April 2007

ROCKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS THE VOICE FOR REAL ESTATE

THE FAIR HOUSING ACTestablishes a national policy of fair housing. The law makesit illegal for any person or business to disciminate in the sale,lease, advertising, or financing of housing, or make housingotherwise unavailable because of:

• Race • Color • Religion• Sex • Handicap(Disability)• Family Status • National Origin

Some state and local laws also prohibit discrimination basedon other factors such as:

• Age • Source of Income • Sexual Orientation

Page 2 | April 2007

ATTORNEYSMoneesh K. Bakshi 845-624-0234Alan Goldstein 845-624-1771Kahn & Licker 845-638-0800Susan Keene 845-634-8181Steven Landau 845-639-6031R. Spencer Lauterbach 845-639-1699James Leopold 845-638-3938Deborah W. Loewenberg 845-638-4747Angelo M Lucrezia 845-634-6291Dennis D Michaels 845-348-0001Frank J Phillips 845-947-1100Julian Schulman 845-368-0104Rolf M Thorsen 845-942-4200

BANKS*Hudson Valley Bank 845-521-7006Provident Bank 845-369-8040Ulster Savings Bank 845-294-7922

BUILDERSMax Glazer 845-425-2230

CREDIT UNIONSPalisades Federal Credit 845-732-4242

ENGINEERSAndrew R. Yarmus 845-634-3580

ENVIRONMENTSumray Environ. Cons 845-634-3580

HOME INSPECTORSFTF Inspections CorpThe HomeTeam Inspection Service 845-357-8326

EMCO Home Inspection LLCHouseMaster of Rock/West 845-603-8134

United Inspection Consultants Inc 845-947-4577

HOME STAGINGRockland Home Staging, LLC 845-731-9510

HOME WARRANTY/E & O INSURANCE*First American Home Warranty 800-698-0422

INSURANCEAnzisi Rubinoff Agency 914-777-3577Kevin Casey Allstate Agency 845-429-2500Liberty Mutual Insurance 845-639-4982Theodore Consulting Grp 845-357-2901

MORTGAGE BANKERSAmerican Home Mortgage 845-634-4460Bank of America 914-286-5465Bank of New York Mtg Co 845-624-1084GFI Mortgage Bankers, Inc. 845-358-8000GMAC Mortgage 845-624-1100HSBC Mortgage Corp 845-353-7445Hudson City Savings Bank 201-818-5102Hudson Home Loans 845-634-1875M & T Mortgage Corp 845-440-2852Mortgage World Bankers, Inc 845-639-0240Union Federal Mtg Corp 845-624-3200Wells Fargo Home Mtg 845-638-6400

MORTGAGE BROKERSCitiMortgage Inc 914-478-3249HLB Mortgage Services 845-620-1422Home Capital Mtg Corp 845-965-9106MortgageOpt Corp 845-727-2000United Fidelity Mortgage 845-638-1404Upscale Equities, Inc. 845-371-2622

PUBLICATIONSHome and Family Finance 845-732-4737

SOFTWARE APPLICATIONSSimple Remote 732-301-3966

TITLE INSURANCECommonwealth Land Title 845-634-7070Jade Abstract Co Inc 845-634-3345

*Welcome New Affiliates

AFFILIATESPLEASE SUPPORT YOUR ROCKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS® AFFILIATES ANDRECOMMEND THEM TO YOUR CLIENTS AND CUSTOMERS

THE ROCKLAND REALTOROFFICIAL PUBLICATION of theROCKLAND COUNTY BOARD OF REALTORS300 North Middletown RoadPearl River, New York 10965(845) 735-0075 email: admin@rcbor.com

Our goal is to better inform our membership and providea vehicle for us to communicate with each other. This isyour newsletter. We invite you to submit articles and sug-gestions to Editor, Board of Realtors, 300 N. MiddletownRd., Pearl River, NY 10965 or call 735-0075

NEWSLETTER STAFFEDITOR: Warren SwitzlerASSOC. EDITOR: Karen Peters

Interested in advertising in this newsletter? Call 735-0075The Rockland County Board of REALTORS makes nowarranties and assumes no responsibility for theaccuracy of the information contained herein. Theopinions expressed in articles are not necessarilythe opinions of the Board of Realtors.

visit our website at www.rcbor.com

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

HOME STAGINGVISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.homestagingsystem.com

or call for consultationDecorating with Fabric

845.352.5064

Page 3 | April 2007

2007 OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

PRESIDENTNettie Price 354-5454

PRESIDENT-ELECTRaj Bajaj 364-0040

SECRETARYWarren Switzler 446-2657

TREASURERDenise Murphy 634-1668

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTRoberta Bangs 634-4202

PAST PRESIDENTMerrill Starostiak 634-0400

DIRECTORSAdam DiFrancesco 357-8100Elizabeth Rosenblatt 354-2554Marta Segarra-Allen 623-5200Ellen Murphy 358-9403Mike Nuzzo 357-4747Bill Thorne 634-7474Barbara Corrente 624-8100Diane Wanamaker 947-7700Rachel Taub 364-0007Sharon Tucker 632-5200

AFFILIATESDrew Kessler 638-9402Arcenio Pena 357-8326

Wow! How good can we get? Wehad another successful program onFebruary 28th called Caught onCamera. We had to get more seats toaccommodate everyone.

Just so you know, there are many otherprograms being planned that will beequally as good, so mark your calendarsnow. Merrill is busy setting up programsfor Fair Housing in April and aProfessional Standards Program (a mocktrial) date to be announced. May 30th isLobby Day in Albany. Contact AdamDi Francesco to join him on a free busride to Albany including lunch and achance to meet with your legislators.Limited seating, so call the Board officenow to reserve your seat..

Again, we will be having a Back to Schoolprogram. Call Drew Kessler to volunteerto help. On September 19th we will offer aRealtor Personal Safety Program. Watchfor the details as this affects all of us. Wewill have our Annual Community GalaFund Raiser in October. Our AnnualElection will be in November and ourBoard attorney, Ed Sumber, will addresswhat is taking place in our ever-changingindustry. December is our InstallationDinner and Triple Play in Atlantic City.

