September 29, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: SSO Portal & SAFEAccess® - Tomorrow is Launch Day!

Just a reminder that tomorrow -- Tuesday, September 30th – when you login to the new OMREB sign-on page (with your current User ID and Password), you will be prompted to go through a short enrollment process before the convenience of one centralized logon is at your fingertips.

Live on September 30th:
(Please Bookmark or save to Favourites)
https://members.interiorbc.ca

Attached for your easy reference:
SAFEAccess® Enrollment Process: Three easy steps.
SSO Portal Quick Reference: How to use the new multi-application portal.
Frequently Asked Questions: Answers to common queries.

NOTE: Billing for Non-Members (Unlicensed Assistants and Brokerage Admins) will commence on November 1st.

LINKS: Members are advised that the Touchbase link and CREA portal links for WEBForms® and REALTOR Link® may not be available at launch date but the internal links within MATRIX® will still be active. You may need to login to these sites with your old password via MATRIX® for one day until your new Safe Password is uploaded and active.

September 26, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: SSO PORTAL - One-time SAFEAccess® Enrollment Process

In preparation for the launch of the new SSO Portal and SAFEAccess® enrollment next Tuesday (September 30th)...

NEW LOGIN PAGE: On Tuesday, September 30th, you will see the new login page when attempting to log into MATRIX® at the new URL: https://members.interiorbc.ca

BOOKMARK NEW URL: Please bookmark or save this link to your “Favourites” for login access on and after September 30th as it will replace the current URL.

What you can prepare for now:

• NEW Password: The SAFEAccess® enrollment process will confirm your NEW password conforms to the password complexity configuration.
• ANSWERS to Password Recovery Questions: The process also ensures that you have answered the recovery or secret questions which are extremely important in the event you forget your password.

Click here for quick review of the one-time Enrollment Process -- three-steps illustrated with screenshots.

September 24, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: New SSO Portal Quick Reference Guide

“One Stop Shopping” for Easy Access to Frequently Used Applications and Links...

As OMREB ramps up to the launch of the new Single Sign On Portal and SAFEAccess® on Tuesday, September 30th, the attached Quick Reference Guide will provide Members with a sneak peek at what you can expect to see in the new portal and how it will work.

Besides optimum protection for your valuable customer data, the convenience of one centralized logon to access all applications will be at your fingertips.

The new SSO Portal has been designed to provide ease of access to frequently used applications like MATRIX®, WEBForms®, REALTOR Link®, and SentriLock (to name a few) with a single sign-on. You will also be able to access links to frequently visited websites like your Regional District and Municipality, BC Safety Authority, and BC Online (among others). An integrated newsfeed will keep you up-to-date on current OMREB news and provide an easy reference to archived postings.

What you need to do now?

User ID and Password: Just a reminder that in preparation for the September 30th launch, it is important for all users to have and to know their own User ID and Password. This means everyone who currently uses OMREB’s MATRIX® MLS® system: all Managing Brokers, Office Admins, REALTORS®, and REALTOR® Assistants (Licensed and Unlicensed).

Unlicensed Assistants: All existing Unlicensed Assistants – including those who are working for teams or for more than one REALTOR® -- who have already been authorized as MATRIX® Users will continue to have the same access as they do now.

There is no need to complete the attached new Access Request Form prior to September 30th unless:

• New or Replacement Assistant – Please use the revised Access Request Form to ensure access for new or replacement Assistants who have not yet been granted authorized access on behalf of a Member REALTOR®.
• Assistant Has Left Your Employ: Please use the Cancellation Form to ensure termination of access for Assistants who have left and to avoid being billed the monthly access fee for them.
• Teams or Shared Assistant – Primary – If an Assistant is working for a Team or more than one REALTOR® and has already been granted authorized access on behalf of these Member REALTORS®, the completion and submission of a new Access Request Form will be required to indicate who the primary REALTOR® will be for billing purposes (Member who will responsible for the Assistant’s fees).

Brokerage Admin Assistants: No need to complete new forms unless an Admin needs to be cancelled or is a new replacement and has not yet been granted approved access.

FORMS:
* Click here to download Unlicensed Assistant Access
* Click here to download Brokerage Admin Access
* Click here to download Admin or Assistant Cancellation

FORM SUBMISSION: Forms should be forwarded directly to Member Services Coordinator Kate Smith at [email protected]

QUICK REFERENCE: Click here to download Quick Reference Guide.

September 19, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Inter-Board Listings Change

The following Memo regarding change to Brokerage permissions for “Listing Activations” and “Reporting of Sales” for properties located outside the OMREB Boundaries (“Inter-Board Listings”) was emailed to Managing Brokers and Office Admins today.

Beginning Monday, September 22th, Brokerages will no longer be able to directly activate listings or process sales in MATRIX® for properties that are located in the jurisdiction of other Real Estate Boards.

Rationale: This is to insure that listings are handled according to the Pledge of Cooperation between all the boards in B.C. It is a requirement that such listings be added to the MLS® system of the board where they are located before they can be activated on any other board, including the agent’s own board.

NEW PROCESS STEPS FOR INTER-BOARD LISTINGS:

• Inter-Board listing documentation, title, and photos sent to [email protected].
• Agent/office may enter pre-active inter-board listing on MATRIX® (optional, not required). Listing may no long be activated by agent/brokerage.
• OMREB processes listing to jurisdictional board and is notified by the other board when the listing is active.
• OMREB activates the listing on MATRIX® and notifies the agent/office that the listing is active on both Boards.

CHANGE TO INTER-BOARD SALES REPORTING:
Sales of properties located outside the OMREB board area will also now be processed by the OMREB office to make certain that Selling Agents from other Boards are correctly entered into the data base, insuring an accurate sales history.

HOW THIS WILL LOOK ON MATRIX®:
The options “Change to Active” and “Change to Sold” will no longer be available to administrators & brokerages for Inter-Board listings beginning September 22, 2014. These actions will need to be requested by submitting the appropriate documentation to OMREB.

If you have questions, please contact Karen Hansen, [email protected] or 250-491-4560 Extension 223 or 778-484-8083 (direct line).

Click here to download and print Memo.

September 18, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: New MLS® Security Protocol and Fees for Unlicensed Assistants

In preparation for the September 30th launch of OMREB’s new Single Sign On (SSO) portal and SAFEAccess® security initiative, Members are advised of the new protocol for their Unlicensed REALTOR® Assistants. Click here for Memo emailed to all Members and Assistants today.

BEFORE SEPTEMBER 30, 2014 - Existing Admins:

• Set-up Fee Waived -- All existing Unlicensed Assistants who have been authorized as MATRIX® Users before the implementation date will be waived the one-time $20 set-up fee for the required SAFEAccess® account enrollment.

• Teams or Shared Assistants – If an Assistant is working for a Team or more than one REALTOR®, the completion and submission of a new Request Form will be required to indicate who the primary REALTOR® is for billing purposes – prior to the implementation date (September 30).

• Please Keep Us Informed -- Members are reminded to advise OMREB if there are any changes to their Unlicensed Assistants (departures and arrivals) to ensure termination of access for those who have left and authorized access for replacements. Please use the revised Request Form and Cancellation Form to ensure access is kept current and updates are made prior to launch date to avoid extra billing for Assistants who have left.

AFTER IMPLEMENTATION – New and Replacement Assistants: If an existing Assistant leaves your Office after September 30th, the following requirements will apply:

• Access Cancellation Form -- Submitted to the Board Office immediately to ensure MATRIX® access is terminated and the monthly access fee is discontinued.

• Access Request Form – Submitted to OMREB so that a new SAFEAccess® account is created for the replacement Assistant for the access enrollment process.

• Set-up Fee -- A one-time $20 set-up fee will be passed on to the designated REALTOR® for any new Unlicensed Assistants, whether a replacement or an addition.

• Monthly Fee -- A $2.50 per month fee will be passed on to the designated REALTOR® for each Unlicensed Assistant for whom they have requested authorized MLS® access accounts.

• Teams or Shared Assistants – If an Assistant is working for a Team or more than one REALTOR®, the completion and submission of a new Request Form will be required to indicate who the primary REALTOR® is for billing purposes.

• Reporting Changes: Members are reminded to advise the Board whenever any Assistant changes are made (departures and arrivals) to ensure that authorized access is kept up-to-date – cancelled for Assistants who have left and new access accounts approved for new Assistants.

MONTHLY FEE – All Non-Member MATRIX® Users: Effective October 1, 2014, a monthly fee of $2.50 will be passed on to all non-member MATRIX® Users and attached to the Member of responsibility for that non-member. Biling will commence on November 1st.

This means that:
• Office Admins – the Managing Brokers will be invoiced
• Unlicensed REALTOR® Assistants – their designated primary REALTOR® will be invoiced
• OMREB Members (Brokers, REALTORS®, Licensed REALTOR® Assistants and Data Service Contractors) -- will NOT be subject to the monthly fee as the service is being provided as part of their Membership.

User ID and Password: It is important for all MATRIX® Users to have and to know their own User ID and Password before the new portal is launched at the end of September. This means everyone who currently uses OMREB’s MATRIX® MLS® system: all Managing Brokers, Office Admins, REALTORS®, and REALTOR® Assistants (Licensed and Unlicensed), and Data Service Contractors.

DOWNLOAD NOTICE: Click here for PDF.

FORMS: Click here for Request for Access (Unlicensed Assistants), and here for Cancellation Request.

NOTE: Revised Request for Access forms will be uploaded to REALTOR Link® and MATRIX® Help.

September 18, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: In-House Courier Schedule Updated

OMREB Members are advised that the weekly in-house courier schedule has been changed from the Wednesday delivery to Monday -- commencing on Monday, September 22nd -- with the exception of stat holidays and month-end, in which case the delivery will be on Tuesday.

Click here to view a copy of the new delivery schedule.

September 17, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB Introduces Single Sign On & SAFEAccess®

Earlier this week, OMREB announced plans to implement a Single Sign On (SSO) portal along with a security initiative -- Scout for SAFEAccess® by Clareity Security -- designed to provide ease of access to applications, and integrated newsfeed and optimum protection for your valuable customer data. This will be achieved by preventing unauthorized access and account sharing.

Rationale: Besides the benefit of “one-stop shopping” for the services and tools that Members depend on to conduct day-to-day business, the improved security platform further raises OMREB’s level of data stewardship on behalf of our Membership by ensuring that valuable data does not become compromised.

On Tuesday, September 30th, you will see a new login page shown when attempting to log into Matrix at the new URL*: https://members.interiorbc.ca

* Please bookmark or save this link to your “Favourites” for login access on and after September 30th as it will replace the current URL.

What will change? This new login screen uses technology that involves keystroke recognition so you will no longer be able to save your login ID or password in your browser. Improved session timeouts will ensure your session won’t be hijacked by someone without designated access.

One Centralized Login: On or after September 30th, you will be prompted to go through a short enrollment process where you will answer 3 secret questions and set a new password. You will only have to do this once before the convenience of one centralized logon to access all applications is at your fingertips.

What do Members need to do now? In preparation for this launch, it is important for all users to have and to know their own User ID and Password. This means everyone who currently uses OMREB's MATRIX® MLS® system: all Managing Brokers, Office Admins, REALTORS®, and REALTOR® Assistants (Licensed and Unlicensed).

Frequently Asked Questions: For enrollment steps and more information, please click Click here for the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). Or contact OMREB’s Help Desk with any questions you may have: Direct 778-484-8080 / Toll Free 1-855-463-4021

Download Notice: Click here for PDF of this Notice (with graphic) - as emailed to Members today.

September 16, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Single Sign-on Portal & Security Initiative

“One-stop shopping” - Protecting your data and your investment…

OMREB is proud to announce that we will soon be launching a new “Single Sign-on” (SSO) portal for Members to enhance their online Member Services experience -- providing easy access to our MLS® database and other relevant real estate applications, plus OMREB news, with one logon.

The new SSO portal will provide:

• Single Sign-on - “One stop shopping” for the services and tools that you depend on to conduct your day-to-day business;

• Security - To protect your data (sensitive client information) from unauthorized use and secure the investment Members have in the OMREB MLS® system.

How will this benefit you, the Member? With the SSO, you will have the convenience of only one User ID and Password to remember for centralized access to other applications. As part of this improvement, a security platform will be integrated into the system to protect your valuable MLS® data from unauthorized account sharing and misuse.

What will change? Upon launch, Members can expect to see a new log-in screen. As this technology involves keystroke recognition and will require typing user ID and password with each log in, Members will no longer be able to save user IDs or passwords. However, they will have the convenience of using one centralized logon to access all applications, plus an integrated newsfeed.

When will this happen? Beginning on Tuesday, September 30th, OMREB will be implementing the SSO with Scout for SAFEAccess®, a proven security technology offered by Clareity Security.

