prevent money laundering and other suspicious transactions? Make sure you comply with FINTRAC or face the consequences.

Maintain integrity with electronic signatures: Join seminar

Electronic signatures are being used more and more in real estate transactions. To maintain your integrity while using e-signatures, take part in an upcoming web seminar.

Fall events feature technology and strategy

This fall, come to one or more in a series of events designed to help you develop your skills and knowledge of real estate technology and strategy.

Generation Y’s intentions to buy real estate increase

More of Ontario’s younger generations are likely to buy a home in the next two years, according to new research from the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Motorcycle ride for charity a success

This year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity was a great success, raising funds for a good cause. The annual ride supports shelter-based charities across the province.

RECO: Stigmatizing issues

There is nothing you can see, hear or measure that reveals a stigmatized property, but real estate professionals should understand the issues when representing consumers, says the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).

September

Survivor: Real estate style

Don’t get voted off the island. To survive and thrive in real estate, you need a range of skills, according to three seasoned pros.

Need help with forms? See simple explanations

Forms are a key part of real estate, but they can be complex and full of baffling legal jargon. OREA’s Forms Explained is a resource that explains forms in plain English.

Campaign promotes REALTOR® value

The value of using a REALTOR® is the focus of a renewed advertising campaign set to launch this fall.

Topics and speakers announced for technology series

Topics and speakers for eight events have been confirmed as part of this fall’s series, Emerge: Moving You Forward with the Tools for Tomorrow.

Legal Beat: Tenant objects to candid camera

The landlord wanted to take photos of a rental unit in order to promote the space before selling it. The tenant objected, and a lawsuit ensued.

Consumer optimism grows over real estate markets

Ontarians are decidedly more upbeat about the province’s economy than they were last fall – a new and positive outlook that is boosting confidence, a new survey reveals.

RECO DECISION: Lot size error leads to complaint

After moving into their new property, the buyers discovered that the lot size was smaller than the measurements stated on the listing and marketing material.

Dealing with condominiums: Join seminar

Condominiums are a unique type of real estate. Learn more about the right forms and clauses used to address the specific challenges of condo purchases.

New and improved OREA blog

The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) blog has been redesigned and enhanced to meet your needs as a real estate professional.

July-Aug

Chattels versus fixtures: Explain the difference to clients

Ensure that your clients understand clearly which items will stay and which will go when a property sells. Three Realtors share insights.

Watch and learn: Tutorials explain forms

If you need help understanding and working with OREA Standard Forms, you can learn more from a new slate of tutorials. These online tutorials help you navigate the complexities of forms.

What does your OREA membership get you?

Find out what your association has been doing for you in the past year. Read the 2016 annual report from the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Consumer data can grow your real estate business

New and extensive research about consumers across the province can help you to grow your real estate business. These insights will greatly help you in understanding your local market.

Show integrity in real estate with the right forms: Join seminar

Integrity and professionalism are two key qualities that consumers want from REALTORS®. Learn more about using the right forms in real estate to maintain your integrity.

Legal beat: Life’s a beach for waterfront buyers

The buyers were attracted to a waterfront lot with access to a nearby beach. Wording in the real estate listing led to disciplinary action against two registrants.

Advocacy campaign wins second prestigious award

The Ontario Real Estate Association has won another prestigious public relations award for its advocacy campaign to stop the spread of the municipal land transfer tax beyond Toronto.

Venues announced for fall technology series

Location have now been confirmed for a series of technology and real estate business strategy events this fall.

RECO: Protect yourself against real estate fraud

Buying and selling real estate involves large monetary transactions. Protect yourself and your clients against different types of real estate fraud.

June

Emotions in real estate: Be a calming influence

Buying or selling a home is fraught with emotion. Three Ontario REALTORS® share their insights on steering clients through the emotional challenges of the transaction.

Kitec plumbing can cause problems

Kitec is a type of pipe that is vulnerable to premature failure, and REALTORS® should be aware of this product, which can lead to water damage and costly repairs.

Support the motorcycle ride for charity

Motorcycle season is upon us, and that means the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation is gearing up for a good cause. Join the 2016 ride or support a rider.