Also, we are planning someimprovements in our office that are longover-due. None of these things occur

spontaneously. The Board is workingon the improvements very diligently.

On March 15th we had about twentymembers from the Rockland CountyBoard of Realtors attend the annualProfessional Standards Training Programin Tarrytown. Many of the people whoattended are Realtors who donate theirtime and services to arbitrating disputesthat arise from time to time within ourorganization. Fortunately, we do not havemany, but we do need to have the abilityto adjudicate them.

NettieMy thought for the day is:

“We make a living by what we get, but wemake a life by what we give.”

Winston Churchill

THE FOLLOWING HAVE BEEN APPROVED AS REALTOR MEMBERS:

THE FOLLOWING HAVE BEEN APPROVED AS DESIGNATED REALTOR MEMBERS:Daniel Adamek Lawrence Real Estate GroupAllyson A. Avila Allyson A. AvilaMichael Florio Florio Realty LLCMarlyn Friedberg Friedberg Properties & Assoc.Bernadette Jeudy CGT Maxximum Exposure RealtyDiana F. Jordan Jordan Realty of Rockland Cty

P. Thomas Mathew P. Thomas MathewDaniella Menche Optimum Financing LLCJames J Power Advantage Corporate Relocation ServiceRachel Tanguay-McGuane Rachel Tanguay-McGuaneMargie Weinberg American Real Estate Marketing

MEMBERSHIP

Melissa C Adler IBNA Spoon RiverShirin Ahmadi Prudential Rand RealtyLori Alfieri Prudential Rand RealtyGeorgina Alleyne Weichert RealtorsCanada Baltimore Weichert RealtorsKrystyna BaronJordan Realty of Rockland CtyCynthia Benitez Prudential Rand RealtyAbraham Birnbaum ERA Tucker Assoc.Esther Birnbaum ERA Tucker AssocKristina Bucaj Prudential Rand RealtyKevin J Cavanaugh Prudential Rand RealtyAlain Charlot Weichert RealtorsCarolyn Chorba Prudential Rand RealtyEdward A Chorba Prudential Rand RealtyJanet Michelle Cuevas IBNA Spoon RiverMonique Dais Prudential Rand RealtyEmidio DiNardo Century 21 GrandDebra L Durkin Prudential Rand RealtyBrian Fitzgerald Peterkin & Fitzgerald REJoanne Florio Florio Realty LLCEliezer Fonfeder Rodeo RealtyAndrew Galkin Weichert RealtorsBracha Gobioff Realty TeamsJeffrey Goldfarb Weichert RealtorsBrenda R Hundley Weichert RealtorsJudith E HurleyKeller Williams Hudson ValleyRobert A Jackson Prudential Rand RealtyLouis F. Klass GMAC Real Estate ServiceMax

Susan Kornhaber Century 21 GrandNatrajan Krishnaswamy Realty TeamsShirley Landau RSG RealtyNancyLee Langerman Mason Samett AssocKim Lifvergren Prudential Rand RealtyLisa A. Malpeli Mason Samett Assoc.Lora L Maltin Weichert RealtorsFrank P Manion Prudential Rand RealtyRosa M. Manley LAM Real EstateAdrienne Marino Baer & McIntosh REHelena Marks IBNA Michael GalganoRudolph Martin Weichert RealtorsJohn Mathew Century 21 GrandNancy Meserole Dennis R HaberChristine A Naber Century 21 GrandJesse O’Brien Prudential Rand RealtySandra E Oates Weichert RealtorsPaul J Oliveri Weichert RealtorsCaterina Ricciardi Weichert RealtorsLouise Riccio Florio Realty LLCSaid A Saber Weichert RealtorsRichard Thierman ERA Tucker Assoc.Ebony Michelle Thompson Alliyah I RE GroupNaomi Vargas Baer & McIntosh Real EstateVladislav Voss ERA Tucker AssocMichael Weinstein Exit CBC RealtyKarl J Zarate Century 21 GrandHolly A Zuber-Banks Zuber Realty

Page 4 | April 2007

RPAC$99.00 Contributors

$250.00 Capitol Club

Life Members

Roberta Bangs

Laurie DiFrancescoEd Glazer

Karen GlazerMarion Reichner

Russell WoolleyJean Yassky

Alan Yassky

John AlexanderEugenia AndersonBernard AngelesApril BakerAnthony BallettaHope BeauchampSusan BovaLen CarrKayamkattil ChackoRon ChromeyDoug Cowie John D’ErcolePatricia DelaneyNoel DeLorenzo Adam DiFrancesco

Richard EllisLeah FeinerAbel FerraroChuck FrankelSolomon FuerstLinda GambardellaScott GdanskiEd GlazerSol GenuthHarlene GoidelJacob GoldmunzerJoann GrandoHarold GruneEd GuardaroJack Guberman

Annabelle HackettMarie HoeyMoshe HopsteinRobert HoytJoseph IlliparampilKevin JoyceMary Ellen JoyceEvelyn KaganLonna KinV. KunjupillaiMarcy LawrenceLinda LipkinsEd LopezHarold MacCartneyRichard Mancuso

Paul McKearninLinda MichaelsJoseph MitlofBrian NelsonMoshe NewhouseCarol NewmanMichael NuzzoKerney ObyAnthony OcchipiatiVarghese OlahannanAngela Paul-HarrisGreg PeterkinGail PosnackAntonio RedaJohn Renteria

Thomas Mac RobbieChaya G RosenbergJudeline Tamar RouzardDavid SandersAdrianne SaundersSteve SchillerSarah SchwabChris ScibelliDeborah SheehanJeanne ShieldsWalter SmithDiane SnyderMerrill StarostiakMichael StarvaggiNaomi Streicher

Warren SwitzlerMichael TauberLynn TegerRobert ThomasSharon TuckerLinda VigliettaDiane WanamakerStuart WeinbergerRichard WeismanRussell WoolleyCharlene YerkovichThomas Yu

