Committees complete

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

October 31, 2022

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2023 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

October 31, 2022

Interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation’s 2023 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

November 26, 2021

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2022 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: two Directors-at-Large and four Provincial Directors (one each from the Southern, Northeastern, Western and Central Ontario Areas).

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

November 26, 2021

Interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation’s 2022 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: three REALTOR® Directors (made up of one each from the Central, Northeastern and Southern Ontario Areas), and one Public Director.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

October 29, 2020

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2021 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: four Provincial Directors (made up of one each from the Central, Northern, Eastern and Western Ontario Areas) and two Directors-at-Large.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

October 29, 2020

Interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation’s 2021 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: three REALTOR® Directors (made up of one each from the Northern, Eastern, and Western Ontario Areas), and one Public Director.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

October 24, 2019

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2020 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: four Provincial Directors (made up of one each from the Central, Northern, Northeastern and Southern Ontario Areas) and two Directors-at-Large.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

October 24, 2019

Interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation’s 2023 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: three REALTOR® Directors (made up of one each from the Eastern, Northern, and Western Ontario Areas), and one Public Director.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

October 29, 2018

Interested in running for a position on OREA's 2019 Board of Directors? The following positions are up for election: four Provincial Directors (made up of one each from the Central, Eastern, Northern and Western Ontario Areas) and two Directors-at-large.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

October 29, 2018

Interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation's 2019 Board of Directors? The following position are up for election: three REALTOR® Directors (made up of one each from the Eastern, Northern, and Western Ontario Areas), and on Public Director.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

November 15, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

November 15, 2017

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).

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

October 18, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

October 18, 2017

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).

Newsletter

Working with seniors and boomers

June 23, 2017

Seniors and baby boomers are becoming a bigger segment of the population, and their real estate needs differ from those of other clients. Three Ontario REALTORS® discuss the joys and challenges of working with an aging demographic.

Newsletter

Co-operate, co-broker, communicate: Join seminar

June 19, 2017

Clarifying and documenting all of your communication with other REALTORS® is crucial when working on transactions that involve other brokerages. A web seminar (webinar) will explore this topic.

Newsletter

Venues announced for professional development events

June 19, 2017

Locations have now been confirmed for professional development and business strategy events in real estate this fall.

Newsletter

Provincial housing measures a success for REALTORS® and home buyers

June 19, 2017

The provincial government’s new plan to address housing challenges is the result of successful advocacy work by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Three things REALTORS® should know about heritage properties

June 23, 2017

The township told the buyer that a rural property was safe to build on. A lawsuit ensued when the buyer later learned that a building permit was withheld because the land was located on a “no-build” buffer zone near a former dump site.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Zoning confusion leads to lawsuit

June 24, 2017

The township told the buyer that a rural property was safe to build on. A lawsuit ensued when the buyer later learned that a building permit was withheld because the land was located on a “no-build” buffer zone near a former dump site.

Newsletter

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

June 19, 2017

Sign up for a web seminar (webinar) to learn more about the standard forms used in real estate transactions, and how they can help your trading activity.

Newsletter

Legal Forum reaches a milestone

June 19, 2017

Legal Forum, the popular online resource for Ontario REALTORS®, has answered its 6,000th question. This unique online service has been helping you for 17 years.

Newsletter

Support the motorcycle ride for charity

June 23, 2017

The Motorcycle Ride for Charity will take place on July 5. Join the ride or support a rider.

Newsletter

Real estate teams: Are they right for you?

May 24, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Seven tips to show your professionalism

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Master the offer process: Join seminar

May 24, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Personal real estate corporations a step closer

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Make sure clients understand BRA before signing

May 24, 2017

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.

Newsletter

New real estate app to develop business plan

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Video tutorials explain forms

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

College to stop delivery of real estate education

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Supporters of charities, shelters honoured

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Awards recognize leadership in real estate

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Foundation board installed

May 24, 2017

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

Newsletter

Time saving strategies for a busy spring

April 28, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Nine ways to show your professionalism

April 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Save the dates for professional development

April 28, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Governance review explores OREA’s next chapter

April 28, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Protect yourself, clients from illegal building

April 28, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Foundation gives over $1 million to charity

April 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

New board of directors for 2017

April 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Get to know new OREA president

April 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Tribute to outgoing president Ray Ferris at conference

April 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Greener fields? The challenges of rural real estate

March 23, 2017

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

Newsletter

Seven ways to handle stress

March 22, 2017

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

Newsletter

Forms to help your daily trading: Join seminar

March 22, 2017

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).

Newsletter

RECO: Oral promise spurs complaint

March 22, 2017

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

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Dispute over nature of payment

March 22, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Create home ownership affordability task force, OREA urges government

March 22, 2017

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

Newsletter

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

March 22, 2017

Sign up for a web seminar (webinar) to learn more about the standard forms and clauses used in real estate transactions.

Newsletter

OREA annual conference and governance day

March 22, 2017

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

Newsletter

Looking for committee volunteers

March 22, 2017

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

Newsletter

Managing in the lean seasons

February 25, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Commercial real estate the focus of seminar

February 20, 2017

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

Newsletter

Research guides decision making

February 25, 2017

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

Newsletter

Get help from Customer Service Centre

February 25, 2017

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

Newsletter

That’s a RAP: New government relations initiative

February 25, 2017

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

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Court dispute over unregistered trading

February 25, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Learn more about forms in upcoming seminars

February 25, 2017

Sign up for a web seminar (webinar) to learn more about the standard forms and clauses used in real estate transactions.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

February 25, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Save the date: OREA annual conference

February 25, 2017

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.

Newsletter

“Unreal” estate – Protecting buyers of unbuilt property

January 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Positive response to ad campaign

January 28, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Nine things to do in real estate’s slow season

January 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Quiz: What kind of real estate athlete are you?

January 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

New Year’s webinar: Updates on 2017 standard forms

January 28, 2017

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

Newsletter

Save the dates: Upcoming webinars on standard forms

January 1, 2017

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

Newsletter

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

January 1, 2017

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

Newsletter

Apply to win prestigious leadership award

January 2, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

January 3, 2017

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.

Newsletter

First-time buyers get a tax break

January 4, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Political affairs conference a success

January 30, 2017

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.

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

November 3, 2023

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2024 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation

November 3, 2023

Interested in running for a position on the Ontario REALTORS Care® Foundation’s 2024 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Tough closings: Expect the unexpected

December 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

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

December 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

Saying goodbye to your childhood home

December 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – OREA

December 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

Call for candidates – Foundation

December 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

December 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Apply to win prestigious leadership award

December 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat – Size of deposit may affect forfeiture

December 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Save the date for OREA annual conference and AGM

December 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Work-life balance in real estate

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

Residential leasing issues: Join seminar

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

The rise of heritage conservation districts

November 9, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Let’s talk about forms: OREA reaches out

November 9, 2016

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.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Ad and listing agreement mislead sellers

November 9, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – OREA

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

Call for candidates – Foundation

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Easement dispute prompts court cases

November 9, 2016

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.

Newsletter

OREA welcomes Tim Hudak as new CEO

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

Ed Barisa retires as CEO of OREA

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

In memoriam: Keith Teetzel

November 9, 2016

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

Newsletter

Disclosure and stigmatized properties

October 19, 2016

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

Newsletter

New ad campaign promotes REALTOR® value

October 19, 2016

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

Newsletter

Commercial real estate the focus of events

October 19, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Have a FINTRAC plan

October 19, 2016

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

Newsletter

Maintain integrity with electronic signatures: Join seminar

October 19, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Fall events feature technology and strategy

October 19, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Generation Y’s intentions to buy real estate increase

October 19, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride for charity a success

October 19, 2016

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.

Newsletter

RECO: Stigmatizing issues

October 19, 2016

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).

Newsletter

Survivor: Real estate style

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Need help with forms? See simple explanations

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Campaign promotes REALTOR® value

September 15, 2016

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

Newsletter

Topics and speakers announced for technology series

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Tenant objects to candid camera

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Consumer optimism grows over real estate markets

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

RECO DECISION: Lot size error leads to complaint

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Dealing with condominiums: Join seminar

September 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

New and improved OREA blog

September 15, 2016

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

Newsletter

Chattels versus fixtures: Explain the difference to clients

August 15, 2016

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

Newsletter

Watch and learn: Tutorials explain forms

August 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

What does your OREA membership get you?

August 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Consumer data can grow your real estate business

August 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

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

August 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal beat: Life’s a beach for waterfront buyers

July 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Advocacy campaign wins second prestigious award

July 15, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Venues announced for fall technology series

July 15, 2016

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

Newsletter

RECO: Protect yourself against real estate fraud

July 15, 2016

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

Newsletter

Emotions in real estate: Be a calming influence

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Kitec plumbing can cause problems

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Support the motorcycle ride for charity

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Do you have clause-trophobia? Join seminar

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Technology events enhance your skills

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal beat: A pool of problems for buyers

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Advocacy campaign wins prestigious award

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

YPN awards recognize leadership in real estate

June 17, 2016

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

Newsletter

Annual report highlights OREA accomplishments

June 17, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Challenging clients: How to cope without losing your cool

May 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

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

May 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

The joys and challenges of working in real estate

May 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

Legal beat: Get involved and stay involved

May 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

OREA president featured on radio show

May 8, 2016

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®.

Newsletter

Technology events enhance your skills

May 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Volunteers, milestones recognized at awards ceremony

May 8, 2016

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).

Newsletter

Supporters of charities, shelters recognized

May 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Foundation board of directors for 2016

May 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

Let’s negotiate: Ability to reach agreement vital

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

New statistics and newsletter launched

April 18, 2016

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

Newsletter

Stickhandling offers and negotiations: Join seminar

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Upcoming seminars on standard forms

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Real estate: More than just sales

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

New tutorials explain forms

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

What a dump: Landfill discovered under dream home

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

What consumers need to know about assignments: RECO

April 18, 2016

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.

Newsletter

New OREA board of directors for 2016

April 18, 2016

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

Newsletter

Time flies: Organizing your day

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Changes to pre-registration education

March 13, 2016

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).

Newsletter

What’s new in Standard Forms: Join seminar

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

New videos highlight consumer research findings

March 13, 2016

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®.

Newsletter

Buyers floored by property’s structural weakness

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Last chance to volunteer for OREA committees

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Local markets are stronger: Survey

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Tips to protect your home and property: IBC

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Save the date: OREA annual conference and AGM

March 13, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Avoid errors in real estate listings

February 12, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Virtual home staging can save time, money

February 12, 2016

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.

Newsletter

New seminars and tutorials deal with standard forms

February 12, 2016

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

Newsletter

Customer Service Centre aims to help

February 12, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Faulty septic system makes for sale that stinks

February 12, 2016

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

Newsletter

Videos focus on overcoming challenges, meeting goals

February 12, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Looking for committee volunteers

February 12, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Save the date: OREA annual conference and AGM

February 12, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Slowing down: Surviving the lean season

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Campaign prevents expanded land transfer tax

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Living beyond your means in real estate

January 8, 2016

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

Newsletter

Apply to win a prestigious leadership award

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Home staging - the virtual way

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Alarm system leads to alarming lawsuit

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Looking for committee volunteers

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners: Always be professional

January 8, 2016

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).

Newsletter

Renovate before reselling? Some tips from RECO

January 8, 2016

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.

Newsletter

Multiple offers pose unique challenges

December 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

What kind of REALTOR® superhero are you?

December 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

Ontario government close to allowing doubling of land transfer taxes

December 22, 2015

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).

Newsletter

Call for candidates – OREA

December 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Foundation

December 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

Get your home ready for winter: IBC

December 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Wet basement a reminder of buyer beware precedent

December 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners: Protect your clients

December 22, 2015

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).

Newsletter

Offer handling a common complaint: RECO

December 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

What kind of REALTOR® superhero are you?

November 23, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Condo challenges: The particulars of the condominium market

November 23, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Romancing the real estate brokerage

November 23, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – OREA

November 23, 2015

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

Newsletter

Call for Candidates – Foundation

November 23, 2015

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

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers on OREA committees

November 23, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Get your BRA signed

November 23, 2015

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

Newsletter

Comic video highlights generation gap

November 23, 2015

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

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners: Know your limits

November 23, 2015

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).

Newsletter

Child's play: Working with young families

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

REALTOR® value the focus of ad campaign

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Don’t fear the heritage property

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

RECO: Registrant fails to check zoning

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Technology events enhance your skills

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Brokerage sale leads to debate over turnkey operation

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners

October 18, 2015

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).

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride a success

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

College wins prestigious award

October 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Mentorship in real estate

September 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Complaints service helps at stressful time

September 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Serving buyers in the pre-construction phase

September 22, 2015

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®.

Newsletter

Ad campaign promotes REALTOR® value

September 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Video and webinar explain new form

September 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

Fall technology events

September 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

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

September 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Consumer confidence in local markets growing

September 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners

September 22, 2015

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®.

Newsletter

Handling stress in real estate

August 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Electronic signatures now allowed for agreement of purchase and sale

July 1, 2015

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

Newsletter

New form deals with law to prevent phantom offers

August 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

RECO: Registrant switches brokerages and changes lawn signs

August 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Get organized and stay organized

August 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Fall into technology events

July 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Consumers show confidence in local markets: Index

July 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

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

July 18, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners: Do unto others

July 18, 2015

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).

Newsletter

Miss Real Estate Manners: Show courtesy

June 7, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride for charity celebrates 10th anniversary

June 5, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Avoid advertising pitfalls

June 8, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Big data is key to real estate service

June 6, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Buyers will find out eventually

June 4, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Awards honour volunteers, milestones

June 3, 2015

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).

Newsletter

OREA training video popular

June 1, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Supporters of charities, shelters recognized

June 2, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Four tips for a hassle-free move: RECO

June 8, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Hone your negotiation skills

May 6, 2015

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®.

Newsletter

Developing your brand

May 5, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Rules vary for basement apartments, second suites

May 5, 2015

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.

Newsletter

President’s Message from Patricia Verge

May 4, 2015

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.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Memory fails registrant who conveys wrong price

May 5, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Saturday closing leads to lawsuit

May 2, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Unveiling the OREA Real Estate College alumni program

May 6, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Snapshot of OREA members revealed

May 3, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride for charity

May 2, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Annual report now available

May 1, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Bridging the generation gap in real estate

May 3, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Foundation board installed

May 1, 2015

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

Newsletter

RECO website refreshed

May 3, 2015

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.

Newsletter

The importance of repeat business and referrals

April 4, 2015

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.

Newsletter

REALTOR® value advertising campaign continues

April 3, 2015

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).

Newsletter

The benefits of volunteering in real estate

April 1, 2015

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

Newsletter

REALTOR® Quest the largest show of its kind

April 2, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Personal real estate corporations the focus of bill

April 3, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Use forms properly and fill in the blanks

April 2, 2015

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

Newsletter

Technology and real estate the focus of event

April 3, 2015

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.

Newsletter

OREA News: New board of directors for 2015

April 3, 2015

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

Newsletter

Market Watch: Housing affordability slips nationally

April 1, 2015

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

Newsletter

Surviving the busy spring season

March 26, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Green real estate conference

March 19, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Women’s hockey star and IBC promote road safety

March 19, 2015

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.

Newsletter

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

March 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Remind consumers to hire contractors who work safely

March 24, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Installation of ATM the focus of commercial dispute

March 25, 2015

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.

Newsletter

New advertisements released in REALTOR® value campaign

March 20, 2015

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

Newsletter

OREA website refreshed

March 20, 2015

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.

Newsletter

News: Call for volunteers

March 20, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Welcome to the digital EDGE

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Safety first should be motto for REALTORS®

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Broader export demand predicted: RBC

February 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

Housing outlook for 2015 shows modest gains

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Levy recommended to fund REALTOR® value ad campaign

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Ontarians feel better about economy, real estate markets

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Embracing the growing heritage market

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Plaintiff in commercial case has great expectations

February 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

Save the date

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

News: Call for volunteers

February 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

The EDGE goes green

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Real estate couples: Sold on partnerships

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Backing up your data

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Buyers’ regrets reported: RECO

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Modest overvaluation of housing prices: CMHC

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Condominium living means following rules

January 22, 2015

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

Newsletter

News: Call for volunteers

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Save the date

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Jam raises funds

January 22, 2015

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.

Newsletter

Books and ideas to ring in the New Year

December 28, 2014

A new year offers a fresh start and a chance to embrace change. The EDGE newsletter spoke to REALTORS® from across the province who shared their thoughts about books and ideas to ring in 2015.

Newsletter

President's message

December 28, 2014

OREA President, Costa Poulopoulos, reports on the latest advocacy work being undertaken by the Ontario Real Estate Association on issues that matter to REALTORS® and real estate in his winter message.

Newsletter

College wins prestigious award

December 28, 2014

The OREA Real Estate College has won an educational programming award from the Learning Resources Network (LERN), the world’s largest association devoted to continuing education and lifelong learning.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – Foundation

December 21, 2014

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2015 board of directors? The following positions are up for election: four Provincial Directors (made up of one each from the Western, Northern, Eastern and Central Ontario Areas), and two Directors-at-Large.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – OREA

December 21, 2014

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2015 board of directors? The following positions are up for election: four Provincial Directors

Newsletter

Driving in my car: REALTORS® and their vehicles

December 21, 2014

Driving is a big part of our jobs. Having been raised by a REALTOR®, I learned that fact early on.

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Helping your clients deal with form overload

December 21, 2014

Real estate transactions involve pages and pages of forms, and a key part of your job is to help consumers navigate their way through them.

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Hotsheet: Household safety tips from IBC

December 21, 2014

The short, dark days at this time of year provide an opportunity to turn your attention to household safety.

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Looking for volunteers

December 21, 2014

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Green real estate conference

December 21, 2014

The business case for green buildings has never been stronger. Market interest in greening new and existing buildings is at an all-time high.

Newsletter

OREA wants your input

December 21, 2014

Join OREA’s research panel and your valuable opinions will help to guide policies, develop educational opportunities and evaluate OREA services.

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Stay safe while you’re on the job

December 21, 2014

Pay attention to safety issues and develop good habits to ensure that you keep safety in mind at all times when working in real estate.

Newsletter

Updates to forms and clauses

December 21, 2014

The Standard Forms Committee of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) has approved the revisions and creation of new forms and clauses for 2015.

Newsletter

Breaking up is hard to do: Dumping a client

November 20, 2014

Dumping a client does not happen often, but over the course of your real estate career a breakup or two is bound to occur.

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Tips to avoid a client breakup

November 20, 2014

Pre-qualify buyers. Sometimes they are not realistic. Everything comes down to qualifying. Sort out wants, needs and “must haves” and make sure that the money for a purchase is actually available.

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Jobs, economic activity threatened by land transfer tax

November 20, 2014

A significant loss of jobs and economic activity in Mississauga, London, Hamilton, Ottawa and Thunder Bay will occur if a municipal land transfer tax is imposed in those cities

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Index Home Buyers’ Plan: CREA

November 20, 2014

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has launched a call to action to REALTORS® to urge the government to index the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) to inflation.

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Market Watch: Businesses rely more on mobile technology

November 20, 2014

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) has launched a call to action to REALTORS® to urge the government to index the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP) to inflation.

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RECO decision: Advertisement causes problems

November 20, 2014

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all names have been changed.

Newsletter

Ad campaign to promote REALTOR® Value continues

November 20, 2014

Promoting the value of using a REALTOR® to the public has been the focus of a recent advertising campaign by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), and the message is getting through.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Deception over fire leads to lawsuit

November 20, 2014

One of the buyers of a property had respiratory problems. Before making a purchase, the buyers instructed their real estate representative to ask whether a fire had ever occurred in that house.

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Political Affairs Conference in November

November 20, 2014

The Ontario Real Estate Association will hold its 2014 Political Affairs Conference (PAC) from Nov. 23 to 25 at Toronto’s Park Hyatt Hotel, 4 Avenue Road.

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Call for candidates – OREA

November 20, 2014

Interested in running for a position on OREA&rsquo;s 2015 board of directors?</strong> The following positions are up for election: four Provincial Directors

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Call for candidates - Foundation

November 20, 2014

Interested in running for a position on the Foundation’s 2015 board of directors? The following positions are up for election: three REALTOR® Directors

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Reaping rewards from rental sales

October 23, 2014

Many buyers today are looking for investment properties like apartment buildings or vacation homes that they can rent out.

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Budgeting most important strategy for home buyers: Research

October 23, 2014

Ontarians planning to buy a home in the next two years cited various financial strategies to save for a down payment

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RECO decision: Sales rep enters property without permission

October 23, 2014

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all names have been changed.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Tips to prevent house fires

October 23, 2014

Fires claim lives and cost millions of dollars in damage every year. To prevent these tragedies, the Insurance Bureau of Canada offers tips for preventing house fires and saving lives.

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Market Watch: Employment growth looks brighter for late 2014

October 23, 2014

A rebound in economic growth recently and expectations for future solid growth bode well for employment prospects, according to a new report.

Newsletter

Political Affairs Conference in November

October 23, 2014

The Ontario Real Estate Association will hold its 2014 Political Affairs Conference (PAC) from Nov. 23 to 25 at Toronto’s Park Hyatt Hotel, 4 Avenue Road.

Newsletter

Train for success with new online course

October 23, 2014

Real Estate Professionals at Work is a new online professional development course designed for REALTORS® to apply the principles of professionalism in their day-to-day practices.

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Legal Beat: Caught in a “net-net” of confusing language

October 23, 2014

The commercial tenant in this case had a three-year lease that was renewed for two years and then for a further two years.

Newsletter

Second video produced in OREA series

October 23, 2014

A new video aimed at helping you to connect with consumers has been produced by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

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Technology and strategy the focus of events

October 23, 2014

Boosting your technology skills and enhancing your strategic approach to your real estate business are the focus of a series of events offered this fall by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

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Gimme five: The deposit and five business days

September 23, 2014

Once an offer is accepted by both parties in a real estate deal, the buyer’s deposit must be delivered to the brokerage in accordance with the terms outlined in the Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS).

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Quiz: Deposit and five business days

September 23, 2014

Here’s a quiz to test your knowledge. In all of these instances, assume that the offer has been accepted by both parties to an APS and that the deposit in question has been delivered in accordance with the terms of the APS. T

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Index reveals consumer perceptions of market

September 23, 2014

What do Ontario consumers really think of the current real estate market?

Newsletter

Hotsheet: New RECO mobile app

September 23, 2014

A new mobile app was launched by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) this summer.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Price surges in big cities mask temperate national market

September 23, 2014

Home prices are expected to increase steadily in Canada for the remainder of 2014, with the average price of a home in Canada rising between 3.9 and 5.2 per cent in the year’s second quarter, according to a new report.

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Serving as a resource and a mediator

September 23, 2014

The consumer perception of what we do in our line of work is very different from the reality of my daily activities.

Newsletter

Technology and strategy the focus of events

September 23, 2014

Boosting your technology skills and enhancing your strategic approach to your real estate business are the focus of a series of events offered this fall by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Structure is aerodrome, not boathouse, owner argues

September 23, 2014

The purchaser of this Ontario recreational property was a long-time developer.

Newsletter

Association wins diversity award

September 23, 2014

The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) has won an award for its efforts on workplace diversity.

Newsletter

New and improved student handbook

September 23, 2014

An updated and enhanced student handbook produced by the OREA Real Estate College is now available.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride a success

September 23, 2014

Good riding weather helped to ensure the success of this year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity.

Newsletter

Dollars and sense: Managing your money

August 23, 2014

Starting out in real estate can be financially challenging, especially given the initial lack of income and the volume of upfront expenses.

Newsletter

Technology events across the province

August 23, 2014

Keep your technology skills sharp by attending one or more in a series of events offered by the Ontario Real Estate Association in the coming months.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Global property market the focus of conference

August 23, 2014

The 9th annual Global Property Market is a targeted opportunity for Canadian institutional investors, real estate income trusts, real estate operating companies and private equity funds.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Manufacturing sector continues to be sluggish

August 23, 2014

Manufacturers in Canada recently signalled the slowest improvement in overall business conditions in four months, largely reflecting a further moderation in output growth,

Newsletter

Etiquette and best practices for real estate showings

July 27, 2014

Security is important to consumers and it’s one of the reasons they choose to use a REALTOR®.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Choose words carefully in commercial documents

July 27, 2014

The listing agreement in this case stipulated that: a commission will be paid if the property is sold; the commission will be paid after the sale is completed;

Newsletter

Index to track consumer opinions

July 27, 2014

The Ontario Home Ownership Index is an exciting new initiative from the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) to help you learn more about the public’s views on the real estate market across the province and at a more local level.

