Announcements

April is Fair Housing Month

As we celebrate the anniversary of the 1968 Fair Housing Act, consider what you can do to continue to protect the right of everyone to own property. If you suspect that any of your clients were a victim of housing discrimination before they came to you, encourage them to take action. Don't allow them to just walk away resigned to the mistaken belief that they can't do anything about it. Taking action can make the world a better place for everyone.

Here are some suggestions for becoming a fair housing advocate:

Realize that housing discrimination is illegal. Write down everything you can remember about the incident, including the date, the names of the company and individuals you suspect of discrimination, and what was said.
Keep detailed records, including application forms and receipts.
Act quickly while the incident is still fresh in your mind.
Report the incident and your suspicions to authorities. The HUD (Housing and Urban Development) website has a Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity page at www.hud.gov/offices/fheo with an index of state and local organizations you can contact.
Keep in mind that laws have little effect on people's behavior unless those laws are enforced, and enforcement begins with concerned citizens who take action. If you suspect discrimination, report it.

In honor of American Home Week, CBR is offering a new class - 21st Century Civil Rights Issues: Emerging Issues Affecting Fair Housing in the New Millennia on April 15 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. This 3-hour CE class satisfies the Ohio's requirement for a civil rights course and should be of interest for residential and commercial REALTORS®. John Zimmerman (Vice President of Miami Valley Fair HousingCenter in Dayton, Ohio) is new to CBR as an instructor and comes highly recommended.

NEW: Short Sale Message Board

OAR has a new "message board" devoted to short sales. You are invited to use it in any way that will benefit you and your colleagues. Share your experiences...good or bad. Ask for advice or pose questions. You may include your identity in your posting or participate anonymously. You'll find the message board at www.OhioRealtors.org under the `members' drop down menu.

Dues Invoices

The first notice of the second installment billing will be sent to members via email on or before April 10. When you receive the email, do not delete it as it includes access to pay your bill online. Your license number is your login ID and `cbr' is the password.