Do you have clause-trophobia? Join seminar

Writing clauses in real estate can be frustrating and stressful. Learn more about creating and using standard clauses by joining an upcoming web seminar at OREA.

Technology events enhance your skills

Dates are now confirmed for fall tools and technology events as part of Emerge: Moving You Forward with the Tools for Tomorrow. Find out about upcoming events in your region of the province.

Legal beat: A pool of problems for buyers

In this case, the swimming pool and equipment were said to be in good working order by the seller. The buyers’ failure to inspect the pool before closing meant that things did not go swimmingly.

Advocacy campaign wins prestigious award

A campaign organized by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) to stop the spread of the municipal land transfer tax beyond Toronto has won a prestigious public relations award.

YPN awards recognize leadership in real estate

Five REALTORS® from across the province were honoured at an awards luncheon for their volunteer efforts and for supporting their communities.

Annual report highlights OREA accomplishments

Find out what your association has been doing for you in the past year. Read the 2016 annual report from the Ontario Real Estate Association.

May

Challenging clients: How to cope without losing your cool

To succeed in real estate, you must work with many personality types - some as different from you as night and day. Three Ontario REALTORS® talk about dealing with challenging clients.

What’s the big deal about real estate assignments? Join seminar

Assignment agreements have been the focus of much media attention recently. To learn more, take part an upcoming web seminar (webinar) offered by OREA.

The joys and challenges of working in real estate

Working in real estate can sometimes feel overwhelming, but there are joys as well as challenges. A REALTOR® from Pembroke, Ontario shares her views.

Legal beat: Get involved and stay involved

This lawsuit hinged on whether the registrant was sufficiently involved to earn a commission. The absence of a buyer representation agreement (BRA) may have sealed his fate.

OREA president featured on radio show

Ray Ferris, president of the Ontario Real Estate Association, is appearing as a guest expert on a popular radio series. He will discuss a range of real estate topics along with the value of using a REALTOR®.

Technology events enhance your skills

Dates are now confirmed for fall tools and technology events as part of Emerge: Moving You Forward with the Tools for Tomorrow. Find out about upcoming events in your region of the province.

Jeff Mahannah receiving an award from Ray Ferris

Volunteers, milestones recognized at awards ceremony

Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations. That’s why the efforts of volunteers in the province’s real estate community were recognized by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Supporters of charities, shelters recognized

Many REALTORS® help families find the perfect home, but they also do a great deal of volunteer work to support charities and shelters. The Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation honoured various individuals for their charity work.

Foundation board of directors for 2016

The 2016 board of directors of the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation was officially installed at the annual general meeting in Toronto.

April

Let’s negotiate: Ability to reach agreement vital

If you lack negotiation skills, you won’t be able to put together a deal for your clients or stay in business for long. Three real estate professionals share their insights on negotiating.

New statistics and newsletter launched

A provincial statistics page and monthly newsletter from the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) are available with helpful market information.

Stickhandling offers and negotiations: Join seminar

The offer process is one of the most complex aspects of trading in real estate. To learn more, take part in the upcoming web seminar (webinar) offered by OREA.

Upcoming seminars on standard forms

More information about OREA standard forms is available through an ongoing seminar series. This spring, find out what’s coming in a series of web seminars (webinars) and sign up.

Real estate: More than just sales

The role of the REALTOR® is not so much salesperson as consultant, according to one Ontario real estate professional. In fact, selling is far from the whole picture, she argues.

New tutorials explain forms

If you need help understanding and working with OREA Standard Forms, you can learn more from a new slate of tutorials. Ten new online tutorials help you navigate the complexities of forms.

What a dump: Landfill discovered under dream home

The buyers learned belatedly that their dream home was built over a landfill site. Legal Beat discusses the court dispute over disclosure after a rural real estate sale.

What consumers need to know about assignments: RECO

Assignments in real estate have been the focus of media attention recently. The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) answers questions about this type of transaction.

New OREA board of directors for 2016

The Ontario Real Estate Association officially installed its new president and board of directors at the annual general meeting in Toronto in March.

March

Time flies: Organizing your day

Staying organized and managing your workload effectively is vital to success in real estate. Three REALTORS® from across Ontario share their strategies for time management.