Newsletter

Video promotes value of REALTORS®

July 27, 2014

A new video aimed at helping you to connect with consumers has been produced by OREA.

Newsletter

Running a real estate brokerage

June 22, 2014

While many real estate salespeople focus on serving consumers who are buying or selling properties, a broker of record serves a different clientele -- the REALTORS® themselves.

Newsletter

Municipal land transfer tax costs Toronto billions

June 22, 2014

The municipal land transfer tax (MLTT) in Toronto is responsible for a massive loss of economic activity and a corresponding loss of thousands of jobs, according to new research by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Support the Motorcycle Ride for Charity

June 22, 2014

Revving up their engines, REALTORS® from across the province will be participating in this year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Financial planning crucial for persons with disabilities

June 22, 2014

A financial plan can play a pivotal role in easing financial stress for the 3.8 million Canadians with a disability and those caring for them, according to a new report.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Making your home smarter with technology

June 22, 2014

It used to be that in order to turn a light on or off, you walked over to it and flicked a switch. Since then we have progressed to timers, so if you aren’t home, you can set the lights to go on and off at predetermined times.

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Legal Beat: Commercial tenant alleges breach of good faith

June 22, 2014

Is there a duty at common law to bargain in “good faith”? Various courts in the United States have replied that there is. However, most Canadian courts have responded that there is not.

Newsletter

Technology events in 2014

June 22, 2014

If you want to stay on the cutting edge of technology in real estate, come to one or more in a series of events offered in the months ahead by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Foundation announces new name and logo

June 22, 2014

Foundation announces new name and logo

Newsletter

Cross-cultural competency is good business

May 26, 2014

The ability to work with people of different cultures and backgrounds is not only a good interpersonal skill, but it can also help your business.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Heart trumps head among buyers - RECO

May 26, 2014

The heart often overrules the head when it comes to buying a home, according to a new study into the behaviour of Ontario’s home owners released by the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).

Newsletter

Market Watch: CMHC to increase mortgage insurance premiums

May 26, 2014

Following the annual review of its insurance products and capital requirements, CMHC is increasing its mortgage loan insurance premiums for home owners and rental properties of one to four units, effective May 1.

Newsletter

Campaign launched to stop spread of tax

May 26, 2014

Preventing the spread of municipal land transfer taxes (MLTT) is the focus of a new advocacy campaign at the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Goal setting in real estate

May 26, 2014

With the arrival of spring, we are often filled with a sense of renewal. This is an ideal time to assess our business plan and set new goals.

Newsletter

Government examines electronic signatures legislation

May 26, 2014

Electronic agreements of purchase and sale will mean faster and more convenient transactions for REALTORS® and consumers.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Signed agreement facilitates payment of commission

May 26, 2014

The sellers in this case initially tried to sell their home in Ancaster, Ontario by themselves. They subsequently listed it with the REALTOR® on May 6. The commission was 5 per cent and there was a 60-day holdover period.

Newsletter

Annual report now available

May 26, 2014

Find out what your association has been doing for you over the past year. A new annual report from the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) outlines the products and services available to you, as well as summarizing association activities over the past year.

Newsletter

Take part in new technology events

May 26, 2014

If you want to stay on the cutting edge of technology in real estate, come to one or more in an upcoming and popular series of events offered by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Sponsors contribute to conference success

May 26, 2014

The OREA 2014 Annual Conference at Toronto’s Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in March was a great success.

Newsletter

Guiding first-time home buyers

April 22, 2014

Buying a home can be a highly emotional experience, and REALTORS® who work with first-time buyers often find themselves tempering their clients’ dreams with a dose of reality.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: NAR conference and expo

April 22, 2014

Registration opens on May 7 for the 2014 REALTORS® Conference and Expo organized by the U.S.-based National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Newsletter

Market Watch: Financial services show progress on women’s issues

April 22, 2014

Eighty-five per cent of Canadians feel that the financial services industry has made progress in addressing women’s issues, but more work needs to be done.

Newsletter

OREA website engages viewers

April 22, 2014

A dramatic increase in mobile traffic to the website of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) has occurred over the past year, according to a new report.

Newsletter

Being thorough in your real estate transactions

April 22, 2014

Thoroughness takes time - a commodity often in short supply in our line of work. The demands on our time, from client meetings and office work to family commitments, can make it difficult for REALTORS® to be thorough.

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Legal Beat: Dispute over amount of parking leads to lawsuit

April 22, 2014

This case deals with the amount of parking provided to a commercial tenant in a shopping mall. The tenant, Farm Boy Inc., operates grocery stores in the Ottawa area and leased space in a mall.

Newsletter

OREA board of directors for 2014

April 22, 2014

The Ontario Real Estate Association officially installed its new President and Board of Directors at the Annual Assembly Meeting and Leadership Conference from March 4 to 6 in Toronto.

Newsletter

Foundation board of directors for 2014

April 22, 2014

The REALTORS Care Foundation officially installed its new President and Board of Directors for 2014 at the OREA Leadership Conference in Toronto.

Newsletter

Younger Ontarians value owning home

April 22, 2014

Home ownership is important to the younger residents of Ontario, according to a new survey conducted by Ipsos Reid for the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA). In the research, 79 per cent of those surveyed in Generation X

Newsletter

Commercial real estate offers challenges, opportunities

March 21, 2014

REALTOR shows buyers a commercial buildingWalk through any town in Canada and you’ll undoubtedly see signs on lawns and billboards promoting local brokerages.

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Flexible remuneration a positive change

March 21, 2014

REALTOR workingBrokerages will now be able to give consumers more options on how to pay for real estate services.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: CanTech Conference in April

March 21, 2014

The Canadian Real Estate Technology Conference will take place on Thursday, April 10 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Seller’s market predicted in large cities

March 21, 2014

Conditions for the real estate market across Canada continue to be strong and increasing prices are predicted for the spring market, a new report states.

Newsletter

Customer Service Centre lends a helping hand

March 21, 2014

If you’ve ever had a question about courses you need or continuing education you wish to pursue in real estate, the Customer Service Centre at the OREA Real Estate College is there to respond.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Seller’s remorse occurs after rumours of demolition

March 21, 2014

The house owner in this case sold her property for $1.7 million and then changed her mind. Her major complaint was that she learned that the buyer might demolish the house.

Newsletter

Home inspectors should be regulated

March 21, 2014

The Ontario home inspection industry should be regulated, according to the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Thunder Bay board turns 100

March 21, 2014

The Thunder Bay Real Estate Board is celebrating its 100th birthday in 2014.

Newsletter

Leave emotions out of negotiations

February 21, 2014

Negotiating in real estate can be difficult when emotions get in the way.

Newsletter

Campaign boosts public perception of REALTORS®

February 21, 2014

Realtor shows professional man a property on left side of campaign posterAn exciting new ad and media relations campaign has enhanced the public perception of REALTORS®, recent surveys reveal.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Land and development conference in Toronto

February 21, 2014

The 10th annual Land & Development Conference will take place on May 13, 2014 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, North Building.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Canada to benefit from a strengthening U.S. economy

February 21, 2014

Canada’s economy is expected to perk up in 2014, supported by an increase in exports and strengthening business investment, according to a new report.

Newsletter

Estimating the value of a heritage property

February 21, 2014

Valuing a heritage home requires certain specialized skills.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Prove you took reasonable steps to fulfill terms

February 21, 2014

A typical OREA conditional clause may include the following words: “Unless the buyer gives notice in writing delivered to the seller personally or in accordance with any other provisions for the delivery of notice in this Agreement of Purchase and Sale or any Schedule

Newsletter

Optimism about market, economy

February 21, 2014

Ontarians seem hopeful about the provincial real estate market, according to new research conducted by the polling firm of Ipsos Reid for the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

February 21, 2014

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Save the date

February 21, 2014

The Ontario Real Estate Association’s Open Forum, Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 5 at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto.

Newsletter

Stressed out: Managing workplace stress

January 26, 2014

In today’s go-go-go world, where wireless connections allow for instant communication any time of day or night, no-one is immune to stress from the fast pace of life.

Newsletter

STRESS BUSTING TIPS:

January 26, 2014

Be aware of your stressors and take the following preventative steps:

Newsletter

Tools and technology series a hit

January 26, 2014

The demand for skills and knowledge of tools and technology in real estate continues to grow, according to organizers of a new series of events offered this past fall by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Carbon monoxide detectors to be mandatory in homes

January 26, 2014

The Ontario legislature recently passed a bill to make carbon monoxide detectors mandatory in homes across the province.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Tighter inventory for commercial property

January 26, 2014

While unprecedented levels of demand were reported for commercial real estate in key Canadian markets in 2013, a shortage of available product continues to hamper sales activity virtually across the board,

Newsletter

Wired Office: Out with the old, in with the new

January 26, 2014

Interested in earning some quick cash (or gift cards)? It’s as easy as gathering up your old technology and selling it or trading it in.

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Legal Beat: Words matter in agreements and can lead to litigation

January 26, 2014

Interested in earning some quick cash (or gift cards)? It’s as easy as gathering up your old technology and selling it or trading it in.

Newsletter

Updates to forms and clauses for 2014

January 26, 2014

The Standard Forms Committee of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) has approved the revisions and creation of new forms and clauses for 2014.

Newsletter

Save the date

January 26, 2014

The Ontario Real Estate Association’s Open Forum, Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 5 at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

January 26, 2014

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Time management in real estate

December 7, 2013

In the fast-paced world of real estate, time management is more important than ever.

Newsletter

Time management technology tips

December 7, 2013

Take a basic computer course to learn more about how to operate your system. If something goes wrong, there’s a greater likelihood that you’ll have some idea of what to do.

Newsletter

Lobbying for personal real estate corporations

December 7, 2013

In Ontario, real estate salespeople are among the few regulated professions that are not permitted to incorporate under current laws.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Green real estate conference

December 7, 2013

Although robust economic conditions have not yet returned across North America, market interest in greening new and existing buildings is at an all-time high.

Newsletter

Market Watch: 2014 housing starts to remain stable: CMHC

December 7, 2013

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) expects total housing starts to be stable in 2014, as fundamentals such as employment growth and migration continue to support the Canadian housing market.

Newsletter

Building a client base in real estate

December 7, 2013

As a REALTOR®, I am always thinking about my client base – how to build it and how to maintain it.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Two sets of buyers leads to court case

December 7, 2013

In this case that took place in the United States, an Ohio couple wanted to buy a house.

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Call for candidates - OREA

December 7, 2013

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2014 board of directors? The following positions are up for election

Newsletter

Call for candidates - Foundation

December 7, 2013

Interested in running for a position on the Foundation’s 2014 board of directors? The following positions are up for election

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

December 7, 2013

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Amendments: Second thoughts on the APS

November 12, 2013

An amendment – a change to one or more terms in an agreement – is a tool commonly used in real estate.

Newsletter

Media successes in REALTOR® value campaign

November 12, 2013

This fall marks the launch of an exciting new campaign to promote the value of REALTORS®.

Newsletter

Hotsheet: Conversations before living together

November 12, 2013

Moving in together is a big step in any relationship, and RE/MAX has provided some suggestions of discussions that couples should have before taking the plunge.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Online is where it's at for small business

November 12, 2013

Canadians choose small businesses based largely on how those firms use technology, according to a survey by TD Canada Trust.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Sharing is caring with social media

November 12, 2013

Social media is many things. It is about conversations, storytelling and relationship building through the sharing of useful content. This column focuses on how to share content.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Driving log would add evidence to tax appeal

November 12, 2013

In this case, the appellant is a self-employed residential REALTOR® working with RE/MAX who was remunerated on a commission basis.

Newsletter

Call for candidates - OREA

November 12, 2013

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2014 board of directors? The following positions are up for election

Newsletter

Call for candidates - Foundation

November 12, 2013

Interested in running for a position on the Foundation’s 2014 board of directors? The following positions are up for election

Newsletter

Political Affairs Conference in November

November 12, 2013

The Ontario Real Estate Association will hold its 2013 Political Affairs Conference (PAC) from Nov. 26 to 28 at Toronto’s Courtyard Marriott Hotel.

Newsletter

Dealing with difficult clients

October 11, 2013

Dealing with challenging clientsDifficult clients can drain you of time and energy and compromise other transactions.

Newsletter

Campaign promotes REALTOR® value

October 11, 2013

An exciting new advertising campaign to promote the value of REALTORS® has been launched by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Record property damage claims after summer flood

October 11, 2013

More than $850 million in insurance claims have been filed following property damage caused by the intense record rainfall and flash floods in Ontario that occurred on July 8, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reports.

Newsletter

Market Watch: U.S. foreclosures down from last year

October 11, 2013

Foreclosure inventories fell 32 per cent in July compared to the previous year, another sign that the foreclosure crisis in the U.S. may finally be over, according to the latest foreclosure report released by CoreLogic and posted to the newsroom of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Newsletter

RECO: Unsupervised access to seller’s home

October 11, 2013

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all names have been changed.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Increase in development fees passed on to buyer

October 11, 2013

Ontario municipalities charge builders and developers fees for things such as building permits and development costs.

Newsletter

Political Affairs Conference in November

October 11, 2013

The Ontario Real Estate Association will hold its 2013 Political Affairs Conference (PAC) from Nov. 26 to 28 at Toronto&rsquo;s Courtyard Marriott Hotel.

Newsletter

Learn more about social media

October 11, 2013

If you want to learn more about using social media, you can take part in a free webinar series hosted by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB).

Newsletter

Take part in technology events

October 11, 2013

If you want to stay on the cutting edge of technology in real estate, come to one or more events being offered this fall by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

FINTRAC compliance: Know your responsibilities

September 9, 2013

Enduring a FINTRAC audit takes time and effort, but failure to comply can have serious consequences for you and your brokerage.

Newsletter

First anniversary of service for OREA members

September 9, 2013

A new service was launched a year ago for members of the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) who are the subject of a complaint to the industry’s regulator, the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).

Newsletter

Canadian Apartment Investment Conference

September 9, 2013

Investors, developers, managers and owners may be interested in the 2013 Canadian Apartment Investment Conference happening on Tuesday, Sept. 24 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Baby boomers look to downsize

September 9, 2013

A majority of REALTORS® say their clients between the ages of 48 and 67 are searching for smaller properties, according to a June survey.

Newsletter

Take part in new technology events across Ontario

September 9, 2013

If you want to stay on the cutting edge of technology in real estate, come to one or more in a series of events offered this fall by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

iCollege courses: Affordable and informative

September 9, 2013

How much do REALTORS® know about the Buyer Representation Agreement, the Listing Agreement, and the National Do Not Call list?

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Verbal agreement doesn't hold up in court

September 9, 2013

Should the courts allow parol evidence in the context of a written agreement?

Newsletter

Watch for ad campaign

September 9, 2013

The value of using a REALTOR&reg; is at the heart of an exciting new advertising and media campaign being launched by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride a success

September 9, 2013

Motorcycle riders put the rubber to the road this past July to raise funds for the REALTORS Care Foundation.

Newsletter

Enrol in leadership workshop

September 9, 2013

You can earn two Continuing Education credits by enrolling in a Leadership 200 workshop being offered in class on Friday, Sept. 27 at the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) office in Don Mills.

Newsletter

Misleading advertising and how to avoid it

August 9, 2013

Advertising matters in real estate -- it can be a powerful tool to attract clients.

Newsletter

Summer energy saving tips for home owners

August 9, 2013

Take steps to make your home or cottage cool, comfortable and sustainable this summer since energy efficiency is always in style, says Phil Dorner, president of the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Gen Y still wants to own homes

August 9, 2013

Generation Y -- those individuals born between 1980 and 1994 -- still want to own a home despite the challenges, according to a survey.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Six in 10 GTA home owners plan to buy again

August 9, 2013

Real estate prices continue to rise, but a new poll says that hasn’t damaged home owners’ belief in the market in the Greater Toronto Area.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Useful apps for real estate professionals

August 9, 2013

Most people with smartphones and tablets take advantage of their devices by installing apps that provide them with up-to-the-minute weather and news reports, improve productivity or just for fun. Admittedly, some apps are more useful than others.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Faulty valve leads to breach of contract and lawsuits

August 9, 2013

The parties entered into an agreement of purchase and sale on this high-end B.C. property with a closing date no later than Oct. 20, 2008.

Newsletter

Leadership Now e-newsletter

July 5, 2013

If you’d like to learn more about volunteering and leadership, check out the new electronic newsletter produced by the OREA Centre for Leadership Development.

Newsletter

Our graduates speak for themselves

July 5, 2013

Listen to what our graduates are saying about their experiences at the OREA Real Estate College and why it is a great place to learn.

Newsletter

Watch for fall OREA events

July 5, 2013

Stay on the cutting edge of technology in real estate by attending a series of events being organized this fall by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Support the Motorcycle Ride for Charity

July 5, 2013

It’s not too late to pledge your support for this year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity.

Newsletter

Website improvements at OREA

July 5, 2013

The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) website continues to evolve to meet the needs of our students and members.

Newsletter

iCollege courses: Affordable and informative

July 5, 2013

How much do REALTORS® know about the Buyer Representation Agreement, the Listing Agreement, and the National Do Not Call list?

Newsletter

Safety is paramount for swimming pool owners

June 5, 2013

Ten seconds is all it takes for someone to drown.

Newsletter

Tips for owners of backyard pools

June 5, 2013

Vigilance - Never leave a child alone near water, not even for a second. Don’t be distracted by a ringing phone, doorbell, task or another child.

Newsletter

In the swim: Pools and real estate

June 5, 2013

If you’re selling a home with a swimming pool, be sure your buyer is aware of the risks and responsibilities as well as the benefits.

Newsletter

Housing starts moderate: CMHC

June 5, 2013

Monthly housing starts in Canada totalled 182,754 units compared to 188,369 a month earlier, according to a news release from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Low interest, flattening prices support market

June 5, 2013

Canada’s housing market is being supported by an unprecedented combination of low interest rates, flattening house prices and a strengthening economy, according to a recent survey.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Illegible document leads to complaint

June 5, 2013

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all names have been changed.

Newsletter

Merger of two boards announced

June 5, 2013

Two Ontario real estate boards have announced their merger following a membership vote on April 17.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Disclosing presence of sexual offender in neighbourhood

June 5, 2013

Questions sometimes arise in real estate about how to deal with the sale of a property in the neighbourhood of a convicted sex offender.

Newsletter

Electronic real estate transactions

June 5, 2013

The Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) successfully advocated for a legislative amendment to the Electronic Commerce Act, 2000, that would facilitate faster, smoother real estate transactions.

Newsletter

Support the Motorcycle Ride for Charity

June 5, 2013

Revving up their engines, REALTORS® from across the province will be participating in this year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity.

Newsletter

Attention to detail crucial at open houses

May 5, 2013

First impressions can apply to property as well as people.

Newsletter

Enhancing electronic real estate transactions the goal of lobby efforts

May 5, 2013

Electronic agreements of purchase and sale save time and money for consumers and REALTORS®.

Newsletter

NAR conference and expo

May 5, 2013

Registration opens on May 6 for the 2013 REALTORS® Conference & Expo organized by the U.S.-based National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Newsletter

Market Watch: First-time buyers still a force

May 5, 2013

Four in 10 Canadians who plan to enter the housing market in the next two years are first-time buyers, according to a new poll.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Tell your story visually with infographics

May 5, 2013

Example of a word cloudA picture is worth a thousand words, which helps explain the growing popularity of infographics (information + graphics).

Newsletter

Marijuana grow-op registry supported by OREA

May 5, 2013

The creation of a province-wide registry of homes that were former marijuana grow operations or clandestine drug laboratories is the goal of a bill introduced in the provincial legislature and supported by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Research provides snapshot of REALTORS®

May 5, 2013

A new survey by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) offers a snapshot of the association&rsquo;s members across the province.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Confusion over condo boundaries leads to decade of litigation

May 5, 2013

The buyer in this case bought a condominium unit in Toronto. She was under the impression that the unit comprised three floors, from the basement floor up to the ceiling of the third floor of a townhouse complex.

Newsletter

Annual report now available

May 5, 2013

Find out what your association has been doing for you over the past year.

Newsletter

Stay connected with OREA app

May 5, 2013

Get up-to-the-minute news on the real estate industry that you can easily share through the free OREA application for iPhone and iPad.

Newsletter

Single parenting a challenge in real estate

April 5, 2013

Working in real estate is a challenge at the best of times, but combining it with single parenthood is even more daunting.

Newsletter

Foundation supports worthy causes

April 5, 2013

Many people are not aware of all of the charitable work and volunteer time that REALTORS&reg; contribute to worthy causes.

Newsletter

Many boomers don‘t plan to downsize: survey

April 5, 2013

Despite the perception that aging baby boomers may create a glut of traditional single-family homes as they downsize into smaller residences, a new survey shows that demand for suburban detached homes remains strong among those born between 1947 and 1966.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Housing starts show moderation

April 5, 2013

Housing starts in Canada totalled 195,087 units in February, revealing a moderation in demand for housing that means builders are adjusting accordingly, according to a recent news release from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.

Newsletter

Taking your website from static to standout

April 5, 2013

Taking your website from static to “standout” was the subject of a talk I heard recently in New York. Nicole Nicolay (@nik_nik), founder of Agent Evolution, spoke about ways to transform your website from the same old static venue into something that stands out from the rest and helps generate more business leads.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Plenty of blame to go around in RECO case

April 5, 2013

This situation involved two salespeople who worked at the same brokerage.

Newsletter

New OREA 2013 board of directors

April 5, 2013

The Ontario Real Estate Association officially installed its new President and Board of Directors at the Annual Assembly Meeting on March 6.

Newsletter

Duty of care to clients and customers

March 5, 2013

The difference between a client and a customer is a crucial one in real estate.

Newsletter

RECO announces changes to mandatory continuing education

March 5, 2013

The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) recently announced changes to the way that mandatory continuing education is delivered to real estate registrants in the province, effective Aug. 1.

Newsletter

Shoe cover dispensers keep floors clean

March 5, 2013

If you want floors and carpets to stay clean at open houses, an automatic shoe cover dispenser may interest you.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Brief mild correction forecast

March 5, 2013

Fewer homes are expected to trade hands in the first half of 2013, which should slow the pace at which home prices rise, according to a new survey.

Newsletter

My first steps as a REALTOR® and working mom

March 5, 2013

When I started working as a real estate administrator, I was 19 years old, didn&rsquo;t own property and definitely didn&rsquo;t have kids. I had a nine-to-five job and was ready to take on the world.

Newsletter

Tax credit supports accessibility for seniors

March 5, 2013

A tax credit for modifications to help Ontario seniors make modifications in their homes to improve accessibility is now available.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Property tax dispute leads to appeal court

March 5, 2013

The owner of a Toronto apartment building appealed his property tax assessment. Before the city made a decision on the taxes, he sold the property.

Newsletter

Items can be viewed before voting

March 5, 2013

Members of the Ontario Real Estate Association who wish to examine proposed amendments to the OREA By-law prior to the Annual Assembly meeting can access the material on the OREA website.

Newsletter

OREA events in March

March 5, 2013

The OREA Open Forum, Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 6.

Newsletter

OREA website a hit

March 5, 2013

The OREA website continues to attract more viewers with features that make it faster and easier to find what you need.

Newsletter

Winter's tale: When the money isn't coming in

February 18, 2013

If you’re used to a regular paycheque, working for commission can be a big adjustment.

Newsletter

REALTORS® are home owners too

February 18, 2013

Most REALTORS® (88 per cent) surveyed for recent OREA research own their own homes.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Fewer mortgages in arrears: CMHC report

February 18, 2013

As a result of prudent mortgage lending practices, the number of mortgages in arrears in Canada has been trending downward, according to a report released recently by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Newsletter

App provides easy access to OREA services

February 18, 2013

iPhone with OREA appA dynamic new mobile application has been launched by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Pinterest for business

February 18, 2013

Pinterest is a virtual bulletin board that lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Home renovation not substantial enough for rebate

February 18, 2013

After being denied a tax rebate for a home renovation, this Quebec taxpayer appealed. He had applied for a GST rebate through a program that enabled home owners to recoup some costs for work on a new residential complex or one that had undergone substantial renovation.

