OAR Spring Conference Report

By Lynda Long
OAR District #6 Vice President

There are a number of reasons why I'm proud to be a REALTOR®.

First, we embody the entrepreneurial spirit upon which our great nation was founded - where our livelihood depends on our hard work. Secondly, we play an integral role in making the American Dream of property ownership a reality on a day-in, day-out basis.

I could go on, but perhaps the biggest reason why I'm most proud of my chosen profession is the fact that so many of my peers from throughout Ohio can gather together, explore and discuss the issues of the day and reach a consensus on how to improve the climate for both the industry and property owners.

This was never more evident than during the Ohio Association of REALTORS® Spring Conference held April 23-25 in Columbus. Nearly 400 REALTORS® from across the Buckeye State gathered in Columbus' beautiful Easton area to deliberate on the issues confronting our industry and the rights of property owners. These folks took time away from their daily business and families to work for the betterment of our profession.

Lest you think it was all a work - we, being REALTORS® and all, were able to mix in some fun as well.

I'd like to share with you some of the highlights from the Conference:

Ohio's REALTOR® community agreed to make a positive difference in the Gulf Coast area affected by Hurricane Katrina by joining forces with the National Association of REALTORS®. OAR, with the assistance and support of our Local Boards/Associations, will make a $70,000 contribution as well as provide a volunteer workforce to frame and build a home as part of NAR's Gulf Coast Habitat for Humanity project. While details need to be ironed out, the plan is to begin construction of the home in conjunction with the OAR Convention in Cleveland. Once it's framed, it will be shipped to the Gulf Coast for completion. This is an exciting project and shining example of the generous spirit found with our great Association. Watch for details as they become available.

OAR's Board of Directors unanimously passed a resolution honoring the memory of OAR and NAR Past President J.D. Sawyer who passed away on March 25. Fellow OAR Past President Paul Everson recalled the lasting contributions Sawyer made at all levels of the REALTOR® organization, including:

Playing a major role in shaping the industry's political and legislative affairs program, including hiring the organization's first full time lobbyist to represent REALTOR® interests on Capitol Hill;
Led the charge of renaming the organization as the National Association of REALTORS® and helped create the respected and highly visible REALTOR® "R" logo;
Was instrumental in developing the organization's three-way agreement, whereby members join the local, state and national groups simultaneously and work cooperatively to meet the needs of the real estate professional;
Helped found what has since become the REALTORS® Political Action Committee, one of the most influential and respected PAC's in the country.

In an effort to enhance the value of OAR membership, our Products & Services Committee will explore partnering with the Hartland Insurance Group to offer discounted auto and home insurance to REALTORS®. A similar program is offered through the Michigan Association, with members taking advantage of competitive and attractive rates.

Directors unanimously passed a Code of Regulations amendment that gives permanent voting rights on the OAR Executive Committee to past and current presidents of the NAR from Ohio.

A "Lunchbox Economics" session presented jointly by the Economics Issues & Trends and Affordable Housing forums offered insights into helping homeowners embroiled in foreclosure. Sham Reddy of Dayton and Bob Daniels of Cincinnati provided an overview of `short selling' that can benefit property owners.

Hundreds of REALTORS® earned CE credit with a timely education session on "So You Want to be Profitable." Thanks to the co-sponsorship of the Ohio Chapter CRS, noted instructor Drexanne Evers, CRS, was on hand to provide insights that will help everyone become more productive.

In what is one of our "don't miss" events of any OAR meeting, the Legal Issues Forum featured Peg Ritenour and Lorie Garland addressing the "FAQ's of the OAR Legal Hotline."

Remember how I mentioned that attendees were able to find a little time to mix in pleasure with the business? Our RPAC event afforded everyone the opportunity to get a jump start of celebrating the organization's upcoming Convention in New Orleans with "NARdi Gras at the OARdi Gras." Good music, an outstanding performance by our Youngstown contingent and camaraderie among the members contributed to a great time while also raising some money for the vitally important RPAC campaign.

As you can see, it was a highly productive Spring Conference. I appreciate the opportunity you have given me to represent your interests at OAR.