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Kimberly Bytheway (Velocity)

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Rainmaker
5,288,766
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Do you have a choice is you want access to your MLS?

Jun 29, 2018 12:16 PM
Rainmaker
1,869,168
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

No, run as far away as possible. You might be forced to join in order to do business.

Jun 29, 2018 01:04 PM
Ambassador
3,421,649
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

Check with your broker and see if not joining is an option. 

I wish you all the best with your studies.  

Jun 29, 2018 12:29 PM
Rainmaker
1,535,414
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

In California it is actually illegal (since 1976) to require association membership to access the MLS.  Sadly, most associations don't know this and even fewer agents do.  Residential agents all join up and get forced into the national and state associations as a result.  Commercial agents, by and large, are not members of an association and have their own MLS systems (Costar and Loopnet).

Jun 29, 2018 03:12 PM
Rainmaker
75,315
Ricardo Mello
Manhattan Miami Real Estate - Manhattan, NY
Manhattan & Miami Real Estate Agent

 LOL Lyn Sims 

Jun 29, 2018 01:42 PM
Rainmaker
535,392
Joseph Domino 480-390-6011
HomeSmart - Scottsdale, AZ
Real Estate Made Easy

It depends on what your plan is going forward. Are you an agent? Do you plan to sell real estate? If yes, then you will probably need/want to join a board. I don't know how you can be successful without access to your MLS, training, documentation, etc.

If your plan is only to be an industry observer, save your money. There is a lot of free and low-cost information available to keep you informed.

Bytheway, AR is a good resource for industry information.

Jun 29, 2018 01:20 PM
Rainmaker
776,575
Peter Testa
Kiwi Homes - Danbury, CT
PETER TESTA

In Connecitcut we have to join if we want access to the MLS. Not sure what the rules are in Utah but check with your local MLS. See if it's mandatory; all I know is that if it wasn't mandatory I would not join NAR or CAR- they simply don't offer me anything of value. Our local board offers classes but I don't need them either- I wouldn't need to be a member to go to class there; I see membership with the associations as money wasted. 

Jun 29, 2018 01:04 PM
Rainmaker
1,231,853
Mary Yonkers
Alan Kells School of Real Estate/Howard Hanna Real Estate - Erie, PA
Erie/PA Real Estate Instructor

Discuss with your broker.

Jun 29, 2018 04:48 PM
Ambassador
3,385,933
Chris Ann Cleland
Long and Foster Real Estate - Gainesville, VA
Associate Broker, Bristow, VA

Outside of having to be affiliated with the local Board of Realtors to belong to my local MLS, I don't see any benefit at all.  If you have a choice, try life without it.

Jun 29, 2018 02:54 PM
Rainer
140,660
Richard L. McKinney P.A.
Atlantic Shores Realty Expertise - Port St Lucie, FL
For Results that MOVE you on the Treasure Coast!

Kimberly Bytheway  

Yes! You must join the National Association of Realtors. You will most likely need to join to access your local MLS and besides there are many many benefits to being a Realtor such as training, access to materials that can help your business and a level of professionalism in a business that is constantly under attack. 

Jun 29, 2018 02:09 PM
Rainmaker
4,721,936
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

It depends.  You may not have a choice if you want access to information and properties.  Study hard, take lots of practice tests and good luck with your state exam. Investigate your career options too.

Jun 29, 2018 12:43 PM
Rainmaker
5,095,750
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

If you want to work for a broker who is a member then you will need to join.

Jun 29, 2018 12:28 PM
Rainmaker
660,125
Buzz Mackintosh
Mackintosh REALTORS - Frederick, MD
“Experience, reliable, leadership”

If you want to be a REALTOR® you should otherwise you will  just be a real estate agent

Jun 29, 2018 06:40 PM
Rainmaker
1,007,423
Jennifer Mackay
Counts Real Estate Group, Inc. - Panama City, FL
Your Bay County Florida Realtor 850.774.6582

I don't know about your board, but we have no choice here if our broker belongs, we have to belong

Jun 29, 2018 04:58 PM
Rainmaker
1,614,223
Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, ePRO
Big Block Realty 858.232.8722 - La Jolla, CA
Serving Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Seniors

No, but I wouldn't stop you either.

I do not know your goals, hard to advise you.

Jun 29, 2018 02:40 PM
Rainmaker
4,341,834
John Pusa
Glendale, CA

Kimberly Bytheway It helps to join a board of Realtors.

Jun 29, 2018 01:55 PM
Rainmaker
5,177,020
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Yes,  good networking with other realtors and education also.

 

Jun 29, 2018 01:50 PM
Rainmaker
8,125,230
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

You will probably need to join to have MLS access. Talk with your broker.

