REALTORS® and Politics August 2013 Final Files

Thank you
for your RPAC donation!
Your support helps us
protect your livelihood.

We have
not received
your RPAC donation.
Isn’t it worth a few bucks
to protect your livelihood?

CONTENTS
August 2013
Features
Thank You for Your RPAC Support in 2013! 10
RPAC: An Investment in Your Career 12
by Christina Gordillo
What Do I Have to Disclose About a Property Affected 14
by Superstorm Sandy?
by Barry S. Goodman
New Jersey Voter Registration Application 17
REALTORS® and Politics 18
by Michelle Hofmann
Circle of Excellence Application 22
Departments
President’s View: A Jar Full of Change Can Make a Difference 4
by Tina Banasiak
Message From the CEO: Trenton Lawmakers Pass FY 5
2014 Budget with Little Fanfare
by Jarrod C. Grasso
NJAR® Events and Deadlines 6
Legislative Update: Two Major Legislative Successes this June 8
by Douglas M. Tomson
Board/Association News 21
New JERSEY REALTOR®
A publication ofthe New JerseyAssociation ofREALTORS®
295 Pierson Avenue, Edison, NJ 08837
Phone: (732) 494-5616 Fax: (732) 494-4723
Website: www.njar.com
Monthly except for combined January/February
and November/December issues
Jarrod C. Grasso, RCE
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Allison Rosen
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Advertising Sales
The Cyphers Agency
(410) 280-5451
2013 OFFICERS
Christina “Tina” Banasiak PRESIDENT
Cindy Marsh-Tichy PRESIDENT-ELECT
Eugenia “Jean” Bonilla FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Genette Falk TREASURER
2013 DIVISION OFFICERS
Graeme W. Atkinson ASSOCIATION OPERATIONS
Tg Glazer COMMUNICATIONS AND
PUBLIC RELATIONS
Carol Anderson INDUSTRY ADVOCACY
John Terebey Jr. PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT
Angela Sicoli PROFESSIONAL
DEVELOPMENT
The New Jersey Association of REALTORS® (NJAR®) provides
legal and legislative updates as well as information on a
variety of real estate related topics solely for the use of its
members. Due to the wide range of issues affecting its
members, NJAR® publishes information concerning those
issues that NJAR®, in its sole discretion, deems the most
important for its members.
Thecontentandaccuracyofallarticlesand/oradvertisements
by persons not employed by or agents of NJAR®
are the sole responsibility of their author. NJAR® disclaims
any liability or responsibility for their content or accuracy.
Where such articles and/or advertisements contain legal
adviceorstandards,NJAR® recommendsthatREALTORS® seek
legal counsel with regard to any speciﬁc situation to which
they may seek to apply the article.
Articles and/or advertisements appearing in the New Jersey
REALTOR® express the personal views of the respective writers
and are not an ofﬁcial expression from the New Jersey Association
of REALTORS® or New Jersey REALTOR ® magazine. All rights
reserved. Reproduction prohibited without permission.
Postmastersendform3579ChangeofAddressto:Editor,New
Jersey REALTOR ®,295 Pierson Avenue, Edison, NJ 08837. Non-
member subscription $10.00 annual. Member subscriptions
allocated from annual dues: $3.00.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
• August 2013 • www.njar.com • 3

You may have noticed the jar image on the cover of this month’s issue. For about half of you,
that image is noting that you did not make a REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC)
donation* and is posing the question, “Isn’t it worth a few bucks to protect your livelihood?”
According to the National Association of REALTORS® and based upon our total membership,
the minimum “fair share” investment is $15 per member this year. That’s a negligible amount,
considering this amount goes toward supporting your livelihood. It’s about the same investment
you may make in a few visits to Starbucks. Isn’t it worth brewing coffee at home for a week to
support your career?
I’d like to also recognize and thank the other half of you who have already invested in RPAC this
year. Your commitment to the REALTOR® organization is invaluable and it is because of involved
members like you that we can work to promote a healthy real estate market.
The value of RPAC is best expressed through NJAR®’s advocacy efforts. As you may know, RPAC
assists political candidates who are supportive of our industry and property ownership. This
support builds relationships with policy makers and gives NJAR® and your local board/association
access to decision makers when critical issues are up for discussion. As you will see throughout
this issue, RPAC has helped pass legislation that helps the real estate industry and supports our
profession. Just recently, the Senate and Assembly passed a law that allows the use of electronic
signatures on real estate contracts. A second piece of legislation is also awaiting final approval from
Governor Christie, which clarifies that real estate licensees can continue to prepare broker price
opinions/comparative market analyses (BPOs/CMAs). Whether you’ve invested in RPAC or are
currently ‘riding for free,’ you benefited from the incredible efforts of NAR and NJAR® in lobbying
to get this legislation passed and ensure your future as a real estate professional.
A great illustration of the RPAC difference can be viewed in this issue’s feature article, “RPAC: An
Investment in Your Career” on page 12, which follows several REALTORS® expressing what RPAC
means to them and how it directly impacts their individual businesses.
A good way to think of your RPAC contribution is that it’s a little like union dues – this money
goes directly to protecting our industry so we can have productive businesses. Your contribution
will be used to support the election of candidates who represent your interests as a REALTOR® and
the rights of property owners. Don’t waste another second, support your share and make your
contribution today** by logging in to njar.com or by calling the National RPAC at (202) 383-1194. n
* Contributions include those received and processed prior to July 1, 2013.
* * Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are voluntary and are used for political
purposes. You may contribute more or less than the suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal and the
National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local boards will not favor or disfavor any member because
of the amount contributed. 70% of each contribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local political candidates.
Until RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal candidates and is charged against
your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to retain your entire contribution for
use in supporting state and local candidates.
PRESIDENT’S VIEW
A Jar Full of Change Can Make
a Difference
By Tina Banasiak
NJAR® President
4 • NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
• August 2013 • www.njar.com

NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
In sharp contrast to years past, the 2014 fiscal year (FY) state budget was approved by
both houses of the State Legislature and signed into law by Governor Christie on June 28
without much ado, taking effect on July 1. The $33 billion budget is $1.3 billion – or 4
percent – larger than the 2013 fiscal year and relies on nearly 5 percent revenue growth.
There are several important aspects of the budget that have a direct impact on the real
estate industry in New Jersey you should know about. Notably, for the sixth year in a
row, the state budget contains no tax increases on our industry. The realty transfer fee
will remain the same as in FY 2013 and there will still be no seasonal rental tax or a
tax on real estate commissions.
Additionally, this new budget establishes a $40 million contingency fund for rebuilding
after Superstorm Sandy. This will help New Jersey move forward with the rebuilding
process and will cover any shortfalls in funding by the federal government without
reducing resources for other key priorities in our state.
Educational funding, the largest aspect of a homeowner’s property tax bill, has reached
another historic milestone in the state’s 2014 budget. For the third year in a row, state
support has increased, granting new funding of approximately $100 million. This brings
the total state aid to schools to nearly $9 billion and ensures that no school district will
receive less K-12 formula aid than the amount provided in FY 2013. With New Jersey being
ranked in the top ten states to raise a child for the 15th consecutive year – this year, ranked
fifth – the additional state funding and the expected positive impact on homeowners’
property taxes, we can expect new residents to want to live in our great state.
Another important aspect of the budget as it relates to housing is the continued
funding for the Senior and Disabled Citizens’ Property Tax Freeze. With $214.2 million
earmarked in the FY 2014 budget, more than 159,000 beneficiaries will continue to
receive the benefits in addition to an expected 34,000 new recipients. Furthermore, the
homestead property tax rebates, available to residents who meet certain income and
other qualifying criteria, will help an additional 800,000 New Jerseyans.
As always, NJAR® encourages all REALTORS® to stay involved in the political and
legislative process. Contributions to our government affairs efforts at the local, state,
and federal levels help advance the REALTOR® message. As the “Voice of Real Estate
in New Jersey,” it is paramount that every NJAR® member stands ready to act to
protect the real estate industry and private property rights. n
Trenton Lawmakers Pass FY
2014 Budget with Little Fanfare
By Jarrod C. Grasso
NJAR® Chief Executive
Ofﬁcer
MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
“We must
consult our
means rather
than our
wishes.”
-George Washington

NJAR® Events & Deadlines
Aug. 1, 2013 – Oct. 31, 2013
®
Aug. 14 NJAR® Superstorm Sandy Seminar
9:00a.m.-1:00p.m. New Jersey Association of REALTORS®
Stockton Seaview Hotel
Galloway, N.J. • (732) 494-5616
njar.com/account
Aug. 26-27 Leadership Summit
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®
Chicago, IL • (800) 874-6500
Sept. 2 NJAR® Ofﬁce Closed - Labor Day
Sept. 10 NJAR® Executive Committee Meeting
11:00a.m. NJAR® Executive Ofﬁcers Meeting
NJAR® Presidents-Elect Meeting
Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616
Sept. 10 NJAR® Board of Directors Meeting
1:00p.m. Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616
Sept. 19 New Jersey REALTORS® Care Day
North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS®
along with NJAR® Housing Opportunity
Foundation
Various locations throughout north N.J.
(973) 425-0110 or (732) 494-5616
Sept. 19 New Jersey REALTORS® Care Day
Middlesex County Association of REALTORS®
along with NJAR® Housing Opportunity
Foundation
Various locations throughout Middlesex County
(732) 442-3400 or (732) 494-5616
Sept. 20 NJAR® Good Neighbor Award Application Due
5:00p.m. njar.com/story/339
Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616
Sept. 23 RPAC of New Jersey Deadline for NJAR®
Circle of Excellence Sales Award® Credit
njar.com/account
Oct. 16 2013 Leadership Seminar
9:00a.m. New Jersey Association of REALTORS®
Edison, N.J. • (732) 494-5616
If you are going paperless and no longer wish to receive the print
version of “New Jersey REALTOR®,” please email info@njar.com with
your full name, contact information and request. Please note that
this may take two to three months to process.
iPad Users, search ‘NJ
REALTOR’ in the App
Store and download
the FREE app.
Smartphone Users, visit
mobile.qmags.com/NJAR and
view the magazine formatted
for your mobile device.
Access archives and back issues,
in the ‘Magazine Article Search’at njar.com/mag.
Read New Jersey REALTOR®
While You’re On-the-Go!

®
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
Two Major Legislative
Successes this June
By Douglas M. Tomson
Every year, state legislators, legislative staffers, lobbyists and public advocates join
in together in the waning days of June to take part in a tradition – the passage of
the state budget, usually one of the last acts of legislators before they recess for the
summer.
Another large aspect of June that even the most non-political observer may notice
is that hundreds of pieces of legislation are also voted on in those last few days. In
fact, it’s often the best time to see politicians and lobbyists alike pushing for bills to
receive a final vote in the hopes of getting their bills to Governor Christie’s desk to
be signed into law. NJAR® was certainly part of the cavalcade this year as we were
pushing for two major pieces of legislation: E-Signature legislation and Broker
Price Opinion/Comparative Market Analysis (BPO/CMA) clarification legislation.
For a little background information, currently, both federal and state electronic
signature acts (ETAs) exist. When a state ETA is adopted, it supersedes the
provisions of the federal law. The way New Jersey’s ETA was originally written, it
omitted e-signatures as a valid signature on real estate contracts, though the
federal law does permit it. With such a great impact on New Jersey’s REALTORS®,
NJAR® believed that explicit clarification in the state’s law was necessary to help
our industry move forward.
Bill A-3818, sponsored by Assemblyman Singleton (D-7); Assemblyman Wimberly
(D-35) and Assemblyman Webber (R-26) and Bill S-2242, sponsored by Senator
Lesniak (D-20) and Senator Scutari (D-22) were introduced to allow the use of
electronic signatures on real estate contracts to be consistent with federal law.
After moving quickly through the committee process in February and March, the
bills had their days for a full floor vote. The General Assembly approved the bill
76-1 and the Senate approved the bill 40-0. The bill now heads to the Governor’s
desk for his consideration.
The next bill came about a little differently. As you are most likely aware, the New
Jersey Board of Real Estate Appraisers (Appraisal Board) declared that BPOs are
appraisals and therefore subject to the jurisdiction of the Appraisal Board. They
RPACof
NewJersey
Where Every Dollar Counts
$600,000
$550,000
$500,000
$450,000
$400,000
$350,000
$300,000
$250,000
$200,000
$150,000
$100,000
$50,000
$644,025
$317,594
*As of July 1, 2013

NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
New Jersey Legislative Bills
Douglas M.Tomson
Douglas M.Tomson is
NJAR®’s Director of Government
Affairs. He can be reached
at (732) 494-4720 or
dtomson@njar.com.
The following are some of the bills NJAR® is tracking that may be
heard in the upcoming months of the New Jersey legislative session.
A3889 – Spencer (D29), Amodeo (R2)/S2599 – Whelan (D2),
Greenstein (D14)
Requires consideration of increased property value due to dune construction
in determining compensation provided for condemned beachfront property.
NJAR® Position: Support
This bill amends the state eminent domain law to provide "just" compensation for
property owners whose homes were condemned to construct a dune or conduct
beach replenishment. NJAR® supports this legislation so homeowners are
compensated adequately if their property was condemned to make way for
dunes or beach replenishment projects.
A S S E M B LY B I L L H I S T O R Y:
2/26/2013 – Introduced and referred to Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee
S E N AT E B I L L H I S T O R Y:
2/21/2013 – Introduced and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee
4/25/2013 – Reported out of committee with amendments, 2nd reading in Senate
A3890 – Eustace (D38), Schepisi (R39)/S2598 – Smith (D17),Whelan (D2)
Provides limited exemption from local land use restrictions to allow certain
existing structures to be raised to highest applicable flood elevation standard.
NJAR® Position: Support
This bill exempts properties in flood zones that are required to elevated under FEMA
elevation standards and DEP rules from local variance requirements. NJAR® supports
this legislation to provide property owners in flood zones with a means to elevate their
properties as required without having to endure the long and costly local land use
process to do so.
5/13/2013 – Reported out of committee with amendments, 2nd reading in Assembly
5/20/2013 – Passed by the Assembly, received in Senate without reference, 2nd reading
2/21/2013 – Introduced and referred to Senate Environment and Energy Committee
4/25/2013 – Reported out of committee with amendments, 2nd reading in Senate
A3920 – Barnes (D18), Ramos (D33)
Creates New Jersey Coastal Commission; reallocates certain funds from DEP to
commission; and appropriates $20 million.
NJAR® Position: Oppose
This bill creates the New Jersey Coastal Commission coastal CAFRA areas from
Middlesex County to Cape May County. NJAR® opposes this legislation as it creates
another layer of government approvals required to do any work and will make the
process of obtaining CAFRA permits more difficult for those living in these counties.
5/13/2013 – Reported out of committee with
amendments, referred to Assembly Appropriations
Committee
SUPPORT MONITOR OPPOSE
went further to say that anyone preparing a BPO
who is not licensed as a real estate appraiser may
be guilty of the unlicensed practice of appraising
and therefore subject to hefty fines.
In response, the New Jersey Real Estate Commission
(REC) also issued a statement that said real estate
agents can prepare BPOs under their license authority
because the law states that they can prepare CMAs and
the two terms are interchangeable. BPOs/CMAs are
widely accepted in the industry and have been used
for decades in New Jersey and other states, but are
different than appraisals. The REC believes that all
BPOs/CMAs must clearly state that they are not the
same as appraisals, which are required in certain
real estate transactions.
Obviously, with two conflicting statements, it created
confusion about what New Jersey real estate licensees
could actually prepare, so NJAR® stepped in to lobby
for clarification of state laws. Bill A-3718, sponsored
by Assemblyman Diegnan (D-18); Asseblywoman
Handlin (R-13) and Assemblywoman Stender (D-22),
and Bill S-2551, sponsored by Senator Van Drew (D-1);
Senator Scutari (D-22) and Senator O’Toole (R-40),
clarify current state law to define BPOs and CMAs as
interchangeable terms to be in line with federal law
as well as 45 other states.
A-3718/S-2551 both had last minute June votes, with
the General Assembly passing the bill 76-0 and the
Senate passing the bill 37-0, and now head to the
Governor’s desk for his consideration.
I want to personally thank all of the members who
took part in our Calls for Actions and helped get the
bills through the legislature and on the Governor’s
desk for him to consider. Numerous members of
the legislature contacted NJAR® to tell us they were
voting for the legislation in part because so many
of you told your representatives of its importance
to our industry. Please visit njar.com and our
Facebook page at Facebook.com/NJREALTORS
for updates on when these bills are signed into
law by Governor Christie. n

®
ThankYou forYour RPAC Support in 2013!
The contributions to the REALTORS®
Political Action Committee (RPAC)
are more important than ever! As
one of the main methods of
ensuring that REALTOR® issues
maintain relevancy, RPAC’s
nonpartisan efforts at all levels of
government help achieve legislative outcomes that protect private
property rights, as well as the livelihoods of
REALTORS® in New Jersey and across the United States. NJAR®
would like to recognize those members who have already invested
in the future of the industry by contributing to RPAC.
The following is a list of RPAC of New Jersey donors as of June
15, 2013. Each of whom has contributed more than $250 to help
ensure that the REALTOR® voice is heard. For those who have
not supported RPAC yet, there is still time to make a 2013
contribution. Visit njar.com/account to make a donation today! n
NAR RPAC Hall of Fame
Roseanne Citta
Christina Clemans
Mary Davis
Drew Fishman
Charles Oppler
Ned Ward
Gloria Woodward
Graeme Atkinson
Janet Barton
Annekee Brahver-Keely
Burlington Camden County
Association of REALTORS®
Nelson Chen
Allan “Dutch” Dechert
Eastern Bergen County Board
of REALTORS®, Inc.
Genette Falk
Barry Goodman
Jarrod Grasso
Randy Lyn Ketive
Rose LaPira
David Malo
Gloria Nilson
Passaic County Board
of REALTORS®
Andrea Schlosser
Robert Southwick
TREND
United Association of REALTORS®
RPAC of New Jersey Hall of Fame Platinum Level (Over $15,000 throughout career)
Judy Appleby
Gene Azzalina
Christina Banasiak
Eric Birchler
Rosanne Citta
Christina Clemans
Mary Davis
Drew Fishman
Bonnie Fitzgerald
Marlyn Friedberg
Gloucester Salem Counties Board
of REALTORS®
William Hanley
Hunterdon/Somerset Association
of REALTORS®
Roger Love
Middlesex County Association
of REALTORS®
Middlesex County MLS
Monmouth County Association
of REALTORS®
North Central Jersey Association
of REALTORS®
Ocean County Board of REALTORS®
Charles Oppler
RealSource Association
of REALTORS®
Ann Schuld
Angela Sicoli
Ned Ward
Gloria Woodward
Charter Golden “R”
Ned Ward Gloria Woodward
Sustaining Golden “R” (Annual Contribution of $2,000)
Christina Clemans
Mary Davis
Drew Fishman
Charles Oppler
Sustaining Crystal “R” (Annual Contribution of $1,500)
Judy Appleby
Christina Banasiak
Rosanne Citta
Eastern Bergen County Board of
REALTORS®
Cindy Marsh-Tichy
Angela Sicoli
Sterling “R” (Contribution of $1,000-$2,499)
Eric Birchler
Nancy Bunin
Cape May County Association
of REALTORS®
Cape May County MLS
Nelson Chen
Allan “Dutch” Dechert
Genette Falk
Davi Fialk
George Finelli
Jarrod Grasso
Greater Union County Association
of REALTORS®
Randy Lyn Ketive
Rose LaPira
Pamela Monroe
Ocean City Board of REALTORS®
Michael Oppler
Bowen Pak
Alexander Perriello
Susana Saraiva
Douglas Tomson
Robert White
RPAC of New Jersey Hall of Fame Gold Level (Over $10,000 throughout career)

NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
New Jersey REALTORS® are improving
the lives of people in their local communities,
the state, across the nation and around
the world! NJAR® wants to recognize your
outstanding service efforts. Share your story you
could receive funding for your deserving charity!
Are You a Good Neighbor? NJAR® Wants to Thank You!
The 2013 NJAR® Good Neighbor Award winners will receive donations
to their community service organizations of choice, as follows:
First Place - $2,500 | Second Place - $1,500 | Third Place - $1,000
Each day, REALTORS® are paving the way for a better tomorrow.
NJAR® thanks you for your incredible volunteer efforts.
Submit an application for yourself or another worthy REALTOR®.
Download the entry form & complete rules at njar.com/story/339.
Deadline: September 20, 2013
* Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are voluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than the suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without
reprisal and the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local boards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of each contribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey
to support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal candidates and is charged against your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New
Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to retain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.
NJAR® President’s Club (Contribution of $500 - $999)
Graeme Atkinson
Eugenia Bonilla
Tara Churpakovich
Karla Cino
Maria Dargan
John DiNizio
Bonnie Fitzgerald
Chris Joo
Ellen Kale
Jorge Ledesma
Judith Lewis
Min Lim
Robert Oppenheimer
Frank Reali
Lydia Russo
Robert Russo
Daren Sautter
Andrea Schlosser
Bruce Shapiro
Joanne Vossler
NJAR® Capitol Club (Contribution of $250 - $499)
Maritza Aleman
Nancy Bielen
Erin Brown
In Chang
Marie Cordner
Daniel Corrigan
Larry DePalma
David DePaola
Diane Disbrow
Bruce Elichman
Sharon Fisher
William Flagg
Roberta Galkin
Geraldine Grassi-Yurachek
Robert Helverson
Enrique Hernandez
Susan Hughes
Susan Hunter
Denise Jasinski
Michael Joffe
Robert Katz
William Linteris
Mark McKenna
Nancy McKerahan
Alireza Memar
Theresa Milliken
Judith Mizzone
Heather Moffitt
Gloria Monks
Sallye Nordling
Michael Pratico
Maria Rampinelli
Helen Rebmann
Mary Lou Resner
Adam Reynolds
Kerin Ricci
Laura Rubinfeld
Rhoda Russo
Mary Sgobba
Chandrika Singh
Walter Smolenski
Patricia Tahan
Carol Tangorra
John Terebey
Carol Van Savage
John Walters
John Zennario
NAR President’s Circle (Annual commitment of $2,000 to support federal candidates or a
National Political Party Committee)
Christina Banasiak
Christina Clemans
Mary Davis
Alan “Dutch” Dechert
Drew Fishman
Jarrod Grasso
William Hanley
Randy Lyn Ketive
Rose LaPira
Gary Large
Cindy L. Marsh-Tichy
Angela Sicoli
Douglas Tomson
Robert White

®
RPAC: An Investment inYour Career
The REALTORS® Political Action
Committee (RPAC) is one of best
investment tools REALTORS®
have in their pocket.
Since 1969, RPAC has
promoted the election of
REALTOR®-friendly
candidates throughout
the country as the voice
of REALTORS® in
Washington, D.C.,
Trenton, and in your
local communities.
RPAC is the only
political group
organized for
REALTORS®,
run by
REALTORS®,
and exists
solely to
further
issues
important to
REALTORS®.
RPAC is funded
through voluntary
contributions from members of the REALTOR®
association to assist in the election of candidates who
support the real estate profession, our industry and
private property rights. This is money given freely by
REALTORS® in recognition of how important
campaign fundraising is to the political process.
Perhaps the most important aspect to keep in mind
is that no matter what amount you’re able to give,
it still matters. From your fair contribution of $15
contribution to $1,000 or more, every dollar enables
RPAC to invest in candidates who support our industry
and issues. 100 percent of RPAC contributions are used
to support REALTOR®-friendly candidates – 70 percent
goes towards state and local offices and 30 percent is
sent to the National Association of REALTORS® to
support congressional candidates.
RPAC is a non-partisan organization and does not buy
votes. RPAC simply enables REALTORS® to sustain
candidates that support the issues that are important
to their profession and livelihood. Being included in
the debate when decisions are made about the real
estate industry is crucial to advancing the profession.
Take a look at why some of your fellow REALTOR®
members invest in their career.
Michael Oppler, a member of the
Eastern Bergen County Board of
REALTORS® (EBCBOR) and broker
associate at Prominent Properties
Sotheby's International Realty in
Hillsdale, N.J., is a dedicated
supporter of RPAC. When asked why
he invests in RPAC, Oppler said, “I
can think of no other function that we as REALTOR®
members can help to become better funded and more
functional, than when we support the advocacy of our
own interests.” For this very reason, he “treats RPAC as
his client.” REALTORS® have a fiduciary relationship
with their client that’s only met when a deal is done. If
they don’t invest in their work, they don’t reap the
benefits. And REALTORS® know that if they don’t
satisfy their client and close the transaction, they don’t
get their paycheck.
When communicating with his clients, Oppler, like all
REALTORS®, is expected to protect and promote the
interests of the client. Taking this one step further, he
encourages non-investors to protect their business by
using an interesting assesment. He says, “One
REALTOR®… who gains a listing, simultaneously
causes other REALTORS® to lose that same listing.
However, RPAC operates opposite this fashion. Where
else can REALTORS® contribute in a way that protects
and promotes all REALTOR® interests in a more fitting
way than by supporting RPAC?” He encourages new
Michael Oppler
By Christina Gordillo

NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
Christina Gordillo is NJAR®’s Legislative & Political Advocacy
Coordinator. She can be reached at cgordillo@njar.com.
and existing REALTORS® to protect their industry
as a unified voice through RPAC.
In addition to promoting the RPAC cause, Oppler is
involved in REALTOR® issues on a local, state and
national level, most notably in his tenure on NAR’s
Young Professional Network Advisory Board and
RPAC Major Investor Council.
As Chair of Communications for
Monmouth County’s YPN, Marissa
Ferrari, a Broker-Salesperson at
Keller Williams E. Monmouth in
Shrewsbury, N.J., knows the
importance of investing in her
industry. Ferrari says that through
her investment in RPAC, she has
seen the impact of what the “power in numbers” has
done for her business. Over the years, she has seen
RPAC working for her when closing deals. “Sometimes
all a client needs is that one impactful benefit of
owning a home to be sure that home buying is worth it
for them. When something has a positive effect on my
client’s wallet and the benefits are easily recognizable,
it’s a no-brainer for them,” Ferrari said in reference to
the Mortgage Interest Deduction, which RPAC
continuously fights to protect.
Ferrari has been in the real estate industry since she
was 18-years-old while earning her Bachelor of Science
degree in Business Economics at Rutgers University.
Upon graduation, she obtained her broker’s license
and over the years has been involved in REALTOR®
issues through her REALTOR® office and the Monmouth
County Board of REALTORS®. Through her involvement,
she learned about RPAC and made her initial investment.
By having personally invested in her business, Ferrari
takes note of RPAC benefitting her work as a REALTOR®.
She says she will continue to invest and encourages
others to invest so that RPAC can continue to preserve
homeownership tax policies, making homeownership
more affordable for her clients.
Nick Manis, broker-of-record
with Manis REALTORS® in South
Brunswick, N.J., said he invests in
RPAC because he understands the
role RPAC plays in the real estate
industry. Manis said he knows that
the REALTOR® industry cannot
function without RPAC because
it continuously helps him conduct business in the
housing market as a whole.
When asked why he invests, Manis said, “In New Jersey,
as well as locally, RPAC supports politicians that are
in favor of helping the real estate industry succeed.
We need politicians that introduce legislation that
benefits our industry. Currently, legislation for
REALTORS® providing BPOs/CMAs is being worked
out by New Jersey Association of REALTORS® with
members of the N.J. Legislature.”
“We cannot limit the functions our clients have been
accustomed to us providing them. NJAR®’s strength
comes from their competent staff and a healthy funded
RPAC,” said Manis. Without RPAC, REALTORS® in the
Garden State could have lost the ability to provide the
vital services their clients expect from them. However,
with the support of RPAC, NJAR® was able to work
with members of the legislature to introduce
legislation to continue to allow NJ REALTORS®
to perform BPOs/CMAs.
Manis encourages others who really want to be
successful in this business to invest because RPAC
educates REALTORS® with the issues affecting their
business. He will continue to spread this message
through his involvement on a local, state and
national REALTOR® level, most notably through
his chairmanship of the NJAR® Political Affairs
Committee and his tenure on NAR’s Housing
Opportunity Committee.
If you’re still not certain about RPAC after reading
about these three leaders in your profession, take a
moment to think of RPAC as an investment in
yourself. The best professional investment you can
make in your business. RPAC is the best insurance
against poorly designed small business and commercial
real estate legislation. If members aren’t giving their
fair share to RPAC, they're not doing all they can to
better their profession, business and community. By
donating to RPAC, you are making an investment in
protecting your business by allowing RPAC to invest
in candidates who support real estate issues and
private property rights. n
Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are
voluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than the
suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal and the National
Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local boards will not favor or
disfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of each contribution is
used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC of
New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal
candidates and is charged against your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New
Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to retain your entire contribution for use in
supporting state and local candidates.
Marissa Ferrari
Nick Manis

What do I have to
disclose
about a property affected by
By Barry S. Goodman, Esq.
Superstorm Sandy?
You have a listing to sell or lease a home that was
affected by Superstorm Sandy. What do you have
to disclose about any damage or possible damage
resulting from the storm? What is the best way to
disclose any information that you do provide?
What duty do you have to determine if there has
been any damage as a result of the storm? What
is the potential liability if you pass along
misinformation from the owner?
Superstorm Sandy may have been a catastrophic
storm, but the laws that apply to your duties and
liabilities have not changed. However, since
applying them to Superstorm Sandy may present
certain challenges, you must be aware of what
your duties and responsibilities are and how they
apply to Superstorm Sandy.
®
Sandy Damages Summer 2013

NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
The Applicable Laws
Let’s start with the basics. The New Jersey Real Estate
Commission (REC) requires every real estate licensee
to make a “reasonable effort to ascertain all material
information concerning the physical condition of every
property for which he or she accepts an agency or which
he or she is retained to market as a transaction broker.”
Such a reasonable effort must include not only asking the
seller or seller’s agent about any physical conditions that
may affect the property but also a “reasonable inspection of
the property to determine if there are any readily observable
physical conditions affecting the property.”
As a result, if you accept a listing to lease or sell property
affected by Superstorm Sandy, you must ask the owner
about any damage related to the storm and do a visual
inspection of the property to determine, as best you can, if
there was any damage to the property. Any physical damage
to the property then must be disclosed to a potential buyer
and, if applicable, a potential tenant.
Under the Consumer Fraud Act, if you make any
misrepresentation to a buyer or tenant, including innocently
passing along a misrepresentation by the owner, you may
be liable for treble damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. One
way to limit that liability would be to use a Seller Property
Condition Disclosure Statement (Disclosure Statement)
in the manner set forth in Section 19.1 of the Consumer
Fraud Act. Under Section 19.1, a real estate licensee is
not liable for punitive damages, attorneys’ fees or both
for communicating any false, misleading or deceptive
information provided by or on behalf of the seller if the
following two conditions are met:
1. the licensee had no actual knowledge the representation
was false, misleading or deceptive; and
2. the licensee made a “reasonable and diligent inquiry”
to ascertain if the information was false, misleading
or deceptive.
One way to satisfy the “reasonable and diligent inquiry”
requirement is to use a Disclosure Statement in the form
approved by the Division of Consumer Affairs, as long as
the licensee informs the buyer that the seller is the source
of the information and, prior to making that communication
to the buyer, the licensee “visually inspected the property
with reasonable diligence to ascertain the accuracy of the
information disclosed by the seller,” which is the same
standard as required by the Commission’s regulations. Of
course, the seller, not the licensee, must fill out the Disclosure
Statement and the licensee should sign the Disclosure
Statement confirming that the licensee has done the visual
inspection that the licensee is required to do.
What should I disclose and how should I disclose it?
Although the questions about what should be disclosed
and how to disclose it may be fact specific, there are
certain general questions that routinely have been asked
relating to Superstorm Sandy that easily can be answered
based upon REC’s regulations and the Consumer Fraud
Act’s requirements. The following questions and answers
therefore will provide general guidelines concerning
what should be disclosed and how to disclose it.
How do you answer the question,“Was the
property involved in a flood?”
If the property was involved in a flood, or had other
significant water damage from Superstorm Sandy,
and the agent is aware of that fact, the answer to that
question must be “yes.” Under the REC’s regulations,
the agent must disclose “all information material to
the physical condition of any property which they
know or which a reasonable effort to ascertain would
have revealed.”
What duty does an agent have to know about
storm-related issues? Should agents inquire about
how high the water infiltrated the home, what
repairs were done and what was done to repair
the property, treat mold, etc.?
An agent must make a “reasonable effort to ascertain all
material information concerning the physical condition
of every property” that he or she accepts for listing as
required by the REC’s regulations. This includes an
inquiry to the seller/landlord and a visual inspection for
readily observable conditions. The agent therefore should
ask the seller/landlord about these issues and conduct
the required visual inspection.