Page 5 | April 2007

ELIOT SPITZERGOVERNOR

February 16, 2007

MEMORANDUMto: Real Estate Licenseesfrom: Division of Licensingre: 2007 Disclosure Forms

This memo is being issued as a policy guide andstatement for licensees concerning the new 2007disclosure form. We understand that the law’sspecific requirement of a two-sided form causespractical difficulties with modern duplicationand transmission methods. The department willaccept any reasonable work-around for therequirement that the form be two-sided. An orig-inal can be stapled, taped, or fastened in any rea-sonable manner to be delivered at a personalmeeting. An original can be created from twopages transmitted individually by facsimile orother electronic means. For example one mayindicate “PAGE 1 OF A TWO-SIDED FORM”,or “FRONT OF A TWO-SIDED FORM”, orother equivalent language to indicate front andback pagination. All subsequent copies,including those distributed to the parties, can beone sided. We expect this requirement to beeliminated in a technical amendments bill.

The department reiterates that the disclosure lawapplies only to the sales and leasing of one - tofour-family structures.

The new disclosure form statute does not requireseparate acknowledgment of receipt of the formby the other side in a transaction. In the prior law(not yet repealed) there is a paragraph speakingof acknowledgment of the parties to the contract.The department will not require thatboth principal parties sign or resignacknowledgments of previously issueddisclosures at the time of a contract. A licenseeis required to give a disclosure notice to a partyat their first substantive contact. That disclosureis sufficient until and unless the relationshipchanges; this will confirm that a new disclosureform would be required to be given at such latertime when a relationship did change.

Under dual agency with designated salesassociates one sales agent can be designated forthe buyer and another for the seller if all partiesare aware and agree to it. There has been some

confusion due to wording used in the form’sparagraphs on dual agency. The new disclosureform uses the term “designated sales associate”,however there was no intent to create a differentclass or title for licensees by using those words.Licensees should not use the words “salesassociate” or “designated sales associate” oncards or advertising; it was only meant toindicate that there would be one licensee(salesperson or associate broker) assigned to theseller, and one to the purchaser. We expect thatthis will be changed in a technical amendmentsbill.

Near the end of the form there are three possibil-ities for an agent to checkmark: seller’s agent,buyer’s agent, and broker’s agent. A seller’sagent is appropriate when you or your firm hasthe listing. Check buyer’s agent when aprospective purchaser asks you to representthem in their efforts at finding a house.Designation as a broker’s agent can be a bitproblematical if you do not know (at thatmoment) whether ultimately you will be aselling broker’s agent or a seller’s subagent. Thedistinction will only be important as it affectsliability. In order to give some guidance, thedepartment recommends that licensees utilizethe “seller’s agent” box in cases when they arenot representing the buyer and are unsure aboutbeing a broker’s agent . If at a later time it isdetermined that a seller is only offering broker’sagency the form may be redone or amended andinitialed. If you know you are going to be abroker’s agent for a particular parcel you mayindicate the parcel on the form.

We have been asked about adding language tothe form. The department recognizes thatsituations may arise where annotations upon theform may be useful in clarifying the agencyrelationship. For example, if a licensee is a“seller’s agent” for in-house listings but hasanother status for other firms’ listings(e.g. “broker’s agent” or “buyer’s agent”) it ispermissible for a licensee to annotate thedisclosure form to clarify the relationship.Another example would be to identify particularproperties by annotation. The departmentopinion is that annotations that enlighten orclarify the disclosure of the licensee to theconsumer are helpful and permitted. There is noblanket prohibition nor requirement forannotations; the goal is to give the consumer fulland accurate information about a licensee’s role.

The department wants to remind licensees of thelevel of advocacy for designated sales associatesin dual agency situations. The buyer’s andseller’s agents can and should speak with theirrespective clients confidentially. They can andshould withhold personal information from theother agent as long as it doesn’t violate the dutyto deal fairly with a customer on materialaspects of the property. We have been asked tocomment on the issue of undivided loyalty.

Designated sales associates, although assignedto one side of the transaction, also have someloyalty to their broker and through him or her tothe other side. In addition they are required toact within the range of fairness to both parties.Therefore designated sales associates mayconsider or recommend a course of negotiationwhich is more directed at compromise than theyotherwise might do. That said, it is permissibleand would be expected that designated salesassociates may advocate for the party that eachrepresents. The new law states that designatedsales associates cannot provide undividedloyalty under dual agency, and to the extent thatany previous memoranda or letters of thedepartment indicated otherwise they aresuperseded by this communication.

We have been asked to reaffirm that dual agencyin our interpretation is transactional, and thedepartment confirms that position. In otherwords you can’t be a dual agent without aparticular buyer, seller, and property. It will notbe acceptable to have sellers or buyers signblank designations of dual agency “just in case”.This brings up the issue of how to resolveagency conflicts. For example if a licensee hasalready engaged with a purchaser as a buyer’sbroker and the licensee’s firm acquires a newlisting in which that buyer becomes interested,the licensee could ask the parties to accept dualagency, or dual agency with designated salesassociates. If neither form of dual agency isacceptable to both the buyer and seller (bothmust agree for either form of dual agency) thenthe licensee must alter the agency relationshipwith at least one of the parties (e.g. send one ofthe parties to another broker, convert one of theclient relationships to customer status only) or,as a final alternative, decline to represent eitherof them. A broker cannot force the parties toaccept dual agency; if either principal refusesthen dual agency can’t be used.

We have been asked for more detail on the term“Broker’s Agent”. A Broker's Agent is an agentthat cooperates or is engaged by a Listing Agentor a Buyer's Agent (but does not work for thesame firm as the Listing Agent or Buyer'sAgent) to assist the Listing Agent or Buyer'sAgent. The goal is to locate a buyer for theproperty to be sold or a property to buy, as thecase may be, for the Listing Agent's Seller or theBuyer Agent's Buyer. The Broker's Agent doesnot ordinarily have a direct relationship with theBuyer or Seller, and the Buyer or Seller do notordinarily provide instructions or direction to aBroker's Agent. If a buyer or seller’s relationshipwith a Broker’s Agent is sufficiently attenuated,it is possible for a Seller or Buyer to have novicarious liability for the actions of a Broker’sAgent. Because a Listing Agent or Buyer'sAgent does provide direction and instruction toa Broker's Agent a Listing Agent or Buyer'sAgent will ordinarily have liability for the actsof a Broker's Agent.