What are the next steps? Tomorrow (September 17th), OMREB will be providing more detailed information about how our Members can appropriately protect access to the sensitive information entrusted to us. Along with relevant instructions about how the new portal will work, answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and steps for the enrolment process will be included.

What do Members need to do now? In preparation for this launch, it is important for all users to have and to know their own User ID and Password. This means everyone who currently uses OMREB’s MATRIX® MLS® system: all Managing Brokers, Office Admins, REALTORS®, REALTOR® Assistants (Licensed and Unlicensed), and Data Service Contractors.

Click here for PDF of this announcement (Memo emailed to Members today).

September 15, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: August Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's AUGUST 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 288 respondents participated in this survey – representing 61% of the 476 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 34% of the 842 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in August.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Debra Kelly of Sage Executive Group (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of October 2014 for her participation in the August Survey. We thank Debra for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

AUGUST SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

25.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 29.2% in July)
17.3% by First Time Buyers (up from 14.9%) *
13.7% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 12.9%) *
11.2% buying Recreation Property (up from 10.2%) *
9.0% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 9.2)
6.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 6.8%)
4.0% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 4.1%)

* During August, there were increases in purchases by first time buyers, those moving from strata properties to single family homes and purchasers of recreation property compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
25.4% Couple without Children (down from 26.7% in July)
25.0% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 24.7%) **
20.2% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 23.0%)
13.6% Single Female (up from 13.0%) **
13.2% Single Male (up from 9.7%) **
4.1% Single Parent with Children (up from 2.7%) **

** There were more purchases by two parent families, single females and males, and single parents during August.

Moving From:
50.1% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 50.3% in July)
22.6% from Alberta (down from 22.7%)
9.8% from Other Areas in BC (down from 11.7%)
5.2% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 7.3%)
4.9% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 3.6%) ***
4.5% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 1.3%) ***
2.1% from Outside Canada (down from 2.3%)
0.7% from NWT/Yukon (same as July)

*** Compared to July, more buyers moved from Saskatchewan/Manitoba and Eastern Canada/Maritimes in August, while movement from other areas declined.

AUGUST 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
• Full summary of survey results with pie charts
• This month's highlights
• Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for Second Quarter 2014 (January through June – quarterly from now on rather than monthly). Next summary will be released in October for 3rd quarter (January through September).

2011-2014 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
• 2014 pie charts for second quarter (January through June)
• 2013 pie charts to compare - available on REALTOR Link®
• 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare - available on REALTOR Link® (Next report for release in October for 3rd quarter - January through September)

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

September 8, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: AUGUST Buyers Survey Out Today!

The AUGUST 2014 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 476 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 421 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during AUGUST (all subjects removed, sale reported, and all documents submitted and in the system by August 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Thursday, September 11th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for sample survey.

September 5, 2014

BOARD & CENTRAL ZONE NOTICE: Central Zone Appointment to OMREB Board of Directors

On behalf of President Darcy Griffiths and the Central Zone Executive, OMREB would like to announce that today the Central Zone Executive appointed Anthony Bastiaanssen as Director to fill the position recently vacated by Jamie Blair.

Anthony was selected from among seven candidates who expressed interest, and he will fulfill the vacancy for the remainder of the term, until AGM 2016.

Please help us in welcoming Anthony to the OMREB Board of Directors!

August 29, 2014

BOARD & CENTRAL ZONE NOTICE: Call for Interest - Appointment to OMREB Board of Directors

Central Zone Members are advised that there is currently a vacancy on the OMREB Board of Directors due to a recent resignation.

Per OMREB Bylaw:

Subject to Section 25 of the By-Law, any vacancy in the Board of Directors shall be filled by an appointment of a Director by the Executive of the Zone entitled to elect the Director whose office has been vacated. In the event the Zone Executive fails to appoint a replacement Director within 30 days of the vacancy arising, the Board shall be entitled to appoint a replacement Director from the Zone entitled to elect the Director. The replacement Director(s) so appointed shall hold office until the completion of the vacated term.

The term of appointment is immediate until March 2016.

Any member of the Central Zone who wishes to let his/her name stand for consideration of the Central Zone Executive must do so no later than 10am on Wednesday, September 3rd.

Please submit your interest, the reasons for your interest, and why you feel you may be a worthy candidate, in writing, to the attention of Lynette Keyowski, Executive Director – [email protected]

The Central Zone Executive will be making the appointment at the next meeting of the Executive, scheduled for Wednesday, September 3rd.

Please forward any questions to Lynette Keyowski at (250) 491-4560. Extension 226.

Thank you for considering how you may contribute to the ongoing vitality of your Board!

August 25, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed Monday for Labour Day!

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed on Monday, September 1st for the stat holiday.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm – on Tuesday, September 2nd.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Labour Day with Family and Friends

August 11, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: JULY Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's JULY 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 301 respondents participated in this survey – representing 61% of the 492 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 34% of the 891 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in July.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Shannon Schierbeck of One Percent Realty has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of September 2014 for her participation in the June Survey. We thank Shannon for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

JULY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

29.2% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 30.9% in June)
14.9% by First Time Buyers (down from 20.7%)
12.9% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (same as June)
10.2% buying Recreation Property (up from 4.3%) *
9.2% buying Revenue/Investment Property (same as June)
6.8% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 5.3%) *
4.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 2.8%) *

* During July, there were increases in purchases by recreation property buyers, retirees moving into seniors communities, and buyers moving from strata properties to single family homes compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
26.7% Couple without Children (up from 24.9% in June) **
24.7% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 28.4%)
23.0% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 21.3%) **
13.0% Single Female (up from 11.9%) **
9.7% Single Male (down from 9.9%)
2.7% Single Parent with Children (same as June)

** There were more purchases by couples without children, empty nessters/retirees and single females during July than in June.

Moving From:
50.3% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 57.9% in July)
22.7% from Alberta (up from 18.2%) ***
11.7% from Other Areas in BC (up from 8.6%) ***
7.3% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 9.8%)
3.6% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 1.2%) ***
2.3% from Outside Canada (up from 1.8%) ***
1.3% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 2.1%)
0.7% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0.3%) ***

*** Compared to June, more buyers moved from Alberta, other areas of BC, Saskatchewan/Manitoba, outside Canada and the Territories/Yukon in July. Movement from other areas declined.

JULY 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for Second Quarter 2014 (January through June – quarterly from now on rather than monthly)

2011-2014 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2014 pie charts for second quarter (January through June)
* 2013 pie charts to compare - available on REALTOR Link
* 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare - available on REALTOR Link

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

July 29, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed Monday for BC Day!

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed for the BC Day stat on Monday, August 4th, 2014.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm – on Tuesday, August 5th.

Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday with Family and Friends

July 25, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Summer Showing Reminder

With the heat of summer sales activity upon us and showings ramping up with the influx of interested buyers, Members are reminded about the importance of securing the properties they show.

Concerned Listing Agents have reported receiving a number of complaints from unhappy Sellers that their homes and lockboxes have been left open after showings and the incidents seem to be becoming more prevalent.

While Members are busier these days and do get distracted, please do take time to ensure that you lock up the home(doors and windows) and the lockbox properly when you leave a property after a showing.

August 1, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: JULY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The JULY 2014 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 492 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 891 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JULY (all subjects removed, sale reported, and all documents submitted and in the system by July 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Thursday, AUGUST 7th at 11:00 pm.

July 16, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed Friday Afternoon

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed at Noon on Friday, July 18th for Offsite Training with the intention of learning to serve you better.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm – on Monday, July 21st.

Emergency Contact: 250-826-4221
Admin Inquiries: [email protected]
Tech Helpline: 1-877-562-3163
SentriLock Support: 1-877-736-8745

Have a safe and happy weekend with friends and family.

July 14, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: JUNE Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's JUNE 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 335 respondents participated in this survey – representing 70% of the 479 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 36% of the 940 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in June (record sales and response numbers – the highest since September 2010).

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Geoff Hays of Royal LePage Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of August 2014 for his participation in the June Survey. We thank Geoff for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

JUNE SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

30.9% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 28.6% in May) *
20.7% by First Time Buyers (up from 18.5%) *
13.0% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 15.2%)
9.3% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 7.4%) *
5.3% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 4.4%) *
4.3% buying Recreation Property (down from 6.4%)
2.8% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 5.1%)

* During June, there were increases in purchases by move-up buyers, first-time buyers, retirees moving into seniors communities, and investment property buyers compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
28.4% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 21.9% in May) **
24.9% Couple without Children (up from 24.5% in May) **
21.3% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 21.9%)
11.9% Single Female (down from 17.9%)
9.9% Single Male (down from 10.6%)
2.7% Single Parent with Children (down from 3.6%)

** There were more purchases by two parent families and couples without children during June than in May.

Moving From:
57.9% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 57.7% in May) ***
18.2% from Alberta (up from 16.3%) ***
9.8% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (same as May)
8.6% from Other Areas in BC (up from 7.3%) ***
2.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 3.7%)
1.8% from Outside Canada (up from 1.0%) ***
1.2% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 4.3%)
0.3% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0%) ***

*** Compared to May, more buyers moved from within the Board area and other areas of BC, as well as from Alberta, Northwest Territories and Yukon, and outside Canada in June. Movement from other areas stayed the same or declined.

JUNE 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for July.

2011-2014 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2014 pie charts for second quarter (January through June)
* 2013 pie charts to compare - available on REALTOR Link
* 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare - available on REALTOR Link

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

July 7, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: JUNE Buyers Survey Out Today!

The JUNE 2014 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 479 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 940 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JUNE (all subjects removed, sale reported, and all documents submitted and in the system by June 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Thursday, JULY 10th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: Just reminder that a Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference and download.

June 26, 2014

BOARD REMINDER: CREA Resources for Anti-Spam Compliance

Members are reminded that CREA resource materials are available to help REALTOR® members more easily comply with Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL), which comes into force next week - Tuesday, July 1st, 2014.

CASL regulates how email, text messages, and other forms of electronic messages can be sent for marketing purposes. The new law is not being put into place to stop you from doing business or sending an email. It is being put into place to help you and make email and other communication better.

Complying with CASL means there are five questions you should ask yourself before sending an electronic message:

1. Is the message a Commercial Electronic Message (CEM)?
2. Is the CEM subject to CASL?
3. Is there consent to send the CEM?
4. Does the CEM contain the required information?
5. Does the CEM contain an unsubscribe mechanism?

CREA has developed both brief and detailed resources to help simplify compliance:
(Linked below and available on CREA's REALTOR® Resources page on REALTOR Link®)

Summary and comprehensive guides to walk REALTOR® members through these five questions and provide an overview of the primary requirements for sending CEMs. Designed to simplify compliance with easy-to-understand language, these two publications compliment lobbying by CREA that resulted in modifications to Canada’s anti-spam framework in order to preserve several critical marketing practices and ease compliance.

Guidance on Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CREA) for REALTOR® Members - provides a comprehensive description of CASL and what members need to do to comply.
Summary Guidance on Canada’s Anti-Spam Legislation (CREA) for REALTOR® Members - aims to be a reminder of members’ obligations.
Compliance Flow Chart - newly posted to help determine what type of electronic communications require consent and those that are exempt.

The following tips summarize the CASL information discussed at the Brokers' Meeting this week:

• Use a legitimate newsletter tool, such as MailChimp, Constant Contact, Vertical Response, and Campaign Monitor, that allows readers to unsubscribe. These services are able to address CSAL requirements and include their own “help” documents.
• Having subscribers opt in, rather than opt out when signing up.
• If you are collecting emails and information, you should have those signing up tick a box on your manual form to agree to receive your mailings.
• Provide an easy way to contact you or a link to your contact information.

Two approaches to obtaining express consent:

• Have clients fill out an “Update Profile” form with the question for consent as part of that email. Client also has the ability to ‘Unsubscribe’. This method requires you to import your list into the chosen program, and send an ‘update profile request’. There is a very simple confirmation screen for the client.
• Send a Link to a “Express Consent” form from your chosen email program. Link is when creating the form within MailChimp, Constant Contact, etc. Client provides name and email address, and responds to a question to ‘Opt-in’ to receive ongoing communications. This generates a record back to the system as a new subscriber including thank you and verification emails.

NOTE: Once you have obtained “Express Consent”, you must save that information and manually update your contact programs like Outlook, MATRIX®, or Top Producer®, or any of the other software platforms being used to communicate to and with the client. It makes sense to pay as much attention to the unconfirmed responses as much as the confirmed.

FURTHER ASSISTANCE: If you have any questions about the CASL, please contact OMREB Executive Director Lynette Keyowski at 250-491-4560, extension 226 / 1-866-491-4560, extension 226 (Toll Free), or via email [email protected].