Changes to pre-registration education

Important changes are coming to pre-registration education on April 1 that will boost the knowledge of new entrants to the profession. The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) is making changes with support from the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

What’s new in Standard Forms: Join seminar

If you want to learn more about the standard forms used in real estate, sign up for a free seminar offered by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

New videos highlight consumer research findings

Two lively animated videos created by OREA reveal the results of surveys of consumers in the province of Ontario. They conclude with the importance of working with a REALTOR®.

Buyers floored by property’s structural weakness

A few years after purchasing a house, the buyers learned that previous owners had removed a load-bearing wall, rendering the second floor unsafe. The buyers sued the company that provided title insurance.

Last chance to volunteer for OREA committees

Local markets are stronger: Survey

Residential real estate markets are stronger now than they were a year ago, according to a recent survey of consumers. The Ontario Home Ownership Index, a survey conducted by OREA, reveals that 40 per cent felt the market in their own city was stronger in 2016.

Tips to protect your home and property: IBC

Review your home insurance policy and update your home inventory, advises the Insurance Bureau of Canada. These are among the steps you can take to protect your home and property, according to IBC.

Save the date: OREA annual conference and AGM

The Ontario Real Estate Association’s Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting take place on March 9 in Toronto. It’s all part of the OREA 2016 Leadership Conference.

February

Avoid errors in real estate listings

Mistakes in a real estate listing can hurt your clients and damage your career. That’s why accuracy in a listing is vital. Two experienced REALTORS® discuss common errors in listings and the consequences of making them.

Virtual home staging can save time, money

It’s now possible to stage a home without painting or decluttering, thanks to virtual home staging. Read the second of two stories on enhancing a property the digital way.

New seminars and tutorials deal with standard forms

Learn more about the forms often used in real estate by participating in an upcoming seminar or tutorial.

Customer Service Centre aims to help

If you have questions or concerns about your real estate studies, the Customer Service Centre at the OREA Real Estate College can help. The satisfaction rate among callers rose to 95%, up 3 percentage points.

Legal Beat: Faulty septic system makes for sale that stinks

This lawsuit hinged on the state of the septic system at a rural property and claims about plumbing expertise made by the registrant.

Videos focus on overcoming challenges, meeting goals

Learn how others have met challenges, surmounted obstacles or met their goals. Check out the Leadership podcasts posted to the Ontario Real Estate Association website.

Looking for committee volunteers

Save the date: OREA annual conference and AGM

The Ontario Real Estate Association’s Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting take place on March 9 in Toronto. These events are part of the OREA 2016 Leadership Conference.

January

Slowing down: Surviving the lean season

Winter is often one of the slowest periods in real estate, you must manage the slow times in order to remain in business during the hectic seasons. Three REALTORS® from different Ontario cities share their strategies for getting through the lean times.

Campaign prevents expanded land transfer tax

A high-profile advocacy campaign to prevent the spread of the hated municipal land transfer tax has been highly successful. The Ontario Real Estate Association was vigilant in lobbying Queen’s Park to ensure the MLTT does not extend beyond Toronto.

Living beyond your means in real estate

Avoid the temptation to spend too much or abuse your credit cards when you start to succeed in the business, advises a Toronto REALTOR®.

Apply to win a prestigious leadership award

If you’re new to real estate, involved in organized real estate and dedicated to doing community work, you can apply to win a prestigious award that helps you hone your leadership skills.

Home staging - the virtual way

If your clients don’t have the time or energy to declutter or repaint before listing their place for sale, you can suggest “virtual staging” to create a stylish picture that appeals to buyers.

Legal Beat: Alarm system leads to alarming lawsuit

The seller installed an alarm system in his home before putting it on the market. After the property sold, a dispute arose over the payment of monthly fees for the alarm monitoring service.

Looking for committee volunteers

Miss Real Estate Manners: Always be professional

Courtesy and professionalism are crucial in real estate. Read the final installment of tips in a series from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR).

Renovate before reselling? Some tips from RECO

If your clients plan to renovate before selling their home, they should remember that upgrades and repairs cost time and money. RECO provides tips to protect consumers and their pocketbooks.