Page 6 | April 2007

MINORITY BUYING POWER ISGOOD FOR YOUR BUSINESS

With minority buying power inAmerica at over $1 trillion andminorities accounting for 40% offirst-time homebuyers, it makesgood business sense for Realtors todevelop the skills to reach out to thegrowing multicultural market.

Racial and ethic minorities will con-tribute to the majority of householdgrowth over the next decade. By2010, nearly 30% of households willbe headed by minorities. Becauseminority populations are youngeron average than whites, minoritiesin America will add 9.2 millionhouseholds under age 50 and willlose only 1.7 million householdsover that age. These populations willgrow even more important tohousing markets over the next fewyears, accounting for an estimatedtwo-thirds of net new households by2010.

Housing reports now indicate thatminority population growth isspreading to the suburbs. A recentBrookings Institution report showsthat minorities were responsible forthe bulk of suburban populationgains between 1990 and 2000 in 65of the nation’s 102 metropolitanareas with populations over 500,000.This rapid increase of minorities(many of whom are recentimmigrants) in the suburbs willhave a definite impact on futurehousing needs and homeownership.

Minority population growth hasbecome critical to sustaininghousing markets, employmentbases, school enrollments, andcommerce in almost every largemetropolitan city in the country. In

this diverse marketplace, expandinghome ownership createsopportunity for minority citizensand immigrants who want to owntheir own homes. For REALTORS,meeting the needs of America’spopulation through multiculturaloutreach is a pragmatic strategy forincreasing market share in arelatively untapped market.

NEWLY APPOINTED SECRETARY OF STATELorraine Cortes-Vazquez

Lorraine Cortes-Vazques spoke atthe NYSAR meeting in February.She stated real estate is a key to NewYork States economy. She said thather goal is to make sure that Realtorscan do their job efficiently andeffectively.

Ms Cortes-Vazquez also spoke onthe curriculum change that willincrease the salesperson’s course anadditional 30 hours. She intends totake the most knowledgeable peoplein the industry and put together acouncil of professionals toconstruct an effective and efficientstate of the art curriculm. She willthen initiate a period of public opin-ion, and see if there is something leftout. Ms Cortes-Vazquez also statedthat she has every intention to meetthe deadline of July 2008.

FOR INFORMATION ONCONDO’S AND CO-OP’SGO TO:www.rocklandbar.org

Scroll down toAttorney Resources PDF file available listing:

Condo/Co-op / Management Co /Atttorney

NYSAR Legal Hotline

Receive free legal advice fromNYSAR’s legal counsel on issuesrelating to real estate practice. Thismembers-only service is availableMonday through Thursday.

The Legal Hotline is available from9 am to 1 pm , Monday throughThursday, excluding holidays. TheLegal Hotline number is 518-43-NYSAR. Before using the hotline,callers should formulate a clearquestion and gather the relevantfacts. No question will be answeredon matters that are unrelated to realestate or that are currently in legalproceedings. Questions receivedenable the association to track issuesof concern to its members anddevelop educational programs andservices, legislative responses orNYSAR publications to address theissues.

DOES YOUR BUSINESS CARDMEET D.O.S. LICENSINGREQUIREMENTS:

What’s wrong with thisbusiness card?

THE COUNTY’S LEADING REALTOR

ZZZ REALTYJanie Doe, Sales Consultant

Home Branch Office Tel: 999-9999Fax: 999-9999

Email: janiedoe@janiedoe.com

Go to page 10 for correct businesscard information

Page 7 | April 2007

FAIR HOUSINGThe following are examples of different types of inquiries that have been ruled lawful or unlawful:

Subject Lawful Unlawful UnlawfulDirect Inquires Indirect Inquiries

Age None How old are you? Requirement that applicant submit birth certificate,What is your date of birth? naturalization or bapitsmal record, residency papers,

passport or any other document that reveals the age,What are the ages of such as driver’s license green card, military discharge,your children? etc. This includes oral inquiry.

Disability None Do you have a disability? Require that applicant submit medical record,vaccination record, doctor’s examination papers, or

Have you ever been treated for any any other medical documentation, even when the of the following diseases…? housing provider is using the information with the

best intentions. This includes oral inquiry.Do you have now, or have you had,a drug or alcohol problem?

Marital Status None Are you Married? Single? Require that applicant submit any document that will Divorced? Separated? reveal his/her marital status.

Name or other information about spouse.

Familial Status How many Do you intend to have children? Will children Require applicant to bring entire family to interview.people will be living in unit. Age and sex of children. Ask for photograph of family.occupy the Charging additional rent for each child.premises?

National Origin None Applicant’s lineage, descent, Require applicant to submit naturalization or national origin, parentage citizenship papers, green card, passport from or nationality country of origin or military discharge. This

includes oral inquiries.Nationality of applicant’sspouse, parents or children

Race or Color None Complexion or color of Any document that identifies the race of applicant,skin, coloring, race. including affixing photo to application

Request to submit photograph with application form

Religion/Creed None Applicant may not be asked his/her religious Any document that will reveal the religious beliefdenomination of affiliation, parish or of applicant.church, religious holidays observed

Housing providers must not ask or volunteerinformation, orally or through ads, about the religious make up of a neighborhood or the neighborhood or the location of a parish,church or synagogue.

Sex None Inquiry as to gender Request any document that reveal gender.

Education None Inquiries or documents revealing applicant’sacademic, vocational or professional education.