Newsletter

OREA events in March

February 18, 2013

The OREA Open Forum, Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 6, 2013.

Newsletter

Leadership podcasts available

February 18, 2013

Gain valuable insights into leadership in just five minutes. Podcasts featuring a variety of renowned speakers and authors are now available for you to hear in short segments via the Ontario Real Estate Association website.

Newsletter

Thriving Young Professionals Network

February 18, 2013

The Young Professionals Network (YPN) at the Ontario Real Estate Association continues to grow.

Newsletter

Preparing for the booming seniors' market

January 24, 2013

The baby boom generation forms a demographic bulge that has reshaped society as it passed through.

Newsletter

Stopping the municipal land transfer tax

January 24, 2013

Municipalities in Ontario are gearing up to force the province to grant them the authority to charge a municipal land transfer tax (LTT) on home buyers.

Newsletter

Insuring a heritage home can be challenging

January 24, 2013

The market for heritage homes – although not as frenetic as the condo boom -- has rapidly gained interest in recent years.

Newsletter

Tablet ownership on rise

January 24, 2013

Almost half of REALTORS® (47 per cent) own a tablet computer, and nearly 62 per cent said they plan to buy one within the next two years.

Newsletter

MarketWatch: Slight improvement in affordability

January 24, 2013

Canada’s housing market became more affordable as a result of modest declines in home prices and further gains in household incomes, according to a new report.

Newsletter

Ontarians want to know home’s grow-op history

January 24, 2013

An overwhelming majority of Ontario residents (93 per cent) want to know if the home they plan to buy was once a marijuana grow-op or clandestine drug lab, a new survey reveals.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Document in commercial case means what it says

January 24, 2013

The owners of a hotel first listed their property for sale with a RE/MAX brokerage, where Angelo Muraco worked as their REALTOR®. Although several potential buyers expressed interest, no sale occurred.

Newsletter

Save the date

January 24, 2013

The OREA Open Forum, Annual Assembly Meeting and REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting will take place on Wednesday, March 6 at the Sheraton Centre Hotel, 123 Queen Street West, Toronto.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

January 24, 2013

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride supports charity

January 24, 2013

The Motorcycle Ride for Charity organized by the REALTORS Care Foundation has now raised more than $30,000.

Newsletter

Video promotes volunteering

January 24, 2013

A new video to help your real estate board recruit new volunteers has been developed by the OREA Centre for Leadership Development.

Newsletter

Foundation brochure highlights good work

January 24, 2013

A new brochure has been published highlighting the good work of REALTORS® in fundraising for charities and shelters in Ontario.

Newsletter

Warning signs of potential real estate fraud

December 5, 2012

It may be as simple as falsifying information on a mortgage application.

Newsletter

New videos promote REALTOR® value

December 5, 2012

Two videos that promote the value of using a REALTOR® have been created by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Entrepreneurs plan to hire

December 5, 2012

More Canadian entrepreneurs are planning to hire employees this year, according to a new survey.

Newsletter

MarketWatch: Prices up but sales fall

December 5, 2012

Canadian prices have edged up but the number of house sales has fallen compared to the same period last year, according to a recent survey.

Newsletter

Lifestyle marketing: The next big thing

December 5, 2012

When we sell a property, our product is not just four walls and a roof.

Newsletter

Identity theft hits real estate professional

December 5, 2012

Newsletter

User-friendly upgrade for WEBForms®

December 5, 2012

Ontario real estate salespeople and brokers who use WEBForms® should watch for upgrades to this product in the new year.

Newsletter

Value for your OREA dues

December 5, 2012

The $110 per year that you pay to the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) enables you as a member to receive products and services that are most important to you.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Failure to communicate leads to botched deal

December 5, 2012

This Ontario deal was supposed to close on July 27, but the transaction failed to close. The seller resold the property and sued the buyer for losses of $28,000.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

December 5, 2012

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Updates to forms and clauses

December 5, 2012

Updated forms and clauses will soon be available on the Ontario Real Estate Association website.

Newsletter

Last call: It’s our birthday and you get the gifts

December 5, 2012

The OREA Real Estate College is offering every member a free nine-credit bundle of Continuing Education online courses.

Newsletter

Is anyone there? Vacant possession and the APS

November 15, 2012

Vacant possession & the APSThe concept of vacant possession is sometimes glossed over by real estate practitioners, but you ignore it at your peril.

Newsletter

Sellers want to understand market and legal processes

November 15, 2012

Beyond worrying about the state of the real estate market, Ontarians are most concerned about understanding the process and legal documents when selling a home, a new survey reveals.

Newsletter

Preparing for severe weather

November 15, 2012

Severe weather and hurricanes can have a devastating impact on communities and homes, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, which follows developments related to severe weather across the country.

Newsletter

MarketWatch: Farmland prices reach new heights

November 15, 2012

The value of Canadian farmland continues to reach new heights, according to the RE/MAX Market Trends Report, Farm Edition 2012.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Tips to keep your online passwords safe

November 15, 2012

We often hear that “strong” passwords are an important part of keeping our online transactions safe.

Newsletter

Join research panel for chance to win $1,000

November 15, 2012

Share your voice and let us know what the Ontario Real Estate Association can do for you.

Newsletter

New OREA mobile app to be launched

November 15, 2012

A dynamic new mobile application is being developed by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Multiple representation and the dangers of duality

November 15, 2012

While working on Legal Forum, I received the following question from a REALTOR® on an issue related to multiple representation, formerly known as dual agency.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – Ontario Real Estate Association

November 15, 2012

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2013 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Call for candidates - REALTORS Care Foundation

November 15, 2012

Interested in running for a position on the Foundation’s 2013 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

National customer service week

November 15, 2012

The Ontario Real Estate Association joined thousands of companies around the world to participate in National Customer Service Week.

Newsletter

Political affairs conference

November 15, 2012

The Ontario Real Estate Association is holding its Political Affairs Conference (PAC) this month.

Newsletter

It’s our birthday and you get the gifts

November 15, 2012

The OREA Real Estate College is offering every member a free nine-credit bundle of Continuing Education online courses.

Newsletter

CSAE volunteer award

November 15, 2012

Dinaz Garda, CAE, manager, executive office operations at OREA, has been honoured with the 2012 President’s Award from the Trillium Chapter of the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE).

Newsletter

Form frenzy: Waivers mistakenly used over fulfillments

October 12, 2012

In the heat of real estate deals, changes to documents often happen quickly in a flurry of pen strokes.

Newsletter

Buyers prize safety, value, location

October 12, 2012

Safety, perceived value and a location close to shopping or transportation are the most important factors Ontarians consider when buying a home, according to a new survey.

Newsletter

Rookie mistakes by first-time buyers

October 12, 2012

The majority of buyers say they would have done some things differently after purchasing a home, according to a new survey.

Newsletter

MarketWatch: National housing market at tipping point

October 12, 2012

The average price of a home in Canada increased year-over-year between 3.3 and 5.5% in the second quarter of 2012, according to The Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast.

Newsletter

Political affairs conference focuses on three issues

October 12, 2012

November is fast approaching, and so is OREA’s Political Affairs Conference (PAC).

Newsletter

RECO decision: Absence of seller leads to problems

October 12, 2012

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all names have been changed.

Newsletter

Podcasts on leadership available to members

October 12, 2012

Podcasts on leadership available to OREA membersYou can gain valuable insights into leadership in just five minutes.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: No deal and no commission without clear title

October 12, 2012

In a typical real estate transaction, the sellers must provide clear title on closing. The OREA agreement of purchase and sale (APS) says:

Newsletter

New service for OREA members

October 12, 2012

A member of OREA who is the subject of a RECO complaint can now speak with OREA lawyer Diana Russo, who will provide legal information on the RECO investigative and adjudicative process.

Newsletter

It’s our birthday and you get the gifts

October 12, 2012

The OREA Real Estate College is offering every member a free nine-credit bundle of Continuing Education online courses.

Newsletter

Foundation gala supports good cause

October 12, 2012

The REALTORS Care Foundation will host a gala on Saturday, Oct. 20 at the Premiere Ballroom & Convention Centre in Richmond Hill, north of Toronto.

Newsletter

Charity golf tournament raises $8,000

October 12, 2012

Local REALTORS® from the Rideau-St. Lawrence Real Estate Board raised more than $8,000 in a golf tournament that they donated to five food banks in the area.

Newsletter

Married to it: Real estate spouses must juggle schedules

September 4, 2012

When her husband started his real estate career, Elaine Rocca recalls that he worked most evenings and was often out until 1 and 2 a.m. presenting offers and getting established in the field.

Newsletter

Movement toward mergers in some real estate boards

September 4, 2012

Real estate in cottage country often attracts more attention in warmer months, but this year several areas piqued the interest of more than just consumers -- real estate professionals were watching closely too.

Newsletter

New registrar announced by RECO

September 4, 2012

The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) announced the appointment of Joseph (Joe) Richer as its next registrar, effective Sept. 17.

Newsletter

Focus on global property investment

September 4, 2012

The seventh annual Global Property Market Conference offers a unique, targeted opportunity for strategic information and networking on investment and development around the world.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Canadians support small business: survey

September 4, 2012

An overwhelming majority of Canadians (94 per cent) believe small businesses play a crucial role in the economy’s growth and almost nine in 10 view them as vital job creators, according to a new survey.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Once it's sold, it's sold

September 4, 2012

The law indicates that on the date the bank signs an unconditional agreement of purchase and sale with a buyer, the original borrower has no further legal right to pay off his mortgage.

Newsletter

Political affairs conference in November

September 4, 2012

The Ontario Real Estate Association will hold its 2012 Political Affairs Conference (PAC) from November 20 to 22 at Toronto’s Courtyard Marriott Hotel.

Newsletter

Watch for upcoming YPN events

September 4, 2012

Several events are being planned this fall by the Young Professionals Network (YPN) at the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride supports charity

September 4, 2012

Motorcycle riders braved extreme heat this past July to participate in the Motorcycle Ride for Charity that left from the Ontario Real Estate Association’s Don Mills headquarters.

Newsletter

It's our birthday - and you get the gifts

September 4, 2012

The OREA Real Estate College is offering every member a free nine-credit bundle of Continuing Education online courses.

Newsletter

KWAR celebrates 75th anniversary

September 4, 2012

The Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® (KWAR) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Formed in 1937, the association now represents more than 1,200 real estate professionals and is the 15th largest real estate association in Canada.

Newsletter

Respect the client relationships of other brokerages

August 8, 2012

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Newsletter

Interview with outgoing RECO registrar

August 8, 2012

After 10 years as registrar at the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), Allan Johnston is retiring at the end of July.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Renters may make cottages affordable

August 8, 2012

A recent Royal LePage national survey shows that potential cottage buyers and those already in the market have different plans for generating income.

Newsletter

Ride the waves at 2012 RealREIT

August 8, 2012

The 2012 RealREIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) Conference takes place on Sept. 19 in Toronto.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Pin your hopes on Pinterest

August 8, 2012

Even if you aren’t yet a user of Pinterest, you’ve likely heard of it. Similar to a corkboard or bulletin board, this electronic locale allows you to “tack” or “pin” visuals and text to view and share with others online.

Newsletter

It’s our birthday -- and you get the gifts!

August 8, 2012

Celebrating OREA's 90th BirthdayThe OREA Real Estate College is offering every member a free nine-credit bundle of Continuing Education online courses.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Buyer presented no evidence of water problem

August 8, 2012

The action arose after a house was purchased by the plaintiff, Ms. H. Graham in the City of West Quinte in 2002.

Newsletter

Letter to the editor

August 8, 2012

I really liked the article, “Keep clothing professional” that appeared in REALTOR® EDGE’s June issue. I’d like to add a couple of points:

Newsletter

Proposal supports electronic transactions

August 8, 2012

A private member’s bill that would facilitate the use of electronic agreements of purchase and sale for real estate transactions was introduced recently in the provincial legislature, and the concept has been endorsed by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

Newmarket brokerage wins team spirit award

August 8, 2012

For the fourth consecutive year, the Newmarket Century 21 Heritage Group has won the team spirit award for the Heart & Stroke Foundation’s York North BIG Bike fundraiser.

Newsletter

Watch for upcoming YPN events

August 8, 2012

The Young Professionals Network (YPN) at the Ontario Real Estate Association has hosted several successful events recently, and more are scheduled in the future.

Newsletter

REALTOR® value videos win more awards

August 8, 2012

Two OREA videos that highlight the value of using a REALTOR® have won several awards recently.

Newsletter

Legal Forum reaches a milestone

June 11, 2012

Image of scales of justiceLegal Forum, one of the most popular features on the Ontario Real Estate Association’s website, has received its 5,000th question.

Newsletter

Keep clothing professional even in summer

June 11, 2012

As the weather warms up, hemlines seem to get shorter, necklines get lower and toes begin to make public appearances.

Newsletter

Commercial real estate conference in Ottawa

June 11, 2012

Discover what’s new in the commercial real estate industry at BOMEX, the Building Owners and Managers Association annual conference and exhibition, to be held Sept. 11 to 13 at the Westin Ottawa Hotel.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Ontarians positive about housing market

June 11, 2012

A house or condo is a good investment, according to nine out of 10 Ontarians, who show more confidence in real estate than those surveyed in other Canadian regions, according to the 19th annual RBC Homeownership Poll.

Newsletter

Find your unique value proposition in real estate

June 11, 2012

In order to stand out in the real estate industry, you need to find your UVP.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Buyers ignored red flags, judge rules

June 11, 2012

The buyers did not have enough money on the closing date of July 6, 1999, to complete their deal. Their REALTOR® lent them $74,500.

Newsletter

REALTOR® value videos win prestigious award

June 11, 2012

Two OREA videos that highlight the value of using a REALTOR® won a silver medal from the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) recently.

Newsletter

Electronic workshops offered to OREA members

June 11, 2012

If you’d like to take some professional development on leadership but are short on time or travel funds, a new eWorkshop format may be right for you.

Newsletter

Call volume up over last year

June 11, 2012

The volume of phone calls into the Customer Service Centre at OREA is up about 11 per cent over the same quarter last year, according to recent figures.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride for charity leaves from OREA

June 11, 2012

Registration is now taking place for the Motorcycle Ride for Charity organized by the REALTORS Care Foundation.

Newsletter

RECO online transfers and terminations

June 11, 2012

The Real Estate Council of Ontario has launched a new service that allows online transfers and terminations.

Newsletter

OREA achieves national green status

May 6, 2012

The Ontario Real Estate Association has been awarded a prestigious national designation for outstanding environmental efforts.

Newsletter

Ask questions about UFFI in real estate transactions

May 6, 2012

Although the number of homes containing UFFI (urea formaldehyde foam insulation) has declined greatly in recent years, many real estate documents still take into account the existence of this controversial substance.

Newsletter

On the Markets: Optimism over economy declines, says survey

May 6, 2012

Ontarians were among the most optimistic in the country about the national economy two years ago, but their outlook has been sliding and they are now among the least optimistic, according to a recent survey.

Newsletter

Check water damage coverage, IBC urges

May 6, 2012

With warmer-than-normal temperatures occurring in many regions over the past winter, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is encouraging Canadians to ensure that they have adequate water damage protection on their home insurance policies.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Continued higher house prices predicted

May 6, 2012

Ontario’s economic prospects for the next three years include moderate growth and continued high unemployment as government spending is cut and businesses expand carefully.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Early birds break the rules

May 6, 2012

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all names have been changed.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Telephone Discussion not an agreement, judge rules

May 6, 2012

In this case, a REALTOR® sued for $1.25 million for commission related to undeveloped land sold for $29 million following the death of a farmer and landowner.

Newsletter

Annual report distributed around Ontario

May 6, 2012

The new annual report of the Ontario Real Estate Association has been published and distributed to real estate boards across the province.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride for charity in July

May 6, 2012

Registration is now taking place for the Motorcycle Ride for Charity organized by the REALTORS Care Foundation.

Newsletter

OREApedia adds new topic

May 6, 2012

A new topic, Respect Client Relationships, has now been posted to OREApedia.

Newsletter

Fans of Facebook

May 6, 2012

More than 2,500 people now “like” the OREA Real Estate College Facebook page, the college reported.

Newsletter

Do your homework when choosing a mover

April 3, 2012

For some consumers, the most daunting aspect of the buying or selling process is the move itself.

Newsletter

Tapping into a trillion dollar boomer market

April 3, 2012

The baby boomers are flexing their demographic muscle once again.

Newsletter

New website dedicated to commercial title insurance

April 3, 2012

Canada’s largest insurer of commercial titles, First Canadian Title, recently launched a website designed specifically for the commercial real estate market.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Steady as she goes in year ahead

April 3, 2012

Housing markets are expected to remain steady in 2012 and 2013, according to the latest Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing Market Outlook.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Trans-Atlantic meeting leads to lawsuit

April 3, 2012

The original meeting took place in England, where an Ontario real estate professional was participating in an emigration fair.

Newsletter

New board of directors at OREA

April 3, 2012

A new board of directors was installed for 2012 at the annual OREA leadership conference in Toronto.

Newsletter

Change of address for RECO

April 3, 2012

The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) has moved office locations, as of March 26.

Newsletter

RECO candidates invited to OREA area meetings

April 3, 2012

Candidates running for a seat on the RECO board of directors are invited to attend an upcoming OREA area meeting.

Newsletter

The ABCs of prospecting techniques

March 4, 2012

In Glengarry Glen Ross, a movie based on the play by David Mamet, motivational salesperson Blake confronts the employees of a Chicago real estate office about their less than stellar performances.

Newsletter

OREA celebrates 90th anniversary

March 4, 2012

Back in 1922, a loaf of bread cost 12 cents and a pound of butter set you back about 70 cents.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Google+ your business

March 4, 2012

A few months ago, here in the Wired Office column in REALTOR® EDGE, you read about Google+, which is yet another social media platform that enables people to connect on the Web.

Newsletter

Land and development conference in May

March 4, 2012

Learn about development strategies, challenges, opportunities and risks as well as where land values in the Greater Golden Horseshoe are heading at the Real Estate Forum’s Land and Development Conference on May 1 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Price correction unlikely: report

March 4, 2012

House prices are expected to continuing going up across the country despite some high-profile reports to the contrary, a new survey reports.

Newsletter

Young Professionals Network invites members of all ages

March 4, 2012

More than eight out of 10 REALTORS® in the province are 40 years of age or older, according to a recent survey by the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Advertising should be current and reflect reality

March 4, 2012

The developer in this Alberta case marketed land that was not yet subdivided.

Newsletter

Call for RECO board nominations

March 4, 2012

Members of the Real Estate Council of Ontario who are interested in serving on its 2012 board of directors are required to submit their nomination forms by Monday, April 2 no later than 2:00 p.m.

Newsletter

New price index launched by CREA

March 4, 2012

The Canadian Real Estate Association has launched the MLS® Home Price Index, in partnership with: the Toronto Real Estate Board, Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, Fraser Valley Real Estate Board,

Newsletter

Leadership education ranked outstanding

March 4, 2012

The OREA Centre for Leadership Development is the only one of its kind in North America, providing comprehensive, phased-in training to volunteer association leaders.

Newsletter

Slow seasons in real estate call for business plan

February 7, 2012

It’s a field known for seasonal ups and downs and market shifts.

Newsletter

Holdover clause is an ounce of prevention

February 7, 2012

Although many OREA standard clauses are designed to protect your clients, the holdover clause in a listing agreement was specifically created to protect REALTORS® by ensuring that you receive the commission you’ve earned if a house sells.

Newsletter

Conference focuses on going green

February 7, 2012

The Real Estate Forum’s Green Real Estate conference will examine the economics, benefits and value of green buildings.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Stable resale market predicted

February 7, 2012

Ontario housing demand is expected to slow in the coming months due to fewer first-time buyers and a modest pace in economic and job growth, says a recent CMHC report.

Newsletter

On the Markets: Retiring baby boomers may generate activity

February 7, 2012

Forty per cent of baby boomers in Ontario plan to move for their retirement, but many are waiting to sell their homes in the hope that values will increase, according to a recent report.

Newsletter

RECO: Registrant fails to check status of listing

February 7, 2012

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed. All names have been changed.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Case illustrates how not to represent a buyer

February 7, 2012

This case involved the sale of a Niagara Falls motel. The registrant, Neelam Bhalla and her brokerage, Sutton Group Results, acted in a multiple representation (dual agency) situation in the sale of the motel by Surma, the seller, to the buyers.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

February 7, 2012

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Donation to human rights museum

February 7, 2012

Ontario REALTORS® have made a significant contribution to human rights with a donation of $55,000 to the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Newsletter

Assembly Meeting open to members

February 7, 2012

All members are invited to attend the OREA Annual Assembly Meeting on Wednesday, February 29 at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre Hotel, 123 Queen Street West.

Newsletter

Foundation Meeting open to members

February 7, 2012

Immediately following the OREA Annual Assembly Meeting (see previous item) on February 29 will be the first REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting and elections for the foundation board of directors,

Newsletter

Leadership speakers featured at conference

February 7, 2012

The 2012 OREA Leadership Conference takes place from Feb. 28 to March 1 and features various motivating speakers at the event at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre Hotel.

Newsletter

Whose side are you on anyway? Multiple representation is a complex scenario

January 7, 2012

Representing more than one party in the same deal is a challenging scenario in real estate.

Newsletter

Advertising guidelines simplified by RECO

January 7, 2012

Issues related to advertising in real estate were among the most common complaints about registrants to the Real Estate Council of Ontario over the past year, according to the council’s 2010-2011 annual report.

Newsletter

New and revised forms for 2012 from OREA

January 7, 2012

Standard forms produced by the Ontario Real Estate Association play an important role in the day-to-day business of brokers and salespeople across the province.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Use appropriate forms to avoid litigation

January 7, 2012

This case raises the issue of whether a real estate brokerage is entitled to a portion of the commission from the listing brokerage after a commercial sale when a Confirmation of Co-operation and Representation (OREA Form 320) has not been signed.

Newsletter

Mortgage broker re-licensing education

January 7, 2012

Licensed mortgage brokers or agents in Ontario will need to take an approved re-licensing (RE) course in order to renew their licenses by March 31, 2012.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Farmland prices on the rise

January 7, 2012

Rising agricultural values and tight inventory have pushed the price of Ontario farmland up significantly in the past year, according to RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada.

Newsletter

Assembly Meeting open to members

January 7, 2012

All members are invited to attend the OREA Annual Assembly Meeting on Wednesday, February 29 at Toronto’s Sheraton Centre Hotel, 123 Queen Street West.

Newsletter

Foundation Meeting open to members

January 7, 2012

Immediately following the OREA Annual Assembly Meeting (see item above) on February 29 will be the first REALTORS Care Foundation Annual General Meeting and elections for the Foundation board of directors, with real estate boards being the voting members.

Newsletter

Become a better salesperson by honing your skills

December 3, 2011

You knew this going in – you need certain skills to be a successful real estate salesperson.

Newsletter

A new and better website at OREA

December 3, 2011

The Ontario Real Estate Association website has undergone a major renovation.

Newsletter

Wired Office: What to look for in an e-Reader

December 3, 2011

The wind is howling and the snow is falling. Safe and cozy indoors with a warm fire roaring in the fireplace, you are curled up in your favourite chair, happily reading your… ebook.

Newsletter

Home Ownership Matters campaign a success

December 3, 2011

The Ontario Real Estate Association hit the campaign trail during this fall’s provincial election with the Home Ownership Matters initiative.

Newsletter

Customer service the focus of accessibility law

December 3, 2011

Did you know that, as of January 1, 2012, a new law takes effect? The Customer Service Standard of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is part of a goal to make Ontario completely accessible for persons with disabilities by 2025.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Real estate professionals anxious over future

December 3, 2011

Canadian real estate professionals are increasingly anxious about prospects for the next year, as a sector that has led the country’s economic recovery shows signs of slowing along with the broader world economy.

Newsletter

RCMP launches grow-op strategy

December 3, 2011

Addresses of Canadian homes containing dismantled marijuana grow-ops will now be listed on the RCMP website as part of the National Grow Initiative.