Click here for PDF of this Notice.

June 25, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Central Zone "MLS® Review" Reprint

Members of the Central Zone are advised that the recently delivered issue of the Central Okanagan edition of the MLS® Real Estate Review (Volume 14, Number 11) -- current until July 10, 2014 -- is missing pages so is being reprinted and will be distributed as soon as possible.

One section was repeated (pages 87 through 102) while another section was left out altogether (pages 71 through 86) during printing and binding.

The misprinted copies will be picked up when the replacements are delivered to offices and other outlets in the Zone area.

Thank you for your patience.

June 12, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: MAY Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's MAY 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 302 respondents participated in this survey – representing 60.5% of the 499 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 33.3% of the 908 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in May (record sales numbers – the highest since September 2010).

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that John Kristian of RE/MAX Vernon has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of JULY 2014 for his participation in the May Survey. We thank John for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

MAY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

28.6% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (same as April)
18.5% by First Time Buyers (down from 21.1%)
15.2% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 10.6%) *
6.4% buying Recreation Property (down from 9.9%)
7.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 9.6%)
5.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 3.6%) *
4.4% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 6.3%)


* During the month of May, there was an increase in purchases by those moving single family homes to strata properties, and from stratas to single family homes compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
24.5% Couple without Children (up from 24.0% in April) **
21.9% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 27.8%)
21.95% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 19.2%) **
17.9% Single Female (up from 11.4%) **
10.6% Single Male (down from 12.0%)
3.6% Single Parent with Children (same as April)

** There were more purchases by couples without children, empty nesters/retirees, and single females during May than in April.

Moving From:
57.7% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 51.1% in April) ***
16.3% from Alberta (down from 20.2%)
9.7% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (same as April)
7.3% from Other Areas in BC (down from 10.1%)
4.3% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 4.1%)***
3.7% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 3.1%) ***
1.0% from Outside Canada (down from 1.6%)
0% from NWT/Yukon (same as April)

*** Compared to April, more buyers moved from within the Board area, Saskatchewan/Manitoba and Eastern Canada/Maritimes in May. Movement from other areas stayed the same or declined.

MAY 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for June.

2011-2014 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2014 pie charts for first quarter (January through March)*
* 2013 pie charts for the year
* 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare (available on REALTOR Link). (* 2nd Q charts will be available in mid-July)

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

June 6, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: MAY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The MAY 2014 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 499 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 908 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during MAY (all subjects removed, sale reported, and all documents submitted and in the system by May 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, JUNE 11th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: Just reminder that a Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference and download.

June 6, 2014

REALTY WATCH UPDATE: Missing Chilliwack Senior Located!

The Chilliwack RCMP reports that missing Chilliwack man, William MOONEY, has been located safe and sound.

The RCMP would like to thank the public for their many tips that lead them to locating Mr. Mooney safely. A special thank you is extended to OMREB Members for their support and concern during the search efforts.

June 5, 2014

REALTY WATCH ALERT: Missing Chilliwack Senior in Interior!

Chilliwack RCMP are asking for the public's assistance in location a vulnerable missing senior who has recently been spotted in the BC Interior.

William R. MOONEY (DOB: 1924-Nov-24)
• 89 years old, Caucasian male, approximately 5'7", 165 lbs
• Bald head on top with white hair on the sides
• Wears glasses, and usually a golf cap.
• Last seen wearing a short sleeve checkered shirt and faded grey work pants.
• Left in his residence in a red Mazda B2300 pick up with a black box and chrome running boards
• BC Licence Plate: 5064LV
• Vehicle may have a handicap tag hanging from mirror
• Has not contacted his family since April 20, 2014.
• Last seen May 1, 2014 at a credit Union on Cheam Avenue in Chilliwack.

Police are concerned for his physical and mental well-being, and the family would like to ensure he is safe.

All of the leads police initially had in this investigation have been exhausted. "At this point in our investigation, we really have very little to go on", said Constable Tracy Wolbeck.

It is very unusual for Mr. Mooney to be away from home for this length of time and his family is very worried for him. Police believe that Mr. Mooney could possibly be in the interior area of BC as he has travelled there in the past.

UPDATE: A real estate agent in Chase reported that Mr. Mooney was looking for rental property there this week so he may have been in contact with other property managers in the Okanagan-Shuswap. Police believe that Mr. Mooney could possibly be in the interior area of BC as he has travelled here in the past.

Chilliwack File 2014-15899: If you see Mr. Mooney or have any information as to his whereabouts, please call Chilliwack RCMP at 604 792-4611 to report.

FAN-OUT: A Realty Watch fan-out has been sent via TouchBase to OMREB members in Armstrong, Big White, Chase, Enderby, KElwona, Lake Country, Lumby, Peachland, Penticton, Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Scotch Creek, Sicamous, Sorrento, Vernon, Westbank and West Kelowna. Member Property Managers have been emailed, and neighbouring Boards have also been alerted -- Kamloops and District Real Estate Association (KDREA), South Okanagan Real Estate Board (SOREB) and Kootenay Real Estate Board (KREB).

Click here for detailed RCMP media release and photo.

May 30, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Incorrect Listing of Properties Outside of OMREB Board Area

It has come to the attention of the OMREB MLS® and Inter-Board Listings Departments that listings located in the Kamloops and District Real Estate Association jurisdiction are being added to OMREB’s MLS® system and represented as if they are located within our Board area. A Memo outlining concerns was emailed today to all Managing Brokers and Office Administrators for office posting and review at Sales Meetings.

• Listings located in other Board areas are being added to OMREB’s MLS® system as though they are located within our Board region, in violation of the “Pledge of Cooperation” we have with the other Boards in B.C.

• Most violations occurring have been assigned the Salmon Valley/Falkland or North Shuswap sub-areas of our Board in error.

• Listings located outside our Board area must be processed through OMREB, as we send them on our agents’ behalf to the jurisdictional Board for inputting on their MLS® system and uploading to CREA.

For further explanation and assistance, click on links below:

Complete details, suggestions, and consequences for distribution to your agents and review at an upcoming office meeting (Board Memo)
Informational map regarding Board Boundary
Sub-area map enlargement
• Applicable Board Regulations
• The Inter-Board information package
• The Inter-Board brochure regarding Board Boundary outlining costs and specific requirements.

Questions regarding this Notice can be directed to Karen Hansen, OMREB's Inter-Board Listing Coordinator: 778-484-8083 (Direct) / 1-866-491-4560, Ext 223 (Toll Free) / [email protected]

May 21, 2014

BOARD ADVISORY: Strata Lockbox Reminder & Guide

Follow-up to lockbox advisory posted on Friday, May 16th regarding theft at condo strata complex...

As showings heat up with the influx of holiday visitors and enhanced buyer activity, it is important for Members to ensure lockboxes are strategically placed at time of listing and secure when closing up -- especially at Stratas where the entire building is at risk and there are restrictions regarding placement.

Strata Bylaw Reminder: The Board has received numerous requests from Strata Corporations to have REALTOR® lockboxes removed for various reasons. The most common is that the Strata Bylaws prohibit lockboxes from being placed on the exterior of the building.

Remember, it is the responsibility of the Sales Representative to read Strata Bylaws for any requirements regarding lockboxes before installing a lockbox at the building. Most of the stratas run by management companies have begun to install the special Strata (wall mounted) lockbox for the purpose of holding the main door key or fob. Please be aware that Stratas may impose a fine or penalty to the property owner if the Bylaws are not adhered to or your lockbox could be forcibly removed and discarded by the Strata without warning.

Sleep Mode Tip: It has also been brought to our attention that lockboxes are being left open which results in the box going into a sleep mode and locking the pins in the open position preventing the box from being securely closed. Sometimes the box has been found wide open with the keys to the premises still in the key holder compartment. This is the result of not waiting for the locking pins to complete the process.

If you should find that the box has gone into the sleep mode and the door will not close, simply insert the SentriCard® and press the "enter" key. This process should wake the box up again -- allowing you to enter your PIN and close the door, then wait for the locking pins to secure the box.

Permanently Mounted Strata Locboxes: What You Need to Know -- Click here to download Guide.

PDF of Notice: Click here to download and print Notice originally posted in July 2013.

May 16, 2014

LOCKBOX ALERT: Important Strata Lockbox Reminder!

OMREB would like to remind our Members that thievery is on the rise so it is extremely important that lockboxes are attached to a very secure and visible place to help deter the culprits.

Please be aware that a man and woman are targeting lockboxes at condo complexes in the Board area. We have received word of a lockbox that was stolen by a couple caught on surveillance at Kelowna condo building this past week. It is suspected they took the box offsite to break into it, then came back after hours with the key, gained access to the building, broke into storage lockers and stole items.

Please note that this was a regular lockbox that was hooked to a railing -- not the Strata version that can be affixed to an exterior wall. If you are dealing with a Strata that does not already have a Strata Lockbox mounted on the building, please ask the Strata to contact Kate Smith at the Board (250-491-4560, ext 227 or 1-866-491-4560 Toll Free) for more information regarding this special “no cost to them” lockbox that will house the main key of the building.

NOTE: It is also a good idea to have your Sellers sign a lockbox waiver, as per the sample form attached (available in the OMREB Common Forms Repository in MATRIX Help and in OMREB Board Forms on REALTOR Link). Please ask your Brokerage for a vetted and approved form – as noted on the cover page of the sample.

May 16, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: APRIL Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's APRIL 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 317 respondents participated in this survey – representing 71% of the 447 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 42% of the 757 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in April (a record response rate – the highest since September 2010).

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Chris Grout of Venture Realty (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of JUNE 2014 for his participation in the April Survey. We thank Chris for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

APRIL SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

28.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 24.7% in March) *
21.1% by First Time Buyers (down from 22.3%)
10.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 11.6%)
9.9% buying Recreation Property (up from 7.4%) *
9.6% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 7.0%) *
6.3% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 4.2%) *
3.6% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 2.8%) *

* During the month of April, there was an increase in purchases by move-up buyers, and those moving into retirement/seniors communities and from strata properties to single family homes, as well as recreation and revenue properties, compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
27.8% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 20.0% in March) **
24.0% Couple without Children (down from 28.6%)
19.2% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 21.4%)
12.0% Single Male (down from 13.6%)
11.4% Single Female (up from 10.9%) **
3.5% Single Parent with Children (down from 4.1%)

** There were more purchases by two parent families with children and single females during April than in March.

Moving From:
51.1% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 50.5% in March) ***
20.2% from Alberta (up from 17.1%) ***
10.1% from Other Areas in BC (down from 13.6%)
9.8% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 11.4%)
4.1% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2.7%) ***
3.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 2.3%) ***
1.6% from Outside Canada (down from 3.2%)
0% from NWT/Yukon (same as March)

*** Compared to March, more buyers moved from within the Board area, Alberta, other areas of BC, the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, Saskatchewan/Manitoba, and Eastern Canada/Maritimes in April.

APRIL 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for May.

2011-2014 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2014 pie charts for first quarter (January through March)*
* 2013 pie charts for the year
* 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare (available on REALTOR Link). (* 2nd Q charts will be available in July)

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

May 14, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Reminder to Leave Business Cards

Members are reminded to leave business cards behind at property showings.

It has come to the Board’s attention that cards are not always being left as a courtesy to let the Seller know Agents have been in their home, and to alert the listing Agent that showings are taking place.

May 12, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed for Victoria Day

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed for the Victoria Day stat on Monday, May 19th, 2014.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm – on Tuesday, May 20th.

Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday weekend with Family and Friends.

May 7, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: APRIL Buyers Survey Out Today!

The April 2014 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 447 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 757 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during APRIL (all subjects removed, sale reported, and all documents submitted and in the system by April 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, MAY 14th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: Just reminder that a Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference and download.

May 6, 2014

REAL ESTATE FOUNDATION NOTICE: 2014 Land Awards - Call for Nominations

The Real Estate Foundation of British Columbia advises that nominations are open for the 2014 Land Awards. You can nominate your own project or another's.

Categories: Private, Public and Non-Profit Sector, and Individual "Land Champion"
Nomination Criteria & Gala Details: www.refbc.com/land-awards
Nomination deadline: June 2, 2014

Awards will be presented at the Land Awards Gala on October 17th at Vancouver's Fairmont Waterfront Hotel. Join the Real Estate Foundation of BC and keynote speaker Peter Mansbridge, as they celebrate achievement in sustainable land use.

April 17, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: New REALTORS® Care Ad!

Have you seen the back cover of the latest edition of the MLS® Real Estate Review?

Launched with the newly delivered April 2014 editions (Volume 14, Number 7), a new full-page colour ad featuring OMREB's four 2013 REALTORS® Care Award recipients -- Ken Bessason (Central Zone), Sandra Bradley (North), Helen Holton (Central) and Doug Hubscher (Shuswap).