December

Multiple offers pose unique challenges

A multiple offer situation requires attention to detail and due diligence on a number of fronts, no matter where the property is located. The EDGE newsletter spoke to three REALTORS® in different cities about how they handle competing offers.

What kind of REALTOR® superhero are you?

All REALTORS® are superheroes. Take part in a fun and interactive quiz to learn what kind of superhero you are.

Ontario government close to allowing doubling of land transfer taxes

The Ontario government has indicated it will make home buying even harder by giving all municipalities authority to levy a municipal land transfer tax (MLTT).

Call for candidates – OREA

Are you interested in running for a position on OREA’s board of directors? Find out more.

Call for Candidates – Foundation

Are you interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation board of directors? Find out more.

Get your home ready for winter: IBC

Short, dark days and colder temperatures are a reminder to start preparing your home for winter. The Insurance Bureau of Canada lists some steps to prepare for the arrival of those sub-zero days.

Legal Beat: Wet basement a reminder of buyer beware precedent

In this case, the buyers discovered a leak in the basement after moving into a house, and the concept of buyer beware played a key role in the court decision.

Miss Real Estate Manners: Protect your clients

Safety and compliance should be top of mind when you conduct a real estate showing. Read the latest installment of tips from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR).

Offer handling a common complaint: RECO

A high proportion of complaints to RECO pertain to the handling of offers. Make sure the process and your conduct are fair, ethical, open and transparent.

November

What kind of REALTOR® superhero are you?

The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) has developed a fun and interactive quiz that asks what kind of superhero you are. Play the game now.

Condo challenges: The particulars of the condominium market

Learn about the peculiarities of the condominium market from two REALTORS® who have been selling condos for 25 years or more. They share insights and experiences to help you navigate a market that is different from other residential real estate.

Romancing the real estate brokerage

Starting a career in real estate is like a new romance. Treat it like a budding romance to find yourself in wedded bliss rather than divorce court, advises one Ottawa Realtor.

Call for candidates – OREA

Are you interested in running for a position on OREA’s board of directors? Find out more.

Call for Candidates – Foundation

Are you interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation board of directors? Find out more.

Looking for volunteers on OREA committees

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and contribute to the real estate profession. Serve your profession and enhance your knowledge by volunteering for a committee.

Legal Beat: Get your BRA signed

Getting a Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA) signed at the beginning would have prevented problems and a lawsuit in this commercial case.

Comic video highlights generation gap

A funny new video about a millennial client and her older REALTOR® exposes a generation gap in language.

Miss Real Estate Manners: Know your limits

Don’t overstep your bounds or give advice beyond your own level of expertise. Read the fifth installment of tips from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR).

October

Child's play: Working with young families

Showing properties is a crucial step in selling a home, but special challenges exist when young children are involved. Three REALTORS® talk about their approach to ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

REALTOR® value the focus of ad campaign

Television and billboard ads that promote the value of using a REALTOR® are running this fall across Ontario. The ads are part of the REALTORS® we do the homework campaign.

Don’t fear the heritage property

Heritage properties need not be a source of fear if you work in real estate. They are a substantial part of many markets across the province and one expert predicts their numbers will only increase over time.

RECO: Registrant fails to check zoning

The registrant in this transaction promoted a property as having two units, highlighting the rental potential with no mention of zoning restrictions. Read the decision from the Real Estate Council of Ontario after a complaint was submitted.

Technology events enhance your skills

Come to one or more events this fall to keep you on the cutting edge of technology in real estate and hone your skills. Sign up for an event as part of Emerge: Moving You Forward with the tools for Tomorrow.

Legal Beat: Brokerage sale leads to debate over turnkey operation

In this transaction, the owner sold her brokerage to buyers who later argued it was supposed to be a turnkey operation – a business already set up and ready to go with no changes needed. A lawsuit ensued.

Miss Real Estate Manners

Courtesy and common sense are vital ingredients for a successful real estate career. Read the fourth installment of tips and advice from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR).

Motorcycle ride a success

Sunny skies warmed the riders at this year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity, who completed a successful ride from Toronto to Ottawa for a good cause. This year marked the 10th anniversary of the ride organized by the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation.

