Announcements

Have you received your new CBR Membership Roster? As a benefit of membership, each member of the Columbus Board of REALTORS® receives a copy of the CBR Membership Roster annually.  The new rosters, hot off the presses, were mailed directly to your preferred mailing address in the last couple days of August.  If you haven't received a roster by September 16, please call Lenora Moore at (614) 475-4000 x253. Property Tax Reduction Kit The American Homeowners Association (AHA) today introduced its new Homeowner's Property Tax Reduction Kit, available at http://www.homeownertaxcut.com. The Kit is a comprehensive, step-by-step action guide for homeowners that includes an 84-page manual providing instructions, tips, and forms for reducing property taxes by appealing any tax assessment that may be inaccurate or unfair. "Experts estimate that up to 60 percent of all residential properties nationwide are over-assessed, and studies have shown that although less than two percent of assessments are appealed, usually, 75 to 90 percent of all appeals result in a reduction of taxes," said Richard Roll, AHA's founder and president. "AHA's Property Tax Reduction Kit explains the entire assessment process, the most common assessment errors and empowers homeowners with the tools necessary to obtain a successful reduction in their property taxes."  To find out more visit http://www.ahamembership.com/property_tax/

Do Not Call Registry Fees Go Up A new fee schedule to access the Do-Not-Call Registry will go into effect Sept. 1. Under the new fee structure, telemarketers will continue to have access up to five area codes free, but additional area codes will cost $40 (currently $25) each. The fee for access to all 280 area codes will increase to $11,000 (currently $7,375). How to access the Do Not Call list CBR is getting a number of calls from members asking questions about how to access the Do Not Call registry.  Although we?re happy to help, you will find step by step instructions as well as a sample office policy on our web site. Click here for info on the Do Not Call registry.

Lenders responsible for fraudulent appraisals

Starting Aug. 19, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will begin enforcing a new rule that makes mortgage lenders liable for residential appraisals on loans guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration.

The Lender Accountability for Appraisals rule clearly assigns responsibility when an appraiser is chosen to assess the fair market value of a property, laying it squarely at the feet of the lenders.

By ensuring that homebuyers receive accurate appraisals for homes they will purchase with FHA-backed financing, HUD hopes to curtail fraudulent appraisals that artificially raise home values and mortgage costs for unsuspecting clients.

Deadline is November 2 for Million Dollar Club Award

If you are planning to apply for the CBR $1, $5, $10 or $25 Million Dollar Club award, the deadline of November 2 is fast approaching.  The sales award year is November 1, 2003 through October 31, 2004.

Remember, in order to qualify this year, you must have fulfilled the service requirement which includes serving on a CBR committee (and meeting its attendance requirement) or serving as an officer in an area association.

When submitting your application...

• Closings PRIOR to Sept.1, 2000... you will need copies of your name highlighted on the HUD contract or MLS Agent Full Report (if listing credit), and/or purchase contract (if sales credit).  
• Closings ON or AFTER Sept.1, 2000... you will need copies of your name highlighted on the HUD and listing contract, and a completed Sales Certification Form, signed by you and the Settlement Agent.

It makes no difference if the listing agent(s) and selling agent(s) use the same form! You can use separate forms if you wish!  Click here for rules and application forms.

Help for REALTORS® after Hurricane Charley

The Florida Association of REALTORS’ has established a Disaster Relief Fund to aid REALTORS® in Florida affected by Hurricane Charley.  The Category 4 hurricane left thousands homeless, millions without power or water, and property damage in the billions of dollars.

REALTORS® and Boards across the country have made contributions including NAR’s donation of $100,000.  CBR also made a contribution.

To make a tax-deductible contribution to FAR’s Disaster Relief Fund and to assist in hurricane relief efforts, make checks payable to: FAR Disaster Relief Fund, 7025 Augusta National Dr., Orlando, FL 32822. In the memo line, write “For FAR Disaster Relief Fund.” For more info, CONTACT: Margaret Wimmer, 407/438-1400 ext 2320.