Newsletter

Legal Beat: Title insurance can be a deal saver

December 3, 2011

A typical Ontario Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) requires that the sellers provide clear title on a property, subject to the stated matters that buyers accept.

Newsletter

OREApedia a terrific resource

January 3, 2011

Fifty-four real estate topics are now posted to OREApedia.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteers

December 3, 2011

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Handling stress in the field of real estate

November 3, 2011

Experiencing stressStiff competition, erratic hours, and an uncertain income are just a few of the reasons that a career in real estate can be stressful.

Newsletter

Reaching an agreement: Learn the essentials of the APS

November 3, 2011

One of the most important forms used in real estate on a regular basis is the Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS).

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Marijuana grow-op not disclosed

November 3, 2011

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed. All names have been changed.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: House prices rally due to low rates, stable economy

November 3, 2011

The average price of a home in Canada increased between 5.7 and 7.8 per cent in the third quarter of 2011, compared to the previous year, according to a recent Royal LePage report.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Students in townhouse complex violate family provisions

November 3, 2011

A North Bay condominium corporation brought an application against the owners of townhouse units to enforce the terms of the declaration and bylaw registered many years ago.

Newsletter

Commercial real estate investment conference

November 3, 2011

The 2011 Real Estate Forum promises a hard-hitting and information-packed two days.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Canadian real estate outperforms in developed world

November 3, 2011

Canada’s housing market stands out among developed world nations for its resilience and longevity, according to a recent report by Scotia Economics.

Newsletter

Call for candidates – OREA

November 3, 2011

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2012 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Call for candidates - REALTORS Care Foundation

November 3, 2011

In February 2011, the voting members of the REALTORS Care Foundation passed the revised REALTORS Care Foundation Bylaw.

Newsletter

Break out of the mould: Watch for mould and water damage in homes

October 3, 2011

It’s a scenario you dread: You’re showing your clients the home of their dreams. Every room is better than the last and they’re falling in love with the place, when suddenly they recoil in horror and beat a hasty path to the door. The culprit? The harsh spectre of mould.

Newsletter

Doing business under the Do Not Call legislation

October 3, 2011

In a profession that relies on cold calls and consumer contacts, the national Do Not Call List may seem like an impossible roadblock for real estate professionals.

Newsletter

Ontarians moving more often

October 3, 2011

Seven out of 10 repeat home buyers in Ontario (71 per cent) are moving to larger or more luxurious homes and many are doing so earlier than originally planned.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Outlook positive for commercial real estate

October 3, 2011

Canada’s top real estate executives are predicting a bright future for commercial real estate.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Resale housing market to stabilize by 2012

October 3, 2011

Fewer buyers and more listings will result in a more balanced resale housing market in Ontario over the next year, according to the third quarter Housing Market Outlook by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Tenant had no right to sell

October 3, 2011

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed. All names have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Time well spent explaining Buyer Representation Agreements

October 3, 2011

A real estate brokerage sued for its commission under a signed Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA).

Newsletter

OREA volunteer leadership training in demand

October 3, 2011

The leadership training that has been developed by the OREA Centre for Leadership Development is in demand from other outside organizations.

Newsletter

“Like” us on Facebook

October 3, 2011

More than 2,000 people “like” the OREA Real Estate College Facebook page.

Newsletter

OREA leader elected chair of CSAE

October 3, 2011

Ed Barisa, chief executive officer of the Ontario Real Estate Association, was elected chair of the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) at the society’s annual conference in Saskatoon in September.

Newsletter

Emotions can hinder sale of matrimonial home after a marriage breakdown

September 1, 2011

You’ll encounter many different situations over the course of your real estate career, but one that can be particularly tricky is the sale of a matrimonial home following a marriage breakdown.

Newsletter

You’ve got mail: New clause offers added choice for electronic transmission

September 1, 2011

Sending documents by email and through the internet is becoming increasingly common in business, including real estate.

Newsletter

Energy retrofit program renewed

September 1, 2011

The federal government has renewed the popular ecoENERGY Retrofit - Homes program. Until March 31, 2012, homeowners can receive grants up to $5,000 to make their homes more energy-efficient and save energy costs

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: More moderate housing market predicted

September 1, 2011

An unusually rapid recovery in the Canadian housing market played an important role in ensuring that Canada’s recession, although sharp, was also short, according to Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Why all the fuss over Google+?

September 1, 2011

Google has recently launched a new social media platform called Google+ (plus).

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Buyer faces host of problems with basement apartment

September 1, 2011

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed and all individual and corporate names have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT by Merv Burgard: Shedding light on storage facility’s lakeside location

September 1, 2011

An unexpected municipal work order required the sellers to move a lakeside storage shed away from the shoreline.

Newsletter

Charity motorcycle ride a success

September 1, 2011

This year’s Motorcycle Ride for Charity was a great success, with organizers anticipating that funds raised to support the REALTORS CARE Foundation may total more than $50,000 once all pledges are in.

Newsletter

OREA embraces social media

September 1, 2011

The Ontario Real Estate Association is at the forefront of new technologies by strategically developing a dynamic social media presence.

Newsletter

Let’s make a deal: Offers, counter-offers and the acceptance of offers

July 1, 2011

Success in real estate – as in hockey – is all about playing your best and maximizing your strengths to try to beat your opponents.

Newsletter

Working the farm: Prospecting and farming skills are vital for new salespeople

July 1, 2011

You’ve finished your real estate courses and you’re eager to get started, but how can you build a client base to grow your business?

Newsletter

Future of green building is focus of conference

July 1, 2011

The green building market is booming and is expected to reach $173.5 billion (U.S.) by 2015.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Housing market drives economic optimism

July 1, 2011

Although Canadians are still coping with the recession’s effects, they feel more optimistic about their personal finances and the housing market is playing a key role, a survey in Consumerology Report reveals.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Buyers bullish on recreational properties

July 1, 2011

Warmer weather often turns people’s thoughts to getting away from it all, and a recent survey reveals that many Ontarians love their cottages.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Restaurant listing never posted into system

July 1, 2011

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed. All individual and corporate names have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Do your homework on owner’s equity before listing property

July 1, 2011

When you meet your sellers, go over their financial position and ask some basic questions and confirm their answers. Here are some suggested questions to ask them before listing.

Newsletter

OREA blog launched

July 1, 2011

A new and exciting way to shop for tools to help you in your career is now available to students and members of the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

College develops online store for students and members

July 1, 2011

A new and exciting way to shop for tools to help you in your career is now available to students and members of the Ontario Real Estate Association.

Newsletter

Online exam option

July 1, 2011

The OREA Real Estate College has introduced an online exam option for both the admissions test and the examination for the first pre-registration course, Real Estate as a Professional Career.

Newsletter

Buyer Representation Agreements: Make sure buyers understand what they’re signing

June 1, 2011

The most common complaint to the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) is from consumers who say they didn’t understand what they were signing when they entered into a Buyer Representation Agreement.

Newsletter

RECO revises website

June 1, 2011

A new website design has recently been launched by The Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO).

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Conventional mortgages still popular

June 1, 2011

Canadians are surprisingly conservative on the mortgage front despite a decade of low interest rates, according to a survey commissioned by ING DIRECT.

Newsletter

Advertising in real estate: Beware of pitfalls and know the rules

June 1, 2011

Advertising can be a powerful tool to attract potential clients, whether it’s through flyers, newspaper ads, billboards or blogs.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Secret codes or marketing tool Have you seen any white squares containing black dots and geometric lines lately?

June 1, 2011

Materializing with increasing frequency in magazines and on flyers, business cards, billboard ads and websites, these boxes with funky designs are known as Quick Response or QR codes.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Clients can and do make all kinds of claims after a loss

June 1, 2011

The buyer sued the sellers, the home inspector and her REALTOR® after water infiltration and basement flooding occurred in her Saskatchewan home.

Newsletter

Student handbook available online

June 1, 2011

A revised online version of Your Career in Real Estate: A Student Handbook has recently been released by the OREA Real Estate College.

Newsletter

Motorcycle ride stops at various boards

June 1, 2011

Pledge forms are still available for the Motorcycle Ride for Charity organized by the REALTORS Care Foundation.

Newsletter

Campaign College focuses on election

June 1, 2011

Members of the Ontario Real Estate Association from across the province came to Toronto in April for Campaign College, which took place over two days and gave members the tools and information they need to prepare for this fall’s provincial election.

Newsletter

Multiple choice, multiple opportunities: Helping your clients deal with multiple offers

May 4, 2011

In a seller’s market, multiple offers are common, but they can also happen in a balanced or buyer’s market.

Newsletter

New salespeople advised to hit the ground running for real estate success

May 4, 2011

Ask any REALTOR® to recall their first day on the job and most will tell you it was overwhelming.

Newsletter

Old woman in the shoe ad promotes REALTORS®

May 4, 2011

A television commercial featuring a modern day retelling of the Mother Goose fable of The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe is the latest addition to CREA’s national ad campaign.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: First-time buyers strive to get ahead of higher interest rates

May 4, 2011

Driven by the potential of higher interest rates in the future, first-time buyers are contributing to a strong upward momentum in residential housing markets across the country, according to a recent RE/MAX report.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Ontario economy set to grow in 2011

May 4, 2011

Ontario’s economy has picked up and posted its best performance since 2002, according to the latest Provincial Economic Outlook report by RBC Economics.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Registrant fined for falsifying documents

May 4, 2011

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed. All individual and corporate names have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: License to sell - Registration protects public by supervising mortgage brokers

May 4, 2011

Mr. Guido and his company worked to assist people with marketing and financing.

Newsletter

OREA News: Volunteerism awards recognize outstanding contributions

May 4, 2011

The efforts of volunteers were recognized at the 2011 OREA Annual Conference at Toronto’s Westin Harbour Castle Hotel.

Newsletter

Motorcycle Ride for charity takes place in July

May 4, 2011

Registration and pledge forms are now available for the Motorcycle Ride for Charity organized by the REALTORS Care™ Foundation.

Newsletter

Student handbook available online

May 4, 2011

A revised online version of Your Career in Real Estate: A Student Handbook has recently been released by the OREA Real Estate College.

Newsletter

Show me the money: The fate of the deposit if the deal falls through

April 1, 2011

You’ve worked hard to seal the deal and to get the buyer and seller to come to an agreement. But what happens to the deposit if the deal fails to close?

Newsletter

Video on home buying and HST released by OREA and provincial government

April 1, 2011

A video that explains to prospective buyers the facts about the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) and the housing market was recently released by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) and the provincial government.

Newsletter

Land and development conference coming up

April 1, 2011

Find out which market factors and dynamics are affecting land acquisition and development in the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH) at the 2011 Land and Development Conference on May 5 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Improved housing sales predicted

April 1, 2011

Canadian home sales for 2011 are expected to be better than previously predicted, thanks to improving consumer confidence which will partly offset the anticipated negative impact of interest rate hikes, The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) reports.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Personal branding - What it is and why it’s important

April 1, 2011

Lately, a new term has crept into business lingo -- “personal branding.” According to Wikipedia, personal branding is “the process whereby people and their careers are marked as brands.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Registrant fails to disclose financial interest in property

April 1, 2011

The following decision from RECO Discipline and Appeals Hearings has been condensed. All individual and corporate names have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: What’s in a name? Get personal signature on buyer representation agreement

April 1, 2011

The buyer and the REALTOR® had maintained a casual friendship and occasional business relationship for 15 years before the events that occurred leading to this action.

Newsletter

Sponsors contribute to conference success

April 1, 2011

The OREA 2011 Annual Conference at Toronto’s Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in March was a great success.

Newsletter

Campaign College focuses on provincial election

April 1, 2011

OREA staff members are busy finalizing the details for the 2011 OREA Campaign College scheduled to take place April 18 and 19 at the Sutton Place Hotel in downtown Toronto.

Newsletter

Jam with a Past President

April 1, 2011

Once again this year, the REALTORS Care™ Foundation has organized a Jam with a Past President event. Brian Walker, OREA’S President in 2007, hosts the annual event, which will be held during Campaign College (see item above).

Newsletter

Correction

March 1, 2011

The February issue of REALTOR® EDGE contained incorrect information in an article about power of sale.

Newsletter

Fascination with history plays role in appeal of heritage properties

March 1, 2011

Although Henry Ford famously remarked that “history is bunk,” people with a love of all things historical would disagree with the renowned automaker.

Newsletter

The price is right: Learning to price properties with confidence

March 1, 2011

Accurately pricing a property and listing it reasonably close to market value so that it’s not overpriced is an important aspect of a REALTOR®’s job.

Newsletter

New real estate mobile app launched by CIBC

March 1, 2011

CIBC recently introduced the Home Advisor App to give home buyers access to helpful information, tools, and advice right from their iPhone or BlackBerry while they’re out house hunting.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Survey uncovers trends among single home buyers

March 1, 2011

Although conventional wisdom suggests that most singles would rather live in an urban setting, a survey conducted by Coldwell Banker revealed that the majority of single homeowners (52 per cent) chose suburbia.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Canadian resale market to have a soft landing in 2011

March 1, 2011

Fears of a U.S.-style housing crash in Canada were unfounded and the resale market in this country has landed safely, according to a recent report by TD Economics.

Newsletter

RECO Case: Buyer’s experience dampened by water leakage and undisclosed multiple representation

March 1, 2011

The following decision has been condensed from RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Hearings and Appeals. All names have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Fixture or chattel? Arguments focus on status of motel sign

March 1, 2011

A large commercial sign situated on a piece of property in western Ontario is at the centre of this dispute.

Newsletter

Volunteer now and make a difference

March 1, 2011

Joining a committee or task force at OREA is a great way to serve your profession while enhancing your leadership skills.

Newsletter

Call for nominations for RECO 2011 election of directors

March 1, 2011

Members of the Real Estate Council of Ontario who are interested in serving on its board of directors are required to submit their nomination forms no later than 2:00 p.m. on Friday, April 1.

Newsletter

Campaign College advances real estate issues during election

March 1, 2011

To prepare member boards and associations to advance REALTOR® issues during provincial election years, OREA is hosting a two-day Campaign College.

Newsletter

Power of sale property must sell in “as is” condition

February 1, 2011

First you see that the lawn has not been cut and the weeds are taking over. Then you notice that the newspapers and mail are piling up on the front porch. The windows look dirty, and the house looks forlorn and neglected.

Newsletter

Vision for future of real estate technology unveiled

February 1, 2011

Giving a competitive edge to REALTORS® is the goal of several new technology innovations being developed by the Canadian Real Estate Association’s MLS® and Technology Council (MTC).

Newsletter

Growth of social media in U.S. real estate shown

February 1, 2011

Eighty per cent of REALTORS® in the United States use social media, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) technology survey for 2010.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Strong housing market predicted for early 2011

February 1, 2011

News of a strengthening economy and low interest rates may result in a stronger-than-expected housing market for early 2011.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Etiquette on the web: Always be polite

February 1, 2011

Canadians are enthusiastic users of the internet. Perhaps the long, cold winters push us towards our internet interfaces.

Newsletter

RECO Case: Failure to disclose commission agreement proves costly

February 1, 2011

The following decision has been condensed from RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Hearings and Appeals. All names of individuals, brokerages and other businesses have been changed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT by Mervin Burgard: Deal not dead if parties agree to another document

February 1, 2011

The buyer signed an Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) for a pre-sale unconstructed condominium unit that she wished to own. The document contained a condition that stated:

Newsletter

OREA Annual Assembly Meeting open to members

February 1, 2011

Newsletter

New mobile application for hand-held house hunting

January 3, 2011

A mobile application of REALTOR.ca for Windows® Phone 7 is now available to help consumers check out houses while they’re on the go, CREA announced.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: More balanced 2011 market predicted for homes

January 3, 2011

The market for resale homes in Canada was firmer for a third straight month in October 2010, suggesting a soft landing for the once red-hot sector and stable market conditions for the next two years, according to industry reports.

Newsletter

Uncertain forecast for commercial markets in 2011

January 3, 2011

Wishing they had a crystal ball, many commercial real estate experts expressed uncertainty about 2011 market prospects in the North American and global economies at the Annual Global Property Market and Toronto Real Estate Forum.

Newsletter

New year’s sales tips from the experts

January 3, 2011

The new year often inspires people to make a fresh start, spurring a rush to the self-help section of bookstores everywhere.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Canadians wary of household debt risks

January 3, 2011

Canadians are very cognizant of the dangers of excessive debt leverage, according to a special report by Scotia Economics.

Newsletter

RECO Case: Unsuspecting buyers get less than they bargained for

January 3, 2011

The following decision from RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals has been condensed.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT by Mervin Burgard: Disclose the fact that suicide took place

January 3, 2011

A question was asked about whether a builder was obligated to disclose to a buyer that an intruder broke into a house and committed suicide just before the sale closed.

Newsletter

OREA NEWS: OREA Annual Assembly Meeting open to members

January 3, 2011

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Assembly Meeting on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto.

Newsletter

OREA office applying for LEED status

January 3, 2011

The Ontario Real Estate Association has applied to the Canada Green Building Council for LEED status for its renovated headquarters in Don Mills.

Newsletter

Looking for volunteer leaders

January 3, 2011

Joining a committee or task force is a great way to meet colleagues and make a contribution to the real estate profession.

Newsletter

Two new topics posted to OREApedia

January 3, 2011

REALTORS® can check out the two new topics posted to OREApedia recently.

Newsletter

Podcast offers tips for home staging

December 12, 2010

BMO (Bank of Montreal) has added the Happy Homeowner to its First-Time Homebuyers series of podcasts.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Nine-in-ten Ontario boomers plan to downsize

December 12, 2010

For their next move, Ontario boomers are looking to downsize to smaller homes.

Newsletter

What does the CREA competition consent agreement mean to REALTORS®?

December 12, 2010

Now that an agreement has been reached between CREA and the Commissioner of Competition does that mean the public can list properties on the MLS® System? Not without a REALTOR® they can’t.

Newsletter

Over half of Ontarians confused about HST and resale homes

December 12, 2010

A full 56 percent of Ontarians mistakenly believe that the new Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) applies to the full purchase price of a resale home, according to an Ipsos Reid survey commissioned by the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA).

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: iPads and PlayBooks and Slates, oh my!

December 12, 2010

With the holiday season coming there has been much ado about a new breed of technology currently being referred to as the digital tablet.

Newsletter

REALTOR® trademark is a valuable asset

December 12, 2010

One of the benefits of being a member of organized real estate is the right to call yourself a REALTOR®.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Take care when drafting exclusions

December 12, 2010

The sellers had serious legal disputes with their neighbours Ms. Belzberg and Mr. Knechtel about restrictive covenants. That went to court and the sellers lost.

Newsletter

Looking for leaders

December 12, 2010

If you’ve ever thought of serving your profession, why not sign up for an OREA committee?

Newsletter

Public Career Night a success

December 12, 2010

The first-ever educational open house aimed at promoting real estate as a career was a great success for the OREA Real Estate College.

Newsletter

Leadership courses presented at NAR conference in U.S.

December 12, 2010

At a recent meeting of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in New Orleans, two volunteer leadership training courses developed by the OREA Centre for Leadership Development were presented to participants at the U.S. meeting on request from the Americans.

Newsletter

TD targets young Canadians with online budgeting tools

November 12, 2010

In a recent TD Poll, which compared investment attitudes of Gen X (born between 1965 and 1976) and Gen Y (born after 1980), Gen Xers said saving more each month, paying off debt, and opening an RSP are the top financial decisions they would make differently if they were 25 again.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Canadian Housing activity hit $307 billion

November 12, 2010

The value of housing activity related to new home construction, as well as the rental, sale and renovation of existing homes in Canada reached $307 billion in 2009, or more than one-fifth of Canada’s total gross domestic product, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) latest Canadian Housing Observer report.

Newsletter

Many OREA Standard Forms revised for 2011

November 12, 2010

A new Seller Commission Agreement form will help protect the commission of co-operating brokers in situations where they are dealing directly with the seller. This new form was created for 2011 and a large number of existing forms have been revised.

Newsletter

New financial tools available to help REALTORS® help clients

November 12, 2010

REALTORS® have the opportunity to help first time home buyers make their dream of home ownership come true.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Ontario's economic confidence and housing affordability slide

November 12, 2010

Ontarian's economic confidence slipped 18 points (from 97 to 79 points) over the previous quarter, the highest of all regions across Canada -- according to the latest RBC Canadian Consumer Outlook. Just 57 per cent of Ontarians believe the state of the economy is good, down nine points from June and compared to 60 per cent nationally.

Newsletter

RECO Case – The price is right

November 12, 2010

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Consider tax allocation for tenants

November 12, 2010

This case concerns the interpretation of a commercial lease. It asks how the contribution the tenant is to make in respect of property taxes is to be calculated.

Newsletter

Stay current and connected

November 12, 2010

The OREA Real Estate College has launched two new initiatives to help you stay up-to-date with College news and events.

Newsletter

Calling all candidates!

November 12, 2010

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2011 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Mandatory home energy audits stopped

October 10, 2010

The Ministry of Energy has decided not to proceed with plans to introduce mandatory home energy audits on real estate transactions.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Survey shows consumers confused about HST

October 10, 2010

A recent survey by Royal LePage shows that consumers in Ontario and British Columbia have misconceptions about how the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) affects real estate transactions.

Newsletter

Bubble or no bubble? Two studies show conflicting opinions

October 10, 2010

Is the Canadian real estate market in a bubble about to burst or not?

Newsletter

REALTORS® have a duty to disclose defects

October 10, 2010

Basement flooding, cracks in the foundation, mould – what do sellers need to disclose and what do REALTORS® need to find out?

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE Which smart phone is best for you?

October 10, 2010

Gone are the days of sitting around in your office waiting for an important call or for that essential email to arrive.

Newsletter

Learn how to stay safe on the job

October 10, 2010

Real estate is definitely a people business and, as a REALTOR® you meet lots of people on the job.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Material defect costs commission on 1.2 million dollar deal

October 10, 2010

The buyer sees a house in Carlisle, Ontario that meets his needs.

Newsletter

Shop for courses 24/7

October 10, 2010

Enrolling in OREA Real Estate College courses is a whole lot easier thanks to the “web self-serve” functionality on the www.orea.com website.

Newsletter

OREA Government Relations department wins CSAE Award

October 10, 2010

For its successful campaign against the Ontario government’s proposed mandatory energy audits, OREA was awarded the CSAE’s 2010 Associations Make a Better Canada Award in the Public Affairs/Government Relations category.

Newsletter

OREA celebrates excellence in customer service

October 10, 2010

At the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA) we are proud to be participating in National Customer Service Week (October 4 - 8, 2010), and wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for being a "customer" of OREA. We value and appreciate your business.

Newsletter

Commercial real estate sustainable?

September 10, 2010

A new report finds the Canadian commercial real estate industry is playing catch-up with respect to environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues when compared to international peers.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Homeowners are more financially fit

September 10, 2010

Homeowners are in the best shape when it comes to financial fitness in Canada. Sixty five per cent of homeowners pay off their credit card balances each month, vs. 48 per cent of non-homeowners.

Newsletter

Clauses should clarify terms of agreement between buyer and seller

September 10, 2010

Get it in writing…and get it right. A good clause in an Agreement of Purchase and Sale (APS) exists to make sure that the requests of both parties are accurately reflected.

Newsletter

“My REALTOR® had all the answers”

September 10, 2010

A new television commercial promoting the value of REALTORS® began airing across Canada at the end of August.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Lending rate hike won’t greatly impact real estate market

September 10, 2010

When the Bank of Canada (B of C) raised its overnight lending rate by 25 basis points in July, it sent fear into the hearts of many would be home buyers.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Stolen identity, misrepresentation punished

September 10, 2010

The following RECO Discipline decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: How to save your client’s money

September 10, 2010

I act for a builder buying several lots from a developer on which individual homes will be built.

Newsletter

Real Estate as a Professional Career is now offered in class

September 10, 2010

The OREA Real Estate College now offers the classroom method of course delivery for Real Estate as a Professional Career, the introductory course to The Salesperson Registration Education Program.

Newsletter

Defects and the Importance of Disclosure

September 10, 2010

Knowing the types of defects to look for and what information needs to be disclosed to your clients is part of the REALTOR®’s duty.

