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Open the Door to Your Success in Real Estate with the
Capital Area Association of REALTORS
A Great Choice for REALTORS® in the Capital Area
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| You are invited to become a part of a proud and successful
tradition of real estate professionals, who in 1921, chartered the Capital Area
Association of REALTORS® (CAAR) following guidelines set in 1908, by the
founding organization, the National Association of Real Estate Exchanges..."For
the support and benefit of its members and the community at large." Today, the
Capital Area Association of REALTORS® includes over 700 members. |
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| Of great importance, the term REALTORS® is not a synonym for
"real estate broker" or "agent" but rather a registered trademark which identifies
a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS®
and bound by its strict Code of Ethics. |
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| As a member of the Capital Area Association of REALTORS® you
will automatically become affiliated with the Illinois Association of REALTORS®
(IAR) and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) - the largest professional
trade association in the world with over 900,000 members! Throughout this
collective membership, we are the Voice for Real Estate promoting the private
ownership of real property and the free enterprise system. |
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| MISSION |
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| The Capital Area Association of REALTORS® helps its members
maintain the highest standards of professionalism and achieve the highest levels
of success. |
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HERE IS A DETAILED LIST OF WHAT CAAR
WILL PROVIDE IN RETURN FOR YOUR DUES INVESTMENT
The REALTOR® association is hard at work on projects and programs to benefit its
members in their daily practice. We have a primary goal -- to help our members become
a strong and efficient economic unit. In that way, we can serve the community better.
The mission of the Capital Area Association of REALTORS® is "help its members maintain
the highest standards of professionalism and achieve the highest levels of success."
Read on to find out more. |
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COMPUTER INSTRUCTION & LAB
The association has a state-of-the-art computer training lab which includes ten notebook
computers along with an LCD projector. This lab is used to provide hands-on computer
training for association members in the area of Internet-MIS, windows and the internet
to name a few. Not only can members take advantage of reasonably priced computer
instruction but broker members can rent the entire lab for half or full-day increments
at very reasonable rates. Additionally, as an association member you can enjoy a
substantial discount off of training taken through NovaTech Solutions the association's
technology training partner. |
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EDUCATION AND RESOURCES
Enjoy discounted member rates on multiple educational opportunities that are offered to
help you further your career and increase your earnings. Continuing education courses
taught by quality instructors, to meet the State's 12-hour educational requirement for
biennial license renewal, are offered at a reasonable price on a regular basis. For the
new agent we offer the the "Foundations for Success" training program. In addition, high
caliber professional development courses are taught annually by nationally known
instructors in specialty areas of real estate. Our basic orientation class is required for
all new members. These classes, offered every three months, outline the opportunities and
responsibilities of a REALTOR®. Seminars, workshops and MIS breakfasts are held year-round
on topics of interest and necessity to members. CAAR events offer a special opportunity to
learn from the experts while making new friends. The association's resource library
contains many current reference materials that are available to you for loan. Additionally,
an MIS terminal is located in the association library for convenient member use. Materials
are available for loan from the IAR library as well. |
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EXCLUSIVE USE OF THE TERM REALTOR®
The term REALTOR® is a registered trademark that can be used only by those members of the
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. As a member of this association you can use the term
REALTOR® on any of your signs, stationary, etc. to set yourself apart. Your association
promotes the term REALTOR® and the use of a REALTORS®' services in many ways. |
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FACILITIES USE
Members of the association have the ability to rent for a very reasonable rate the
association's lower level for certain activities that are not deemed to be in conflict or
competition with the association's mission. |
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GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS AND LOBBYING
Our Voice for Real Estate is sounded at the local, state and national levels through a
variety of professionals. Locally, your association staff and leadership are looking out
for your interests and are continually in contact with elected officials. In coordination
with its Governmental Affairs Director the association monitors issues that affect real
estate and housing, coordinates political education of the membership and readies
appropriate political actions. Due to more than 700 members locally and due to the fact
that the association is able to speak as one voice we are very effective in advancing our
legislative position whether it be before a municipality or a county board. At the state
level, IAR has a full-time staff of professionally seasoned lobbyists concentrating on
statewide issues. Nationally, NAR maintains a staff of lobbyists who monitor legislation
that is introduced at the federal level. In the near future the association will have the
benefit of a full-time Governmental Affairs Director that will be shared among other
neighboring associations. Our legislative efforts have managed to earn the respect of
lawmakers at all three levels of government. |
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GRIEVANCE AND PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS
By enforcing the REALTORS® Code of Ethics, and helping to arbitrate disagreements among
members, the association encourages high standards of business conduct in the industry.