®
Can you add questions to the listing agreement or
seasonal application to get more information about
damage or whether the property will be available
for the summer season?
There is no prohibition against adding such questions.
However, it is advisable for an agent to consult with
his/her broker before adding such questions in order to
ensure compliance with office policies.
Is there liability for a real estate licensee for
passing along information gained from a
seller/landlord about storm damage?
No, as long as the information is accurate. However,
agents may be liable for failing to relay such
information of which they are aware or for passing
on misinformation, even if they did not know the
information was wrong.
Can additional questions be added to the
Disclosure Statement about storm damage,
previous flood claims, etc.?
Yes, if, in the agent’s opinion, it is appropriate to do
so under the particular facts and circumstances of a
transaction. However, it is advisable for an agent to
consult his/her broker before adding such questions
in order to assure compliance with office policies.
If a separate Disclosure Statement that was not
approved by the Department of Community Affairs
is used, is there liability for a real estate licensee?
The approved Disclosure Statement includes the
minimum required disclosures to protect agents from
liability for treble damages and attorneys’ fees under
the Consumer Fraud Act when it is properly used. The
use of another form of disclosure would not provide
that protection.
Should a disclaimer be included in the MLS that
the property has suffered storm damage?
Such a disclaimer is not required. It is recommended
that damage from Superstorm Sandy should be treated
the same as any other damage to property that is being
listed. It should be disclosed, preferably in a Disclosure
Statement or at least in some other writing.
What if repairs have been completed by the
seller/landlord?
All damage and repairs should be disclosed to a
buyer/tenant by the seller/landlord and, to the extent
known, by the listing agent in order to avoid any liability.
Since some homes have sustained significant
damage as a result of the storm and insurance has
not covered all the repairs, not everything has been
repaired in those homes and they often are being
sold“as is.”In this situation, what is the best
approach?
The same disclosures should be made whether or not
a property is being sold “as is.” Failure to disclose or
misrepresenting a material fact may be a basis for a
buyer to void a contract and seek damages.
Are there any new regulations and other laws that
an agent must follow when the agent deals with a
property that was affected by Superstorm Sandy?
No. An agent should apply the same principles to any
property affected by Superstorm Sandy that the agent
would apply to any other property. For example, under
the Commission’s regulations, the agent must disclose
all material information pertaining to the physical
condition of the property just like they must for any
other property, which must include the agent
undertaking a visual inspection of the property and
making inquiries of the seller/landlord about the physical
condition of the property. All this information then must
be disclosed to potential buyers/tenants in the same way
it would be disclosed for any other property.
Although Superstorm Sandy presented unique challenges
for the people of New Jersey, the duties and obligations of
real estate licensees have not changed. Therefore, you must
apply the REC’s regulations and the rules applicable to the
Consumer Fraud Act as you would in any other situation. If
you do that, you will steer clear of any legal storm that
otherwise would have been created by Superstorm Sandy. n
Barry S. Goodman, Esq., a partner in the law
firm of Greenbaum, Rowe, Smith & Davis,
LLP, focuses his practice on real estate
brokerage and other real estate-related
matters, as well as antitrust suits and
corporate shareholders’ and partnership
disputes. He is the General Counsel for the
New Jersey Association of REALTORS®.
Barry S. Goodman, Esq.

NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
Sample N.J. Voter Registration Application
Also available at njar.com/story/531

®
By Michelle Hofmann
Gloria McCauley can’t recall the precise moment when her
real estate career melded with political activism, but the
transition was smooth. She accepted an appointment to
Hillsborough Township’s Economic Business Development
Commission. Over the years, McCauley, 47, a broker and
sales associate with Hillsborough’s RE/MAX Preferred
Professionals, occupied a variety of political seats before
arriving at her current role as a committee-woman for
the Hillsborough Township Committee. In 2010 and 2012,
she served as deputy mayor and was unanimously elected
mayor in 2011.
McCauley says the service-oriented nature of real estate and
elected office make for a good fit. Whether they are affecting
change, seeking improvements in the community, raising
money, helping to elect political candidates, or fighting for
private property rights, McCauley says real estate agents
have a vested interest in the communities they serve.
“Because I am involved in real estate and my community,
other REALTORS® often talk to me and tell me their
thoughts. And I can bring back the knowledge of everyone.
Even though I am a Republican, I am working for everybody.
So if there is a great idea, I can take that back to the right
folks,” she says.
In addition to being mayor, McCauley has occupied positions
on the Hillsborough-Millstone Municipal Alliance, parks and
recreation commissions, the senior citizen housing council,
the sign review committee, the sustainable Hillsborough
committee, and the finance committee.
Timing keeps her coming back. “People say in politics you
should be in for a year and move on, but as you know, a year
in government doesn’t get a lot accomplished. As you go on,
you continue to learn more. And while I am here, I like to
know that the master plan that they have in place continues
to move forward, and the right decisions are made,” she
explains.
It’s also a confidence booster. “I feel like I know the [real
estate] industry. For the 14 years I have been in business
REALTORS®
& Politics