Page 8 | April 2007

LOBBY DAYNew York State Association of REALTORSLobby Day in Albany will be held onWednesday, May 30, 2007 in MeetingRoom 6 of the Empire State Plaza’sConvention Center from 9 am to 5 pm.This is one of the most importantprograms for advancing the REALTORpublic policy agenda. NYSAR willbe providing breakfast, lobbyingorientations,“thank you” gifts and lunch.Board specific talking points on keyissues will be provided at least one weekprior to Lobby Day. Visits with Membersof the Senate and Assembly should beheld between the hours of 10:15 amand 5 pm

ANY REALTOR INTERESTED INATTENDING LOBBY DAY MUSTCONTACT THE BOARD OFFICE AT735-0075.

MEETINGS WITH THE SENATE ANDASSEMBLY MUST BE SCHEDULED INADVANCE.

Tentative ScheduleWednesday May 30, 2007

9:00am – 11:00amBreakfast(coffee and soft drinks will be available all day)

9:30am – 10:00amWelcoming by NYSAR PresidentMax Wm. Gurvitch and IssueOrientation by NYSAR Staff

10:15am – 5:00pmVisits with Members of the Senateand Assembly

11:30am – 2:00pmLunch

Legislative Agenda for 2007

Commission ProtectionNYSAR is renewing its efforts to createbetter legal protections for earned butunpaid commissions after last year's vetoby Governor Pataki of the CommissionEscrow Act. Currently NYSAR issurveying REALTORS to quantify thedegree lost commissions are occurring.One of the key objections that resulted inthe veto was a belief that the problem didnot reach the level of requiring alegislative resolution beyond the currentlaw.

Property Tax ReliefProperty tax relief is one of the toplegislative priorities for state lawmakersin 2007. REALTORS will be activeadvocates for significant tax reductionsin the near term and for structuralreforms that will result in lasting savings.

Sex Offender BanNYSAR has gained the re-introduction oflegislation to ban sex offenders fromholding or obtaining a real estate license.Although felons are already precludedfrom getting a RE license, NYSARdiscovered last year that some non-felonysex offenses are serious enough to havethe perpetrator listed on one of the statesex offender registries. We want to makesure that all those who appear on any ofthe sex offender registries do not get a RElicense.

First-time HomebuyerSavings AccountsNYSAR will again seek the reintroduc-tion of legislation that will allow individ-uals and couples to make tax deductibledeposits of $5,000/$10,000 annually forthe purpose of using the funds for thepurchase of a first home. NYSAR will belooking for partners in a coalition to sup-port this effort.

Sellers Disclosure ReformsNYSAR is developing a revised propertycondition disclosure form with the goalof making it easier for sellers to use andmore informative to consumers. Also,NYSAR is investigating the language inlaw’s penalty provisions because a num-ber of court decisions have offered differ-ent interpretations.

Standardized Co-opApplications and ReviewNYSAR will be seeking passage oflegislation to establish a uniform co-opapplication and review process whichwill help address concerns that someco-op boards are using the currentunregulated system to illegallydiscriminate. Similar legislation will beintroduced before the New York StateLegislature and the New York CityCouncil.

Addressing “Dry Closings”The New York State Banking Departmentis studying the scope and impact ofdelayed real estate closings due to banksnot providing funds on time. NYSARwill join the New York State BarAssociation in providing information tothe Banking Department.

RE Continuing EducationFair Housing RequirementBased upon a recommendation from theFair Housing and Cultural DiversityCommittee, NYSAR may seek legislationthat would require at least 3 hours of fairhousing instruction be included withinthe 22.5 hour continuing educationrequirement.

Expanding Required AgencyDisclosure Form to Co-opand Condominium TransactionsNYSAR will seek the introduction oflegislation that will include condomini-um and co-operative transactions withinthe statutory agency disclosure law.

Page 9 | April 2007

AFFILIATE SPOTLIGHT

When someone decides to sell theirhome, there are things that can be doneto increase the marketability of theproperty. Fixing up the house,remodeling the interior and landscapingthe yard are just a few of the things thatcan be done. But what about givingpotential buyers assurance that they willnot face costly repair bills resulting fromthe break down of the home’s mechanicalsystems and appliances? This can beaccomplished with a First AmericanHome Warranty.

A First American Home Warranty isdesigned to cover repairs to householdappliances and mechanical systems thatbreak down due to normal wear and tearboth during the listing period and afterclosing. Coverage includes repairs to elec-trical, HVAC and plumbing systems,refrigerators, washers and dryers, water

heaters, garbage disposals, stoves, waterlines and more. Home warranties applyto all types of dwellings includingresidential homes, (up to 4 family)condominiums, townhouses and evenrental properties. Homes selling withwarrantees sell 2-3 times faster andcloser to asking price. For existinghomeowners, a home warranty canprovide peace of mind of knowing they’reprotected from unexpected break downsand costly repairs as well.

At First American Home Warranty we area leader in the industry and offer the bestcoverage at the most reasonable priceavailable today. According to a nationalstudy conducted by the Home WarrantyAssociation, households can expect toexperience approximately two breakdowns a year. Rather then an unhappycustomer calling you, they call us and

happy customers lead to more referrals.In addition of the top 10 reasons forErrors & Omissions Insurance claims, 3might never materialize if that homesimply had one of our warrantees toprotect it. In addition if you’re companyis interested in possibly saving money onyour E&O Insurance, I can help you.

Happy customers lead to morecustomers! If we’re not protecting yourcustomers already, please contact me tofind out how we can do that as well asincrease your business.

Stu KaufmanArea Mgr. & Licensed E&O Insurance Producer First American Home Buyers Protection Corp.

1-800-698-0422 Ext. 7979sskaufman@firstam.com

Home Warrantees, Protection for the Consumer and the Realtor

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING MINUTES

Page 10 | April 2007

3/21/2007 MINUTES

9:00 a.m. Nettie Price leads all inSalute to the Flag.

MEMBERS IN ATTENDANCE:

Nettie PriceWarren SwitzlerRaj BajajDenise MurphyMike NuzzoRachael TaubEdward SumberDrew KesslerMerill StarosiakSharon TuckerBarbara CorrenteLiz Rosenblatt

Minutes of 2/07 meeting accepted.