The association's Grievance Committee and Professional Standards Committee is responsible
for investigating complaints and conducting hearings when business disputes occur between
members. Under the Code of Ethics, arbitration is both a duty and privilege. The
association also offers voluntary mediation as an alternative to arbitration. This service
offers an alternative to costly litigation. |
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LEGAL HOTLINE
The IAR Legal Hotline allows members to secure legal information via telephone using a
toll-free number. The Hotline attorney is able to provide legal information on a wide
variety of real estate related topics. Designated REALTORS® can call (800)952-0578 Mondays
through Fridays, 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 pm. |
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LIAISON WITH OTHER GROUPS
The association maintains contact with other organizations which share the interests and
goals of REALTORS® . Information and mutual activities are coordinated with organizations
representing home builders, lenders, insurers and others. The association also promotes a
strengthening of relationships between real estate brokers and attorneys. |
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LOCKBOX SYSTEM
As an optional fee-based service members of the association may choose to utilize out
state-of-the-art lockbox system by Risco Lock Box Company which, among other things, allows
you to keep track of your property showings. |
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MEMBER DISCOUNTS & SERVICES
The association is always working to identify and develop new products and services for its
membership including affinity relationships. As a member you will be entitled to various
discounts and services as outlined below.
- Local Dial Tone & Long Distance Service - Through McLeod USA
we offer considerable savings on local dial tone service (select areas) and long distance service.
- Computer Training & Consultation - Through NovaTech Solutions
we offer considerable discounts on computer training and consulting through our technology
training partner NovaTech Solutions.
- Forms Software - By using Zipform forms software you are able
to enter transaction information once and carry it across the forms needed to complete a
transaction.
- Vacations - CAAR members can receive a discount on all vacation packages booked with
Collette Vacations.
- Fitness - CAAR members can receive a waiver of the application fee and 3 months free
membership for individuals who enter into a 12 month agreement with Springfield Raquet &
Fitness Center. Standard published rates apply.
Members can also take advantage of numerous discounts and benefits contained in affinity programs
made available through the Illinois Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®.
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MULTIPLE INFORMATION SERVICE
Currently. Designated REALTORS® may also choose to belong to the Multiple Information Service (MIS).
The monthly MIS dues pay for access to and use of all property listing inventory. In October of 2001
the MIS converted from its a legacy system to an Internet-based system called InnoVia which has
technologically positioned this association well. InnoVia allows the user the ability to access the
system from anywhere as long as they have Internet service. In addition to the user friendly
environment and many custom search features "InnoVia" includes integrated public records for Sangamon
County and Menard County, mapping features, CMA features, e-mail capabilities and more. This new
technology has made it possible for member's to easily and efficiently display their property
listings and open house information on the web through a seamless interface with www.SeeHouses.com and/or www.SeeBuildings.com Hands-on MIS computer courses are offered on a regular basis to all members for the beginning user
and the advanced user. Other types of technology training is also available including the newest
class on Digital Images. This MIS system is supported by a knowledgeable staff who stands ready to
serve you. |
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| COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE NETWORK (CREN)
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| CREN is designed to showcase commercial properties through a REALTOR® that specializes in commercial real estate. A REALTOR® who is a member of CREN, is part of an elite group that can offer you the highest level of expertise in this field, and provide your properties maximum exposure. Designated REALTORS® and individual sales associates may choose to CREN. The monthly CREN fees pay for access to and use of all "commercial real estate" inventory. CREN operates off of the same software as the MIS for maximum flexibility. InnoVia allows the user the ability to access the system from anywhere as long as they have Internet service. In addition to the user friendly environment and many custom search features "InnoVia" includes integrated public records for Sangamon County and Menard County, mapping features, e-mail capabilities and more. This new technology has made it possible for member's to easily and efficiently display their commercial property listings on the web through a seamless interface with www.SeeBuildings.com Hands-on MIS computer courses are offered on a regular basis to all members for the beginning user and the advanced user. Other types of technology training is also available including the newest class on Digital Images. This MIS system is supported by a knowledgeable staff who stands ready to serve you.
