A Message from GAAR & SWMLS Leadership

GAAR President Sherry Fowler and SWMLS President Scott Dean provide an update on important member topics.

Local Housing Market News
April Market Statistics will be released on Monday, May 11th. This will provide a better picture of what’s taking place in the greater Albuquerque area as a result of an entire month of Stay-At-Home restrictions. Although we anticipate a reduction in pending and closings, the good news is that home prices remain stable, and we are seeing increases in median and average sales prices. Click for Market Statistics.

I want to thank all our members for adapting to new ways of conducting business during this crazy time. Almost overnight, public open houses were halted and virtual showings became the new norm. You quickly implemented safety protocols and added Coronavirus Addendums! Your commitment to the public remains strong, and we will get through this together. Click for Broker Practices During COVID-19.


National Housing Market News
According to NAR leadership, the Real Estate industry, in general, is showing signs of stability. Low inventory is contributing to little pricing variation for homes below $500K. Sellers are still listing their homes and multiple offer situations continue. Stay tuned, as new statistics become available. Click for more.
 

MLS Clear Cooperation Policy 8.0
This new mandated NAR policy went into effect on May 1st. The Clear Cooperation Policy states that all residential properties must be entered in the MLS within one (1) business day, of marketing to the public.

Marketing to the public includes all forms of communication; yard signs, flyers, social media, brokerage websites, or verbal communication. Be sure you understand this new policy, failure to comply could result in fines ranging from $50 to $400. Click for Clear Cooperation Policy.


SWMLS Virtual Resouce Guide
As we continue to adhere to social distancing norms, SWMLS has put together a Resource Guide to help you with virtual tours and showings. The Guide includes new features, that many of our products have raced to implement, to help you promote listings safely during this time. Click for the Virtual Technology Resouce Guide.

CRS Tax
The SWMLS Board of Directors listened to your requests and propose an agreement that offers you the opportunity to purchase CRS Tax as an ‘a la carte’ option. 

For individuals, it’s available at $1,800 per year, but SWMLS was able to negotiate a much lower rate if we have a minimum of 150 commitments. The proposed agreement would be an annual, non-refundable fee of $180. This reflects a savings of more than $1600 each year.

The $180 fee would be the responsibility of the member. A minimum of 150 commitments is needed before we can enter into an agreement with CRS. If you are interested, be sure to submit your commitment form by June 30th. Click to review the CRS Tax Commitment.
 

Member Services
While the GAAR physical office remains closed until restrictions are lifted, our staff continues to provide services and are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Lockbox pick-up is available Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Call the Supra desk to make an appointment. Your lockbox will be waiting for you.

All Continuing Education courses and Training classes continue to be offered remotely through Zoom and have been well-attended. Membership and the MLS Help Desk are functioning smoothly and member calls are returned promptly.


And lastly, thank you to our Leadership Team, our Boards, and Committees that have adjusted to remote meetings without skipping a beat.


GAAR Directory
  • Membership:  842-1433, option 5
  • Education:  842-1433, option 3
  • Supra Help Desk:  842-1433, option 2
  • MLS Help Desk:  842-1433, option 1
Stay safe and we hope to see you soon!