College wins prestigious award

The OREA Real Estate College has won a prestigious educational award for its blended learning curriculum from the Real Estate Educators Association, beating out hundreds of other programs across North America.

September

Mentorship in real estate

The guidance of experienced professionals can help you grow in your career and personal life. Mentorship takes different forms, from one-on-one sessions to group meetings or formal training. Three REALTORS® talk about how mentoring has helped them.

Complaints service helps at stressful time

It can be stressful to learn that you are the subject of a complaint to the Real Estate Council of Ontario. A service created by the Ontario Real Estate Association helps you navigate the process and know what to expect at a challenging time.

Serving buyers in the pre-construction phase

When a property is not yet built, ask many questions and use due diligence to prevent surprise and disappointment for your buyers, advises one Toronto REALTOR®.

Ad campaign promotes REALTOR® value

Television and billboard ads that promote the value of using a REALTOR® will be running this fall across the province. They are all part of the REALTORS® we do the homework campaign.

Video and webinar explain new form

A short video and web tutorial help you understand Form 801, the new document created to help comply with legislation to prevent phantom offers.

Fall technology events

Dates and locations are now confirmed for fall tools and technology events as part of Emerge: Moving You Forward with the Tools for Tomorrow. Find out about upcoming events in your region of the province.

Legal Beat: When you don’t have a crystal ball

The seller took legal action against her REALTOR®, claiming she was misled by flawed advice to sell her property at a price below market value.

Consumer confidence in local markets growing

More Ontarians have a favourable opinion of the real estate market in their local city or town, according to new research released in an index produced by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Miss Real Estate Manners

Courtesy is paramount in the real estate industry, according to the latest installment of tips and advice on professional behaviour in real estate from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®.

July-August

Handling stress in real estate

Real estate can be a stressful career. Erratic hours, stiff competition and an uncertain income all contribute to the stress. Three seasoned REALTORS® talk about how they cope with stress and share their tips.

Electronic signatures now allowed for agreement of purchase and sale

Legislation is now in place to allow electronic signatures to be used for the agreement of purchase and sale (APS) in real estate transactions.

New form deals with law to prevent phantom offers

A new form is available to help you comply with legislation aimed at preventing phantom offers. The Ontario Real Estate Association has created Form 801, an offer summary document that satisfies the conditions of Bill 55, The Stronger Protection for Consumers Act.

RECO: Registrant switches brokerages and changes lawn signs

The registrant moved to a new brokerage and changed the lawn signs on properties for clients whom he had represented through his old brokerage. Read the decision from the Real Estate Council of Ontario after complaints were submitted.

Get organized and stay organized

Managing your time in the demanding real estate profession can be a challenge. REALTOR® Eric McCartney of York Region shares some of his insights into getting – and staying – organized.

Fall into technology events

If you want to stay on the cutting edge of technology in real estate, come to one or more events this fall around the province as part of the series called Emerge: Moving You Forward with the Tools for Tomorrow.

Consumers show confidence in local markets: Index

What do Ontario consumers really think about the current real estate market? Learn more in the newest results from the Ontario Home Ownership Index research study.

Legal Beat: Lack of electricity a reminder that REALTORS® must verify facts

The registrant was selling two vacant rural lots and his signs and advertisements stated that the properties were “fully serviced” by an electricity source on the road at the edge of the property. A court case ensued when the buyer learned that electricity service was lacking.

Miss Real Estate Manners: Do unto others

Treat your colleagues, customers and clients the way you would like to be treated. Read the second installment of tips and advice from the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR).

June

Miss Real Estate Manners: Show courtesy

Courtesy, communication and common sense are the three “C”s that real estate brokers and salespeople should follow in doing business. The London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® shares some tips from its “Miss Real Estate Manners” summary of good behaviour.

Motorcycle ride for charity celebrates 10th anniversary

The rubber meets the road on Wednesday, July 8 in this year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity. Take part in the ride or sponsor a rider to support the many shelter-related charities that benefit from the ride organized by the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation.