This REALTORS® Care promotion will run for the rest of 2014 to provide the winners with some ongoing exposure and acknowledgement, raise the profile of all Members as citizens who care and give back to their communities, and provide some incentive for bringing in even more nominations for the next Awards.

Alternate ads will appear strategically from time to time to promote other OMREB public service campaigns as partnerships develop during the year.

Click here for copy of the ad. Take a look at the MLS® Review in your Zone to see the full-size result!

May 21, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Strata Lockbox Reminder & Guide

Follow-up to lockbox advisory posted on Friday, May 16th regarding theft at condo strata complex...

As showings heat up with the influx of summer visitors and enhanced buyer activity, it is important for Members to ensure lockboxes are strategically placed at time of listing and secure when closing up -- especially at Stratas where the entire building is at risk and there are restrictions regarding placement.

Strata Bylaw Reminder: The Board has received numerous requests from Strata Corporations to have REALTOR® lockboxes removed for various reasons. The most common is that the Strata Bylaws prohibit lockboxes from being placed on the exterior of the building.

Remember, it is the responsibility of the Sales Representative to read Strata Bylaws for any requirements regarding lockboxes before installing a lockbox at the building. Most of the stratas run by management companies have begun to install the special Strata (wall mounted) lockbox for the purpose of holding the main door key or fob. Please be aware that Stratas may impose a fine or penalty to the property owner if the Bylaws are not adhered to or your lockbox could be forcibly removed and discarded by the Strata without warning.

Sleep Mode Tip: It has also been brought to our attention that lockboxes are being left open which results in the box going into a sleep mode and locking the pins in the open position preventing the box from being securely closed. Sometimes the box has been found wide open with the keys to the premises still in the key holder compartment. This is the result of not waiting for the locking pins to complete the process.

If you should find that the box has gone into the sleep mode and the door will not close, simply insert the SentriCard® and press the "enter" key. This process should wake the box up again -- allowing you to enter your PIN and close the door, then wait for the locking pins to secure the box.

PERMANENTLY MOUNTED LOCKBOXES: What You Need to Know -- Click here to download Guide.

PDF of Notice: Click here to download and print Notice originally posted in July 2013.

April 11, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: MARCH Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's MARCH 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 222 respondents participated in this survey – representing 62% of the 361 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 38% of the 585 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in March (the highest response rate to date – since September 2010).

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Bruce Dougall of RE/MAX Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of MAY 2014 for his participation in the March Survey. We thank Bruce for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

MARCH SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

24.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 27.7%)
22.3% by First Time Buyers (down from 27.7% in February)
11.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 10.9%) *
7.4% buying Recreation Property (up from 5.9%) *
7.0% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 6.7%) *
4.2% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 3.4%) *
2.8% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 5.0%)

* During the month of March, there was an increase in purchases of recreation and revenue properties, as well as people moving to Strata units and Seniors communities, compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
28.6% Couple without Children (up from 24.2% in February) **
21.4% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 17.5%) **
20.0% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 31.7%)
13.6% Single Male (down from 14.2%)
10.9% Single Female (up from 6.7%) **
4.1% Single Parent with Children (down from 5.0%)

** There were more purchases by couples without kids, empty nesters/retirees and single females during March than the previous month.

Moving From:
50.5% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 59.8% in February)
17.1% from Alberta (down from 18.0%)
13.6% from Other Areas in BC (up from 8.2%) ***
11.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 7.4%) ***
3.2% from Outside Canada (down from 4.1%)
0.8% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 0.8%)
2.3% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 1.6%) ***
0% from NWT/Yukon (same as February)

*** Compared to February, more buyers moved from within other areas of BC, the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, and Eastern Canada/Maritimes in March.

MARCH 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for April.

2011-2014 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2014 pie charts for first quarter (January through March) * 2013 pie charts for the year
* 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare (available on REALTOR Link).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

April 4, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: MARCH Buyers Survey Out Today!

The March 2014 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 361 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 585 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during MARCH (all subjects removed, sale reported and all documents submitted and in the system by Marchr 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, April 9th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: Just reminder that a Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference and download.

March 24, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: AGM Speaker Presentations Posted

Members are advised that the speaker presentations from the AGM education sessions have been archived to REALTOR Link Spotlight News for reference purposes.

AGM SPEAKER PRESENTATIONS: Education Sessions

Greg Hostland, Pillar to Post:
Grow Ops, Mold and Risk Management

David Kilby, Pillar to Post:
Top 10 Issues that Impede the Sale of a House

Peter Borszcz, Pihl Law Corp:
Strata Property Due Diligence and Strata Depreciation Reports

Peter Borszcz, Pihl Law Corp:
Residential Sales on Native Lands in Interior BC

March 19, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: AGM Evaluation Survey

Thank you to all Members who attended the 55th Annual General Meeting of the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board on March 13th at the Four Points at Sheraton Hotel.

Please note that an invitation with a link to the 2014 AGM Evaluation Survey was emailed this afternoon to attendees for their feedback. Yourvaluable input will help us with the planning for next year's AGM. Check your inbox!

DEADLINE FOR RESPONSES: The survey will close at 11:00 pm on Tuesday, March 25th, 2014.

If you attended and did not receive an email, please contact Jan Bauman at [email protected] and a link will be provided.

Your Board of Directors thanks you in advance for your participation.

March 18, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: FEBRUARY Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's FEBRUARY 2014 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 122 respondents participated in this survey – representing 46% of the 268 Member sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 35% of the 354 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in February.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Kim Holmes of Royal LePage Kelowna (West Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of APRIL 2014 for her participation in the February Survey. We thank Kim for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

FEBRUARY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
27.7% by First Time Buyers (up from 20.8% in January)*
27.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 26.4%) *
10.9% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 14.4%)
6.7% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 6.4%)*
5.9% buying Recreation Property (down from 8.0%)
5.0% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 6.4%)
3.4% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 4.0%)

* During the month of February, there was an increase in purchases by Move-up and First-time buyers, and revenue property investors, while all other property types were down compared to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
31.7% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 20.7% in January)**
24.2% Couple without Children (up from 19.3%)**
17.5% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 23.7%)
14.2% Single Male (similar to January - 14.1%)
6.7% Single Female (down from 17.0%)
5.0% Single Parent with Children (down from 6.7%)

** There were more purchases by two parent families with children and couples without kids during February.

Moving From:
59.8% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 60.3% in January)
18.0% from Alberta (up from 13.2%)***
8.2% from Other Areas in BC (down from 11.0%)
7.4% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 6.8%)***
4.1% from Outside Canada (up from 1.5%)***
1.6% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 2.2%)
0.8% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 4.4%)
0% from NWT/Yukon (down from 0.7%)

*** Compared to January, more buyers moved from within Alberta, the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, and outside Canada, while purchasers from other areas decreased in February.

FEBRUARY 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for March.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for the year
* 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare (available on REALTOR Link).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

March 14, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Meet Your New Board of Directors!

OMREB's 2014-2015 Board of Directors have been sworn in and assigned portfolios so the Board Info page on REALTOR Link® has been updated accordingly with new photos and contact info.

This information has also been posted to MATRIX Help and to Who to Ask portal on REALTOR Link® (Board Resources).

Click here to download and print PDF.

March 13, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Meet Your 2014 Zone Executives!

Zone Executive information has been updated for 2014 to include new committee members, portfolios and new Director Liaisons, and posted to MATRIX HELP (OMREB Provided Help Documents) and to REALTORLink Board Resources (Who to Ask).

Click on your highlighted Zone below for PDFs with photos, portfolios, and contact information for your local representatives.

CENTRAL ZONE
• Anthony Bastiaanssen – Chair
• Anita Clegg – Charities/Bursaries/REALTORS Care
• Christian Kirschke – Treasurer
• Sharon Fraess – Cards & Flowers
• Brent Pay – Social Committee
• Cathy Cherka – Social Committee
• Dave Favell – Technology & Communication
• Annette Likovits – MLS Tour
• Deborah Moore – Public Relations
• Tanis Read – Director Liaison

NORTH ZONE
• Dave Forai - Chair
• Jacqui Hughes - Secretary
• Maggie Garvey – Treasurer/Social
• Shelinda Morin – Communications/Media Liaison
• Elspeth Manning – Director at Large
• Brandy De Bartolo – Director at Large
• Howard Neufeld – Director at Large
• Don Gilowski – Director Liaison

SHUSWAP ZONE
• Tara Gallant – Chair
• Erin Leek – Secretary
• Susi During – Treasurer
• Paul Agassiz – Director at Large
• Doug Hubscher – Director Liaison

COMMERCIAL ZONE
• Don Kassa – Chair
• Sharon Lancaster – Membership
• Gary Bowker – Education
• Tim Down – BCCC Director
• George Wilson – Director at Large

March 13, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: 2014-2015 President and Directors Installed!

OMREB is pleased to announce the election of REALTOR® Darcy Griffiths of Vernon to the position of President for the 2014-2015 term. She was installed along with 11 Directors representing the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap zones at today's Annual General Meeting (March 13, 2014). Griffiths replaces outgoing President Karen Singbeil of Sicamous who stays on as Past President.

Timothy Evans of Kelowna was officially installed as the Vice President of the Board of Directors for 2014-2015.

OMREB’s 2014/2015 Board:
• Darcy Griffiths, Vernon – President
• Tim Evans, Kelowna – Vice President
• Karen Singbeil, Sicamous – Past President
• Jamie Blair, West Kelowna – Central Zone
• Kent Jorgenson, Kelowna – Central Zone
• Christopher Miller, Kelowna – Central Zone
• Tanis Read, Kelowna – Central Zone
• Maggie Garvey, Vernon – North Zone
• Don Gilowski, Vernon – North Zone
• Rob Shaw, Vernon – North Zone
• Doug Hubscher, Salmon Arm – Shuswap Zone
• Steve Lewis, Salmon Arm – Shuswap Zone

Click here for complete media release with bios, quotes and photos.

March 7, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: 2014 AGM - Last Call for Registrations!

It’s not too late! Last minute registrations are still available next week’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 13th. Online registration has been extended to Monday, March 10th at Noon. Don’t miss out on a full day of REALTOR® Value!

REGISTER ONLINE NOW! http://omrebagm.eventzilla.net/

Please Register by: Noon on Monday, March 10th

Meeting and Registration Info: Click here

March 3, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: 2014 AGM Reminder and 2013 Annual Report

Just a reminder that OMREB’s Annual General Meeting is next week -- Thursday, March 13th – and the deadline for registrations is Wednesday, March 5th.

In preparation for discussion at the AGM, your Board’s 2013 Annual Report and Auditor’s Report have been posted online for Member review prior to the meeting.

2013 ANNUAL REPORT: Take a few moments to read the Board Reports from your 2013 President and Directors, and the Auditor’s Report submitted by Grant Thornton. Click on links below to view.

• 2013 Annual Report 2013 Annual Report
• 2013 Auditor’s Report 2013 Auditor's Report

2014 AGM REGISTRATION: Don’t miss out on a full day of REALTOR® Value at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Kelowna!

Attend the full day and receive 3 PDPs -- your choice of educational speaker tracks, plus networking opportunities and vendor booths, hot lunch for all, and a Sip & Savour wine and appetizer social event to cap it off.

• 2014 Notice of Meeting & Registration Information
Click here to view event details (location times, etc.).
• Registration Deadline: 4:00 pm on Wednesday, March 5th
• Event Confirmation: If you have not received a confirmation email by March 11th, your AGM registration has not been received! To confirm or if you have any question, please contact Jay Petch at OMREB: 250-491-4560, ext 0 / 1-877-491-4560 ext. 0 or [email protected]

NOTE: This information was emailed to Members today (March 3/14).

February 27, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Ann Petrone Elected Compensation Fund Chair

OMREB is pleased to report that long-time OMREB Member and Past President, Ann Petrone of RE/MAX Kelowna, has been elected 2014 Chair of the Real Estate Compensation Fund Corporation.

Prior to becoming Chair, Ann served as Vice Chair on the four-member Board. She has been a Member of OMREB for 23 years and served as President in 2002.

Congratulations, Ann!

Click here for photo and letter from the Fund.

February 26, 2014

REAL ESTATE FOUNDATION NOTICE: Public Opinion Study on Fresh Water Released

Important "Quality of Life" update for REALTORS®...

The Real Estate Foundation of BC and Vancouver Foundation has just released the final study results of a BC public opinion survey on fresh water. Conducted last year to assess public attitudes toward freshwater issues in British Columbia, study results signal that British Columbians are starting to pay attention to freshwater issues in the province.

Click here for media release plus twitter poll information so you can weigh in on the issue.

February 14, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: JANUARY Buyers Survey Results In!