Newsletter

Be the REALTOR® every client wants

September 10, 2010

A new one-credit, online, CE course, Be the REALTOR® Every Client Wants, is now available!

Newsletter

RECO elects directors

August 10, 2010

Following the Real Estate Council of Ontario’s Annual Meeting in June, the Board of Directors elected George Lavallee as Chair and Keith Tarswell as Vice-Chair for 2010 – 2011.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Housing activity will stabilize

August 10, 2010

Housing starts rebounded in the second half of 2009 and early 2010 and will stabilize over the next two years, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) second quarter Housing Market Outlook Canada Edition.

Newsletter

Expand your knowledge of clauses and conditions

August 10, 2010

Real estate transactions are loaded with issues that require carefully worded clauses and conditions to keep the deal on track. OREA Standard Clauses are used by members on a daily basis.

Newsletter

Dealing with the complaints process

August 10, 2010

What if a complaint is filed against you with the Registrar? What can you expect? How long is the process going to take?

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Privacy and Social Media

August 10, 2010

Conduct an internet search on yourself by entering your name in a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing, etc.).

Newsletter

RECO Decision: REALTOR® fails to include all owners in listing agreement

August 10, 2010

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Power of Sale

August 10, 2010

The lender started Ontario Power of Sale proceedings and sued the mortgagor-owner who defended on several grounds. None were found in the owner's favour.

Newsletter

OREA exam replaces CAAT for admissions

August 10, 2010

Applicants to OREA’s Salesperson Registration Education Program can now write the OREA Real Estate College’s own real-estate focused Admissions Test to comply with the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005 mandated ‘Grade 12 or equivalent’ admissions requirement to our program.

Newsletter

Perceived viability of real estate industry shifts: survey

August 10, 2010

More brokers today feel that the viability of the real estate industry is in jeopardy, according to the 2010 Broker Viability study.

Newsletter

Homeowner emergency response plan starts

June 16, 2010

Residents and businesses in disaster-stricken communities across Ontario will be able to recover and rebuild more quickly, thanks to a plan launched in May by the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs and The Home Depot Canada.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: First time buyers willing to pay more for location

June 16, 2010

A Bank of Montreal (BMO) survey released in April says among current homeowners and future first-time homeowners, location is the main reason they would consider offering more than the asking price for a home.

Newsletter

Applying the HST: REALTOR®tips

June 16, 2010

The new harmonized sales tax (HST) takes effect July 1st. Ontario REALTORS® need to prepare for the changes now.

Newsletter

RECO can no longer obtain criminal record checks

June 16, 2010

To become registered or renew registration with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO), applicants not only have to have the appropriate real estate education, they must also be able to prove financial fitness and disclose any criminal charges against them.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Canadian economy’s growth will slow

June 16, 2010

Almost halfway through the year and the recovery in the Canadian economy is strong, but to what extent is this recovery the real thing and to what extent is it sustainable at the current rate?

Newsletter

Real estate brokerages need a plan to ensure a safe and healthy workplace to protect workers

June 16, 2010

Bill 168, Ontario’s new workplace violence and harassment legislation, will require every real estate brokerage to take specific steps to comply with the new law which comes into effect on June 15, 2010.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Standard form saves commission

June 16, 2010

The brokerage sued their buyer client for $21,774.50 under an Ontario Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA).

Newsletter

Timeline reminders

June 16, 2010

The OREA Real Estate College has started two campaigns to remind students of the time restrictions for completion of the Salesperson Registration Education Program.

Newsletter

REALTORS® ride to help provide shelter

June 16, 2010

Show your support for the REALTORS Care Foundation’s fifth annual REALTOR® ride for charity, a motorcycle ride in support of shelter-related charities.

Newsletter

No new applicants for ecoENERGY program

May 5, 2010

Effective March 31, 2010, the ecoENERGY Retrofit program that provided grants of up to $5,000 to Canadians who make their homes more energy efficient, stopped accepting new bookings for pre-retrofit evaluations.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Mortgage rates on the rise

May 5, 2010

Canada’s big five banks have begun raising rates on certain fixed mortgages, including the benchmark five-year mortgage.

Newsletter

OREApedia helps members find information quickly

May 5, 2010

Quick and easy access to the vast amount of information on the OREA website is now possible through a feature called OREApedia.

Newsletter

New enrolment requirements for OREA Real Estate College

May 5, 2010

OREA was recently registered as a Private Career College under the Private Career Colleges Act, 2005 (PCCA).

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Getting the most from your Search

May 5, 2010

Searching on the internet has become an integral part of our lives. There is an infinite amount of information sitting just a few keystrokes/mouse clicks/touch and presses away.

Newsletter

CREA clarifies MLS® Rules in response to competition concerns

May 5, 2010

CREA has changed its MLS&reg; rules to clarify that the nature of services to be provided to the seller or buyer is a matter of agreement between the REALTOR&reg; and his or her client or customer.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Can you live with the rules?

May 5, 2010

The condo unit owners installed two satellite dishes on the patio of their unit which the condominium corporation said were contrary to the Declaration, Bylaws and Rules.

Newsletter

OREA Real Estate College guarantees course dates

May 5, 2010

In an effort to assist students and registrants in planning their course schedules for 2010 and meet their timelines to complete required courses, the OREA Real Estate College introduced a schedule of ‘Guaranteed Course Dates’.

Newsletter

Ontario budget: little help for real estate

May 5, 2010

The Ontario 2010 budget was highlighted by a large provincial deficit and little in the way of help for the provincial real estate industry.

Newsletter

Conference focuses on land, development

April 5, 2010

The Real Estate Forum’s 2010 Land & Development Conference will offer insights on trends and strategies for land acquisitions and development in the Greater Golden Horseshoe as well as speculate on where land values are heading for 2010 and beyond.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Housing starts trend upward for 2010

April 5, 2010

Housing starts rebounded in the second half of 2009 and will strengthen in 2010, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's (CMHC) first quarter Housing Market Outlook, Canada Edition.

Newsletter

Learn how to spot structural deficiencies in homes

April 5, 2010

What should be one of the happiest moments in a person's life can sometimes be spoiled by the discovery of structural defects that were unknown or undisclosed at the time of purchase.

Newsletter

Social media’s a natural fit for REALTORS®

April 5, 2010

“REALTORS®are people people so the opportunities available to you through social media are tremendous.”

Newsletter

Canadians feel a home is key to retirement: poll

April 5, 2010

Home buying momentum in Canada continues to gain steam.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Disclose terms when offer is presented

April 5, 2010

The following RECO Discipline Hearing decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Judge turns up the heat

April 5, 2010

When the buyer took possession of his Winnipeg house, he found that the space heaters had been removed, and the pipes were frozen.

Newsletter

Nominations swell for Volunteerism Awards

April 5, 2010

Karen Shartun of the Kitchener-Waterloo Real Estate Board was awarded the OREA Volunteerism Award for an Individual, presented at the 2010 OREA Annual Conference.

Newsletter

ExamTutor© 2 study guide available

April 5, 2010

ExamTutor© 2 CD-ROM is now available to students taking the Articling Segment and Real Estate Broker Courses, including Real Property Law, Real Estate Investment Analysis, Principles of Appraisal, Principles of Mortgage Financing, Principles of Property Management and the Real Estate Broker Course.

Newsletter

REALTOR® ride helps provide shelter

April 5, 2010

The Brampton Real Estate Board is once again hosting the REALTORS Care Foundation annual charity motorcycle ride, from July 7th to 10th, 2010.

Newsletter

OREA podcasts available on OREA website

April 5, 2010

Interviews with speakers from the recent leadership conference can now be heard on the OREA website.

Newsletter

REALpac releases office green lease guide

March 8, 2010

The Real Property Association of Canada (REALpac) has developed a Green Lease Guide for Commercial Office Tenants.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Consumer confidence hits two year high

March 8, 2010

The Index of Consumer Confidence rose 13.8 percentage points in January to a 23-month high, according to the Conference Board of Canada’s latest Index of Consumer Confidence.

Newsletter

Make the most of green upgrades

March 8, 2010

As energy conservation becomes more of a concern for both government and consumers, REALTORS® can better serve their clients by knowing more about heating system upgrades and government grant programs for them.

Newsletter

REALTORS® welcome EI benefits for self-employed Canadians

March 8, 2010

Self-employed REALTORS® can now participate in the Employment Insurance (EI) program, CREA, the Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and the Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism announced on February 1.

Newsletter

Mortgage brokers and agents licences up for renewal

March 8, 2010

More than 1,300 real estate brokers and sales representatives met the requirements to be licensed as mortgage brokerages, brokers or agents under the new Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006 (the Act).

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Should you upgrade to Windows 7?

March 8, 2010

By now, you’ve probably heard some mention of Microsoft’s new operating system known as Windows 7. Released in late October 2009, most new PCs now come with Windows 7 pre-loaded.

Newsletter

Get to know MTO policies for real estate signage

March 8, 2010

REALTORS® working with properties that enter onto public highways in Ontario need to be aware of guidelines for entrance permits as well as real estate signage.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Conduct can create agency relationship

March 8, 2010

The buyer used REALTOR® “S” to look for a condominium unit but refused to sign a Buyer Representation Agreement (BRA).

Newsletter

Errors and omissions new course starts

March 8, 2010

Risk Management Strategies for Errors and Omissions Insurance is a new six-credit course designed to help real estate professionals understand terms used in errors and omissions insurance policies.

Newsletter

Sponsors contribute to conference success

March 8, 2010

OREA’s 2010 Annual Conference was made possible by the donation of our generous sponsors.

Newsletter

New online study guide available

March 8, 2010

Has studying got you stressed? The new passit online study guides are designed to help ease the stress of studying for real estate pre-licensing courses in Ontario.

Newsletter

Teachers buy into mortgage insurance business

February 4, 2010

A private investor group, in which Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan is the lead sponsor, is set to buy the Canadian mortgage insurance business of American International Group Inc (AIG).

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Strong market gains expected to continue through first half of 2010

February 4, 2010

Canada's residential real estate market is forecast to remain unusually strong through the first half of 2010, according to the Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast and House Price Survey.

Newsletter

“Time is of the essence” when notices given and received

February 4, 2010

One of the most significant changes made to the OREA 2010 Standard Forms was the revision of the Notices clause in Form 100, the Agreement of Purchase and Sale.

Newsletter

First-time buyers may want rental income but beware restrictions

February 4, 2010

Many homebuyers consider purchasing a property with an existing or potential for a second suite.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Economists predict higher interest rates in fall

February 4, 2010

According to many of Canada’s top economists, higher interest rates – and debt servicing costs – may be just around the corner.

Newsletter

Identifying fraud: use caution, common sense

February 4, 2010

Mortgage fraud continues to be a major concern for the real estate industry.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Open use of driveway for 20 years supports easement

February 4, 2010

Welton owned two lots and sold one. He then built a driveway that both lots could use. The driveway is located on the lot that he sold. He has continued to service and maintain the driveway since 1963. A dispute arose between Welton and the new owners of that lot who had bought it in 1985.

Newsletter

Make a difference; join a committee

February 4, 2010

If you’ve ever thought of serving your profession, why not sign up for an OREA committee?

Newsletter

REALTOR® concerns not reflected in brownfield regulation amendments

February 4, 2010

None of the province’s amendments to Ontario’s record of site condition regulation 153/04, released in December, address concerns raised by OREA during the consultation process.

Newsletter

AERO improves offer to REALTORS®

February 4, 2010

AERO Insurance Brokers has just negotiated a 33 per cent increase on the discount offered to OREA members. As a benefit of OREA membership, you have access to great group rates with two of Canada’s leading insurance companies.

Newsletter

OHBA fears black market due to HST

January 5, 2010

The Ontario Home Builders' Association (OHBA) is asking the provincial and federal governments to implement a permanent renovation tax credit or rebate for homeowners to mitigate the effect of the HST.

Newsletter

MARKET WATCH: Bank of Canada rates hold in 2010: poll

January 5, 2010

The Bank of Canada will most likely keep its promise to hold the key interest rate at near-zero levels through the second quarter of 2010 according to a recent Reuters poll of Canada's primary securities dealers.

Newsletter

Nurture those online leads

January 5, 2010

Most REALTORS® say referrals and repeat business are their main source of business leads. However, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Technology Survey, 53 per cent of respondents feel the Internet is very important to generating leads.

Newsletter

Real estate reality show pulled

January 5, 2010

CREA successfully won its recent battle to have “Realtor vs. Realtor”, a Canadian real estate reality TV series, taken off the air.

Newsletter

What is a Heritage Property?

January 5, 2010

In past EDGE articles we’ve learned how to price heritage properties and that a number of Ontario municipalities have initiated programs to provide tax relief, grants and loans to heritage property owners. But how do you identify one?

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: GeoWarehouse® introduces online store

January 5, 2010

Teranet has launched the GeoWarehouse Store to assist REALTORS® in helping their clients make more informed real estate decisions.

Newsletter

OREA main office now a green building

January 5, 2010

OREA held a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony in December to celebrate the completion of the green building renovations to the Duncan Mills office.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: PCDS/SPIS not a warranty

January 5, 2010

The buyers bought a house in Saskatchewan and received the seller's Property Condition Disclosure Statement (PCDS) that indicated there were no unrepaired roof leaks or moisture or water problems in the house, but also stated that there were previous backyard drainage problems which had been repaired to the best of his knowledge.

Newsletter

OREA mourns Lee Hoppe

January 5, 2010

The Ontario Real Estate Associations is sad to report that 1975 OREA President Earl Leroy (Lee) Hoppe passed away on Sunday, November 22, 2009 in Kitchener. He was 78.

Newsletter

REALTOR® efforts could not stop HST

January 5, 2010

Despite vigorous opposition by OREA and other groups, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada have both passed legislation that will implement the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).

Newsletter

OREA Annual Meeting is open to members

January 5, 2010

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto

Newsletter

Self-employed may soon qualify for EI benefits

December 14, 2009

The Conservative government has introduced a bill to extend Employment Insurance (EI) special benefits, such as maternity and compassionate care leave, to the self-employed for the first time.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Canadian commercial markets better off

December 14, 2009

Canadian commercial real estate executives feel the real estate markets have moved up meaningfully over the past quarter.

Newsletter

Same agency rules apply for commercial, residential REALTORS®

December 14, 2009

It used to be the three most important rules in real estate were Location, Location, Location.

Newsletter

REALTORS® and HST on collision course

December 14, 2009

Although organized real estate is still working to derail it, the HST train seems to be headed straight for us and unlikely to be knocked off track.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: New economy means new ways of doing business for REALTORS®

December 14, 2009

Four out of ten REALTORS® believe the real estate industry is starting to recover from the economic crisis.

Newsletter

Homebuyers care about sustainability

December 14, 2009

Energy efficiency makes sense to most homebuyers.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Use non-competition clause in exceptional circumstances

December 14, 2009

The insurance brokerage employees had written contracts which contained a restrictive covenant which stipulated that for two years after the termination of employment, they were not to "conduct business with any clients or customers of H. L. Staebler Company Limited that were handled or serviced by you at the date of your termination".

Newsletter

Looking for leaders

December 14, 2009

If you’ve ever thought of serving your profession, why not sign up for an OREA committee?

Newsletter

Foundation grants swell in 2009

December 14, 2009

The REALTORS Care Foundation granted nearly $300,000 in 2009.

Newsletter

The REALTORS Care Foundation granted nearly $300,000 in 2009.

December 14, 2009

Feedback from the Broker Viability Task Force research showcase presentations has been very positive.

Newsletter

First time buyers learn mortgage basics

November 13, 2009

Building Blocks, a special series launched last month on the Globe Investor website is geared towards educating young Canadian families about various personal finance topics.

Newsletter

World housing markets recovering

November 13, 2009

Global real estate markets are showing tentative but growing signs of stabilization, according to the recent Global Real Estate Trends report released by Scotia Economics.

Newsletter

Communication issues spur changes to OREA Standard Forms

November 13, 2009

Well-written standard forms and clauses help to make the trade in real estate an open and transparent process.

Newsletter

Heritage property owners get tax relief

November 13, 2009

A number of Ontario municipalities have initiated programs to provide tax relief, grants and loans to heritage property owners.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Safe disposal of consumer electronics

November 13, 2009

As consumers, we often want the latest and greatest techie toys with the newest bells and whistles.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Member fails to verify chattels

November 13, 2009

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Disclose market value comparables

November 13, 2009

The REALTOR® knew that a development property might be for sale and discussed it with the sellers.

Newsletter

Calling all candidates!

November 13, 2009

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2010 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Quality of Life campaign launched at 2009 OREA Political Affairs Conference

November 13, 2009

In response to the call from member real estate boards and associations, OREA has developed materials for boards, associations and REALTORS® to use to implement quality of life principles and practices in their day to day business.

Newsletter

Distracted driving law on the horizon

October 13, 2009

Bill 118, banning drivers from using handheld devices while operating a vehicle on the road, will become law on October 26, 2009.

Newsletter

Outlook improves for jobless Canadians

October 13, 2009

More Canadian employers will be hiring in the October to December period of 2009, according to the latest results of the Manpower Employment Outlook Survey.

Newsletter

Legal Forum hits a milestone!

October 13, 2009

Got a burning real estate question? Chances are you will find the answer to it on OREA’s online Legal Forum.

Newsletter

REALTOR® ad campaign builds on success

October 13, 2009

This fall, OREA will be continuing the very successful residential campaign that impresses upon consumers the importance of using a REALTOR®.

Newsletter

Economists optimistic recession is over

October 13, 2009

The outlook is brightening for the economy in general and the housing industry, specifically, according to some recent reports.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Access to lockbox must be authorized

October 13, 2009

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO Web site at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Warranty merged on completion

October 13, 2009

The sellers sold commercial condominium premises and a business used as a party hall primarily for Hindu wedding receptions.

Newsletter

Take home tutor now available

October 13, 2009

To better prepare students for Registration Education course examinations, OREA Real Estate College has launched ExamTutor© CD ROMs.

Newsletter

OREA stands up for stronger property rights

October 13, 2009

Speaking in favour of stronger, better defined property rights, OREA made a presentation in August to the Standing Committee on General Government regarding Bill 173, the Mining Amendment Act.

Newsletter

Conferences report on housing markets

September 8, 2009

CMHC will host five Housing Outlook Conferences in Ontario from November 3 to November 19 tailored to each specific local market.

Newsletter

Ontario home starts down in July

September 8, 2009

The Ontario preliminary Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR) of home starts across all areas declined to an estimated 39,100 units in July, down from 45,800 units in June, reports the CMHC.

Newsletter

RECO Update course gets an update

September 8, 2009

REALTORS® need to stay abreast of ever changing issues, laws and regulatory activities in the real estate industry.

Newsletter

Updated pamphlet available on Legal Forum

September 8, 2009

Receiving a letter from the Registrar indicating a complaint has been filed against you can be very intimidating.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: If you build it, will they come?

September 8, 2009

You’ve created a great Web site full of information that your clients and potential clients will find useful and interesting.

Newsletter

Don’t let a wet basement douse your deal

September 8, 2009

With the heavy rainfall in Southern Ontario throughout the spring and summer of 2009, moisture has to be a concern for homeowners and buyers alike.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Misreading a clause cost buyer $90,000

September 8, 2009

A property was being developed as a golf course, ran into financial problems and went into receivership.

Newsletter

Get CE credit for Leadership courses

September 8, 2009

As of this past August, Becoming a Leader, Leadership 200 and Enhancing Leadership Skills, Leadership 300 are now RECO continuing education credited courses.

Newsletter

Revised mentoring kit now available

September 8, 2009

Salespeople need to know about the properties they are trying to sell and they need to know how to close a real estate transaction.

Newsletter

Make music to make a difference

September 8, 2009

Back by popular demand, the REALTORS Care Foundation is pleased to announce Jamming with a Past President – Brian Walker and his band – at Stop 33 in the Sutton Place Hotel on Tuesday October 27th, 2009 during the OREA Political Affairs Conference (PAC).

Newsletter

RECO Election results

July 8, 2009

Following the Real Estate Council of Ontario’s Annual Meeting in June, the Board elected Glenda Brindle to serve as Chair and George Lavallee to serve as Vice-Chair.

Newsletter

Market Watch: Study shows there's no place like home

July 8, 2009

According to Genworth Financial Canada's First-Time Homebuyer's Monitor released in June, 84 per cent of those surveyed said that owning a home goes beyond its financial value and feel that homeownership pays off in more ways than one. First-time homebuyers closely associate financial security and emotional well being with homeownership.

Newsletter

Green homes LEED the way

July 8, 2009

The trend towards “green real estate” continues to accelerate as homebuyers, sellers and REALTORS® see the benefits of a more environmentally friendly living space.

Newsletter

Everything you need to know about brownfield remediation is on a new Web site

July 8, 2009

Many of Ontario’s commercial REALTORS® recognize brownfield redevelopment offer business opportunities.

Newsletter

OREA course teaches environmental awareness for real estate

July 8, 2009

Environmental legislation is extensive and varied. It covers all aspects of the environment, from drinking water protocols to snow removal.

Newsletter

Canadian dollar to again outpace American, economist say

July 8, 2009

The economy is beginning to respond to stimulus by the Bank of Canada, but Canadians can expect to see a very different economy when the smoke clears.

Newsletter

New exam format gives members and students more feedback

July 8, 2009

Members in the Course 3, articling or broker courses will have noticed a change in OREA exam format. Members and other students who enroll in a registration education course having a start date on or after April 1, 2009 are writing examinations using an all multiple choice testing format.

Newsletter

Ontario Realty Corp requests proposals

July 8, 2009

Two opportunities for brokerage services are available from Ontario Realty Corp (ORC).

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Be aware of your fiduciary duties

July 8, 2009

The buyer was led to believe that her unit would have granite countertops in the kitchen and a crawl space with a forced air heating system. As it turned out, it did not.

Newsletter

OREA podcasts now available

July 8, 2009

Listen to The EDGE, OREA’s new podcast series.

Newsletter

Government implements OREA recommendation on retrofit rebates

July 8, 2009

The Government of Ontario has adopted an OREA 2009 pre-budget recommendation, increasing the amount of funding available to Ontario homeowners for home energy retrofit rebates under the Home Energy Savings Program.

Newsletter

Keep track of the issues

July 8, 2009

OREA Government Relations recently updated all our issue summaries which became our Spring Legislative and Regulatory update.

Newsletter

Ontario home starts down in April

June 8, 2009

Ontario home starts moved lower in April. Ontario preliminary Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR) of home starts across all areas declined to 36,300 unit starts, down from 62,600 starts in March.

Newsletter

Market Watch: HST squeezes middle-class homebuyers

June 8, 2009

A report, titled "Big Hit on GTA Middle-Class Homebuyers with the Ontario Budget's HST Proposals," reveals that middle-class families get hit the hardest by the $800 million tax increase on new homebuyers across the province under the Provincial government's planned harmonized sales tax (HST).

Newsletter

Do your homework ahead of time to protect the deal

June 8, 2009

Over-leveraged properties can be difficult to sell. If the market won’t support the home’s asking price, it puts the whole transaction in jeopardy – including commission.

Newsletter

Power of sale: What you should know

June 8, 2009

A power of sale is a forced sale of a property by a mortgagee due to a default of one or more of the mortgagor’s obligations under the mortgage.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Keep your website simple

June 8, 2009

Anybody and everybody can have a website. Register a domain, follow a template, and in minutes you can have a website. Having a “good” website takes considerably more thought and effort.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Overly inflated price leads to penalty

June 8, 2009

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Fax cover sheet muddies commission

June 8, 2009

The seller listed the property with Re/Max for a year but it did not sell. He then signed a co-listing with LePage and Re/Max for 90 days although the actual listing was in the name of LePage.

Newsletter

Home energy audit bill amended

June 8, 2009

Concerted effort from OREA and REALTORS® to get the Ontario government to drop the idea of mandatory home energy audits when a home is sold has met with success. Ontario Bill 150, proposing amendments to the Green Energy Act, has been amended to allow buyers to waive the mandatory home energy audit requirement.

Newsletter

Broker viability study findings released

June 8, 2009

Southern and Eastern Board members (brokers and broker –managers only) will get a chance to hear the results of the Broker Viability Task Force research in June.

Newsletter

Become a “Green Agent”

May 5, 2009

The National Association of Green Agents and Brokers (NAGAB) offers a Greenrealestate™ program leading to the Accredited Green Agent™ and Accredited Green Broker™ (AGA™ & AGB™) designations.