Jun 29, 2018 01:23 PM
Rainer
453,749
J.R. Schloemer
Kentucky Select Properties - Louisville, KY

If you are just finishing your pre-licensing course I can’t see many other options for you. It is all dependent upon the broker with whom you affiliate

Jun 29, 2018 01:22 PM
Rainmaker
683,806
Diana Dahlberg
1 Month Realty - Pleasant Prairie, WI
Real Estate in Kenosha, WI since 1994 262-308-3563

You should consult with other agents in your area, as well as your broker.  Ultimately it is your decision.  Best wishes to your success!

Jun 29, 2018 07:49 PM
Ambassador
2,403,529
Hannah Williams
HomeStarr Realty - Philadelphia, PA
Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376

Our Board of Realtors gives us DocUsign  a legal hot line - zip forms  and so much more ... why would you not want to join ?

Jun 29, 2018 06:08 PM
Rainmaker
931,418
Jeff Pearl
Samson Properties / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

Your broker will probably require you to join.

Jun 29, 2018 04:19 PM
Rainmaker
787,224
Tony Lewis
Summit Real Estate Group - Valencia, CA
Summit Real Estate Group Valencia & Aliso Viejo

It's a calling and a personal choice.  No one can decide for you as it is an absolutely personal decision.  It is all giving of yourself and your time.  I always appreciate those that work on our behalf for no personal gain.

Jun 29, 2018 02:54 PM
Rainmaker
1,260,208
Sam Shueh
(408) 425-1601 - San Jose, CA
mba, cdpe, reopro, pe

Go for it. 

Jun 29, 2018 01:52 PM
Rainmaker
5,584,478
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

if you can do without it initially, go make money!!! then join and earn some designations.... wishing you well with your course...

Jun 29, 2018 01:12 PM
Rainmaker
729,563
Laura Filip
Laura Filip Broker , Opening doors for All Seasons of Life - Whitesboro, TX
What can we do for you today?

In our State of Texas we do not have a choice to join the Board of Realtors. If you do not join you do not have access to the MLS system. 

Jun 29, 2018 01:11 PM
Ambassador
5,474,939
Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

You will have to ask your broker - if it is mandated in order to have MLS access, you will have to...if you want MLS access!

Jun 29, 2018 09:28 PM
Ambassador
6,662,159
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

Join and participate

Jun 29, 2018 05:32 PM
Rainmaker
5,774,095
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Nina Hollander gave you the perfect answer.  A

Jun 29, 2018 05:18 PM
Rainmaker
1,432,427
John Juarez
The Medford Real Estate Team - Fremont, CA
ePRO, SRES, GRI, PMN

If you obtain a real estate license and subsequently associate yourself with a real estate broker, which you must do in order to ply your trade, you may be required to join a board of Realtors. Brokers with whom you interview with explain in more detail.

Jun 29, 2018 05:15 PM
Rainmaker
519,824
Dan Tabit
Keller Williams Bellevue - Sammamish, WA

There are advantages, and their are costs. I'm currently a member because our office decided to join, which mandated we all join as well. Prior to joining, I didn't notice anything missing. If we were to opt out as a company, I'm not sure it would matter that much to my business.  When you decide where you want to work, discuss it with the managing broker.  

Jun 29, 2018 04:59 PM
Rainmaker
3,074,289
Tony and Suzanne Marriott, Associate Brokers
Serving the Greater Phoenix and Scottsdale Metropolitan Area - Scottsdale, AZ
Coldwell Banker Realty

Nina Hollander nailed this one!

Jun 30, 2018 06:48 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

This is a union shop. 

You will be REQUIRED to join by the broker you choose.

The perception you have a choice will quickly turn bitter in the harsh light of the reality.

Jun 30, 2018 05:08 AM
Rainmaker
1,253,629
Doug Dawes
Keller Williams Evolution - 447 Boston Street, Suite #5, Topsfield, MA - Topsfield, MA
Your Personal Realtor®

I happen to like our local Association of Realtors. They do provide good services to us,

Jun 30, 2018 04:17 AM
Rainmaker
4,273,331
Paul S. Henderson, REALTOR®, CRS
Fathom Realty Washington LLC - Tacoma, WA
South Puget Sound Washington Agent/Broker!

I think you've been scolded quite enough....

Jun 29, 2018 11:06 PM
Ambassador
5,156,253
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

A better question is do you have an option in your area in order to access the MLS? Problem is some Realtor Boards are quite good, and others are terrible. FInd out what you can now!