The results of OMREB's JANUARY 2014 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 136 respondents participated in this survey – representing 53% of the 257 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 37% of the 372 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in January.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Darlene Bachmann of Macdonald Realty (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX® User Fee" for the month of MARCH 2014 for her participation in the January Survey. We thank Darlene for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

JANUARY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
26.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 25.4% in December) *
20.8% by First Time Buyers (up from 20.1%) *
14.4% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 11.9%) *
8.0% buying Recreation Property (up from 7.5%)
6.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 8.2%)
6.4% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 5.2%) *
4.0% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 4.5%)

* During the month of January, there was an increase in purchases by Move-up and First-time buyers, and those moving to single family homes from strata, and from single family to retirement communities.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
23.7% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 16.4% in December) **
20.7% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 31.3%)
19.3% Couple without Children (down from 28.4%)
17.0% Single Female (up from 11.9%) **
14.1% Single Male (up from 9.7%) **
6.7% Single Parent with Children (up from 3.0%) **

** There were more purchases by empty nesters/retirees, singles, and single parents with children in January compared to the previous month.

Moving From:
60.3% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 66.2% in December)
13.2% from Alberta (down from 14.0%)
11.0% from Other Areas in BC (up from 5.1%) ***
6.8% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 6.6%) ***
4.4% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2.2%) ***
2.2% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 2.9%)
1.5% from Outside Canada (down from 2.9%)
0.7% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0%) ***

*** Compared to December, fewer buyers moved from within the Board area, Alberta, Eastern Canada and overseas last month, while purchasers from other areas increased.

JANUARY 2014 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for February.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for the year
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTOR Link.

February 4, 2014

BOARD ANNOUNCEMENT: Save the Date for 2014 AGM!

Mark your calendars for Thursday, March 13th and save date for OMREB’s 2014 Annual General Meeting…

Location: Four Points by Sheraton -- Kelowna Airport
Highlights: Tradeshow, Speakers, AGM and Afternoon Social
Details: Stay tuned for Notice of Meeting Package with event details.

Plan to spend the day learning about the latest Board activities and networking with fellow Members, your Directors, Board Staff, guest speakers, industry leaders, and cutting edge exhibitors. We hope to see you there!

January 31, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: 2014-2015 President and Vice President Announced!

The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) is pleased to announce the acclamation of Darcy Griffiths (Vernon) to the position of President and election of Tim Evans (Kelowna) as Vice President for the 2014-2015 term.

They will be installed along with 10 Directors representing the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap Zones at OMREB’s Annual General Meeting on March 13th.

Congratulations, Darcy and Tim! We look forward to your leadership and a promising year ahead.

Click here for announcement with photos.

January 29, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Complaints/Hearings (Proceedings)

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following Regulations as set out in the Memo below.

SECTION 1 – PROCEDURES TO DEAL WITH COMPLAINTS & HEARINGS (1.4 Contemporaneous Proceedings)
Click here for PDF of Memo emailed to Members on January 28th.

January 29, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Mandatory Education Compliance

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following Regulations as set out in the Memo below.

SECTION 11 – MANDATORY CONTINUING EDUCATION (11.6 Compliance Policies)
Click here for PDF of January 28th Memo emailed to Members.

January 29, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Complaints & Hearings (Findings/Collection)

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following Regulations as set out in the Memo below.

SECTION 1 – PROCEDURES TO DEAL WITH COMPLAINTS & HEARINGS (1.6 Findings, 1.9 Collections)
Click here for PDF of Memo emailed to Members on January 28th.

January 21, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: 2014 Budget Presentation Video

OMREB's 2014 Budget has now been approved by the Board of Directors (January 17th), and is included below along with a video of the presentation taped during the online Budget Forums held on January 13th and 14th.

Video Link - Budget Forum Presentation by President Karen Singbeil:
http://omreb.adobeconnect.com/p94zq6517up/

Approved Budget: Click here.

This information has also been posted to the News Spotlight on OMREB's REALTORLink Home Page. The budget will be included with the 2014 Annual General Meeting package for March 13th.

January 16, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: DECEMBER Buyers Survey Results In!

The results of OMREB's DECEMBER 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 136 respondents participated in this survey – representing 49% of the 279 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 35% of the 393 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in December.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Norma Jean Sayers of Royal LePage Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of FEBRUARY 2014 for her participation in the DECEMBER Survey. We thank Norma for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

DECEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
25.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 24.2% in November) *
20.1% by First Time Buyers (up from 18.2%) *
11.9% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 12.6%)
8.2% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 7.6%) *
7.5% buying Recreation Property (down from 8.1%)
5.2% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 3.5%) *
4.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 6.1%)

* During the month of December, there was an increase in purchases by Move-up and First-time buyers, revenue property purchasers, and those moving to single family homes from strata communities.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
31.3% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 22.3%) **
28.4% Couple without Children (up from 26.7% in November)**
16.4% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 21.8%)
11.9% Single Female (down from 12.1%)
9.7% Single Male (down from 13.6%)
3.0% Single Parent with Children (up from 1.5%) **

** There were more purchases by couples without children, two parent families and single parents with children in December compared to the previous month.

Moving From:
66.2% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 55.6% in November) ***
14.0% from Alberta (down from 16.9%)
6.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 9.2%)
5.1% from Other Areas in BC (down from 7.7%)
2.9% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 3.9%)
2.9% from Outside Canada (same as November)
2.2% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 3.9%)
0% from NWT/Yukon (same as November)

*** Compared to November, more buyers moved from within the Board area, and purchasers from other areas declined in December.

DECEMBER 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for January.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for the year
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

January 8, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Invitation - Budget Forum Webinars

OMREB Members are invited to attend a Budget Forum Web Conference next week on Monday or Tuesday. Pick the date and time that works best for you!

WE ARE PLANNING FOR YOUR FUTURE
OMREB 2014 Budget Forum - Web Conference
Two Options: January 13 or 14, 2014


Join us for a short, informative and interactive Web Conference to find out how the Finance Committee is planning for your Board's future. You will be able to ask questions and make comments online or via phone.

Questions the OMREB Web Conference will address:
$ What are the highlights of the OMREB 2014 Budget?
$ What is your Board’s overall financial health?
$ How much does the Board spend to deliver the services your membership dues are paying for?
$ What financial planning is taking place for long-term sustainability during this changing market?
$ What is your Board doing to streamline while still delivering value?

DATES & LOGIN DETAILS
Choose the day and time that works best for you:

OPTION 1: Monday, January 13th – 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Webinar Hosted By: OMREB President Karen Singbeil & Executive Director Janice Myers
Login Info: Online link and call-in details provided on page 2 of Invitation (PDF)

OPTION 2: Tuesday, January 14th – 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Webinar Hosted By: OMREB Vice President Darcy Griffiths & Executive Director Janice Myers
Login Info: Online link and call-in details provided on page 3 of Invitation (PDF)

2014 BUDGET: A copy of the proposed Consolidated Budget will be emailed to each Managing Broker by the end of this week and it will be available on MATRIX® along with a copy of the Budget Presentation by January 13th (prior to webinars for easy reference).

Once approved by the Board of Directors at their next meeting on January 17th, the final 2014 Budget will be posted on REALTORLink® along with a video of the Webinar. The Budget will be included in the 2014 Annual Meeting Package.

Click here for invitation.

January 2, 2014

BOARD NOTICE: Assessed Property Values Remain Stable for 2014

As 2014 marks BC Assessment’s 40th anniversary, owners of more than 83,000 properties throughout the Central Okanagan and 71,000 properties throughout the North Okanagan and Shuswap can expect to receive their 2014 assessment notices in the next few days.

“Most homes in the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap are remaining stable in value compared to last year’s assessment roll,” said Tracy Wall, Deputy Assessor. “Most home owners in these areas will see modest changes in the + 5% to -5% range.”

CENTRAL OKANAGAN: Overall, the Central Okanagan’s Assessment Roll decreased from $40,476,166,781 last year to $40,473,253,289 this year. The 2014 assessment roll includes $576,999,125 for subdivisions, rezoning and new construction. Click here for media release.

NORTH OKANAGAN/SHUSWAP: Overall, the North Okanagan’s Assessment Roll decreased from $26,560,852,199 last year to $26,221,360,408 this year. The 2014 assessment roll includes $286,676,563 for subdivisions, rezoning and new construction. Click here for media release.

COMMERCIAL: In addition, owners of commercial and industrial properties in the Central Okanagan will see changes ranging from +10 to -5%, and properties in the North Okanagan and Shuswap will see changes ranging from +10 to -10%.

MORE INFO: Both releases include backgrounders and examples demonstrating local market trends for residential properties by a geographic area and note that trends are affected by many variables. Visit www.bcassessment.ca for more information about the 2014 Assessment Roll including lists of 2014’s top 100 most valuable residential properties across the province.

DECEMBER 23, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: REALTORS® Care Awards Go National!

The Canadian REALTORS® Care Foundation has provided national recogntion for OMREB's four 2013 REALTORS® Care Award recipients with the following publication dates:

* December 9: Doug Hubscher - Shuswap
* December 16: Ken Bessasson and Helen Holton - Central Okanagan
* December 23: Sandra Bradley - North Okanagan

The stories are published on the Foundation's website at http://realtorscare.ca/ and links have been added to its Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn pages.

DECEMBER 18, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Holiday Closure!

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed for the Christmas holiday break -- from Wednesday, December 25th through Wednesday, January 1st.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm – on Thursday, January 2, 2013.

ETHICS ADVOCATE: Please note that OMREB Ethics Advocate Gretchen Gebhard will be available for calls on Friday, December 27th and Monday, December 30th. She can be reached at 250-491-4560, Ext 237 or toll free at 1-866-491-4560, Ext 237.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Holiday Season with Friends and Family. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

December 18, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: NOVEMBER Buyers Survey Results In!

The results of OMREB's NOVEMBER 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 207 respondents participated in this survey – representing 64% of the 322 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 43% of the 477 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in November.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Ron Stettner of Premier Canadian Properties (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of JANUARY 2014 for his participation in the NOVEMBER Survey. We thank Ron for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

NOVEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
24.2% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down slightly from 24.5% as in October)
18.2% by First Time Buyers (down from 17.5%)
12.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 14.8%)
8.1% buying Recreation Property (up from 7.9%)*
7.6% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 8.3%)
6.1% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 5.7%)*
3.5% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 4.8%)

* During the month of November, there was an increase in purchases by recreation property buyers, and home owners downsizing to retirement communities. All other property types saw a drop from the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
26.7% Couple without Children (up from 26.2% in October)**
22.3% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 25.3%)
21.8% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 17.3%)**
13.6% Single Male (down from 14.3%)
12.1% Single Female (up from 10.1%)**
1.5% Single Parent with Children (down from 5.1%)

** There were more purchases by couples without children, empty nesters/retirees and single females in November compared to last month.

Moving From:
55.6% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 59.2% in October)
16.9% from Alberta (up from 14.3%)***
9.2% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 8.0%)
7.7% from Other Areas in BC (up from 7.1%)***
3.9% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 5.9%)
3.9% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 2.5%)***
2.9% from Outside Canada (up from 2.5%)***
0% from NWT/Yukon (down from 0.4%)

*** Compared to October, more buyers moved from Alberta, other areas of BC, Eastern Canada/Maritimes and from outside Canada. However, purchasers from within the Board area, Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, Saskatchewan/Manitoba, and the NWT/Yukon were down.

NOVEMBER 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for December.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 37 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first nine months - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

DECEMBER 11, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Executive Director Ad Posted

OMREB Members are advised that the search to fill the Executive Director position for OMREB will begin this week.

Applications are being handled by the firm of Janet David and Associates. The deadline for applications will be January 10, 2014.

Click here for copy of the advertisement.

DECEMBER 9, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: NOVEMBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The November 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 323 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 477 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during NOVEMBER (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by November 30th), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, December 15th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOVEMBER 29, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: 2014/16 Director Positions Filled

OMREB President Karen Singbeil is pleased to announce the following election results for the 2014/2016 Board of Directors:
• Central Zone: Jamie Blair was elected, and Christopher Miller and Tanis Read were re-elected • Shuswap Zone: Doug Hubscher was elected

The Board of Directors extends congratulations and wishes to thank Dinah Batke (Central Okanagan) and Susi During (Shuswap) for putting their names forth for these volunteer positions in their respective Zones.

Directors will be sworn in at the Board’s Annual General Meeting in March, 2014.

NOVEMBER 26, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: URGENT Virus Alert - CryptoLocker!

Members are advised to be on the lookout for "CryptoLocker", the latest strain of ransomware -- best known for trying to force users into paying a fee by encrypting certain files and then later offering a $300 decrypting tool.

