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Forms Updates
February 14, 2020
MAR works diligently to ensure that the forms we produce are accurate, effective, and legally compliant. Highlighted below are some recent changes to the forms library. Be sure to check them out to confirm you are using the latest versions. Exclusive Right to Sell-Broker’s Fee Paragraph 4 pertaining to the… -
‘Hands-Free’ Driving Law Goes Live on February 23, 2020
February 6, 2020
There’s a new Massachusetts law that has the potential to impact many REALTORS® and your on-the-go lifestyle. Starting on February 23, 2020, the new “Hands-Free” Driving Law goes into effect. The law prohibits operators of motor vehicles and bicycles from using any electronic device, including a cell phone, unless the… -
Thank You for Fighting the Sales Tax on Homes
February 5, 2020
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Call for Action (CFA) opposing transfer taxes in Massachusetts. The CFA was active from January 5 to January 29 and 3,504 members (14.03%) participated by contacting their legislators. Click here for a breakdown by local association. While this is a strong start, we always strive… -
Notes From the Legal Hotline: February 2020
February 3, 2020
Q. What does the new guidance from HUD on assistance animals mean? A. The guidance issued by HUD on January 28, 2020, explains how housing providers should handle requests for reasonable animal-related accommodations to comply with the Fair Housing Act The full guidance can be found here: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PA/documents/HUDAsstAnimalNC1-28-2020.pdf. While this… -
The REALTOR® Advocate January/February
February 3, 2020
Wow, what a start to the year! January was a whirlwind, with formal session resuming and moving at a rapid pace. Read on to see all that happened, but first, check out our 2019 Year in Review video and report. If you ever have any questions or comments on our advocacy efforts or just… -
From the Editor ‘2020 Possibilities’
January 28, 2020
For the past several years, I have had the opportunity and privilege to interview and profile the incoming president for this annual leadership issue. Before writing the profile, I spend time learning about who they are and what their vision is for their upcoming time in office. And while I… -
Starting a Blog
January 28, 2020
Maybe you’ve thought about starting a blog. Maybe you’ve written a few blog posts, but never fully committed to it. Maybe you’ve never once considered it. No matter where you fall, I’m here to tell you – consistently writing a blog post might be easier than you think. What the… -
Trending Topics: Using Social Media Surveys to Engage Your Clients and Cut Through the Noise
January 28, 2020
As you probably know, there’s a ton of content being pushed our way every day. Probably more now than ever before, which is why you can assume your clients are experiencing the same phenomenon. The big question on your mind is how to break through the noise and differentiate yourself from your competitors. One specific way… -
Five Questions With: Ron Phipps
January 28, 2020
Lessons From the Leadership Chair This issue’s “Five Questions With” features Ron Phipps, ABR, CRS, ePro, GRI, GREEN. Ron is a Broker licensed in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. He first became a REALTOR® in 1978 and has significant experience in Association Leadership. The managing broker for Phipps Realty, Ron works… -
Notes From the MAR Legal Hotline
January 28, 2020
Q. I’m selling a “Smart Home” and my seller isn’t sure which devices need to stay with the property. Are smart devices considered fixtures? A. It depends. The analysis for determining whether a smart device is a fixture or personal property is not unique. A fixture is typically defined as an…