PROGRAMS:Merrill S. outlined some upcomingevents: April, Owner/BrokerProgram; May, Lobby Day; July,School Supply Drive; Sept., SafetyProgram; Oct. Gala event forcommunity service; Nov., AnnualMeeting; and Dec., Triple Play andInstallation Dinner.

EDUCATION:Sharon Tucker reported:

1) ITI Course. In the past the Boardpaid $200 of the $295 fee for thetraining course for continuing edu-cation instructors. The fee is now$675 for the 3 days. Sharon Tucker- motion to pay half. Second -Denise Murphy. Passed.

2) Education facilitators have mettwice to discuss items such as afacilitator’s manual, evaluationforms, and class time issues and feestructure. Current fee is $50/hr.Motion - Sharon Tucker, to raisefee 10% for experience of 3-5 yrs.and additional 10% for over fiveyrs. Second - Merrill S. – passed.

NEWSLETTER:Warren Switzler’s goal for the ’07Newsletter is to include more “nutsand bolts” information thatlicensees would find useful andinformative such as lists of propertymanagement offices for condosand co-ops and common homeinspection issues.

MEMBERSHIP:Barbara Corrente motioned toaccept six applicants. Discussion:approval should be subject toverification of application informa-tion. Second – Rachel Taub. Motionpassed.

COMMUNITY SERVICE:Drew Kessler reported thecommittee’s intention to continuethe Back to School Drive. Motionedto continue the Monte Carlo Nightthat netted roughly $13,000 in ’06.Mike Nuzzo - second and passed.The possibility of having a livemoney Las Vegas Night wasdiscussed as well.

LONG RANGE PLANNING:Raj Bajaj:

1) the committee intends to haveat least five contractors bid for theoffice renovation by the end ofMarch. This group to be furthernarrowed.

2) Wishes to form a separateStrategic Planning Committee andlooking for volunteers.

LEGISLATIVE:Bill Thorne motioned to sendcondolence letter to the widow ofAssemblyman Kenneth Zebrowskiwho died recently. She is a RocklandRealtor. Second – Rachel Taub.Motion passed.

ATTORNEY’S REPORT:Ed Sumber. Westchester & PutnamBoards and MLS have hired a FairHousing Trainer to instruct their65,000 agents. Attendance at WROFair Housing Program or equivalentis mandatory.

• Mortgage delinquencies up 4.95%in ’06. Approx. 30 subprimelenders closed.• Walmart has abandoned its planto issue its own Visa card to avoidpaying fees to banks.• Architect’s Newsletter announcedits current findings that house sizeand location are no longer themost important buyers’ criteria.The two most important now arekitchens and bathrooms.

TREASURE’S REPORT:Denise Murphy reported A.O.K. –Motioned to approve. Second –Merrill S.

PRESIDENT’S REPORT:Nettie Price –Reminder: the by-lawsstate that the maximum number ofmeetings that a director may miss isthree.

NEW BUSINESS:Nettie Price and Ed Sumberdiscussed violation of free speech inrespect to certain municipality’ssignage regulations. Nettiemotioned to investigate NYSAR’ssupporting us in confronting thisproblem. Second - Denise Murphy -motion passed.

Meeting adjourned 11:07 a.m.

ZZZ REALTY123 Main Street

Anywhere, New York 99999(999) 999-9999

Jane Doe, Licensed Real Estate SalespersonCell Phone # (999) 999-9999Home Tel # (999) 999-9999Email: janiedoe@janiedoe.com

To see business card guidelines go to:www.dos.state.ny.us/lcns/rebsfaq.html

Page 11 | April 2007

Page 12 | April 2007

(Note: While the Code of Ethics and Standards ofPractice of the National Association establishesobjective, enforceable ethical standards governing theprofessional conduct of REALTORS®, it does notaddress issues of courtesy or etiquette. Based oninput from many sources, the Professional ConductWorking Group of the Professional StandardsCommittee developed the following list ofprofessional courtesies for use by REALTORS® on avoluntary basis. This list is not all-inclusive, and maybe supplemented by local custom and practice.)

I. Respect for the Public

1. Follow the "Golden Rule”-Do untoother as you would have them do untoyou.

2. Respond promptly to inquiries andrequests for information.

3. Schedule appointments and showingsas far in advance as possible.

4. Call if you are delayed or must cancelan appointment or showing.

5. If a prospective buyer decides not toview an occupied home, promptlyexplain the situation to the listingbroker or the occupant.

6. Communicate with all parties in atimely fashion.

7. When entering a property ensure thatunexpected situations, such as pets,are handled appropriately.

8. Leave your business card if notprohibited by local rules.

9. Never criticize property in thepresence of the occupant.

10. Inform occupants that you are leavingafter showings.

11. When showing an occupied home,always ring the doorbell or knock -and announce yourself loudly beforeentering. Knock and announceyourself loudly before entering anyclosed room.

12. Present a professional appearance atall times; dress appropriately anddrive a clean car.

13. If occupants are home duringshowings, ask their permission beforeusing the telephone or bathroom.

14. Encourage the clients of other brokersto direct questions to their agent orrepresentative.

15. Communicate clearly; don’t usejargon or slang that may not bereadily understood.

16. Be aware of and respect culturaldifferences.

17. Show courtesy and respect toeveryone.

18. Be aware of - and meet - all deadlines.

19. Promise only what you candeliver - and keep your promises.

20. Identify your REALTOR® and yourprofessional status in contacts withthe public.

21. Do not tell people what you think - tellthem what you know.

II. Respect for Property

1. Be responsible for everyone you allowto enter listed property.

2. Never allow buyers to enter listedproperty unaccompanied.

3. When showing property, keep allmembers of the group together.

4. Never allow unaccompanied access toproperty without permission.

5. Enter property only with permissioneven if you have a lockbox key orcombination.

6. When the occupant is absent, leavethe property as you found it (lights,heating, cooling, drapes, etc.) If youthink something is amiss (e.g.vandalism) contact the listing brokerimmediately.