The following article discusses how it arrives (spam campaigns with malicious attachments) and how it is connected with other malware, most notably ZBOT/ZeuS.

http://blog.trendmicro.com/trendlabs-security-intelligence/cryptolocker-its-spam-and-zeuszbot-connection/?cm_mmc=Email:USA-_-SB-_-Newsletter:FLOD-_-112013:CryptoLocker+MBLOG

This virus can destroy an entire database of contacts and business information in seconds.

PREVENTION: Members are reminded to be cautious when opening attachments from email messages coming from unknown sources in order to avoid spam related to this threat. Please make sure your virus protection software is current and up to date, with all patches installed.

TECH HELPLINE: If you need help with your virus software or are concerned that your computer is infected, contact the Tech HelpLine for assistance:
1-877-562-3163
http://www.techhelpline.com/computer-support/

NOVEMBER 21, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Notice to Members re: Executive Director

OMREB’s Executive Director, Janice Myers, has informed the Board of Directors that she will be leaving our Board effective January 27th, 2014 as she has accepted the position of CEO for the Ottawa Real Estate Board.

The OMREB Directors would like to thank Janice for her many years of commitment and dedication to our Board.We congratulate her and wish her the best of success in her new position and the transition to Ottawa. We are pleased that she will continue her work within organized real estate.

An Executive Search Committee of the Board of Directors has been appointed by the Board and has been given the authority to begin the search for a new executive leader including the appointment of interim management at the Board with the assistance of an Executive Search Firm.

More details will follow in this regard as the search becomes public.

Karen Singbeil President

Click here for PDF of this Notice.

November 19, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: OCTOBER Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's OCTOBER 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 239 respondents participated in this survey – representing 62% of the 353 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 41% of the 588 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in October.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Dave Forai of the Sutton Group-Lakefront Realty (Vernon) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of DECEMBER 2013 for his participation in the OCTOBER Survey. We thank Dave for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

OCTOBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
24.5% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers* (up from 22.4% as in September)*
17.5% by First Time Buyers (down from 20.4%)
14.8% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 12.5%)*
8.3% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 8.6%)
7.9% buying Recreation Property (down from 13.7%)
5.7% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 3.9%)*
4.8% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 3.5%)*

* During the month of October, there was an increase in purchases by move-up buyers, home owners downsizing to strata units and retirement communities, and strata owners purchasing single family homes. First-time buyers, and those purchasing revenue and recreation property saw a drop from the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
26.2% Couple without Children (up from 19.9% in September)**
25.3% Two Parent Family/Children (same as September)**
17.3% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 26.8%)
14.3% Single Male (same as September)
10.1% Single Female (down from 10.7%)
5.1% Single Parent with Children (up from 3.2%)**

** There were more purchases by couples without children and single parents with children in October compared to last month.

Moving From:
59.2% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 46.9% in September)***
14.3% from Alberta (down from 21.7%)
8.0% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 12.0%)
7.1% from Other Areas in BC (down from 9.7%)
5.9% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 5.0%)***
2.5% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 3.1%)
2.5% from Outside Canada (up from 1.6%)***
0.4% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0%)***

*** Compared to September, there were more buyers moving from within the Board area, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, the NWT/Yukon, and outside Canada but less migration from Albert, and fewer purchasers from the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, and other areas of BC during October.

OCTOBER 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for November.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 37 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first nine months - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

NOVEMBER 6, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: OCTOBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The October 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 353 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 588 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during OCTOBER (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by October 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, November 13th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

October 30, 2013

BOARD & CENTRAL ZONE NOTICE: OMREB and Kelowna Fire Department Repeat Smoke Alarm Awareness Campaign

It will soon be time for clocks to fall back and another opportunity to get the word out to home owners about changing the batteries in their smoke alarms…

OMREB and the Kelowna Fire Department will be conducting another Smoke Alarm Awareness Campaign to coincide with the time change in November (Sunday 3rd) and continue for the month.

CAMPAIGN PURPOSE: The purpose of the Kelowna campaign is to get home owners thinking and talking about the importance of smoke alarms with the help of REALTORS® to ensure that they have functioning alarms in their homes.

Brochure for Listing Clients: The Fire Department supplied copies of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs brochure, ”How to Stay Safe at Home”, for distribution to Kelowna real estate offices – for including with listing documents and leaving with home sellers as a community service for the initial campaign in March. An electronic version is provided for the November campaign for the same purpose. (Limited number of brochures are still available – upon request to [email protected] )

MLS® Real Estate Review Ad: During the month of November, OMREB and the Kelowna Fire Department will also run a full-page colour ad on the back cover of the Central Okanagan editions of OMREB’s MLS® Review publication (November 7 through early December) to remind home owners to make sure all smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries (ad supplied as Poster and included in promo package).

Campaign package*:
media release, plus
campaign letter and poster
brochure (PDF for printing or direct clients to online version:
http://www.omreb.com/files/SmokeAlarmBrochure.pdf)
* Promo package also posted to www.omreb.com for the public.

October 29, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Promoting REALTOR® Value!

The REALTOR® Value program has been created and generously shared by the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board to help REALTORS® better understand their core value and learn how they can easily share their value with consumers.

The program focuses on 10 value points, which can be used by every member regardless of brokerage or business model, commercial or residential, new to the business or well-seasoned. REALTORS® can take what they need, keep what works best, and modify the program to suit their unique styles and services.

The program provides you with:
• The words to share that express REALTOR® value.
• The tools to use with consumers to support what you’re saying.
• The reasons why you should share this with consumers.

Now available for download on OMREB's REALTOR® Link Home Page!

OMREB-Branded Toolkit Components:
• Member Guidebook
(tool for Member use only, not for distribution to consumers)
• Consumer Handouts
• Office Poster
• Quick Reference Cards (for your wallet)

OCTOBER 25, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Proposed Interpretation Revision to OMREB MLS® Regulation 7.13 (Remarks)

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following Regulation by adding an interpretation as set out below in bold italics. (Click here for PDF of Memo emailed to Members today.)

Current Regulation:
7.13 Remarks, Contact Information, Photos, Documents and Privacy
a) The personal promotion of REALTORS®, and properties not currently listed on the MLS® system of the Board, is not otherwise permitted in free form fields. Remarks presented in the MLS® system of the Board are to be used for property advertising purposes and shall solely comprise of property description information of the particular listing being promoted on the MLS®.


Interpretation to Regulation 7.13:
Remarks presented in REALTOR® Remarks are meant to address special showing instructions and other details related to the property being promoted. Any references to commission or bonuses as per 7.37 will be limited to specific information about the commission or bonus being offered and will not contain any statements that could be considered personal promotion or statements/comments about any Member or Member Brokerage.


Related Regulation for Reference:
7.37 Reference to Commission in Remarks
References to commission or bonuses to Cooperating Representatives are restricted to the REALTOR® Remarks and may not be included in the Public Remarks.

Rationale for Proposed Change:
Two recent complaints have come forward involving comments found in the REALTOR® Remarks field on MATRIX®.

While the two complaints were different in that one leaned towards personal promotion and the other contained a negative comment directed at another Member, they both involved misuse of the field. OMREB’s Professional Conduct Committee discussed that neither were appropriate and approved an interpretation to the regulation as set out above.

Member feedback is always welcome before Regulations are adjusted. Therefore, any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Thursday, November 14, 2013 for review by the Directors before making a decision.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected].

October 21, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: SEPTEMBER Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's SEPTEMBER 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 261 respondents participated in this survey – representing 67% of the 390 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 42% of the 625 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in September.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Glen MacKenzie of One Percent Realty has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of NOVEMBER 2013 for his participation in the SEPTEMBER Survey. We thank Glen for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

SEPTEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
22.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 25.4% as in August)
20.4% by First Time Buyers (up from 17.3%)*
13.7% buying Recreation Property (up from 11.2%)*
12.5% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 13.5%)*
8.6% buying Revenue/Investment Property (same as August)
3.9% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 6.5%)
3.5% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (same as August)

* During the month of September, there was an increase in purchases by first-time buyers, recreation property buyers and home owners downsizing to strata units and retirement communities, while move-up buyers and those moving to retirement communities saw a drop from the previous month or remained the same.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
26.8% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 20.1% in August)**
25.3% Two Parent Family/Children (same as August)
19.9% Couple without Children (down from 23.4%)
14.2% Single Male (up from 11.2%)**
10.7% Single Female (down from 13.8%)
3.2% Single Parent with Children (down from 4.5%)

** In September, there were more purchases by empty nesters-retirees and single males, and by single females and single parent families, while all other categories saw decreases or stayed the same.


Moving From:
46.9% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 50.7% in August)
21.7% from Alberta (same as August)
12.0% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 9.0%)***
9.7% from Other Areas in BC (down from 10.8%)
5.0% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 3.4%)***
3.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 1.5%)***
1.6% from Outside Canada (up from 1.1%)***
0% from NWT/Yukon (down from 1.9%)

*** Compared to August, there were more buyers moving from the Lower Mainland, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, Eastern Canada and Maritimes, and Outside Canada but less movement from within the Board area and fewer purchasers from other areas of BC during September.

SEPTEMBER 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for October.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 37 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first nine months - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

OCTOBER 9, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: SEPTEMBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The September 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 390 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 625 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during SEPTEMBER (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by September 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, October 16th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

OCTOBER 3, 2013

URGENT BOARD NOTICE: Revised Statistics for September 2013 – All Zones

Revised September 2013 Statistics packages for all three Zones have been uploaded to REALTORLink® and will be available for Members early tomorrow (Friday).

A notice will be posted on REALTORLink® to advise that new documents are ready for download.

The stats media release will be posted and available by tomorrow afternoon (Friday).

OCTOBER 3, 2013

URGENT BOARD NOTICE: OMREB September 2013 Statistics Recalled!

Please be advised that September 2013 Statistics packages for all three Zones have been recalled for further review as discrepancies have been found. These stats have been pulled offline and replacements will be uploaded as soon as data verification is completed.

Revised stats will be emailed when they are available and a notice will be posted on REALTORLink® and the Matrix® Home Page to advise that new documents are ready for download.

The stats media release will be posted and available by the end of the week.

Thank you for your ongoing patience.

September 17, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: AUGUST Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's AUGUST 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted. A total of 270 respondents participated in this survey – representing 67% of the 405 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 39% of the 692 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in August.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that William Loudoun of Realty Executives of the Okanagan (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of October 2013 for his participation in the AUGUST Survey. We thank Will for and taking the time to answer the required questions about his buyers and their purchases.

AUGUST SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
25.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 22.8% in July)*
17.3% by First Time Buyers (down from 17.9%)
13.5% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 9.8%)*
11.2% buying Recreation Property (up from 10.8%)*
8.5% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 11.0%)
6.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 4.5%)*
3.5% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 5.7%)

* During the month of August, there was a significant increase in purchases by move-up buyers, home owners downsizing to strata units and retirement communities, as well as recreation property buyers, while other categories saw a drop from the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
25.3% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 24.0% in July)**
23.4% Couple without Children (up from 23.2%)**
20.1% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 23.2%)
13.8% Single Female (up from 12.2%)**
11.2% Single Male (down from 14.2%)
4.5% Single Parent with Children (up from 2.0%)**

** In August, there were more purchases by two parent families and couples without children, and by single females and single parent families, while all other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
50.7% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 54.7% in July)
21.6% from Alberta (up from 14.8%)***
10.8% from Other Areas in BC (up from 10.5%)***
9.0% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 12.1%)
3.4% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2.0%)***
1.9% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0.8%)***
1.5% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 3.5%)
1.1% from Outside Canada (down from 1.6%)

*** Compared to July, there were more buyers moving from Alberta, other areas of BC, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and the Northwest Territories and Yukon, but less movement from within the Board area and fewer purchasers from the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, Eastern Canada and the Maritimes, and from outside Canada during August.

AUGUST 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out for September.

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS:
Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 36 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first six months - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

SEPTEMBER 9, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: AUGUST Buyers Survey Out Today!

The August 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this morning to the 405 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 692 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during AUGUST (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by August 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, September 15th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

August 29, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Allowable Rent Increases for 2014!

The following advisory from the Residential Tenancy Branch has been passed on by the Professional Association of Managing Agents (PAMA). This information is applicable to Property Managers and also of interest to Residential Trading licensees selling investment properties or manufactured homes in parks. (Managing Brokers and Property Managers have received this notice by email.)

Allowable Rent Increases for 2014: Residential and Manufactured Home Parks

The Residential Tenancy Branch (RTB) has just issued a correction to the allowable 2014 rent increases for conventional residential tenancies and manufactured home park tenancies as follows:

Residential Tenancies:
• For a conventional residential tenancy rent increase that takes effect in 2014, the allowable increase is 2.2%.
• The annual allowable rent increase for conventional tenancies is determined by the formula in the Residential Tenancy Regulation.