Newsletter

Ontario home starts increase in March

May 5, 2009

Ontario home starts bucked a three month downward trend in March; preliminary Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR) of urban home starts rose to 60,900 unit starts, up from 45,100 starts in February, according to CMHC.

Newsletter

Electronic registration means easier access, but more responsibility

May 5, 2009

Technology has dramatically changed the way that real estate transactions are processed and completed in Ontario.

Newsletter

Opposition to sales tax harmonization is strong

May 5, 2009

The McGuinty governments plan to harmonize the GST and PST is hitting a wall of opposition built by REALTORS®.

Newsletter

Canadians retrench to weather economic crisis

May 5, 2009

Concerns over the cost of living have led to a bunker mentality among Canadian consumers according to a recent Pollara Strategic Insights survey.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Get buyers consent for advertising

May 5, 2009

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Calculating LTT on a vacant lot

May 5, 2009

Do you know how land transfer tax is calculated on the purchase of a vacant lot which is subject to a construction contract?

Newsletter

Registration courses feature e-Books

May 5, 2009

Students who enroll in courses in the OREA Real Estate College Path to Success real estate program will have access to an electronic workbook, or e-Book. These environmentally friendly e-Books provide students with interactive versions of the course accessible directly from their personal My Portfolio account. Students will also be able to access a PDF of the course providing them with the ability to download to their computers and/or print course material.

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REALTORS® ride for shelter related charities

May 5, 2009

Show your support for the REALTORS Care Foundation’s fourth annual REALTOR® ride for charity, a motorcycle ride in support of shelter-related charities.

Newsletter

Develop skills while having fun

May 5, 2009

Visit the OREA Cyber Café during REALTOR® QUEST 2009 on May 6th and 7th at the Toronto Congress Centre and enter the draw to win a free iPod Touch!

Newsletter

New homes can be LEED-certified

April 5, 2009

The Canada Green Building Council launched a new green home rating system in March, which it says will provide health and cost benefit and preserves resale value.

Newsletter

Housing activity to slow, BMO says

April 5, 2009

The Canadian economy is expected to contract about two per cent in 2009, marking the nation's first recession in 17 years, according to the BMO Financial Group.

Newsletter

Tarion amends registration rules for new home “flip”

April 5, 2009

REALTORS® who deal in new home and condominium sales take heed: there are new provisions for registering vendors with Tarion Warranty Corporation.

Newsletter

Health Canada issues advisory on foam insulation

April 5, 2009

Urea formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) has been sold illegally in Canada. In a consumer advisory, Health Canada says RetroFoam of Canada Incorporated imported and illegally sold RetroFoam insulation.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: What to look for in a digital camera

April 5, 2009

Digital cameras are still one of the top tools used regularly by REALTORS®. According to the National Association or REALTORS® NAR’s latest member profile, 96 per cent of REALTORS® use a digital camera in their business.

Newsletter

Dealing with difficult to insure properties

April 5, 2009

The ability to obtain property insurance is a critical component of any real estate transaction.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Buyer has to keep on trucking

April 5, 2009

The buyer's agent contacts a seller and asks for a list of permitted uses of the unlisted land zoned "highway commercial." He is given a long list of permitted uses.

Newsletter

Skills training wins board honours

April 5, 2009

In recognition of its success recruiting and training its volunteers, the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB) has won the OREA Volunteer Award, presented at the 2009 OREA Annual Conference.

Newsletter

Exam changes take effect April 1, 2009

April 5, 2009

In conjunction with the new Path to Success in Real Estate program, examination procedures will also be changing for courses beginning after April 1, 2009.

Newsletter

INSIDE EDGE absorbed into REALTOR® EDGE

March 12, 2009

Four times a year, we publish the INSIDE EDGE, with news more related to the work that OREA is doing.

Newsletter

Sales and prices drop in Q4

March 12, 2009

During the fourth quarter of 2008, Canada's real estate market weakened in both unit sales and house prices, according to a House Price Survey released by Royal LePage Real Estate Services.

Newsletter

Brokerages must have broker of record in place

March 12, 2009

Under REBBA 2002, each brokerage must have a designated broker of record.

Newsletter

Updated GST guide available on REALTOR Link®

March 12, 2009

Everything you need to know about the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and how it applies to REALTORS® is contained in the recently updated REALTORS® guide to GST/HST/QST.

Newsletter

ON THE MARKETS: Budget recognizes economic importance of housing to stimulate the economy

March 12, 2009

The Federal Budget 2009 introduced several incentives to get Canadians spending by buying a first time home, or renovating the one they are already in.

Newsletter

PRESIDENT’S NOTE: Ad campaign boosts REALTOR® image

March 12, 2009

To survive as REALTORS® we have to show potential customers who have not used a REALTOR® our worth.

Newsletter

In Your Corner: Refreshed ad campaign focuses in on REALTOR® value

March 12, 2009

Changing market conditions and new market research have prompted changes to the National Ad Campaign.

Newsletter

How does your brokerage compare?

March 12, 2009

The answer to a question mulled over in the abstract just a couple of years ago has now become quite relevant: How can a brokerage struggling in good times be viable when the market turns?

Newsletter

Thank you from the Foundation

March 12, 2009

REALTORS Care Foundation thanks our 42 real estate boards and our Ontario REALTOR® members for their continued support in 2008.

Newsletter

OREA News

March 12, 2009

OREA continues the battle against Land Transfer Taxes.

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Tips to pricing a heritage property

March 12, 2009

In today’s real estate market brokers and salespeople are often asked to suggest a value or asking price for heritage properties.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: “Shall not survive and merge” clause survives

March 12, 2009

The buyer and seller were represented by the same brokerage. T, an owner of the brokerage, was a dual agent.

Newsletter

Conference sponsors contribute to success

March 12, 2009

OREA’s 2009 Annual Conference was made possible by the donation of our generous sponsors.

Newsletter

Single sign-on gains popularity with members

March 12, 2009

Almost 15,000 members have discovered the advantages of single sign-on access on the OREA website.

Newsletter

RECO 2009 council seeks nominations

February 6, 2009

Members of the Real Estate Council of Ontario who are interested in serving as directors of the Council are required to submit their nomination form by no later than 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2009.

Newsletter

Correction likely for market in 2009

February 6, 2009

Nationally, average house prices are forecast to dip by 3.0 per cent from last year to $295,000, while transactions are projected to fall to 416,000 (-3.5 %) unit sales in 2009, according to the Royal LePage 2009 Market Survey Forecast released in January.

Newsletter

Your knowledge of CMHC insurance products may help close the deal

February 6, 2009

The current economic situation has many potential homebuyers worried and confused about their prospects for buying a home. For many buyers – especially first time buyers – mortgage insurance is an option that may help them buy their own home sooner.

Newsletter

First impressions more important in a slower market

February 6, 2009

In a hot real estate market, even homes that don’t give the greatest first impression will still sell. However, as the market cools off, the listings that show well will be the ones that sell faster and for a better price.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Communicate by tapping, “Swyping” or video messaging

February 6, 2009

Sending a text message has become a very popular way to communicate quickly and conveniently.

Newsletter

Keep your wood-burning stove in good condition

February 6, 2009

On bitter cold winter days, a wood-burning stove or fireplace can add warmth and comfort to any home. For many of us, it’s part of our childhood memories.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: You can’t park on the right of way

February 6, 2009

Fife lives at # 205 and has used a mutual driveway for more than 20 years. The right of way as registered is 76 feet long and 7 feet wide so that the two neighbours could access the backyard parking areas as long as no additions were built onto the back of the houses.

Newsletter

Forge the path to success in real estate

February 6, 2009

Effective April 1, 2009, the Path to Success in Real Estate for individuals aspiring to become real estate professionals in Ontario will be changing.

Newsletter

OREA Annual Meeting is open to members

February 6, 2009

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Newsletter

Family business also LTT exempt

January 1, 2009

The Government of Ontario land transfer tax exemptions also include transfer of land to a family business corporation.

Newsletter

Fewer new homes built in November

January 1, 2009

Construction of new homes dropped to 172,000 units in November, down from 211,800 units in October, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Newsletter

Forum offers leasing lessons in a slow economy

January 1, 2009

The slowing economy has commercial real estate professionals anticipating various scenarios. What do you need to do to look out for your client? Can a tenant restructure his business without paying a penalty? Are landlords prepared to deal with a potential increase in tenant defaults and restructuring requests? What steps can be taken to anticipate default and minimise risk?

Newsletter

The REALTOR® EDGE gets a new look

January 1, 2009

Welcome to the new look of the REALTOR(r) EDGE. This year as the whole organization looked to refresh OREA's look, we took the opportunity to talk to members to see if there were any changes that they would like to see.

Newsletter

Sub-prime mortgages not responsible for world recession

January 1, 2009

The world economy is going down the drain because of some repossessed, boarded up, unsellable homes in Cleveland.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: Disclose nature of interest

January 1, 2009

Seller A and Seller B listed a property located at 1-AB Street for sale with Brokerage A. The listing salesperson was Seller Representative A. The sellers reduced the asking price from $349,995 to $337,995. Two days after the price reduction, an offer was received and presented by Seller Representative A under dual agency.

Newsletter

RECO Real Estate Update is going green

January 1, 2009

In an effort to reduce waste and help the environment, all Real Estate Update course materials will now be available in either an e-book format or a PDF version for download as of February 1, 2009.

Newsletter

LEGAL BEAT: Check ownership thoroughly

January 1, 2009

The buyer signed an offer to buy a house in her own name but when the bank needed someone else on title, her mother was added to the Deed. Three years later she decided to sell the house and listed it with the same REALTOR&reg; that helped in her purchase.

Newsletter

OREA Annual Meeting forum for trade issues

January 1, 2009

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday February 25, 2009 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto, starting at 10:00 A.M.

Newsletter

OREA, TREB work on Teranet deal

January 1, 2009

Representatives from the Toronto Real Estate Board and OREA met in November with Teranet to discuss providing member boards with low cost access to Teranet’s Geowarehouse service.

Newsletter

New forms available

January 1, 2009

The 2009 version of Form 220, SPIS, is now available. Unlike the other forms, these no carbon required (NCR) forms are available in packages of 50 at a cost of $20 per package and have a 2009 copyright date. Other forms will continue to be sold in packages of 25. Any forms that did not need to be updated will continue to have the 2008 date.

Newsletter

Ontario expands LTT exemptions

December 8, 2008

The Government of Ontario is expanding exemptions under the land transfer tax to include transfers of farmland from a family farm corporation to one or more family members.

Newsletter

Housing starts down in October says CMHC

December 8, 2008

The seasonally adjusted annual rate of housing starts was 211,800 units in October, down from 218,600 units in September, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Newsletter

Credit crunch squeezes mortgage seekers

December 8, 2008

While the majority of Canadian financial gurus continue to maintain that Canada will not experience the same economic meltdown as the United States, the global credit crisis is most certainly having an impact here. Just ask anyone looking to find mortgage financing. It seems the days of easy credit are over as financial institutions tighten up on lending policies.

Newsletter

New and revised standard forms address FINTRAC, Tarion changes

December 8, 2008

Identifying parties to a transaction, reporting suspicious transactions and keeping good records took on added meaning this year with the stricter FINTRAC requirements.

Newsletter

Searches and mapping modified on REALTOR.ca

December 8, 2008

Navigating the REALTOR.ca Web site should now be easier thanks to changes recently implemented by CREA.

Newsletter

Why it’s important to protect trademarks

December 8, 2008

Being a member of organized real estate has many benefits including the right to call yourself a REALTOR®.

Newsletter

CREA issues Do-Not-Call List advisory

December 8, 2008

Do-Not-Call List promotions by various companies should not be confused with any requirement to subscribe to the national Do-Not-Call List, CREA reminds members.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Sellers should move out when deal closes

December 8, 2008

The typical Ontario Agreement of Purchase and Sale provides that, "Upon completion, vacant possession of the property shall be given to the buyer...".

Newsletter

Pricing to sell

December 8, 2008

In this increasingly complex and competitive market, it is essential for the real estate salesperson to be able to accurately price a single family property and list it as close to market value as possible.

Newsletter

Looking for leaders

December 8, 2008

If you’ve ever thought of serving your profession, why not sign up for an OREA committee?

Newsletter

Conference offers leadership courses

December 8, 2008

OREA Leadership Courses will be offered during the 2009 OREA Leadership Conference.

Newsletter

Brookfield buys GMAC

November 8, 2008

Brookfield Residential Property Services of Toronto is buying GMAC Home Services LLC, which operates one of the largest real estate brokerage companies in the United States.

Newsletter

New home starts dip

November 8, 2008

New home construction will begin to slow in 2008, but will remain high by historical standards, according to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation's (CMHC) third quarter Housing Market Outlook report.

Newsletter

Green leases make going green easier for commercial buildings

November 8, 2008

The need for and benefits of green commercial buildings have been discussed for several years, and many commercial landlords agree that green is the way to go.

Newsletter

Tax assessments to rise in 2009

November 8, 2008

Ontario residential property taxpayers will see an average assessment increase of five per cent in 2009, the first year of a four-year phase-in plan.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Find it fast with Google Desktop

November 8, 2008

Like many professionals, REALTORS® can accumulate a lot of information on their computers over time. Between E-mails, instant messages, digital photos, PDF documents, spreadsheets, and other files, locating a specific tidbit of information can be like finding a needle in a haystack.

Newsletter

Property appraisal considered personal information

November 8, 2008

When banks conduct a residential property assessment as part of a loan application, the property owner has a right to receive a copy of the assessment.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Honesty, clarity needed for SPIS

November 8, 2008

The sellers were aware of some water damage and had professionals do some repairs and restoration work.

Newsletter

Calling all candidates!

November 8, 2008

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2009 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

Activate your OREA Card today!

November 8, 2008

Activate your OREA Card online today, or call our Customer Service Contact Centre at 1-866-234-0186 to activate your card!

Newsletter

CSAE elects OREA CEO

November 8, 2008

OREA CEO Edward Barisa was elected to the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) Board of Directors at the CSAE National Conference and Showcase in October. Ed also received a 20 year membership service pin at the conference.

Newsletter

Developers soon face tough FINTRAC rules

October 18, 2008

Canada's real estate developers will soon face the same tougher transaction reporting rules as REALTORS®.

Newsletter

MLS® listings soar

October 18, 2008

New MLS® listings rose to 80,147 nationally this summer, up 14.4 per cent year-over-year, according to CREA.

Newsletter

Energy efficient renovations offer good return on investment

October 18, 2008

REALTORS® are often asked to suggest improvements that will make their clients’ homes more saleable and provide the biggest return on investment (ROI).

Newsletter

Ontario REALTORS®embrace technology for business

October 18, 2008

Computers play an important role in a REALTORS®’ daily business and most use them at home or in a home office.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: REALTOR® voices on the social scene

October 18, 2008

Real estate is such a relationship-based business that it’s no wonder REALTORS® across North America are embracing social networking.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Talk to member, not his client

October 18, 2008

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO Web site at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Commission paid without a listing

October 18, 2008

During a 5 per cent listing the buyer made several offers through its agent but no transaction was made.

Newsletter

Leadership course training heads west

October 18, 2008

OREA’s leadership courses have been so well received that they have been demanded nationally.

Newsletter

What do you mean ‘don’t call me’?

October 18, 2008

OREA offers this new two-credit, classroom only course to teach members about the Do-Not-Call registry.

Newsletter

The Real Estate Board of the future

October 18, 2008

What would the needs of the member be? What services would be required?

Newsletter

Tarion to get Ombuds

September 8, 2008

Tarion, the province’s new home warranty program, will soon have a New Home Buyer Ombudsperson to mediate homeowner's complaints, as well as to suggest any changes in policy or practice that may be needed.

Newsletter

Prices will rise, but sales will fall

September 8, 2008

House prices are expected to rise modestly overall in Canada this year, but national sales are projected to fall from last year's levels, according to a recent Royal LePage forecast.

Newsletter

New ad campaign promotes commercial sector

September 8, 2008

It worked so well for residential REALTORS®, why not give commercial REALTORS® their own ad campaign?

Newsletter

OREA signs Educational Services Agreement with RECO

September 8, 2008

The Real Estate Council of Ontario has selected the Ontario Real Estate Association as its designate to provide enhanced registration education under a five year agreement signed on July 31, 2008.

Newsletter

Keep proof of payment of Do Not Call List

September 8, 2008

Marketing, specifically telemarketing, gets a little tougher by the end of this month when the National Do Not Call List (DCNL) will be up and running on September 30, 2008.

Newsletter

Shorter amortization better in the long run

September 8, 2008

As of October 15th, 40-year mortgages with no money down will no longer be covered through the federal government insurance program administered by Canada Mortgage and Housing (CMHC).

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Cool gadgets for busy REALTORS®

September 8, 2008

REALTORS® are big users of the latest technology in their business whether it’s the newest cell phone, GPS, digital camera or laptop.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Failure to give notice voids increase

September 8, 2008

The tenant paid $179 per month rent for her occupancy of land in an Ontario land lease park.

Newsletter

College expands its online offerings

September 8, 2008

OREA’s reputation for providing quality continuing education courses is spreading across the country.

Newsletter

New ministry oversees REALTORS®

September 8, 2008

In August, Premier McGuinty announced a reorganization that moves the Consumer Services Division of the Ministry of Government and Consumer Services to the newly named Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services.

Newsletter

RECO Election results

August 8, 2008

Following the Real Estate Council of Ontario’s Annual Meeting in June, the Board elected Brian Sukkau to serve a second term as Chair and Glenda Brindle to serve as Vice-Chair. The following people, elected by RECO members in May, were installed as Directors at the Annual General Meeting:

Newsletter

Ontario starts up in 2008, down in 2009

August 8, 2008

New home construction will remain above historical averages, with housing starts in Ontario climbing to 72,175 units in 2008, before moderating to 65,000 units in 2009, according to the 2008 Second Quarter CMHC Housing Market Outlook - Canada Edition.

Newsletter

New FINTRAC rules in place

August 8, 2008

The specific regulations for the real estate sector for anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing took effect on June 23rd, 2008.

Newsletter

Seller take-back mortgages exempt from mortgage legislation

August 8, 2008

OREA members arranging seller take-back (or vendor take-back) mortgages as part of a real estate transaction are exempted from the requirements of the Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006 (MBLAA).

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: PoGo goes where you go

August 8, 2008

Hard to believe it was more than 60 years ago that Polaroid introduced the instant camera amazing consumers with its ability to produce a printed picture within 60 seconds.

Newsletter

The National Do Not call list: dos, don’ts and definitions

August 8, 2008

CREA has created the booklet “The National Do-Not-Call List” to provide more information to REALTORS® about how they will be affected when the list comes into effect on September 30, 2008.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: No parking: both agents found negligent

August 8, 2008

The seller, buyer's lawyer, buyer's agent and seller's agent were all guilty of negligence in failing to properly deal with property measurements and parking requirements.

Newsletter

Ed Barisa wins award

August 8, 2008

OREA’s CEO, Ed Barisa, CAE, has won the Chapter Service Excellence Award from the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) Trillium Chapter.

Newsletter

York Board dissolves

August 8, 2008

The York Region Real Estate Board was dissolved on July 1, to better serve all REALTORS® within the board’s boundaries.

Newsletter

OREA will be rolling out a new look

August 8, 2008

Watch for OREA’s new look in all of its printed material, including the REALTOR® EDGE.

Newsletter

New website details best mortgage options

June 6, 2008

The Canadian Association of Accredited Mortgage Professionals (CAAMP) has launched a new website to provide consumers with the tools to find the best mortgage options to suit their needs.

Newsletter

Canadian economy to grow through 2010

June 6, 2008

The deterioration in economic and financial conditions in the United States will have direct consequences for the Canadian economy, the Bank of Canada said in May.

Newsletter

mls.ca is changing

June 6, 2008

On June 30, the new REALTOR.ca portal will be launched.

Newsletter

Look to website for FINTRAC updates

June 6, 2008

On June 23, REALTORS® will have to begin complying with new requirements under Canada’s anti-money laundering legislation.

Newsletter

National Do Not Call List coming in September

June 6, 2008

Telemarketers, including REALTORS®, will face a new marketing challenge and will have more rules to observe as the National Do Not Call List (National DNCL) comes into effect on September 30, 2008.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: iPhones coming soon to Canada

June 6, 2008

The Apple iPhone’s much-hyped debut in the U.S. almost a year ago left many Canadian technophiles anxiously awaiting the product’s release in Canada.

Newsletter

Green buildings may affect lease negotiations

June 6, 2008

Getting the right tenant with the right landlord or the right developer often requires masterful negotiations.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Oil tank ruled not a latent defect

June 6, 2008

Goodyear owned a property which was sold to buyer 1 in 1988 and then sold to buyer 2 in 1996 who discovered a buried oil tank. Goodyear was sued by buyer 2.

Newsletter

College expands its online offerings

June 6, 2008

OREA is recognized as a leader in quality continuing education not only in the province of Ontario, but across the country.

Newsletter

Get easier access to your information

June 6, 2008

Responding to the requests of many boards, OREA is making access to the information you need to know easier.

Newsletter

OREA mourns Past President Johnson

June 6, 2008

The Ontario Real Estate Association is sad to report the passing of 1978 President Arthur F. Johnson, 72, in Guelph, in May.

Newsletter

RECO introduces on-line voting

May 6, 2008

New this year, registrants can vote on-line in the upcoming RECO elections.

Newsletter

Ontario housing starts down slightly in March

May 6, 2008

For the first quarter of 2008, actual Canadian housing starts in both rural and urban areas combined increased by 12.8 per cent compared to the same period last year according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Newsletter

New rules for real estate lawyer representation

May 6, 2008

Two lawyers are now required for many real estate transactions involving a transfer of title following recent amendments to the Rules of Professional Conduct by the Law Society of Upper Canada (LSUC).

Newsletter

Property owners to get a fairer assessment appeal system

May 6, 2008

A fairer property tax appeal system is expected with changes announced by the provincial government.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: New Microsoft technology about to “Surface”

May 6, 2008

New product development in the computer technology industry could be the stuff spy action-thrillers are made of.

Newsletter

Some FINTRAC issues clarified

May 6, 2008

The fog of confusion of complying with some of the new requirements of Canada’s anti-money laundering legislation may be a little less dense now that FINTRAC has provided CREA and members with some answers and tools.

Newsletter

RECO Decision: registrant concealed UFFI

May 6, 2008

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeal decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO web site at www.reco.on.ca.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Initialled counter-offer stands

May 6, 2008

The buyer presented an offer to the seller who discussed it with her husband. Subsequent discussions and negotiations also involved the husband.

Newsletter

Construction at OREA

May 6, 2008

Construction has begun at OREA to add an extension onto our office at 99 Duncan Mill Road.

Newsletter

Keep cell phone handy

May 6, 2008

Keep cell phones, PDAs, portable MP3 players, or sunglasses within easy reach on the dash of your car with the OREA Real Estate College Cell-Mate.

Newsletter

New course maximizes use of your Blackberry®

May 6, 2008

Two new one-credit courses, Introduction to Blackberry® 101 – “Trackball” and Introduction to Blackberry® 101– “Trackwheel” are now offered by the OREA Real Estate College.

Newsletter

Continue leadership training with courses

May 6, 2008

Take the opportunity to continue your leadership training by taking and perhaps completing OREA’s current series of leadership courses at upcoming workshops.

Newsletter

Learn about mortgage brokerage at session

April 7, 2008

On July 1, 2008, the new Mortgage Brokerages, Lenders and Administrators Act, 2006 comes into full effect.

Newsletter

Business real estate betters bonds in 2007

April 7, 2008

Real estate return on investment remained strong throughout 2007 according to results of the recently released ICREIM/IPD Canadian Annual Property Index. IPD, a leading commercial real estate performance analysis service,

Newsletter

Money laundering law taxes REALTORS®

April 7, 2008

Changes to Canada’s anti-money laundering legislation, the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PC(ML)TFA) come into effect on June 23, 2008,

Newsletter

CREA addresses recession fears

April 7, 2008

The Canadian real estate market is not on the brink of collapse and is expected to have balanced conditions in 2008, and REALTORS® need to get that message out.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Put two numbers on one cell phone

April 7, 2008

If you are one of those people who carries two cell phones – one for business and one for personal use – you may be happy to hear about a relatively new offering from Rogers Wireless called Second Voice Line Service (SVLS).