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NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
There are many opportunities to relax and mingle with your colleagues by participating in various
association activities, formal social events, banquets, community service projects committee
meetings and many other gatherings. What better way to make new contacts and friends than to
attend and participate in activities such as: the Annual Meeting held in September; the
Installation Banquet held in October; the Holiday Party; the Annual Golf Outing; Annual Awards
Program; Community Service events and many more activities throughout the year. |
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PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES AND SUPPORT
You have a vast support structure behind you to help you along your career path. By far, one of
the most often cited benefits of membership is access to a local professional full-time association
staff. The staff of the association stand ready to assist and welcome your calls and inquiries at
217/698-7000. At the state level assistance is just a phone call away via the IAR Memberline. By
calling the Memberline at 1-800-752-3275 IAR staff will help answer any questions you may have. |
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PUBLIC RELATIONS
In an effort to promote better understanding of the real estate profession, CAAR conducts various
public relations programs. CAAR contacts television, radio and newspaper by way of direct news
releases or press conferences concerning various issues or events. CAAR also acts as a resource to
the media. In the Fall of 2002 CAAR began its most aggressive marketing campaign ever. This
campaign is intended to promote its new web site located at www.seehouses.com. Over the next 12
months over $60,000 will be spent on billboard, television, radio and newsprint. |
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PUBLICATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
The REALTOR® organization at all levels provides members with the most up-to-date information available
about subjects of interest and concern. Through the NAR you regularly receive "REALTOR® Magazine", the
industry's leading trade magazine. The IAR's monthly publication the "Illinois REALTOR®", presents
industry news, legislative and legal updates, calendar of events and news about other local associations
around the state. Locally, the association publishes monthly the "REALTOR® Review", which consists of: a
review of the association's events; news and highlights from committees; industry news; legislative and
legal updates; and a calendar of events. In addition to print publications the association also
disseminates its email bulletin several times a month which goes out to every member with an email
address. Additionally, the association uses www.seehouses.com
as a means to communicate with its membership. |
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RISK REDUCTION SERVICES
The association's attorney provides the association with opinions and about legal issues which affect the
association and segments of its membership. The association communicates information to the members about
such legal issues and operates its programs and activities in a manner to minimize any legal liability to
the association or its members. Errors and omissions insurance is available at reduced rates via carriers
endorsed by both IAR and NAR. |
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STANDARD FORMS & CONTRACTS
Real estate industry forms, pre-approved by the association's Forms Committee along with association legal
counsel are currently available to all members at a very reasonable cost. These forms are also available
for downloading from the member= s only side of www.seehouses.com. CAAR is constantly updating and
publishing new contracts, riders and other forms which protect you and the public. A special software
program called Zipform contains most of these forms and contracts is also available for purchase as a member
of the association. With this optional software members are able to easily access and complete documents
related to the transaction in a professional and expeditious manner. Using this software transaction
information is entered once and carried across the forms needed to complete a transaction. This product
includes email capabilities and an online version is available as well. |
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WWW.SEEHOUSES.COM IS A VIRTUAL REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATION
In October 2002 CAAR officially launched a new web site that has become the Real Estate Resource in the
Capital Area. This web site includes both a public side and a private (member's) side which is password
accessible. This web site will continue to be a valuable resource for members by providing timely
information and communications but will also be a valuable resource for customers and clients seeking real
estate brokerage services.
FOR THE MEMBER. This website is essentially a virtual real estate association. Through the private side the
member can access the site via a password to perform any number of functions such as downloading standardized
forms and contracts, accessing meeting information, placing a message on the message board or retrieving
general information. Such information includes a calendar of events, announcements, education and training
schedules, membership roster, membership application forms, related links, association bylaws, MIS rules and
a listing of CAAR affinity partners. Also, as a member you will have access to a wealth of information
located on the Illinois Association of REALTORS®' website at www.illinoisrealtor.org as well as the National
Association of REALTORS®' website at www.realtor.org.
FOR THE PUBLIC. The gold standard here is the content which includes our broker's property listings, open
house listings, information about real estate services, related services and current mortgage rates, among
other things. www.SeeHouses.com is the place for consumers to go for real estate information which translates into qualified leads for you the member. Its sister website www.SeeBuildings.com was launched in July of 2004 and is geared toward the commercial real estate consumer. This website is presented by the Commercial Real Estate Network (CREN) of the association. The association has launched the most aggressive marketing
campaign in its history to promote the web site in an effort to generate substantial traffic to the web site.
This in turn will provide the greatest exposure possible for your property listings and will reinforce the
benefits of working with a REALTOR®. The web site will also be used as a means to highlight the various ancillary
services that are available through our web partners, in particular, and our affiliate members in general. |
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVOLVEMENT
The association is for the member and is just that... theirs... theirs to use, learn from, enjoy, profit from and
also to serve. Your association is governed and operated by its members, for the benefit of its members. Members
voluntarily serve on the Board of Directors and numerous committees and task forces that give direction and
manpower to operate the many programs, services and events of the association. A full-time professional staff
plus legal and accounting counsel provide the day-to-day management and specialized services while also reporting
to the membership.
Yes, you too have a "say" in the association and are encouraged to participate as your time and talents allow.
You will soon find that your participation will create an increased sense of belonging and will multiply the
benefits you receive from the association. People that you meet through the association will become contacts,
mentors, supporters and friends now and for the future.
Here is a list of committees available by appointment for your participation:
Agent Safety Equal
Bylaws
Community Service
Commercial Real Estate Network
Education |
Equal Opportunity
Forms & Computer
Governmental Affairs
Grievance
Member Services |
Multiple Information Service
Professional Standards
REALTOR® Developer
REALTOR® Affiliate |
As a member you will have the opportunity to prosper personally and professionally -- opening the door to your
success in real estate. Once again, please accept this invitation to become a part of the proud and successful
tradition of real estate professionals...the Capital Area Association of REALTORS®
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