Manufactured Home Parks:
• For a manufactured home park tenancy rent increase that takes effect in 2014, the allowable increase is 2.2% plus a proportional amount.
• The annual allowable rent increase for manufactured home park tenancies is determined by the formula in the Manufactured Home Park Tenancy Regulation.
• The Notice of Rent Increase – Manufactured Home Site (auto-calculating version) RTB-11A will be updated with the 2014 increase on September 3, 2013.

NOTE: The above information will be posted on the Residential Tenancy Branch website at www.rto.gov.bc.ca/ along with forms and fact sheets regarding rent increases, and applicable tenancy regulations. The RTB 24-hour Recorded Information Line will direct callers to the website.

Click here for PDF of this Notice.

August 14, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: JULY Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's JULY 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted. A total of 256 respondents participated in this survey – representing 62% of the 412 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 38% of the 683 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in July.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Jeff Stacer of RE/MAX Shuswap (Salmon Arm) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of September 2013 for his participation in the JULY Survey, and taking the time to answer the required questions about his buyers and their purchases.

JULY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
22.8% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 23.7% in June)
17.9% by First Time Buyers (up from 17.5%)*
11.0% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 8.6%)*
10.8% buying Recreation Property (up from 5.1%)*
9.8% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 17.1%)
5.7% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 4.3%)*
4.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 4.7%)

* During the month of July, there was a significant increase in purchases by revenue/investment and recreation property buyers, and by home owners downsizing to strata units, while other categories saw a drop or remained the same as the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
24.0% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 20.3%)**
23.2% Empty Nester/Retired (down from 28.6% in June)
23.2% Couple without Children (down from 27.8%)
14.2% Single Male (up from 6.8%)**
12.2% Single Female (up from 11.3%)**
2.0% Single Parent with Children (down from 2.3%)

** In July, there were more purchases by two parent families with children, and by singles (males in particular), while all other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
54.7% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 58.8% in June)
14.8 % from Alberta (down from 18.8%)
12.1% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 7.5%)***
10.5% from Other Areas in BC (up from 8.3%)***
3.5% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 0.8%)***
2.0% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 3.4%)
1.6% from Outside Canada (up from 1.1%)***
0.8% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0.4%)

*** Compared to June, there were more buyers moving from other areas of BC and the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, as well as more migration from Eastern Canada and Maritime provinces, but less movement from within the Board area and fewer purchasers from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba during July.

JULY 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages:
* Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 35 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first six months - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

August 8, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: JULY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The July 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 412 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 683 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JULY (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by July 31sh), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Tuesday, August 13th at 11:00 pm .

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

July 23, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Your Guide to "Permanently Mounted Strata LockBoxes"

What you need to know about permanently mounted Strata lockboxes...

The following information has been posted to MATRIX Help > OMREB Provided Help Documents > Strata - Permanently Mounted Lockboxes (Guide):

1. OMREB provides and assists with the installation of permanently mounted lockboxes on the exterior of Strata buildings (condo apartments and some stacked row-style townhouses). The purpose of this is to increase security as well as the aesthetics of the property both of which can be compromised when numerous lockboxes are hanging on railings. Railings can be removed and the lockboxes cut off allowing the lockboxes to be taken to an alternate location where a dedicated thief can gain entry. REALTORS® have been faced with the cost of re-keying an entire building when this happens.

2. A permanently mounted Strata lockbox is meant only to house the building key/fob. Your lockbox should be placed on the door of the individual listing inside the building and contain the unit entry key/storage locker key. It should be placed either on the door knob or with an over-the-door hanger. (Hangers can be purchased from the Board.) Please DO NOT put any other keys in the permanently mounted lockbox.

3. Before placing a lockbox on any Strata property, please check to see if the building has a permanently mounted Strata lockbox in place. They are usually placed in a highly visible location near the entrance.

4. In most cases where a permanently mounted Strata lockbox is present, a motion has been passed at an AGM or Special Meeting giving approval for the placement of a permanent lockbox and there may also be other instructions regarding the placement of REALTOR® lockboxes. Please check the minutes of these meetings and the strata rules/regulations to ensure you and your client are complying with the Strata’s wishes. If your Seller wants a lockbox placed in a specific location other than where the Strata Council has directed, the Seller will need to seek written permission.

5. When showing a strata unit and you remove the Strata building key/fob from the permanently mounted Strata lockbox, DO NOT leave the box open while you conduct your showing as this can result in the pins locking. Open the building door then return the key to the Strata lockbox immediately in the event another REALTOR® would like to show a different property in the building while you are in attendance. This is also to prevent the accidental disappearance of the key/fob, leaving the building inaccessible to other REALTORS®.

6. If attending a Strata building that has a permanently mounted Strata lockbox and the building key/fob is missing, please contact the Board immediately (or SentriLock if after office hours) to determine who was the last REALTOR® to access the box so they can be contacted to retrieve the key.

Click here for PDF of this Guide.

July 16, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: JUNE Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's JUNE 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted. A total of 267 respondents participated in this survey – representing 64% of the 416 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 38% of the 707 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in June.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Helmut Hubert of Century 21 Assurance (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of AUGUST 2013 for his participation in the JUNE Survey, and taking the time to answer the required questions about his buyers and their purchases.

JUNE SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
23.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 24.5% in May)
17.5% by First Time Buyers (same as May)
17.1% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 15.0%)*
8.6% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 7.3%)*
5.1% buying Recreation Property (down from 7.3%)
4.7% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 5.8%)
4.3% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (same as May)

* During the month of June, there was an increase in owners downsizing from Single Family to Strata, and revenue property purchases by investors, while other categories saw a drop or remained the same as the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
28.6% Empty Nester/Retired (up from 23.5% in May)**
27.8% Couple without Children (up from 24.4%)**
20.3% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 24.4%)
11.3% Single Female (down from 11.7%)
6.8% Single Male (down from 8.9%)
2.3% Single Parent with Children (up from 1.4%)**

** In June, there were more purchases by empty nesters/retirees, couples without children and single parents. while other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
58.8% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 55.5% in May)***
18.8 % from Alberta (down from 21.6%)
8.3% from Other Areas in BC (up from 4.9%)***
7.5% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (same as May)
3.4% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 5.7%)
1.1% from Outside Canada (down from 1.8%)
0.8% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 2.8%)
0.4% from NWT/Yukon (same as May)

*** Compared to May, there was more movement from within the Board area and other areas of BC, and less migration from elsewhere last month.

JUNE 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages:
* Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 32 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first six months - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

July 10, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Strata Lockbox Advisory

As showings heat up with the influx of summer visitors and enhanced buyer activity, it is important for Members to ensure lockboxes are strategically placed at time of listing and secure when closing up -- especially at Stratas where the entire building is at risk and there are restrictions regarding placement...

Strata Bylaw Reminder: Over the past couple of months the Board has received numerous requests from Strata Corporations to have REALTOR® lockboxes removed for various reasons. The most common is that the Strata Bylaws prohibit lockboxes from being placed on the exterior of the building.

Remember, it is the responsibility of the Sales Representative to read Strata Bylaws for any requirements regarding lockboxes before installing a lockbox at the building. Most of the stratas run by management companies have begun to install the special Strata (wall mounted) lockbox for the purpose of holding the main door key or fob. Please be aware that Stratas may impose a fine or penalty to the property owner if the Bylaws are not adhered to or your lockbox could be forcibly removed and discarded by the Strata without warning.

Sleep Mode Tip: It has also been brought to our attention that lockboxes are being left open which results in the box going into a sleep mode and locking the pins in the open position preventing the box from being securely closed. Sometimes the box has been found wide open with the keys to the premises still in the key holder compartment. This is the result of not waiting for the locking pins to complete the process.

If you should find that the box has gone into the sleep mode and the door will not close, simply insert the SentriCard® and press the "enter" key. This process should wake the box up again -- allowing you to enter your PIN and close the door, then wait for the locking pins to secure the box.

Click here to download and print this Notice.

July 10, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Call for 2013 Land Award Nominations!

The Real Estate Foundation of BC (REFBC) advises that now is the time to nominate initiatives that demonstrate leadership, innovation and collaboration in sustainable land use for a 2013 Land Award.

Award Categories: You can self-nominate or nominate others' great work. There are four award categories: private, public and non-profit sector, and individual "Land Champion". The awards will be presented at the Gala on October 25th at the Four Seasons Hotel in Vancouver.

Criteria/Forms: Click here for nomination criteria and sample forms (fillable Word docs available online)

REFBC ONLINE - For complete nomination criteria, nomination forms (fillable Word docs), and information about the gala, visit: www.refbc.com/landawards

Nomination deadline: September 9, 2013

July 5, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: JUNE Buyers Survey Out Today!

The June 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 416 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 707 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JUNE (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by June 30th), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Thursday, July 11th at 11:00 pm .

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

June 26, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed on Monday!

Just a reminder that the Board Office will be closed on Monday, July 1st for Canada Day.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm -- on Tuesday, July 2nd.

Wishing you and yours a "Safe and Happy Canada Day Weekend"...

June 25, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: MAY Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's MAY 2013 Buyers Survey are now in and posted! A total of 283 respondents participated in this survey – representing 67% of the 422 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 41% of the 693 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in May.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Brenda Harvey-Jones of Macdonald Realty (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of JULY 2013 for her participation in the MAY Survey, and taking the time to answer the required questions about her buyers and their purchases.

MAY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

24.5% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 18.6% in April)*
17.5% by First Time Buyers (down from 25.9%)
15.0% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 10.5%)*
7.3% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 11.8%)
7.3% buying Recreation Property (down from 7.7%)
5.8% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 5.5%)*
4.4% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (same as April – 4.5%)

* During the month of Mary, there was substantial increase in purchases by Move-up Buyers and downsizing from Single Family to Strata, while other categories saw a drop or remained the same as the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
24.4% Two Parent Family/Children (similar to April – 24.8%)
24.4% Couple without Children (up from 21.7%)**
23.5% Empty Nesters/Retired (up from 22.6%)**
11.7% Single Female (up from 10.6%)**
8.9% Single Male (down from 12.8%)
1.4% Single Parent with Children (down from 5.3%)

** In May, there was an increase in purchases by Couples without Children, Empty Nesters/Retirees, and Single Females, while other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
55.5% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 56.6% in April) 21.6% from Alberta (up from 19.0%)***
7.4% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 11.1% )
5.7% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2.3%)***
4.9% from Other Areas in BC (down from 9.3%) 2.8% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 0.4%)***
1.8% from Outside Canada (up from 0.9%)***
0.4% from NWT/Yukon (down from 1.3%)

*** Compared to April, there was more movement from Alberta, Saskatchewan/Manitoba, Eastern Canada/Maritimes, and Outside Canada, with less migration from all other areas.

MAY 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages:
* Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 32 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first quarter - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories (2nd quarter charts will be compiled with June results in July)
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

May 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed on Monday!

Just a reminder that the Board Office will be closed on Monday, May 20th for the Stat holiday.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm -- on Tuesday, May 21st. Wishing you a safe and happy Victoria Day with your Family and Friends...

June 24, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Tech Helpline - Fantastic New Service!

Recent feedback tells us that OMREB's exciting new member service - the Tech Helpline (launched June 3rd) - is already proving to be a valuable resource. And, it's just a phone call away...

TESTIMONIALS

Geoff Treadgold of Royal LePage Kelowna provided the following testimonial regarding his experience with the Tech Helpline: "I had an opportunity to call the Tech Helpline a few days ago as my desktop computer had contracted a virus that completely disabled my computer. The service they provided was fantastic. They were able to remove the virus quickly and I was back in business in minutes. No hassle, no cost. What a great service for us!"

Denise Vines of Royal LePage Kelowna passed on her own comments about the new service: "I recently purchased a new laptop and was having problems sending documents to a wireless printer. I called the Tech Helpline and they remotely accessed my computer, diagnosed problems with the drivers, re-installed the printer software and down loaded new drivers direct from HP. What would have taken me hours was done in 10 minutes and I even got some great advice on handling the new app based Windows 8 by a very personable and knowledgeable young man."

The Helpline Advantage: We encourage all Members to take advantage of the personal assistance the Tech Helpline offers whenever they are faced with computer issues (other than MLS®-based queries that should be directed to OMREB's HelpDesk). These comments from Members are great examples of how valuable and accessible this free new service is.

If you have used the Helpline and have some feedback to share about the experience, please send a quick email to Jan Bauman at [email protected]

Call the Tech Helpline if:

• Your computer is running slow
• You are ready to move to a paperless office
• You need help removing a virus or spyware
• You need help hooking up your printer
• You want to know which smartphone works best for your business
• You have questions about software, hardware, networking or digital devices
• And much, much more!