Newsletter

More paperwork needed for new homes

April 7, 2008

Tarion Warranty Corporation is introducing new regulations regarding delayed closing and delayed occupancy warranties for new homes and condominiums which will come into effect on July 1.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Fee or commission – not both!

April 7, 2008

An employee/salesperson alleged that his employers had breached a provision of the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act by charging clients a flat processing fee and a percent sales commission.

Newsletter

Training, mentoring wins board honours

April 7, 2008

In recognition of its success recruiting, training, and recognizing the contributions of its volunteers,

Newsletter

REALTOR QUEST hosts leadership workshops

April 7, 2008

Take the opportunity to complete OREA’s Leadership series of courses at the upcoming Toronto Real Estate Board REALTOR QUEST conference at the Toronto Congress Centre, May 12 and 13.

Newsletter

Join the REALTOR®Ride

April 7, 2008

Show your support for the REALTORS Care Foundation’s third annual REALTOR® ride for charity, a motorcycle ride is support of shelter-related charities.

Newsletter

Commercial job search web site launched

March 7, 2008

Produced in English and French, both www.BusinessRealEstateCanada.com and www.ImmoCommCanada.com feature job search and career information to serve the Canadian commercial real estate industry.

Newsletter

Winter recreational properties are hot

March 7, 2008

High levels of demand combined with limited inventory have pressured winter recreational property prices upward according to the 2008 Royal LePage Winter Recreational Property Report.

Newsletter

Rules change for reinstatement

March 7, 2008

As a further sign of a more professional regulatory environment in the real estate industry, a new requirement comes into effect this month.

Newsletter

Ottawa gets grow house registry

March 7, 2008

A new online registry will allow potential homebuyers in Ottawa to find out if the house they want to buy has been used as a marijuana grow house or crystal meth lab.

Newsletter

Tips for a more effective Web site

March 7, 2008

Over and over again, studies show that consumers want to start their search for a home online and expect REALTORS® to have a Web site. According to NAR’s latest technology survey more than 75 per cent of respondents have their own real estate business Web site.

Newsletter

Property assessment freeze lifted

March 7, 2008

The end of a three-year assessment freeze could mean homeowners in some parts of the province may face double-digit hikes in property taxes.

Newsletter

New energy initiatives good to know for homeowners

March 7, 2008

Grants are available for homeowners going green. Both the provincial and federal government have programs designed to encourage energy reduction.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Wrong measurement leads to abatement

March 7, 2008

The Agreement of Purchase and Sale described the lands as being approximately 98,950 square feet as outlined on [a Schedule] attached.

Newsletter

Conference sponsors contribute to success

March 7, 2008

OREA’s 2008 Annual Conference was made possible by the donation of our generous sponsors.

Newsletter

Terms phase out: course covers it all

March 7, 2008

Registrants must remember that as of April 1, 2008 the term associate broker can no longer be used in advertising.

Newsletter

Fahmi wins award of merit

March 7, 2008

The REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) recently bestowed its Award of Merit on 2005 OREA President Tamer Fahmi.

Newsletter

Hail 50-year mortgage?

February 11, 2008

We’ve seen the 30-year and even the 40-year mortgage.

Newsletter

New homes up in 2007

February 11, 2008

Housing starts in 2007 reached their second highest level in nearly two decades, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Newsletter

Consumers want more commitment, aftercare from REALTORS®

February 11, 2008

REALTORS® are seen as professional, knowledgeable and communicative according to a recent OREA online consumer survey.

Newsletter

TSSA warns of pitfalls of purchasing gasoline stations

February 11, 2008

With some economists telling Canadians to prepare themselves to pay $1.50 a litre for gasoline and predicting oil to reach US$150 per barrel, purchasing a gasoline station may seem like a sound investment.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Voice-to-text service now available through Rogers

February 11, 2008

In the ever-changing world of mobile communication technology, voicemail to text conversion is a hot new trend.

Newsletter

Home inspections – to be there or not to be there?

February 11, 2008

RECO has received several questions regarding home inspections and who should be present during the inspection as well as how client instructions should be handled.

Newsletter

Dip in new home builds slows growth in Ontario

February 11, 2008

Ontario's economy will continue to struggle with a beleaguered manufacturing sector and the effects of Canada’s high dollar slowing growth to 1.4 per cent in 2008, according to a provincial forecast released in January by RBC.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Buyers should have asked about mice

February 11, 2008

The buyers viewed a home for sale with a REALTOR® and while other potential purchasers were present, they did not observe any evidence of mice.

Newsletter

New Student Handbook replaces career guide

February 11, 2008

The Student Handbook is now available, replacing the Real Estate Career Guide of previous years.

Newsletter

Uncover leader secrets

February 11, 2008

Board leaders are invited to the 2008 OREA Annual Conference, February 26 to 28, at the Sheraton Hotel in Toronto, to discover the secrets of how to be a leader in this industry.

Newsletter

OREA Annual Meeting forum for trade issues

February 11, 2008

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Newsletter

Ontario Expands Land Transfer Tax Refund

January 12, 2008

First time buyers of resale homes are now eligible for a refund from the provincial government of up to two thousand dollars of the land transfer tax paid.

Newsletter

Market Watch

January 12, 2008

Home ownership is a high priority for new Canadians. According to a recent report by Genworth Financial, half of new Canadian immigrants purchase a home within three years of their arrival in the country.

Newsletter

Canada not linked to US real estate market troubles

January 12, 2008

The melt-down of the U.S. real estate market has left many homebuyers wondering if and how it may affect the housing market in Canada.

Newsletter

GST cut good for new homebuyers and homeowners

January 12, 2008

The tax changes outlined in the federal government’s economic statement will bring significant savings to new homebuyers, but will also benefit existing homeowners.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Video tours may be the next big thing in online marketing

January 12, 2008

Consumer surveys consistently reveal that potential homebuyers want to see lots of pictures in online listings.

Newsletter

Boilers need annual testing and inspections

January 12, 2008

A new rule regarding heating systems in Ontario means all natural draft gas and propane-fired boilers in homes will require annual inspection and testing.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Checking for easements

January 12, 2008

The buyer paid a deposit of $60,000 with an offer for a Toronto home.

Newsletter

New MPAC online course coming soon

January 12, 2008

What gives the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) the right to go onto your property and assess it?

Newsletter

OREA Annual Meeting forum for trade issues

January 12, 2008

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, February 27, 2008 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Newsletter

Get updated forms

January 12, 2008

New forms have been introduced and changes have been made to enhance the readability of existing forms.

Newsletter

Participate in RECO's satisfaction survey

December 5, 2007

RECO is conducting its second registrant satisfaction survey in order to assess its service delivery, identify areas for improvement

Newsletter

Housing starts to dip slightly in 2008

December 5, 2007

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) fourth quarter Housing Market Outlook predicts residential construction in Canada will decline to about 214,000 units next year.

Newsletter

New and revised forms for 2008 keep pace with the industry

December 5, 2007

REALTORS® rely on OREA’s standard forms extensively in their day-to-day businesses.

Newsletter

Legal Forum tops 3,000 questions

December 5, 2007

OREA’s online Legal Forum has hit another milestone.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: More REALTORS® investing more money on technology

December 5, 2007

A new survey by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) suggests REALTORS® invest heavily in technology with more than half of brokers, salespeople, and managers saying they spent more than $1,000 last year.

Newsletter

Pamphlet offers septic system advice

December 5, 2007

Having knowledge about septic systems is important for REALTORS® who deal with cottage and rural properties.

Newsletter

LEGALBEAT: Two listings, two commissions

December 5, 2007

The mortgagee started a British Columbia foreclosure action and the court ordered that the property was to be sold.

Newsletter

“Sell” book updated

December 5, 2007

Guiding sellers through the sale of their home is always easier if they come into the process with some knowledge.

Newsletter

Looking for leaders

December 5, 2007

If you’ve ever thought of serving your profession, why not sign up for an OREA committee?

Newsletter

Leadership courses on to next level

December 5, 2007

Leadership 200, Becoming a Leader is the second in a series of leadership courses offered by the OREA Centre for Leadership Development.

Newsletter

Ontario workers to get another day off

November 8, 2007

A day after the provincial election was held in October, the Ontario government confirmed that it would create a new statutory holiday called Family Day.

Newsletter

Condo market cooling

November 8, 2007

Condo market demand across Canada is expected to ease slightly although new construction and resale activity will remain high by historical standards according to a report by Genworth Financial Canada.

Newsletter

CREA issues Call to Action on proposed FINTRAC changes

November 8, 2007

Proposed changes to Canada's anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing framework could be costly for REALTORS®.

Newsletter

Anti-competitive behaviour – be aware of it; avoid it

November 8, 2007

How well do you know Canada’s Competition Act?

Newsletter

Add these wireless gadgets to your wish list

November 8, 2007

Wireless technology is becoming more common in notebooks, PDAs, and especially cell phones.

Newsletter

REALTOR® profile high; volunteers key

November 8, 2007

In 2007 OREA instituted the OREA Centre for Leadership Development, and the time could not have been better.

Newsletter

Delayed occupancy agreement is not a waiver

November 8, 2007

Under Ontario's new home legislation there are provisions dealing with a delayed or extended closing of a transaction.

Newsletter

Barisa reaches CSAE Pinnacle

November 8, 2007

OREA CEO Ed Barisa has won the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) 2007 Pinnacle Award.

Newsletter

Calling all candidates!

November 8, 2007

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s 2008 Board of Directors?

Newsletter

New reverse mortgage kid on the block

October 9, 2007

New Zealand-based Senior's Money International has announced it will open a Canadian branch to offer "reverse mortgages" that will compete against the Canadian Home Income Plan product offered by Home Equity Income Trust.

Newsletter

Resales break more records

October 9, 2007

According to CREA, resale home transactions in Canada hit a fourth straight monthly record in July, with the average price rising to $332,442, a 13.1 per cent increase over July 2006.

Newsletter

Why you should use the SPIS

October 9, 2007

OREA’s Seller Property Information Statement (SPIS) is a valuable tool that all REALTORS® should consider using at all times.

Newsletter

Improving water quality through reverse osmosis

October 9, 2007

A reliable supply of clean drinking water is always a concern for homebuyers of rural and recreational property.

Newsletter

Podcasting can boost your marketing efforts

October 9, 2007

Technology has forever changed the world of real estate marketing.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Failure to disclose costly

October 9, 2007

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety in the 2007 Discipline and Appeals Decisions on the RECO Web site at http://www.reco.on.ca/.

Newsletter

Merv’s column: Independent contractor put to test

October 9, 2007

The issue in this case was whether the mortgage broker was engaged pursuant to a contract of services or a contract for services.

Newsletter

Leadership program wins award

October 9, 2007

OREA and the OREA Centre for Leadership Development has won a national award for Education and Professional Development from the Canadian Society of Association Executives’ (CSAE) “Associations Make a Better Canada Award”.

Newsletter

Multiple Offers now offered on-line

October 9, 2007

The two-hour, two-credit course Multiple Offers: Risks and Rewards is now available on-line.

Newsletter

Tim Lee honoured for years of service

October 9, 2007

OREA has bestowed an Honorary Life Membership on 2007 Past President Tim Lee for his many years of service.

Newsletter

Housing market studied at CMHC conferences

September 9, 2007

CMHC will host five Housing Outlook Conferences in Ontario from November 6 to November 22.

Newsletter

Goodnews or bad news for Ontario economy?

September 9, 2007

Despite concerns over a higher Canadian dollar and its impact on the province’s manufacturing sector, stronger than expected consumer confidence levels have fuelled extraordinary demand for properties across Ontario

Newsletter

High-rise condo market continues to climb

September 9, 2007

Most people want to own a home. But with legislation restricting the places where people can build, how will that affect consumers?

Newsletter

Ontario rent increase guideline lowest rate ever

September 9, 2007

At only 1.4 per cent, the Ontario rent increase guideline for 2008 will be the lowest guideline since rent increase guidelines were introduced more than 30 years ago.

Newsletter

The wonderful world of Web 2.0

September 9, 2007

If you’re just getting comfortable with using the Internet in your business, hang on to your mouse!

Newsletter

Property tax deferral programs benefit seniors and disabled homeowners

September 9, 2007

Low-income seniors and disabled people in the City of Ottawa who own their homes may be able to defer some of the taxes on their property.

Newsletter

Correcting three prevalent myths about heritage properties

September 9, 2007

Heritage properties are becoming an area of focus for some Ontario real estate salespeople and brokers. In Brampton (at time of writing), for example, there are no fewer than 400 listed heritage properties on the municipal inventory.

Newsletter

Merv’s Column: No option

September 9, 2007

A 74 acre parcel of farmland sold for $850,000 in a Purchase Agreement that contained an addendum that was allegedly drafted to allow the seller to acquire title to the farm’s residential parcel if the rest of the property was ever subdivided.

Newsletter

Tap into apartments

September 9, 2007

Ontario is Canada’s second-largest overall rental apartment market, trailing only Quebec.

Newsletter

Teach new leaders!

September 9, 2007

The OREA Centre for Leadership Development is now accepting applications for Leadership Instructors to teach the newly developed leadership courses.

Newsletter

RECO Election results

July 9, 2007

Following the Real Estate Council of Ontario’s Annual Meeting in June, the RECO board elected Brian Sukkau to serve as chair and Lawrence Bremner to serve as vice-chair. In earlier voting for its 2007 Board of Directors, members elected the following people:

Newsletter

Real estate market slowing down

July 9, 2007

Canada’s housing market is expected to cool off gradually this year thanks mainly to rising interest rates, an increased supply of homes on the market and an aging population according to Scotiabank’s most recent economic report.

Newsletter

Closed book examinations will raise education bar

July 9, 2007

Brokers, REALTORS®, regulators and other certification bodies have all expressed a need to implement more rigorous registration standards to prepare real estate professionals to deal with consumers and other professionals with credibility and authority.

Newsletter

Non-payment of insurance will result in suspension

July 9, 2007

As a result of amendments to the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002 and regulations, the consequences of failing to pay required insurance amounts have changed.

Newsletter

Wired Office: Smartphones offer all-in-one solution

July 9, 2007

From getting listings to showing properties to closing sales -- REALTORS® are often away from their desks.

Newsletter

Check hydro pole ownership in rural areas

July 9, 2007

When your clients buy a rural property do you think they know they might be buying hydro poles, too?

Newsletter

Employee’s indiscretion results in complaint to Privacy Commissioner

July 9, 2007

A recent decision of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) shows how an employee’s “slip of the tongue” during a relatively routine telephone call about debt collection resulted in her employer getting into trouble with the Privacy Commissioner.

Newsletter

Merv’s Column: What constitutes “nuisance”?

July 9, 2007

The buyer purchased a New Brunswick gas station site “as is” and added it to other adjacent lands for development.

Newsletter

New course offers technology tips

July 9, 2007

OREA Real Estate College offers a new online one-credit course to help REALTORS® make good choices when it comes to hand held technology.

Newsletter

Continue leadership training with course

July 9, 2007

The OREA Centre for Leadership Development is about to launch its second leadership development course, Leadership 200.

Newsletter

Lenovo cuts prices for OREA members

July 9, 2007

If you are looking for a new computer, now might be the time to buy.

Newsletter

The Real Estate Book, LiveDeal.ca partner

June 10, 2007

Network Communications, Inc. (NCI), publisher of the Real Estate Book, recently signed an agreement with LiveDeal.ca, to post all Canadian listings of homes for sale from The Real Estate Book on LiveDeal.ca.

Newsletter

High-end cottage property in demand

June 10, 2007

According to the 2007 RE/MAX Recreational Property Report, sales of luxury recreational properties are set to soar in the coming months across the country.

Newsletter

Same advertising rules apply for REALTOR® Web sites

June 10, 2007

Web presence in the early days of the Internet was mainly limited to big business.

Newsletter

Mortgage insurance changes may not be a good thing

June 10, 2007

For the last 40 years, homebuyers have been required to buy mortgage insurance unless their down payment totalled at least 25 per cent of the purchase price.

Newsletter

Internet to Go!

June 10, 2007

Considering the amount of time a REALTOR® spends out of the office, mobile Internet technology can have many advantages.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Deal fairly other members

June 10, 2007

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO Web site at http://www.reco.on.ca/.

Newsletter

Discipline under REBBA 2002

June 10, 2007

The RECO Code of Ethics now falls under the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002.

Newsletter

Merv’s Column: GST – CONDO Q&A

June 10, 2007

QUESTION: The buyers accepted the bank's offer on power of sale listing (price etc.) except that the bank's agent brought an offer which indicated that GST is "in addition to" the agreed up on price of a resale property "sold as is where is".

Newsletter

Course praised for quality education

June 10, 2007

The course “Agency Fundamentals: The National Perspective” has been chosen as the Real Estate Educators Association’s (REEA) Education Program of the Year for 2007.

Newsletter

OREA offers new service to members

June 10, 2007

Feeling like a valued customer or client is important in any service relationship.

Newsletter

Achieving excellence in the classroom

June 10, 2007

OREA Instructor Geof Smith addresses instructors at a seminar with a focus on "Classroom Performance — Achieving Excellence”.

Newsletter

Opportunity: ORC looking for vendors

May 10, 2007

Real estate brokerages are invited to submit proposals to be considered as Vendor of Record as detailed in Ontario Realty Corporation’s (ORC) Request for Proposals (RFP) RFP 06C037.

Newsletter

Housing market exceeds expectations

May 10, 2007

Canada's housing market got off to a surprisingly strong start in 2007 with average house prices rising in all major markets surveyed, according to a first quarter report released by Royal LePage Real Estate Services.

Newsletter

WEBForms™ V4 now available

May 10, 2007

WEBForms™ officially released Version 4 to REALTORS® across Canada at the end of March. Prior to the release, the upgrade was put through three months of beta testing with over 80 REALTORS® and staff.

Newsletter

Protect your reputation

May 10, 2007

NAR’s most recent Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers showed that potential clients look for a good reputation and trustworthiness when choosing a REALTOR®.

Newsletter

Do your listing photos reflect your professionalism?

May 10, 2007

A picture tells a thousand words as the saying goes. But, when it comes to listing photos, a bad picture can tell a negative story and can hamper your ability to sell a house for the best price possible.

Newsletter

What you should know about surveys

May 10, 2007

There are many situations when REALTORS® should recommend to their clients to have a survey of the property completed.

Newsletter

Merv’s Column: Aren't tax laws just super?

May 10, 2007

The owner gives a first mortgage at a time when he owes money to Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for GST and source deductions.

Newsletter

Learn how to lead

May 10, 2007

The OREA Centre for Leadership Development launched Leadership 100 in April.

Newsletter

Spring into action

May 10, 2007

Take advantage of the OREA College’s Spring into Action promotion for continuing education online course credits.

Newsletter

New 55-year mortgage aimed at self-employed

April 8, 2007

Reliant Home Warranty Corporation's Canadian subsidiary, Reliant Home Mortgage Canada Inc.

Newsletter

MLS® sales stay high

April 8, 2007

According to statistics released by The Canadian Real Estate Association, resale housing activity in Canada's major markets remained strong in February 2007.

Newsletter

Underground fuel oil tanks: get the facts

April 8, 2007

Did you know that as of May 1, 2007, all existing fuel oil storage tanks (aboveground and underground) and associated appliances must undergo a comprehensive inspection?

Newsletter

New act governs tenanted-properties

April 8, 2007

The Residential Tenancies Act (the RTA) came into effect on January 31, 2007.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Don’t trash your old PC – recycle it!

April 8, 2007

The rate of change in computer technology may prompt you to upgrade your PC every few years.

Newsletter

RECO decision: Act in client's best interest

April 8, 2007

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO Web site at http://www.reco.on.ca/.

Newsletter

Merv's Column: Seller must honour agreement

April 8, 2007

The seller listed his property for sale with a real estate salesperson and retained a lawyer to act for him in connection with the sale of the property. During the listing period he sold the property pursuant to a private agreement of purchase and sale.

Newsletter

Developing leaders wins board honours

April 8, 2007

At the 2007 OREA Annual Conference, OREA Past President Tim Lee (second from left) presented the OREA Volunteer Award to the Windsor Essex County Real Estate Board for its successes encouraging member involvement, retaining volunteers and developing leaders through an exemplary recognition program.

Newsletter

Join the Dash for Cash

April 8, 2007

Show your support for the REALTORS Care Foundation’s second annual Dash for Cash, a charity motorcycle ride in support of shelter-related charities.

Newsletter

Bell Canada launches home watch service

March 8, 2007

Bell Canada offers a new, customizable surveillance service that is controlled by the homeowner via a secure personalized Web site.

Newsletter

Shelter costing more than many can afford

March 8, 2007

According to the Canadian Council on Social Development (CCSD) almost 3 million Canadians are spending too much of their income on housing including 40 per cent who are renters.

Newsletter

Title insurance offers more than just fraud protection

March 8, 2007

When it comes to the single largest investment most of us will make – buying a home – consumers want to make sure they’ve protected that investment to the best of their abilities.

Newsletter

Reports show real estate is a good investment

March 8, 2007

If you have potential buyers still hesitant to get into the market, they should consider the following: as well as providing them with the house of their dreams, real estate has proven to be a solid investment over the last 25 years.

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Cell phone 101: What to look for in a new phone plan

March 8, 2007

According to Statistics Canada, there are currently more than 16.3 million wireless subscribers across the country. REALTORS® are a significant part of that group with more than 90 per cent indicating that they use a cell phone in NAR’s most recent technology survey.

Newsletter

Pre-listing inspections may simplify negotiations

March 8, 2007

Home inspections used to be initiated almost exclusively by the buyer in a real estate transaction.

Newsletter

Merv’s column: Multiple representation tricky

March 8, 2007

The buyers met with the agent, SP, when they became interested in purchasing a lot.

Newsletter

Thanks to sponsors

March 8, 2007

OREA’s 2007 Annual Conference was made possible by the donation of our generous sponsors.

Newsletter

Guide helps grasp changes to courses

March 8, 2007

All students in pre-registration, articling and professional brokerage courses are expected to have a working knowledge of the Act and associated regulations of REBBA 2002.

Newsletter

OREA mourns Reardon

March 8, 2007

The Ontario Real Estate Associations is sad to report that 1987 OREA President Francis Martin “Frank” Reardon passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2007. He was 86.

Newsletter

Standard forms – new name, same program

March 8, 2007

The Quick Offer computer software package for OREA standard forms, formerly produced by Nereosoft, is now produced by FormPaper Inc.

Newsletter

AIG newest Canadian mortgage insurer

February 18, 2007

The CEO of AIG United Guaranty, the third company to provide mortgage insurance in Canada alongside CMHC and Genworth Financial, predicts 50-year mortgages will be available in the future.

Newsletter

Moderate growth expected for housing market this year

February 18, 2007

Canada's housing market is poised for continued, yet moderate growth in 2007 with average house prices forecast to rise by 6.5 per cent to $293,000, according to the 2007 Royal LePage Market Survey Forecast.

Newsletter

Health Canada plans stricter radon guidelines

February 1, 2007

Mandatory testing for radon gas in private homes may become a condition of sale if Health Canada adopts recommendations for stricter radon guidelines.

Newsletter

Municipal licensing fees won’t affect REALTORS®

February 18, 2007

New revenue-generating powers granted to municipalities through taxation and licensing measures will not adversely affect the viability of REALTOR® businesses, thanks to efforts of OREA and the Toronto Real Estate Board (TREB).

Newsletter

WIRED OFFICE: Dispose of your old PC safely and securely

February 18, 2007

Whether your computer is an old clunker or you just want the latest technology, the time will eventually come when you will need to replace your hardware.

Newsletter

Bird dog fees violate REBBA 2002

February 18, 2007

Representing both a buyer and a seller in a real estate transaction can be tricky.

Newsletter

Dealing with multiple buyer representation

February 18, 2007

Representing both a buyer and a seller in a real estate transaction can be tricky.

Newsletter

Merv’s column: Power of Sale price deemed sound

February 18, 2007

Canada Trustco started Power of Sale proceedings and obtained two appraisal reports prepared by appraisers holding AACI designations from the Appraisal Institute of Canada.