now, it has been a positive. I think people genuinely know
and want to know that people in real estate are involved in
the community somehow. People see us going the extra
mile,” she says.
Charles Oppler, 55, broker-owner of Prominent Properties
Sotheby's International Realty in Franklin Lakes, N.J. says
his political profile is not lost on clients. Oppler started
selling real estate in 1981. He was asked to serve on the
Eastern Bergen County Board of REALTORS® in the late
1980s. “One thing led to another. They liked me at the
state level,” says Oppler, who served as president of the
New Jersey Association of REALTORS® in 2004.
Oppler expanded his horizons and chaired the National
Association of REALTORS®’ Political Action Committee
(RPAC) – a nonpartisan group that helps elect candidates
who support private property rights and other issues which
directly impact on the real estate industry – in 2009. He
served as NAR’s special liaison for large firm relations in
2011 before landing in his current role as the 2013 NAR
party disbursement liaison, overseeing the money that gets
spent and allocated on the advocacy level and on elections
and candidates.
From flood insurance programs to mortgage-interest
deduction and government-sponsored enterprises, Oppler
keeps his eye on the issues. Staying informed, he says, is
good business and makes good sense. Whether he’s is talking
with state legislators or educating homebuyers and sales
associates, Oppler says his political experiences have given
him confidence, which in turn translates to clients.
“Being high profile and being successful breed success,”
he explains. “Moreover, if we didn’t do what we do, we
wouldn’t be able to defeat some of the measures that come
up in Congress or create a heavy call for action with our
Congress and senators. We wouldn’t be able to say, ‘Hey,
this is not a good thing for homeowners,’ ” he adds.
In 2006, Oppler assisted the NJAR® lobbying team in
fighting and defeating a proposed Plainfield ordinance
increasing the certificate of occupancy fees as well as the
alterations/renovation permit fees. “That was a pretty
silly ordinance. And we were able to defeat it,” he says.
For many Seaside Park, N.J. residents, Judy Appleby, 65,
ABR®, SRES, RSPS, broker-owner for Appleby Realty, is
the local champion of zoning and property rights.
“[Pay] attention to zoning. It is the pivotal thing that
controls our property, and we must be vigilant to any
proposed changes; this is where government steps in
and changes our usage. If there are any attempts to
change the zoning, I watch for this. This is important.
You have to do it on the offensive, not the defensive,
because once something is passed, it is hard to take it
away,” she says.
Like Oppler, Appleby believes political activism and real
estate go hand in hand. Although always active on a local
level, Appleby tossed her hat into the political rings shortly
after getting her real estate license in 1976. Appleby has
twice been the president of the Ocean County Board of
REALTORS® (2003 and 2006); served as NJAR®’s president in
2010; and has been a NJAR® director, division officer, and
committee chairperson. On a national front, she’s served on
NAR’s land use, property rights and environment committee.
Simply put, she believes the best way to control your
environment politically is to get involved. “People will
often tell me that they feel I know more about this town
than many others, so the fact that people think I am
knowledgeable hasn’t hurt me,” Appleby says.
Admittedly, practitioners say being politically active isn’t
always easy. “People would ask me why I would put my name
on the line. But I always tell people point blank that to me,
this is my way of doing business: to do what is right for the
community, regardless. I have always spoken up and
been outspoken about any issue,” Appleby says.
Like Appleby, McCauley feared the fallout from showing
her political cards. “I was very concerned when I got into
business. People always said, ‘don’t talk about politics or
religion,’” McCauley says. “But it cuts both ways. Some
people who are extremely political would probably not call
me for their real estate needs if they feel strongly about it.”
In addition to having the ability to stand for your beliefs,
experts say politically active associates must have balance.
Oppler devotes 10 to 15 hours a week to political pursuits.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®

®
But he admits that affecting legislative change can be time-
consuming. Still, he says there are many smaller roles –
voting or wearing a campaign button, for instance – that can
make a statement in no time at all. Looking to test the
political waters? Start simple and local.
“You can control more at the local level than you can at the
state level,” Appleby explains.
Still, be prepared to yearn for more. Experts say the addictive
notion of political pursuits can make it hard to keep simple
political aspirations in check. “The more you get involved,
the more people want you to do. So you have to learn to
draw a line in the sand. You have to learn how to say, ‘no,’”
Appleby adds.
While it can be hard to balance a real estate career, family
life, and politics, politically savvy brokers like Oppler say the
reward is worth the effort. “Everything starts locally and the
builds up from there if you really want to get involved. It
takes a lot more time sometimes that you think it does.
Some weeks it might take four or five hours. But then there
may be a major issue on the horizon that you have to deal
with,” he adds. “There is never a right time. You just have to
get started.” n
Michelle Hofmann is an award-winning real estate writer.
She can be reached at michellehofmann@earthlink.net.
Think you don’t have time to pursue your political aspirations?
Advocacy doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Some brokers
might spend 10 hours working on an election campaign.
Other agents spend 20 minutes writing a letter or sending
an email to their local legislator or city council member.
No matter the path, there are plenty of simple ways to get
active in politics:
• Know the issues and educate your co-workers about
upcoming elections, the issues, and the candidates.
New Jersey state initiatives and open seats can be found
at the New Jersey Department of State homepage
nj.gov/state. Or visit the New Jersey Legislature
njleg.state.nj.us/bills/billview.asp for information
on state bills, constitutional amendments, and
resolutions.
• Get to know your NJAR® representatives by visiting the
NJAR® Facebook page at Facebook.com/NJRealtors
• Find out your legislative representatives’ views on
important issues. Call, email, or write to your
representatives and share your views. Contact
information for state legislators can be found at
njleg.state.nj.us/members/roster.asp. Also visit
house.gov or senate.gov for federal legislators.
• Register to vote by visiting
state.nj.us/state/elections/voting-information.html;
you can view a sample voter registration form on page 17
• Volunteer your time to a political campaign or in
support of a candidate:
• Host a meet-and-greet to raise awareness about
current issues. Invite candidates or representatives
to speak to family, friends, colleagues.
• Wear a campaign button.
• Start a conversation about local property values
by asking homeowners if you can post a campaign
support sign in their yard.
• Host a phone bank at your local office. Campaigns
use phone banks staffed by volunteers or paid staff
to educate the public about issues, remind people to
vote, and identify potential supporters. Real estate
offices make great host sites for phone banks, and
REALTOR® and community volunteers can work in
two-hour shifts.
• Contribute* to NJAR®’s political action committees.
RPAC is the only New Jersey political group run by
and for REALTORS®. To make an RPAC contribution*,
send a check to your local board or association. Make
the check payable to the REALTORS® Political Action
Committee. Alternatively, RPAC contributions can be
made online at njar.com/account. RPAC exists to
support issues that matter to the real estate industry
and REALTORS®. To contribute to RPAC or find out
more about how to get involved at the local, state and
national levels, visit njar.com/account or call the NJAR®
Government Affairs Department at (732) 494-5616.
*RPAC Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to
RPAC are voluntary and are used for political purposes. You may contribute more
or less than the suggested amount. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal
and the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations or local
boards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed.
70% of each contribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local
political candidates. Until RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to
National RPAC to support federal candidates and is charged against your limits
under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may elect to
retain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.
When Starting Out, Keep it Simple