Avoid advertising pitfalls

Make sure your real estate advertisements follow the provincial guidelines to prevent complaints and fines for false or misleading advertising. The industry regulator, the Real Estate Council of Ontario, outlines some of the most common mistakes spotted in real estate ads.

Wired Office: Big data is key to real estate service

Big data is everywhere, and more consumers are doing at least some online searches of their own before contacting a REALTOR®. Find out how big data can help you give a better service to your clients and customers even in today’s wired world.

Legal Beat: Buyers will find out eventually

The sellers in this case experienced water damage at their property, a fact not disclosed during the real estate transaction. A lawsuit was launched after the buyers learned from their new neighbours about previous water and mould problems at the house.

Awards honour volunteers, milestones

Volunteers are the backbone of many organizations. That’s why the efforts of volunteers in the province’s real estate community were recognized by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

OREA training video popular

A video blog post on how to give clear classroom instructions has found popularity on YouTube. It is just one in a series of instructional videos for trainers that help facilitate classroom sessions.

Supporters of charities, shelters recognized

Many REALTORS® help families find the perfect home, but they also do a great deal of volunteer work to support charities that give shelter to the homeless and others in need. The Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation honoured various individuals and groups for their charity work.

Four tips for a hassle-free move: RECO

The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) has published tips to help consumers select the best mover. Share these tips from Consumer Protection Ontario with your clients and customers.

May

Hone your negotiation skills

Even a flock of chickens can be the subject of dispute in a real estate transaction. Negotiation is vital in this line of work, and the more you hone your negotiating skills, the more successful your career will be. Read more about negotiating skills and the art of the deal from three Ontario REALTORS®.

Developing your brand

Branding in real estate yields tangible results. A pair of REALTORS® learned this after asking some tough questions in the process of developing their brand. Find out how an Ottawa team achieved lasting recognition by developing its brand.

Rules vary for basement apartments, second suites

Be cautious in your approach to properties with basement apartments, second suites or in-law suites. That’s because the laws vary across the province and can be a legal minefield.

President’s Message from Patricia Verge

The president of the Ontario Real Estate Association notes that change is the new normal in today’s business world. Patricia Verge discusses the challenges and changes in real estate today.

RECO decision: Memory fails registrant who conveys wrong price

A registrant’s mistaken price presentation leaves the sellers out of pocket and the buyers out of luck following this transaction, which leads to a RECO complaint.

Legal Beat: Saturday closing leads to lawsuit

A closing that was scheduled for a Saturday in an agreement of purchase and sale (APS) led to legal issues in an Ontario property transaction.

Unveiling the OREA Real Estate College alumni program

A graduate’s connection to his or her college should not end on graduation. That’s why the OREA Real Estate College has launched a new alumni program.

Snapshot of OREA members revealed

A new survey of members of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) provides valuable information and helps create a profile of members across the province. Find out more about the age, language, locations, and type of real estate transactions conducted by members.

Motorcycle ride for charity

This year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity organized by the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation will take place on Wednesday, July 8. Riders depart from the OREA headquarters in Don Mills, with several stops on the way to Ottawa.

Annual report now available

An interactive version of the 2015 annual report of the Ontario Real Estate Association is now posted to the OREA website, with electronic links to bring you more information on the products and services provided by OREA.

Bridging the generation gap in real estate

It has never been more important for young and old to work together. In an industry that is constantly evolving, both new and seasoned REALTORS® must collaborate and share knowledge, argues one Ontario broker.

Foundation board installed

The board of directors of the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation for 2015 was officially installed at the annual OREA conference.

RECO website refreshed

The Real Estate Council of Ontario recently unveiled its new website. The site has been revised to better serve the needs of both consumers and real estate professionals.

April

The importance of repeat business and referrals

Word-of-mouth advertising is a vital way to build your business. Referrals and repeat business are crucial to your success in real estate. In this feature article, three Ontario REALTORS® talk about the strategies they use to get referrals and generate repeat business.

REALTOR® value advertising campaign continues

An ad campaign designed to promote REALTOR® value to the public will continue until the end of 2018. That decision is the result of a vote on a special levy to fund the extension of the campaign at the annual general meeting of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

The benefits of volunteering in real estate

Many personal and professional benefits come from volunteering, as the president of a local real estate association learned after a year in office.