Jun 29, 2018 08:37 PM
Rainmaker
544,114
Dave Halpern
Dave Halpern Real Estate Agent, Inc., Louisville, KY (502) 664-7827 - Louisville, KY
Louisville Short Sale Expert

Yes, for the Realtor Christmas party.

Jun 29, 2018 07:48 PM
Rainmaker
536,943
Rose Mary Justice
Synergy Realty Pros - Dandridge, TN
Synergy Realty Pros

My answer would be yes.  Joining the board and MLS system gives you the opportunity to insert your listings for sale as well as send buyers listings.  Clients can be saved and automatically informed when a new listing is available.  Gives you access to homes and you will be compensated for your sale. Plus it is required of your brokerage. 

Jun 29, 2018 07:25 PM
Rainmaker
1,713,581
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

That decision is yours alone.

Jun 29, 2018 07:04 PM
Rainmaker
5,986,056
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

If you join a brokerage that belongs to a Board of REALTORS, you have no choice.

Jul 04, 2018 07:19 PM
Ambassador
2,704,537
Fred Griffin Florida Real Estate
Fred Griffin Real Estate - Tallahassee, FL
Licensed Florida Real Estate Broker

   The only things you need from a Board are

   MLS

   Lockbox Key

   Standard Forms

  and maybe Training.

    If you can get those things without joining a Board, save your money!

Jul 03, 2018 04:44 AM
Rainmaker
4,322,035
Praful Thakkar
LAER Realty Partners - Burlington, MA
Metro Boston Homes For Sale

To participate actively.

Jun 30, 2018 10:13 PM
Rainmaker
3,986,473
William Feela
WHISPERING PINES REALTY - North Branch, MN
Realtor, Whispering Pines Realty 651-674-5999 No.

Well any MLS I have seen is run throught the local board and most Brokers will require it

Jun 30, 2018 08:59 PM
Rainmaker
3,988,138
Debbie Reynolds, C21 Platinum Properties
Platinum Properties- (931)771-9070 - Clarksville, TN
The Dedicated Clarksville TN Realtor-(931)320-6730

I do think you won’t have a choice in that so suggest you join and become envolved and engaged and use the tools offered and make connections. 

Jun 30, 2018 03:22 PM
Rainmaker
4,434,227
Gita Bantwal
RE/MAX Centre Realtors - Warwick, PA
REALTOR,ABR,CRS,SRES,GRI - Bucks County & Philadel

Yes

Jun 30, 2018 03:14 PM
Rainmaker
920,253
Olga Simoncelli
Veritas Prime, LLC dba Veritas Prime Real Estate - New Fairfield, CT
CONSULTANT, Real Estate Services & Risk Management

Yes because you probably don't have a choice if you want to function as an agent, regrettably. It should not be mandatory, but it is and smacks of illegality to me.

Jun 30, 2018 08:26 AM
Rainmaker
1,574,716
Gary L. Waters Broker Associate, Bucci Realty
Bucci Realty, Inc. - Melbourne, FL
Eighteen Years Experience in Brevard County

Realtor world is a pay to play world... depends on how much you want to "play."

Jun 30, 2018 08:04 AM
Rainmaker
5,460,219
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

If your sponsoring broker belongs, you need to belong also. And, it is the pathway to the MLS.

Jun 30, 2018 07:40 AM
Rainmaker
1,762,804
Mike Cooper, Broker VA,WV
Cornerstone Business Group Inc - Winchester, VA
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Sales Pro

In our market, you can't have access to the MLS without a board membership. 

Jun 30, 2018 07:16 AM
Rainmaker
4,800,282
Gabe Sanders
Real Estate of Florida specializing in Martin County Residential Homes, Condos and Land Sales - Stuart, FL
Stuart Florida Real Estate

Your call.  But, I would recommend it.

Jun 30, 2018 05:34 AM
Rainer
9,902
Leslie Scholfield
HomeSmart - Centennial, CO
Realtor

Odd that so many others say "no".  Maybe Denver has more to offer locally?

If you are determined to be a full time successful professional... defiantly join!   Board Membership is the most important tools you can have in your tool box.  When I first started, I took every class and downloaded everything  that was offered with my membership.  This provided me Real Estate facts that was recent and related to my area.   Today, (10 years later) I spent several hours downloading and studing the Real Estate Trends that is provided by the NAR membership.   There are several yearly classes that I still need, ie; local issues, local economic forecast and market statistics.  You will learn real life examples of the legal Do’s and Don’ts.  Years later, if you continue in this career, you will remember something you learned and be able to use it to protect your client-or yourself!

To be successful in this business you will need to eat, sleep and breathe Real Estate.  Why wouldn’t you surround yourself with others that do the same?  “Birds of a feather flock together”  

Jun 29, 2018 11:44 PM