7. Be considerate of the seller's property.Do not allow anyone to eat, drink,smoke, dispose of trash, use bathingor sleeping facilities, or bring pets.Leave the house as you found it unlessinstructed otherwise.

8. Use sidewalks; if weather is bad, takeoff shoes and boots inside property.

III. Respect for Peers

1. Identify your REALTOR® andprofessional status in all contactswith other REALTORS®.

2. Respond to other agent's calls, faxes,and emails promptly and courteously.

3. Be aware that large electronic fileswith attachments or lengthy faxesmay be a burden on recipients.

4. Notify the listing broker if thereappears to be inaccurate informationon the listing.

5. Share important information about aproperty, including the presence ofpets, security systems, and whethersellers will be present during theshowing.

6. Show courtesy, trust, and respect toother real estate professionals.

7. Avoid the inappropriate use ofendearments or other denigratinglanguage.

8. Do not prospect at other REALTORS®'open houses or similar events.

9. Return keys promptly

10. Carefully replace keys in the lockboxafter showings

11. To be successful in the business,mutual respect is essential.

12. Real estate is a reputation business.What you do today may affect yourreputation - and business - for yearsto come.

Pathways to Professionalism

Page 13 | April 2007

GET INVOLVED...JOIN A COMMITTEE!PROGRAMS ................ Merrill Starostiak, Chairperson ..............merrill.starostiak@cbmoves.comEDUCATION ................ Sharon Tucker, Chairperson ..................sharon.tucker@era.comNEWSLETTER ............ Warren Switzler, Chairperson ................greaterhudsonvalleyhomes@msn.comMEMBERSHIP ............ Barbard Corrente, Chairperson..............barbara.corrente@prudentialrand.com

COMMUNITYSERVICE...................... Drew Kessler, Chairperson ....................drew.kessler@randmortgage.com.................................... Mike Nuzzo, Vice Chair ..........................mnuzzo@weichertrealtors.net

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS................ Roberta Bangs, Chairperson ................roberta.bangs@prudentialrand.com

GRIEVANCECOMMITTEE................ Denise Murphy, Chairperson ................dmurphy@weichertrealtors.net.................................... Ellen Murphy, Vice Chair........................elliemurph@optonline.net

PUBLICITY .................. Diane Wanamaker, Chairperson ............dwanamaker@countrysunrealty.com LONG RANGE ............ Raj Bajaj, Chairperson ..........................rajbajaj@optonline.net LEGISLATIVE .............. Bill Thorne, Chairperson ........................billybobthorne@yahoo.comBYLAWS ...................... Ellen Murphy, Chairperson ....................elliemurph@optonline.netRPAC............................ Adam DiFrancesco ................................adamnyrealtor@aol.comFAIR HOUSING .......... Marta Segarra-Allen, Chairperson ........martasegarraallen@msn.com.................................... Elizabeth Rosenblatt, Vice Chair............takeme2i95s@aol.com

O & R Convention ........ Rachel Taub, Liaison ..............................racheltaub@optonline.net

Get Involved ….Join A CommitteeRCBOR encourages every member to get involved in your own organization. The power of the Board can only be realized with participation. We have in place several committees and encourage every member to participate in one of them.

The Community Service Committee is to organize our membership for the benefit of local charities.

The Legislative Affairs/RPAC Committee is to organize our membership for the purpose of influencing our local government andour local representatives to state and national government.

The Education Committee is to develop and provide continuing education courses to inform realtors of any changes in the realestate industry.

The Program Committee works to provide general membership meetings for networking and information.

The Membership Committee welcomes new licensees into the Rockland County Board of Realtors.

The Professional Standards Committee ensures all members abide by the NAR’s Code of Ethics.

The Publicity Committee informs the public of benefits of using a realtor member.

The Newsletter Committee helps to bring information to our membership.

Please join one of our committees and help us fulfill the mission of our organization. Fill out the application below and fax it tothe RCBOR Office at (845) 735-0415.

Get Involved Committee Application

Name ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Agency ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Phone # ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Email ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Committee ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

At Home Study Courses – CD ROM Available at the Board OfficeIndependent Study Red Flags 3.5 Credits Computer Based At HomeIndependent Study Fair Housing 3.75 Credits Computer Based At HomeIndependent Study Introduction to Commercial Real Estate Sales 3.75 Credits Computer Based At HomeIndependent Study Real Estate Finance Tax Issues 7.5 Credits Computer Based At HomeIndependent Study Investment Property – Practice & Management 7.5 Credits Computer Based At HomeIndependent Study New York C/E Pac 1 22.5 Credits Computer Based At HomeIndependent Study New York C/E Pac 2 22.5 Credits Computer Based At Home

MEMBER NON-MEMBER

SALES QUALIFYING $325.00 ------------BROKERS QUALIFYING $250.00 $325.00APPRAISAL QUALIFYING 30 Hr-$350.00/plus materials / 15 Hr-$200.00/plus materialsCONTINUTING ED. $10.00/Ea Credit (or as listed with a specialty course) Call Board Office

FULL NAME ___________________________________________________________________________________

COMPANY ____________________________________________________________________________________

HOME PHONE ______________________________ BUSINESS PHONE ____________________________________

COURSE TITLE DATE TUITION

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Page 14 | April 2007

EDUCATION

Check payable to RCBOR $________________________ VISA/MC # ______________________________________(ENCLOSED)

Exp Date_____________________________________ Signature _______________________________________Charge Registration accepted by phone 735-0075 or Fax 735-0415 • Mail to: RCBOR, 300 N Middletown Rd, Pearl River, NY 10965

CONTINUING EDUCATION-

APRIL12th Grieving Assessments

6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-3)16th& GRI-RI-40917th Equal & Ethical Service

For Today’s Consumer (CE-15)Westchester Board-Call to Register800-239-4432

16th Fair Housing Update6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-3)

26th GRI-RI-408Real Estate Service Strategies In the Information Age (CE-7.5)Westchester Board-Call to Register800-239-4432

30th Agency 1019:00am-12:00pm (CE-3)