REALTOR® Quest the largest show of its kind

On May 6 and 7, thousands of real estate professionals will gather at the Toronto Congress Centre for Canada’s largest REALTOR® trade show and conference, featuring seminars, learning opportunities and up to 240 exhibitors.

Personal real estate corporations the focus of bill

A bill introduced recently at Queen’s Park aims to change legislation to allow real estate salespeople in Ontario to incorporate. The Tax Fairness for Realtors Act would bring Ontario in line with six other Canadian provinces.

Legal Beat: Use forms properly and fill in the blanks

A contract became null and void after forms were not completed properly and a notice waiving conditions was not delivered personally to the seller.

Technology and real estate the focus of event

RETechTalks is a conference with a focus on technology and real estate, described as a day to learn from the very best people in Toronto real estate.

OREA News: New board of directors for 2015

The Ontario Real Estate Association officially installed its new president and board of directors at the annual meeting in Toronto on March 11.

Market Watch: Housing affordability slips nationally

Solid increases in Ontario home prices were key to the slight erosion in housing affordability across Canada, according to a housing trends report.

March

Surviving the busy spring season

Although springtime means sunshine and flowers in bloom, it represents the busiest time of year in real estate. Three experienced Ontario REALTORS® share their ideas and insights on how to cope and thrive during the industry’s busiest season.

Green real estate conference

The business case for environment-friendly buildings has never been stronger. Learn more at the upcoming Green Real Estate Conference on April 23 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Women’s hockey star and IBC promote road safety

Drive according to weather conditions. That’s the message of a new road safety video produced by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) featuring Canadian women’s hockey star Kelly Terry. Watch the video here.

RECO: Agreement to lease doesn’t show that tenant would rent to students

In this RECO decision, the registrant was disciplined after the owner of a property discovered that her property had been turned into a rooming house for students.

Remind consumers to hire contractors who work safely

Renovation work done by the wrong contractor can create expensive problems. The Ontario Ministry of Government and Consumer Services has crafted tips to help consumers select contractors who work safely.

Legal Beat: Installation of ATM the focus of commercial dispute

The landlord and tenant in this commercial dispute disagreed over the installation of an automated teller machine (ATM) on the property. The court case drained cash at a pace that rivalled that of the dispensing machine itself.

New advertisements released in REALTOR® value campaign

An exciting new slate of advertisements is being released March 2 to promote REALTOR® value to consumers across Ontario.

OREA website refreshed

A bold new look and feel is evident on the OREA website, making it quicker and easier for you to get what you need to succeed in your real estate career.

News: Call for volunteers

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet real estate colleagues and make a contribution to your profession. The deadline to apply is March 20.

February

Welcome to the digital EDGE

OREA is pleased to launch an all-electronic version of The REALTOR® EDGE newsletter, full of useful news and information to help you in your real estate business.

Safety first should be motto for REALTORS®

Safety is highly important for those working in real estate. Three REALTORS® share their experiences and talk about the importance of taking precautions when showing properties or hosting an open house.

Broader export demand predicted: RBC

Canada’s economy is expected to see higher export growth in 2015, despite the recent decline of oil prices, says a new report.

Housing outlook for 2015 shows modest gains

Most regions posted modest gains in average prices of residential homes despite increased inventory in many of Canada’s housing markets, according to a recent report from RE/MAX.

Levy recommended to fund REALTOR® value ad campaign

For two years OREA has promoted the value of REALTORS® via a mass advertising campaign. Delegates to the OREA AGM in March will be asked to vote on a special levy to continue to fund the campaign.

Ontarians feel better about economy, real estate markets

Six out of 10 Ontarians surveyed say the state of their city’s economy is good, up from 53 per cent last year, according to a research study commissioned by OREA and Ipsos Reid.

Embracing the growing heritage market

The heritage market is growing swiftly thanks to a boom in home renovations. Conservation expert Robert Hulley shares his insights for REALTORS® who want to capitalize on the opportunities.