Newsletter

Consumer campaign to launch nationally

February 18, 2007

Encouraged by so much positive feedback, CREA takes its campaign across the country to educate consumers on the value REALTORS® bring to the real estate transaction.

Newsletter

Healthy condo air focus of new course

February 18, 2007

The indoor air quality of a condominium building is a result of the interaction between the location, temperature, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, pollution sources, construction techniques, building maintenance and occupant activities.

Newsletter

Tune in to leaders

February 18, 2007

Board leaders are invited to attend the 2007 OREA Annual Conference, February 27 to March 1, 2007, at the Sheraton Hotel in Toronto, to build your leadership repertoire.

Newsletter

Mortgage brokers will need license

January 6, 2007

Anyone who deals in mortgages will need a license now that Bill 65, the Mortgage Brokers, Lenders and Administrators Act, passed final reading in the Ontario Legislature.

Newsletter

House price increase to slow in 2007

January 18, 2007

The upward pressure on Canadian house prices will start to ease off thanks to an influx of new listings over the next year, according to the latest RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic report.

Newsletter

Protect yourself from title fraud

January 18, 2007

Title fraud is a daunting problem for all stakeholders in real estate, and it’s not just an Ontario problem; it affects the industry across Canada and the United States.

Newsletter

Privacy compliance tip sheet updated

January 18, 2007

The federal privacy law has changed the way REALTORS&reg;, as well as every commercial organization in Ontario, conduct their businesses since PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) came into effect three years ago on January 1, 2004.

Newsletter

Create a large presence for your small business

January 18, 2007

Seventy-seven per cent of homebuyers begin their search for a home on the Internet according to the latest NAR Profile of Homebuyers and Sellers.

Newsletter

Commercial projects take the LEED

January 18, 2007

More focus on the environment and sustainability is not just a wave of the federal opposition party.

Newsletter

Seller goes Dutch, pays commission

January 18, 2007

The seller signed a listing agreement with the REALTOR® for the sale of the seller's farm for $1,260,000.

Newsletter

Volunteer Handbook best practice model

January 18, 2007

OREA’s Volunteer Handbook has been honoured again.

Newsletter

Get updated forms

January 18, 2007

Effective January 1, 2007, Form 200 Listing Agreement and Form 300 Buyer Representation Agreement will be $15.00 for a package of 25.

Newsletter

2007 Career guide sports new look

January 18, 2007

The 2007 Real Estate Career Guide is now available, and the book sports a new look. Gone is the old 8 ½” by 11” format in favour of a smaller, more portable 6” by 9” size.

Newsletter

In tune with leaders

January 18, 2007

Learn to be a good conductor of your band of board volunteers.

Newsletter

Debate trade issues at Annual Meeting

January 18, 2007

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, February 28, 2007 at the Sheraton Centre in Toronto, starting at 10:30 a.m.

Newsletter

Registrations revoked

December 4, 2006

On November 14, the Registrar issued Final Notices revoking the registrations of 100 brokers and salespersons who failed to submit the required insurance renewal premium, resulting in a breach of a condition of registration under REBBA 2002.

Newsletter

Canadian market both vigorous and stable

December 4, 2006

Canada's housing market is likely to outperform the American market through 2007 according to a report by Royal LePage Real Estate Services.

Newsletter

Full advertising guidelines kick in January 2007

December 1, 2006

Time is drawing near for registrants to begin complying with the REBBA 2002 advertising rules regarding the words brokerage and brokers of record.

Newsletter

OREA forms keep pace with REBBA

December 4, 2006

Whether the concern is disclosing interest on deposits, legibility of agreements, or defining relationships, changes to REBBA 2002, and subsequently to OREA Standard Forms, seek clarity for customers and clients.

Newsletter

Keeping your PC running at peak performance

December 1, 2006

Most people rely heavily on their computers to carry out their day-to-day business and the thought of a computer breakdown or crash is a nightmare.

Newsletter

Commission rules clarified in REBBA 2002 guide

December 1, 2006

It’s been over six months since REBBA 2002 and its regulations took effect. Since then, brokers and salespeople have had to get familiar with the changes and begin complying with them.

Newsletter

Full price not the full story

December 1, 2006

The REALTOR® had a Listing Agreement for $123,900 and presented an offer for $120,000 which the seller refused, insisting that she wanted her full asking price. Several days later the REALTOR® presented a second offer from the same buyer for the full asking price.

Newsletter

Looking for leaders

December 1, 2006

If you’ve ever thought of serving your profession, why not sign up for an OREA committee?

Newsletter

Home inspectors laud Leyser’s contribution

December 4, 2006

OREA past-president Laura Leyser has been chosen to receive the 2006 Michael Ludolph Award by the Canadian Association of Home and Property Inspectors (CAHPI).

Newsletter

Home ownership and GST brochures updated

December 4, 2006

Inform your clients about the programs that will help them save money.

Newsletter

Build and repair tips earn credits at seminar

November 11, 2006

REALTORS® can earn 15 RECO credits at the Ontario Building and Renovation Forum taking place January 11 and 12, 2007, at the Hilton Suites Toronto-Markham.

Newsletter

Home starts to slow in 2007: CMHC

November 11, 2006

According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) urban starts decreased by 4.3 per cent in Ontario in September compared to August.

Newsletter

OREA campaign promotes how REALTORS® help

November 11, 2006

Consumers think more highly of real estate practitioners when they know more about the real estate process and the extent of the education REALTORS® and brokers require.

Newsletter

Insurance must be paid to get paid

November 11, 2006

If your insurance premium is not paid, you cannot get paid. That is one of the changes of the Real Estate Business Brokers Act, 2002 (REBBA 2002) and one RECO has started to enforce.

Newsletter

REALTORS® avoid Law Society regulation

November 11, 2006

OREA has succeeded in its push to amend legislation that would have made Ontario REALTORS® subject to regulation by the Law Society of Upper Canada (LSUC).

Newsletter

What’s your position?

November 11, 2006

Real estate professionals need to know their way around town.

Newsletter

Volunteers key in year of change

November 11, 2006

Have you ever wondered if your contribution to the profession could make a difference? This past year, over 140 real estate professionals dedicated their time to the Ontario Real Estate Association, and found out that, yes, they could effect change.

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Merv's Column: What was bargained for?

November 11, 2006

When the buyer inquired about the property, the real estate agent represented that the land size was 81.00 feet x 143.00 feet or 11,583 square feet.

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Send a bit of home to our Afghan troops

November 11, 2006

The Renfrew County Real Estate Board is appealing to REALTORS® across the country to join them in sending a little reminder of home to Canadian troops in Afghanistan this holiday season.

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OREA College adds new online courses

November 11, 2006

Members can earn their next MCE credits from the comfort and convenience of their own home, office or even hot spot! OREA Real Estate College has added five three-credit courses to the online offering, bringing the selection to 13 courses.

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Calling all candidates!

November 11, 2006

Interested in running for a position on OREA’s Board of Directors?

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Homeowners protected from real estate fraud

October 7, 2006

The McGuinty government announced proposed legislation in September that, if passed, will ensure that property owners do not lose their homes as a result of real estate fraud or become responsible for fraudulent mortgages.

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Housing starts to slow down in 2007

October 7, 2006

Ontario home starts will moderate over the next year, but still remain above historical averages according to a recent Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) report.

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Are you trademark savvy?

October 7, 2006

Not every real estate salesperson in Ontario can call themselves a REALTOR®.

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New law steps up fight against grow ops

October 7, 2006

A new law came into effect in August giving police, municipalities and electricity companies the power to crack down on marijuana grow houses.

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Remote access creates a virtual office

October 7, 2006

Wireless technology, combined with a good laptop or hand held computer, has made it easy to bring your office just about anywhere.

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RECO Decision: Honour agreement of peers

October 7, 2006

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO Web site at www.reco.on.ca.

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Time is of the Essence

October 7, 2006

The sellers were approached by Loblaws to buy about 12 acres of a 56 acre parcel for $1.8 million based on a price of $150,000 per acre.

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Avoid renewal panic: Buy by the bundle

October 7, 2006

Members can avoid the rush just before registration renewal and finish their course requirements at their own pace over the two year renewal period.

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Fahmi service honoured

October 7, 2006

OREA has bestowed an Honorary Life Membership on 2006 Past President Tamer Fahmi for his many years of service.

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OREA Foundation Gala coming in October

October 7, 2006

The Shelter Ball, the OREA Foundation Gala, takes place on Friday, October 20, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. at the Granite Club in Toronto.

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2007 course dates up, revised reference manual out

October 7, 2006

Articling students and those studying to become brokers can check out the 2007 schedule of courses on the OREA College Web site, under Registration Education.

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Rogers offers deals on wireless data plans

October 7, 2006

Articling students and those studying to become brokers can check out the 2007 schedule of courses on the OREA College Web site, under Registration Education.

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Get housing market data at CMHC conferences

September 7, 2006

CMHC’s annual Housing Outlook Conferences provide focused information on local and regional housing markets.

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Resale market strong

September 7, 2006

Resale housing activity in Canada’s major markets in the first six months of 2006 surpassed all previous records for the first half of any year, according to statistics released by The Canadian Real Estate Association.

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OREA/CREA agreement guides boards on discipline matters

September 7, 2006

Ontario REALTORS® will not be subject to two sanctions for the same infraction under two Codes of Ethics thanks to an agreement between OREA and CREA.

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What you should know about vermiculite insulation

September 7, 2006

Is it UFFI all over again? Recent media coverage reporting the health risks associated with vermiculite insulation containing asbestos has sparked fear in the minds of some homeowners and even a class action lawsuit.

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WIRED OFFICE: Stay secure at Hot Spots

September 7, 2006

The days of spending hours chained to your desk are gone. With today’s mobile technology, and the growing availability of hotspots, REALTORS® are able to conduct business anywhere, anytime.

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Development in Ontario will get bogged down in legislation: panel

September 7, 2006

The new and proposed amendments to the Planning Act will make development in Ontario a complicated, expensive and time-intensive process, with the onus on the developer to make the process efficient and transparent.

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LEGALBEAT Claim to right of way denied

September 7, 2006

An owner had two homes and three carports and one driveway on one lot and received approval to sever them into two lots. One of the conditions of that approval was that the centre carport be removed.

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OREA mourns directors

September 7, 2006

The Ontario Real Estate Association is sad to report the loss of two active directors this past summer. Emile Boudreau, 2006 Commercial Director, died suddenly on July 24. Edward (Ted) D. McCracken, 2006 Director-at-large, passed away on August 7.

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Leyser speaks up for taxpayers at MPAC

September 7, 2006

OREA past-president Laura Leyser has been appointed to serve as a member of the board of directors of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC).

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RECO Election results

July 7, 2006

Following the Real Estate Council of Ontario’s Annual Meeting in June, the RECO board elected Joe Pinheiro to serve as chair and Brian Sukkau to serve as vice-chair.

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Housing affordability declines slightly

July 7, 2006

ntario's housing market witnessed a mild drop in affordability across all classes, according to a recent report by RBC Economics.

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OREA wins more time to comply with REBBA advertising changes

July 7, 2006

OREA scored a major victory for members recently with an extension to the REBBA 2002 advertising compliance deadline until the end of this year for the use of the words brokerages and brokers of record.

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TREB Buyer Registry Service promotes buyer interest while protecting them

July 7, 2006

Buyers can get the word out to several listing REALTORS® that they are interested in purchasing a home, and still only sign one representation agreement.

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Brokers need to disclose trust account interest terms

July 7, 2006

The Real Estate and Business Brokers Act, 2002(REBBA 2002) contains new provisions regarding any interest generated on money held in trust by a brokerage.

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Do more mega pixels matter? What to look for in a digital camera

July 7, 2006

Consumers want pictures, pictures and more pictures when shopping for a home according to CREA’s most recent mls.ca® survey.

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Cottage country real estate can be tricky

July 7, 2006

The lure of cottage life is mighty powerful for most Ontarians – especially at this time of year.

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Merv’s Column: Mortgagees must act in good faith

July 7, 2006

The owners of a Kemptville golf course sold it and took back a mortgage and other security.

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New course offers good business tips

July 7, 2006

Cash flow problems are often the reasons new real estate ventures falter.

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Lenovo partners with OREA

July 7, 2006

OREA is pleased to welcome Lenovo to the exclusive list of affinity partners.

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Updated guide teaches election ins and outs

July 7, 2006

If real estate is your profession, politics is your business.

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Coalition fights for property tax reform

June 7, 2006

A new province-wide citizen’s coalition has been formed to fight for a five per cent cap on annual property assessment increases and reforms to the property tax system.

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Cottage country’s booming

June 7, 2006

The full impact of an aging baby boom generation is hitting recreational property markets across the country, according to the RE/MAX Recreational Property Report, which highlights activity in 40 major Canadian centres.

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New GST rate will keep dollars in homebuyers’ pockets

June 7, 2006

Ontario homebuyers can save thousands of dollars this summer on newly-built homes thanks to the Federal government plan to reduce the GST from seven per cent to six per cent, effective July 1, 2006.

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Do you know how to stay safe?

June 7, 2006

REALTOR® safety on the job is of real concern. The very nature of real estate involves personal risk because REALTORS® often work alone in vacant buildings with people who are complete strangers.

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Learn the ins and outs of IXN

June 7, 2006

Sharing information is something most REALTORS® want.

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The 30, 35-year mortgage: blessing or curse?

June 7, 2006

Whatever happened to paying down the mortgage faster?

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LEGALBEAT: Show buyers SPIS

June 7, 2006

The buyers hired an agent, viewed this rural property and made an offer that was conditional on financing, a home inspection and being satisfied with the "quality and quantity" of water.

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Updated brochure available in French

June 7, 2006

The updated version of the consumer brochure Working with a REALTOR®, is now available in French. The brochure had been updated to clarify representation and customer service agreements for consumers, to comply with the REBBA regulations.

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Board has new home

June 7, 2006

Update your contact information.

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Dash for Cash

June 7, 2006

Show your support for the Dash for Cash, a 1300-km charity motorcycle ride from Toronto to Nashville, Tennessee on July 20 to 22, 2006.

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REALTORS® can earn six MCE credits

May 5, 2006

Earn mandatory continuing education credits at the Land Conference, June 13 in Toronto.

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Affordability

May 5, 2006

Ontario's housing market is showing signs of a controlled cooling down, according to a Housing Affordability Index issued by RBC Economics in March.

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Brokers may set office policy on commissions – with care

May 5, 2006

It may be possible for a brokerage to set an office policy on commissions and avoid competition issues, but certain steps should be followed.

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Expand IXN for data sharing, OREA MLS® summit urges

May 5, 2006

Most REALTORS® believe sharing MLS® information is a good idea that will benefit them and their clients, according to a recent OREA survey.

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Don’t let a virus get you down

May 5, 2006

Computer viruses are an unfortunate reality in today’s technological world. These nasty bugs that commonly show up in e-mail attachments are capable of eating all of your files including your business data.

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Deposits can seal the deal

May 5, 2006

An adequate deposit is one of the essential elements of an agreement to buy or lease real estate.

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LEGALBEAT: Keep the ring

May 5, 2006

The buyer lost his job and decided not to complete his purchase.

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1969 OREA president Albert Fish dies

May 5, 2006

The Ontario Real Estate Association is sad to report that 1969 president Albert Fish passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 5, 2006 in Guelph. He was 83.

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OREA advisory panel wants your opinion

May 5, 2006

In an effort to better understand the needs of its members, OREA is in the process of setting up an Internet based advisory panel.

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Make an impression

May 5, 2006

We’ve all heard it before: “You don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression.”

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Tee up at golf classic

May 5, 2006

The 11th Annual OREA Foundation Golf Classic charity golf tournament will take place on Wednesday, May 31, 2006 at the Glen Abbey Golf Club in Oakville.

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Insurance resolution service expanded

April 5, 2006

The General Insurance OmbudService (GIO), a federal not-for-profit corporation, has set up a new national toll-free number, 1-877-225-0446.

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Commercial construction will bolster industry

April 5, 2006

Strong non-residential and engineering construction will offset a long-anticipated decline in housing starts to maintain industry profits in 2006, according to the Conference Board of Canada’s latest outlook on Canada's construction industry.

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Code of Ethics ensures your good name

April 5, 2006

The Code of Ethics in the new Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA), 2002 identifies that real estate is a service profession where the consumer relies on the expertise of its members, and takes them at their word.

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Technology and REALTOR use on the rise

April 5, 2006

Technology is transforming how North Americans buy and sell homes in unexpected ways, including how they work with real estate professionals, according to the 2005 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers.

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Legal Forum hits 2,000 questions

April 5, 2006

“Am I entitled to be paid for the work that I have done showing homes?” This question, and variations of it, is very common on OREA’s online Legal Forum, which hit the 2,000-question mark in March 2006.

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Technology and REALTOR use on the rise

April 5, 2006

Technology is transforming how North Americans buy and sell homes in unexpected ways, including how they work with real estate professionals, according to the 2005 National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers.

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Making agreements: Forms reflect changes under new statute

April 5, 2006

For as long as listings have existed, many real estate practitioners have been of the opinion that, since a listing agreement is really a contract, the broker should sign as a party to the agreement as well as the seller.

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Consent Clause must be explained to sellers

April 5, 2006

The OREA Listing Agreement - Form 200 04/2006 now contains an expired listing consent clause to give sellers an opportunity to consent to being marketed to by other REALTORS after expiry of their property listing.

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LEGALBEAT: Building lot it’s not

April 5, 2006

The Loggerhead Shrike is a small bird that is an 'endangered' species protected under Ontario's Endangered Species Act.

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OREA offers new course

April 5, 2006

OREA has created a new course that focuses on the revised Real Estate and Business Brokers Act.

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Attracting volunteers pays off for boards

April 5, 2006

At the 2006 OREA Annual Conference, OREA past presidents Laura Leyser and Dianne Usher presented the OREA Volunteer Awards to two boards.

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House market to moderate

March 5, 2006

Sales of existing Canadian homes will slow down from a record 481,900 sales in 2005 to 461,500 units this year and to 444,000 units in 2007 according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s first quarter Housing Outlook report.

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Expired listings off limits

March 5, 2006

Can a REALTOR contact a seller whose listing has expired if the only information taken from the MLS® system is the fact that the listing has expired and the actual contact information is obtained from the phone book?

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New REBBA means new, revised forms

March 5, 2006

The many changes to rules, regulations and terminology adopted under the new Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA) have resulted in numerous revisions and updates to the OREA standard forms.

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WIRED OFFICE: Do some virtual spring cleaning

March 5, 2006

Getting organized is listed as one of the top New Year’s resolutions.

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Curriculum changes under REBBA, 2002

March 5, 2006

REALTORS need to learn about REBBA 2002–which comes into effect March 31 – and what the changes to the Act and the Code of Ethics will mean to them.

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Legal pamphlets help with Code compliance

March 5, 2006

Two pamphlets available to OREA members contain plenty of important information to help you comply with the new REBBA 2002 regulations.

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LEGAL BEAT: Lack of support could topple deals

March 5, 2006

Are you dealing with financially sound people? REALTORS should be concerned about liens or potential liens and attempt to determine if their buyers or sellers owe monies to anyone including spouses.

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“Buy” book updated

March 5, 2006

Guiding first time buyers through their purchase is always easier if they come into the process with some knowledge.

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Conference sponsors’ role appreciated

March 5, 2006

OREA’s 2006 Annual Conference was made possible by the donations of our generous sponsors.

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Agency relationship explained in brochure

March 5, 2006

RECO has always required that seller clients and buyer clients clearly understand the nature of their relationship with the brokerage.

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OREA standard forms available to lawyers

March 5, 2006

OREA has made several of its standard forms available for purchase by Ontario lawyers.

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New smoke detector regulations announced

February 5, 2006

Under changes to the Ontario Fire Code that take effect March 1, 2006, every floor of every house in Ontario must have a working smoke detector.

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Canadian house prices forecast to rise in 2006

February 5, 2006

The effects of an unusually strong fall market are expected to carry through into the first half of 2006 resulting in an average house price increase of about 6 per cent in most areas of Canada according to the Royal LePage Real Estate Services 2006 Market Survey Forecast.

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Being green is getting easier

February 5, 2006

You are an owner and occupant of an older office building. You have high operating costs, high ongoing capital costs, and your employee productivity is low, partly related to high absenteeism.

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Opportunities will grow with waterfront development

February 5, 2006

Toronto’s waterfront represents a great opportunity for business and REALTORS as revitalization efforts are working to create cultural institutions, commercial enterprises and residential communities.

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Spyware: Are you being watched?

February 5, 2006

Hidden programs may be running on your computer that track and communicate your online activities without your knowledge or consent.

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RECO decision: Dishonesty proves costly

February 5, 2006

The following RECO Complaints, Compliance and Discipline Appeals decision has been condensed and can be viewed in its entirety on the RECO website at www.reco.on.ca.

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OREA College launches salesperson training program

February 5, 2006

New real estate salespeople graduate from OREA’s Real Estate College with a comprehensive education, but often struggle with practical knowledge in the first weeks and months on the job.

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LegalBeat: How do you measure far?

February 5, 2006

A dentist warranted and agreed that he would not carry on a dental practice within a radius of 15 kilometres of the existing practice being purchased.

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Legislative Update gets an update

February 5, 2006

Today more than ever REALTORS need to stay informed about legislation that affects the real estate profession.

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Debate trade issues at Annual Meeting

February 5, 2006

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 in the Harbour Ballroom at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel

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Home insurance brochure available

February 5, 2006

In recent years consumers have faced tougher standards when looking to buy insurance for their homes.

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New energy bill passed

January 5, 2006

Bill C-66 – the Energy Costs Assistance Measures Act – received royal assent just prior to the federal general election call at the end of November.

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No bubble market evident

January 5, 2006

According to TD Bank Financial Group’s Housing Bubble Watch the risk of a housing bubble remains low in most Canadian markets because prices are being driven by fundamental factors like historically low mortgage rates and a rise in incomes as opposed to speculation.

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Get ready for REBBA, 2002

January 5, 2006

Breaking the rules will mean stiffer penalties for registrants starting next spring when a new Real Estate and Business Brokers Act (REBBA, 2002) comes into effect. Maximum fines for violating the Act have increased from $25,000 to $50,000 for an individual and from $100,000 to $250,000 for corporations.

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Tenants rights – what you should know

January 5, 2006

Showing a rental unit without giving proper notice to the tenant could be a criminal offence.

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What will they think of next?

January 5, 2006

Technological inventors had a busy year in 2005 coming up with several practical and not-so-practical gadgets.

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Property assessments not set in stone

January 5, 2006

Real estate markets seem to be plateauing and the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is trying to reflect that in their property value assessments.

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Parliament passes Do-Not-Call List

January 5, 2006

Unsolicited telemarketing has become a serious irritant for many Canadians.

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Merv’s column: Tenants have rights

January 5, 2006

The landlord who was also the seller agreed to sell this rented residential premises to the buyer who was also the landlord's real estate agent as well as the agent for the buyer.

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Annual Conference: The sky’s the limit

January 5, 2006

Add a little fuel to your creativity engine and build your leadership skill set by attending the 2006 OREA Annual Conference, February 21 to 23, 2006, at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto.

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Encyclopedia updates real estate’s A to Z

January 5, 2006

Expanded sections on Canadian regulators, accounting procedures and mortgage financing can be found in the recently released upgraded of the OREA College Real Estate Encyclopedia, Canadian Edition.

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Debate trade issues at Annual Meeting

January 5, 2006

All OREA members are invited to attend the Annual Meeting of the Assembly on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 in the Harbour Ballroom at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel, 1 Harbour Square in Toronto, starting at 10:30 a.m.

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Help for efficiency upgrades available

December 6, 2005

Hydro One has teamed up with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) to provide financial incentives for energy-efficiency upgrades to low-income Hydro One customers who heat their homes with electricity.

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Green buildings good for business

December 6, 2005

A new Canadian Study of green buildings reveals a clear link between the market value of real estate and its environmental friendliness.

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Condominiums: what you should know

December 6, 2005

You may be an expert at selling a house, but what do you know about condos?

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Standard Forms: keep it simple

December 6, 2005

Several updates have been made to the standard forms this year with a view to simplicity and identifiability for the REALTOR and the client, and consistency in the wording.