MAY7th & GRI-RI-401 8th Effective Real Estate Practices

(CE-15)Westchester Board-Call to Register800-239-4432

14th Why Size Matters:Calculating Gross Living Area9:00am-12:00pm(Appr & RE CE-3)

14th Valuation of 2-4 FamilyResidences & The SecondaryMarket 1:00pm-5:00pm(Appr & RE CE-4)

16th Periodic Code of Ethics6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-3)

24th Residential Indoor Air Quality6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-3)

5/30, Accredited Buyer Representative5/31, Designation Course6/5, 6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-15)6/6 & $295.00/includes 1 yr6/7 membership in REBAC

JUNE4th GRI-RI-405

Construction & EnvironmentalIssues Helping Your Clients Achieve Their Goals (CE-7.5)Westchester Board-Call to Register800-239-4432

5th GRI-RI-406Price it RightClose More Deals (CE-7.5)Westchester Board-Call to Register800-239-4432

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Page 15 | April 2007

ANZISI RUBINOFF AGENCYINSURANCE AND FINANCIAL SERVICES, Since 1960

(845)398-3586 • (914)777-3577 • Fax (914)777-3788Ask for Mike Rubinoff

We have many realty clients in the Rockland area. Let us show you how realty offices can have their own small groupHEALTH INSURANCE PLANS, as well as coverage for their 1099 Sales Associates.

Our primary business is providing small group health plans, and employee benefit programs. There are many insurancecompanies offering low cost effective health plans. Our focus is on researching and reviewing each clients needs on anannual basis. Every Clients Benefit Needs Are Reviewed Annually. We work with all insurance companies to ensure thatwhen new plans come to the market, our clients will have the newest, best and most cost effective plans available for theiroffices. Call us for a free quote, or visit us at our Westchester or Rockland offices.

Below are a couple of plans which may be appropriate for your business.

Non Referral Plans

Quotation Date: 1/15/2007 Quotation Date: 1/15/2007Effective Date of Coverage: 3/31/2007 Effective Date of Coverage: 3/31/2007

Oxford Metro Oxford Metro25/50 EPO 25/50 EPOIn-Net Out-Net In-Net Out-Net

Deductible: N/A N/A Deductible N/A N/ACoInsurance: 100% N/A CoInsurance: 100% N/ACoPay $25. Rx: 15/30/60/100 Ded. CoPay: $25. Rx: 15/30/60/100 Ded.Hospital Copay: See Benefits OOP Out: N/A Hospital CoPay: See Benefits OOP Out: N/ASingle 1 $282.16 Single 1 $304.29EE w/Spouse 1 $620.75 EE w/Spouse 1 $669.43EE w/Children 1 $522.00 EE w/Children 1 $562.94Full Family 1 $874.70 Full Family 1 $943.31

LIBERTY FREEDOM

EDUCATION - CONTINUEDContinued From Page 14

15th Growth of RocklandLocal Concerns9:00am-12:00pm (CE-3)

19th & Successful Relocation21st (ABR Elective)

6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-5)20th What’s the Score?

6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-3)28th Commercial Real Estate - Part 1

9:00am-5:30pm (CE-7.5)

JULY10th Seven Deadly Sins

6:30pm-9:30pm (CE-3)12th Due Diligence

The Buyers Agent6:00pm-9:30pm (CE-3.5)

19th Architectural Styles ofAmerican Houses9:00am-12:30pm (CE-3.5)

19th 1031 Tax Free Exchanges6:00pm-10:00pm (CE-4)

25th Analysis of Market Sales:When are they Comparables?9:00am-12:00pm(Appr & RE CE-3)

25th Valuation of Individual Condominium Units1:00pm-4:00pm (Appr & RE CE-3)

QUALIFYING EDUCATIONSALES

APRIL16th Day Acc - Mon – Thurs

RCC, Haverstraw (4/16 - 4/26)23rd Evening – Mon/Tues/Thurs

RCBOR (4/23 - 5/29)

JUNE4th Day Acc- Mon-Thursdays

RCC, Haverstraw (6/4-6/14)

JULY9th Evening- Mon/Tues/Thurs

RCC, Suffern (7/9-8/13)

BROKERSMAY21st Day-Monday, Thursday & Friday

5/21-6/18

SEPTEMBER10th Eves-Monday, Tuesday &

Thursday - 9/10-10/18

APPRAISAL EDUCATION- (Location: RCC, Suffern)

MAY2nd R2 - Valuation Principles

& ProceduresMon & Wed (5/2 - 5/30) (5:45pm - 9:45pm)

JUNE4th AQ-1 Fair Housing, Fair

Lending/EnvironMon & Wed (6/4 - 6/13) (5:45pm – 10:00pm)

18th National USPAPMon & Wed (6/18- 6/27) (6:00pm – 10:00pm)

Rockland County Board of Realtors300 North Middletown RoadPearl River, New York 10965

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage Paid

Monsey, NYPermit No. 5455

DATES TO REMEMBER

Member Support Hotlines:

Supra Support: (877) 699-6787

MLXchange Support: (888) 825-5472

MLS & OCAR: (845) 294-7905

NYSAR Legal: (518) 436-9727

(Mon-Fri 9am-1pm)

Internet:

RCBOR: RCBOR.com

NAR: Realtor.org

NY State Assoc: NYSAR.com

NY State: DOS.STATE.NY.US

May5/14-5/19 NAR Midyear Meetings, Washington DC

5/30 NYSAR Lobby Day, Albany, NY

July Date to be announcedGeneral Membership Meeting with County Executive &And Town Supervisors – kick off for School Supply Drive

August People to PeopleSchool Supply Drive

September9/9-9/12 NYSAR Business Meetings, Saratoga, NY

19th General Membership MeetingREALTOR SafetySpeaker: Roseann Farrow

October Community Service EventDetails to Follow

November Date to be Announced –RCBOR Annual Meeting & VoteEd Sumber, guest speaker- 2007 Legal Update

11/12-11/16 NAR Convention, Las Vegas

December RCBOR Installation Dinner DanceDate to be announced

12/4-12/6 Triple Play, Atlantic City