Legal Beat: Plaintiff in commercial case has great expectations

An executive seeking to develop commercial condos spent nearly $100,000 on marketing then sued his brokerage for reimbursement after the relationship soured.

Save the date

It's time to jot down the date for the Ontario Real Estate Association’s Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care® Foundation Annual General Meeting.

News: Call for volunteers

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession. Serving your profession in this way works to enhance your knowledge of and connections to the field.

January

The EDGE goes green

Starting next month, The REALTOR® EDGE newsletter will be delivered in an electronic format only. This month's issue is the last print edition, marking the end of an era - and a new beginning - for the highly popular newsletter produced by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Real estate couples: Sold on partnerships

Many couples find that working together at the same real estate brokerage strengthens both their marriage and their business, as well as drawing on complementary skills.

Backing up your data

If you haven’t backed it up, then you don’t have it. So goes the rule about copying and archiving your computer data. If your files - documents, photographs, videos, music etc. - are not backed up in at least one secondary place, then they’re as good as gone.

Buyers’ regrets reported: RECO

Almost half (45%) of first-time buyers and 41% of home owners wish they had done something differently during the transaction, says a survey from the Real Estate Council of Ontario.

Modest overvaluation of housing prices: CMHC

A modest amount of overvaluation was observed by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), meaning that house prices in the country are slightly higher than what underlying factors suggest they should be.

Condominium living means following rules

This case focused on ongoing issues between a condominium corporation and one of its unit owners who continued to defy restrictions at the property.

News: Call for volunteers

Save the date

It's time to jot down the date for the Ontario Real Estate Association’s Open Forum, Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care® Foundation Annual General Meeting.

Jam raises funds

Music, dancing and jamming were all for a good cause at the Jam with a Past President held in conjunction with OREA’s recent Political Affairs Conference (PAC) in Toronto.

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Past Issues

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

Real estate teams: Are they right for you?

Seven tips to show your professionalism

Master the offer process: Join seminar

Personal real estate corporations a step closer

Legal Beat: Make sure clients understand BRA before signing

New real estate app to develop business plan

Video tutorials explain forms

College to stop delivery of real estate education

Supporters of charities, shelters honoured

Awards recognize leadership in real estate

Foundation board installed

Time saving strategies for a busy spring

Nine ways to show your professionalism

Save the dates for professional development

Governance review explores OREA’s next chapter

Legal Beat: Protect yourself, clients from illegal building

Foundation gives over $1 million to charity

New board of directors for 2017

Get to know new OREA president

Tribute to outgoing president Ray Ferris at conference

Greener fields? The challenges of rural real estate

Seven ways to handle stress

Forms to help your daily trading: Join seminar

RECO: Oral promise spurs complaint

Legal Beat: Dispute over nature of payment

Create home ownership affordability task force, OREA urges government

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

OREA annual conference and governance day

Looking for committee volunteers

Managing in the lean seasons

Commercial real estate the focus of seminar

Research guides decision making

Get help from Customer Service Centre

That’s a RAP: New government relations initiative

Legal Beat: Court dispute over unregistered trading

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

Looking for volunteers

Save the date: OREA annual conference

“Unreal” estate – Protecting buyers of unbuilt property

Positive response to ad campaign

Nine things to do in real estate’s slow season

Quiz: What kind of real estate athlete are you?

New Year’s webinar: Updates on 2017 standard forms

Save the dates: Upcoming webinars on standard forms

Legal Beat: Contract may not be void if both sides treat it as valid

Apply to win prestigious leadership award

Looking for volunteers

First-time buyers get a tax break

Political affairs conference a success

Tough closings: Expect the unexpected

What’s new in real estate forms for 2017: Save the date

Saying goodbye to your childhood home

Call for candidates – OREA

Call for candidates – Foundation

Looking for volunteers

Apply to win prestigious leadership award

Legal Beat – Size of deposit may affect forfeiture

Save the date for OREA annual conference and AGM

Work-life balance in real estate

Residential leasing issues: Join seminar

The rise of heritage conservation districts

Let’s talk about forms: OREA reaches out

RECO decision: Ad and listing agreement mislead sellers

Call for candidates – OREA

Don't miss an issue subscribe to the REALTOR^® EDGE Newsletter