Board/Association News
The Passaic County Board of REALTORS® Advocacy Committee
hosted a meet-and-greet luncheon with local mayors on
Wednesday, June 5 at the PCBOR office. Chairperson Dana
Williams and Vice Chairperson John P. Reilly, Jr. facilitated
the event. The purpose of the session was to connect the
organization to the communities the members serve. Mayors
and other town officials
from Hawthorne, Totowa,
Wayne, Oakland, Elmwood
Park, Woodland Park,
Riverdale, North Haledon,
Little Falls, Pompton
Lakes and Pequannock
were all in attendance.
PCBOR Meets the Local Mayors
PCBOR members meet with mayors and
town officials.
The North Central Jersey Association of REALTORS® recently
raised $5,000 to donate to the the G.I. GO Fund. The G.I. Go
Fund is a non-profit organization that assists returning
veterans with their transition back to civilian life. The Fund
assists in providing employment, educational opportunities,
access to housing and a direct path to benefits.
NCJAR Lends a Hand to
G.I. Go Fund
NCJAR President Ilene Horowitz
presents a $5,000 check to Nick
Manis, Co-Founder of G.I. Go Fund.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
The Monmouth County Association of REALTORS® (MCAR)
was proud to sponsor the Women's Council of REALTORS®’
'Bras for a Cause' event held recently at Merri-Makers Caterers
at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, N.J.
Sponsors created "themed" bras that were worn by all
male models and auctioned off to support the American
Cancer Society Breast Cancer Awareness and their 100th
year celebration. Over $15,000 was collected and the
MCAR bra, "Knock
Out Breast Cancer"
was the highest bid
of the night at $2,000.
MCAR Participates in ‘Bras
for a Cause’
2013 MCAR President
Al Veltri and Senior Vice
President Robert White
show off their best assets
at the recent ‘Bras for a
Cause’ fundraiser.
On May 17, NJAR® CEO Jarrod C. Grasso was inducted
into the prestigious Dr. Almon R. “Bud” Smith, RCE, AE
Leadership Society during the NAR REALTOR® Midyear
Meetings in Washington, D.C.
The Bud Smith Society recognizes those association
executives who have proven to be leading contributors,
dedicated to the industry and profession. Much like a
fellows program, members will play an active, ongoing
role as innovators and mentors for the AE community.
Inductees must have demonstrated that they have
advanced their association through their personal
involvement at local, state and national levels; provided
leadership that has
benefited the
organization,
members or other
association executives;
or have made other
significant
contributions that
have benefited the
organization.
NJAR® CEO Receives Prestigious
Award
NJAR® Leadership and Grasso (center) at
the Bud Smith Society Luncheon.

The NJAR® Circle of Excellence Award program consists of two awards:
the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Award and the NJAR® Distinguished Sales
Club®.
The NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® recognizes those members
who have demonstrated excellence in the field of salesmanship. In
addition to earning units for sales/ listings volume, members can also
earn units for involvement in the industry and association.
2013 NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award®
and NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club®
Applications Now Available!
The NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club® recognizes those members who achieved
the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® for ten or more years (need not be
consecutive).
The deadline to submit the 2013 NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award®
application or the NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club® application to your primary
local board/association is close of business on Friday, January 10, 2014. There
will be no exceptions to this deadline.
Application Changes:
The 2013 NJAR® Circle of Excellence Award Committee met and reviewed last year’s application. Besides
minor housekeeping and date changes, there were no significant changes made for the 2013 application.
How to Apply:
Follow these easy steps to submit your application(s):
1. Visit njar.com/story/93 and download the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® application or complete
the online form (you must print when finished.) If applicable, download the NJAR® Distinguished Sales Club®
application and print when finished.
2. Consider making an RPAC (REALTORS® Political Action Committee) contribution of $100 or more to earn one
industry unit towards your NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® application (deadline: September 23, 2013).
®
Requirements: The 2013 NJAR®
Circle of Excellence Award level requirements are as follows:
Bronze: $2.5 Million and 15 Units Minimum or 30 Units
Silver: $6.5 Million and 20 Units Minimum or 70 Units
Gold: $12 Million and 25 Units Minimum or 90 Units
Platinum: $20 Million and 30 Units Minimum or 125 Units

3. Pay your application fee(s) online at
njar.com/coepayment.php. Print a copy of your receipt
and attach it to your printed application(s) above.
Keep a second copy for your records. You will be
charged the full amount at the time of payment.
4. Submit a hard copy of your completed application(s)
and receipt to your local board/association later than
close of business on January 10, 2014.
How to Make an RPAC Contribution:
• Send your check to your primary local board/association
so that it is received by close of business on September
31, 2013. To qualify for one industry until towards your
NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award, your
contribution must be a minimum of $100. Please make
your check payable to: REALTORS® Political Action
Committee.
• Credit Card and check contributions may also be made
online by visiting njar.com/account or by calling NJAR®
at (732) 494-5616.*
Questions?
If you have questions upon filling out the application or
calculating forms, please see page one of the application for
the contact information for the Regional Representatives of
the NJAR® Circle of Excellence Sales Award® Committee.
For a technical issue when filling out the online form
on Form Simplicity, please contact the Tech Helpline at
(866) 900-9681.
For general questions on the online application &
e-payment system, the advertising rules, enforcement
and penalties, or other general questions, contact
NJAR® Communications Coordinator Colleen King at
(732) 494-4715 or cking@njar.com.
* Contributions are not deductible for income tax purposes. Contributions to RPAC are voluntary and are
used for political purposes. You may contribute more or less than the suggested amount. You may refuse
to contribute without reprisal and the National Association of REALTORS® or any of its state associations
or local boards will not favor or disfavor any member because of the amount contributed. 70% of each
contribution is used by RPAC of New Jersey to support state and local political candidates. Until RPAC of
New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal, 30% is sent to National RPAC to support federal candidates and is
charged against your limits under 2 U.S.C. 441a; after RPAC of New Jersey reaches its RPAC goal it may
elect to retain your entire contribution for use in supporting state and local candidates.
NEW JERSEY REALTOR
®
M A R K E T P L A C E
AdvertiseToday
Ten times a year, REALTORS® statewide
depend on New Jersey REALTOR® as a key
source of industry news. Approximately
40,000 strong, New Jersey Association
of REALTORS® (NJAR®) members are
a key professional business audience
throughout New Jersey.
For more information or to reserve space,
call Cindy Stambaugh at 410.647.5869

REALTORS® and Politics August 2013 Final Files

REALTORS® and Politics August 2013 Final Files

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

What's hot

What's hot (20)

Viewers also liked

Viewers also liked (13)

Similar to REALTORS® and Politics August 2013 Final Files

Similar to REALTORS® and Politics August 2013 Final Files (20)

More from Michelle Hofmann

More from Michelle Hofmann (7)

REALTORS® and Politics August 2013 Final Files