DID YOU KNOW? Tech Helpline's analysts can even remote into your computer and fix it for you!

CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-877-562-3163 (provide your OMREB Member number)

TECH HELPLINE HOURS:
• Monday to Friday: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Saturday: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

REMINDER: The Tech Helpline is available for non-MLS® related questions.

OMREB MLS® HelpDesk: For anything MLS®-related, please continue to call the OMREB HelpDesk at 778-484-8080 (Kelowna Local Dialing Area) or 1-855-463-4021 (Toll-Free).

June 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Remembering John Brock...

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of former OMREB Member, past Director and colleague John Brock (73) of Vernon on Thursday, May 28, 2013.

IN MEMORIAM
John A. Brock
February 24, 1940 to May 28, 2013


John became a licensed REALTOR® in 1993, and sold real estate for 15 years in Vernon for a number of firms – starting with Downtown Realty Vernon and ending with Vernon Alliance Realty (Coldwell Banker) upon his retirement in 2007.

John served on the OMREB Board of Directors for two years – first as the North Zone representative in 2003 to replace Joe Pearson during his Presidency. As a result, he was Director of MLS® during the deployment and cutover to the new Kinnexus 2.5 system, and headed the Task Force addressing the issue of Data Integrity and the importance of keeping our database free of errors. He was later elected for an additional year -- serving as a Director at Large in 2004.

Over the years, John touched many lives, and will be greatly missed by his real estate colleagues and friends. Heartfelt wishes are extended to his wife Elaine and family, and close associates at this most difficult time.

A Celebration of Life in the Upper Room at Alexander’s Beachside Pub in the Coldstream will commence at 12 noon on Wednesday, June 19, 2013.

For more information, click here for Obituary with photo and the above In Memoriam.

June 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: MAY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The May 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed today to the 422 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 697 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during MAY (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by May 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, June 23rd at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

May 17, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Webinar - Top 5 REALTOR® Apps!

OMREB Members are invited to participate in a webinar next week...

Internationally renowned speaker, Technology and Real Estate expert Doug Devitre, will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, May 23rd (9:00 am to 10:00 am) for OMREB Members on the Top 5 Apps recommended for REALTORS® to simplify business!

Doug has been named "Top 50 REALTORS® on the Rise" by Real Estate Magazine, Maryland Heights Chamber of Commerce Business Leader of the Year, and inducted into the National Association of REALTORS REBAC Hall of Fame as a top educator in the industry.

Make sure you have your devices in hand, for he will guide you step-by-step through each of the five most useful applications including: Evernote, Hoot Suite, DropBox, Google Apps and Skitch.

This webinar will consider use of all types of mobile devices: iPad, iPhone, Blackberry, Andriod and more! It is FREE for Members, so be sure to take advantage of this incredible opportunity!

Seats Are Limited: There are only 100 spots available at this webinar on a first-come-first served basis, so be sure to login early.

Details for connecting to this informative hour-long session:

Webinar Title: Doug DeVitre – Demonstrating 5 Top REALTOR® Apps
Date: May 23, 2013
Time: 9:00 am to 10:00 am (1 hour)
Link to Webinar: http://omreb.adobeconnect.com/dougdevitre/
Conference Call Number: 1-888-378-6525
Participant Code: 1534765

May 17, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: SPRING e-News Connection!

OMREB’s Spring 2013 edition of The Mainline CONNECTION e-newsletter was emailed to Members this morning. Watch your inbox!

Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead story features a message from OMREB’s 2013 President Karen Singbeil with her insight into the Board’s role in the industry’s move towards a higher level of professionalism – both provincially and federally. The main focus is on the AGM -- passing of the gavel, recognition of 25-Year Pin recipients, and a selection of event photos.

Review current Disciplinary decisions and Regulation changes, Ethics resources, Education info, and Good News tidbits. Check out the nomination requirements for the 2013 Land Awards, and think about joining the REALTORS® Action Network challenge. Plus new Board of Directors, Zone Executives and “Who to Ask at OMREB” contact info.

To download or view online, click on link below or copy and past this URL into your internet browser:

http://www.omreb.com/Newsletter/2013_V4-01/MainlineConnection_Spring2013.pdf

NOTE: Use “Back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-News.

This edition has been loaded to REALTORLink for reference purposes.

May 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: APRIL Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's APRIL 2013 Buyers Survey are posted! A total of 226 respondents participated in this survey – representing 58% of the 392 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 38% of the 595 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in April.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Eric Steinbach of RE/MAX Professionals (West Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of JUNE 2013 for his participation in the APRIL Survey. We thank Eric for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

APRIL SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

25.9% by First Time Buyers (up from 16.2 in March)*
18.6% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 24.6% )
11.8% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 10.6%)*
10.5% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (same as March – 10.6%)
5.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 7.8%)
4.5% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 6.1%)

* During the month of April, there was substantial increase in purchases by First-Time Buyers and a nominal bump-up in Revenue Property purchases by Investors, while other categories saw a drop or remained the same as the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
24.8% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 23.1% in March)**
22.6% Empty Nesters/Retired (down from 27.5%)
21.7% Couple without Children (down from 25.8%)
12.8% Single Male (up from 7.7%)**
10.6% Single Female (down from 12.6%)
5.3% Single Parent with Children (up from 2.2%)**

** In April, there was an increase in purchases by Two Parent Families with Children, and a significant rise in purchases by Single Males and Single Parents with Children, while other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
56.6% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 57.6% in March)
19.0% from Alberta (up from 17.9%)***
11.1% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 8.7% )***
9.3% from Other Areas in BC (down from 10.3% )
1.3% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 2.7%)
1.3% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0%)***
0.9% from Outside Canada (down from 1.1%)
0.4% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 1.6%)

*** Compared to March, there was more movement from Alberta, Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, and NWT/Yukon during April, and less migration from all other areas.

APRIL 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages:
* Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 32 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first quarter - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

May 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed on Monday!

Just a reminder that the Board Office will be closed on Monday, May 20th for the Stat holiday.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm -- on Tuesday, May 21st. Wishing you a safe and happy Victoria Day with your Family and Friends...

May 8, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Revised MATRIX® Cancellation Form!

Just a reminder to Brokers and Members about the importance of cancelling MATRIX® access for any Administration Staff, Unlicensed Assistants and Salesperson Admins who leave your employ...

As an employing Brokerage or REALTOR® you will be responsible for:

Notifying the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board immediately of any office administration or unlicensed assistant changes within your employ, including new office admin staff and unlicensed assistants that require access to Matrix® and those that no longer are working for you. This is to ensure the security of the MLS® system and your listing data.

If an office admin, salesperson admin or unlicensed assistant leaves and you don’t advise us to cancel their access codes, then you will provide unauthorized access to Matrix® which is in contravention of OMREB Regulations making you liable for fines or loss of access privileges.

Click here to download the revised "Cancelling MATRIX® Access" form. To notify the Board of any changes, simply complete and email this form to: [email protected]

NOTE: This form is available in MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > OMREB Board Forms > Matrix - Request to Cancel Access. It is also posted to OMREB's Board Forms page on REALTOR® Link.

May 8, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: APRIL Buyers Survey Out Today!

The April 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed today to the 392 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 595 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during APRIL (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by April 30th), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, May 12th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

May 6, 2013

MEMBER ADVISORY: Private Moorage Dock Requirements in the Okanagan Valley

ATTENTION: Members selling lakeshore properties in the Okanagan...

A new brochure on private moorage in the Okanagan basin has been produced by the Thompson Okanagan Region of the BC Ministry of Forests, Lands & Natural Resource Operations and is now available. The brochure outlines considerations for owners and buyers of waterfront property with an existing dock or who may want to build one. Click here to download.

REALTORS® should be aware of the following and must share this information with potential buyers:

• Dock licenses are not transferred with the purchase of upland property.
• The new property owner must apply to have the license assigned once the purchase is complete.
• Before you buy, you should ensure the dock is authorized and licensed, and meets design and land tenure requirements.
• As there is no guarantee that an existing dock will still be compliant, this may result in the owner needing to modify the existing dock.
• If an existing dock is not authorized, the upland owner will be required to apply for a Specific Permission. It may be denied if the property fronts critical Kokanee spawning habitat and may be required to be removed at the owner’s expense.
• The dock owner may be required to obtain approval from Transport Canada if the structure extends into navigable waters.
• The boundary of waterfront property extends to and changes with the natural boundary – high water mark. Beach and water (foreshore) fronting the property is owned by the Province and must be kept open for public use. The dock owner must ensure that public access along the foreshore shore is maintained. Riparian rights do not include moorage.

Without full disclosure of these regulations, there is a serious potential liability issue for REALTORS® involved in waterfront property transactions. There are also environmental, size and shape issues -- which can vary from one local government jurisdiction to another -- along with other considerations.

For general Ministry information regarding private moorage and the application process for dock licenses, please visit:
http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/land_tenures/tenure_programs/programs/privatemoorage/index.html

For permitting information specific to the Okanagan, please contact the Okanagan Shuswap Resource District at:

• Phone: 250-558-1700
• Email: [email protected]

May 6, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Exercise Your Right to Vote!

"NO VOTE, NO VOICE" - Call to Action...

In the last Provincial election, less than 51% of eligible voters went to the polls. The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB), and the British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) are joined in encouraging you, the eligible voter, to exercise your right to have a voice and vote on May 14th.

We are most fortunate in BC and in Canada to live and work within a social and governmental system where participation is encouraged, but not forced. Exercising your right to vote means that you, as a voter can participate at many levels: municipal, district, provincial and federal. You are helping the political system work to its “highest and best use”. Like the lottery, you don’t win without a ticket. Much more importantly, with government, without voting, you silence your voice and your knowledge.

The impact of REALTORS® in BC is vast and distinctive. As business professionals, BC REALTORS® participate in the sales of about 80,000 homes each year. The knowledge base that they represent is of great value to their clients, to government and other policy makers, and is key to the ongoing economic and social health of the province.

REALTORS® care a great deal about their community in which they work and live. Many contribute time and expertise – professionally and personally – to ensure the sustainability and growth of their communities. We live in our communities, and we are the neighbours of our clients. We often want the same things our clients want, the same things our neighbours want, and the same things our communities want. REALTORS® want to ensure that the principals of Quality of Life are advanced.

Click here for OMREB's "Call to Action" for Member voters.

May 6, 2013

BOARD & CENTRAL ZONE NOTICE: Remembering Larry Chalmers...

IN MEMORIAM
Larry Chalmers
July 21, 1944 – May 2, 2013


It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of long-time OMREB Member, colleague and past President Larry Chalmers (68) of Prudential Kelowna Properties on Thursday, May 2nd.

Larry became a licensed REALTOR® in 1963, had 50 years of experience in commercial real estate and worked with Prudential for the past 21 years. He owned and operated his own real estate firm prior to entering Provincial politics.

Larry served in many capacities on the OMREB Board of Directors (1974 to 1978) – active on the Legislative Committee for two years (1974 and 1975), and serving as President (1976) and Past President (1977) -- and was currently a Member of the Board’s Professional Conduct Committee.

Larry’s ongoing service to the industry and community was extensive:

• Property Assessment Review Panel for BC (2012 to Present)
• MLA, Government of BC (1986 to 1991)
- Parliamentary Secretary to a number of Ministries (Education, Transportation and Highways, Regional and Economic Development, International Trade and Investment, and Intergovernmental Relations)
- Chair of Select Standing Committee of the Legislature for Labour, Justice and Intergovernmental Affairs (responsible for review of Builders Lien Act, and Electoral Boundaries of BC)
- Director of BC Trade Development Corporation
• BC Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1990 to 1991)
- Responsible for the Agriculture Land Commission and BC Tree Fruit Authority
• Chair, Economic Development Commission for CORD (1982 to 1986 – 4 terms)
• President and Director, Kelowna Chamber of Commerce (1983 to 1984)
• Director, BC Real Estate Association (1975 to 1976)
- Co-Chair of Legislative Committee

Over the years, Larry touched many lives, and will be greatly missed by his real estate colleagues and friends. Heartfelt wishes are extended to his former wife and fellow REALTOR® Rosalie and family, and close associates at this most difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Click here for In Memoriam and Obituary with photos.

April 22, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: 2013 OMREB Member Survey – Your Opinion Matters!

Members are advised that on Wednesday, April 24th, you will be contacted by Framework Partners, an independent research firm, who will ask you to complete an online Survey. Watch your inbox!

A heads-up email from OMREB will be going out to Members today to confirm this.

In order to determine your views, we are asking for a few moments of your time to respond to our 2013 Member Satisfaction Survey. Your opinion matters!

We recognize that your time is valuable. By completing the Survey, you will automatically be entered into a draw for one of the following prizes – eight draws with 30 chances to win (your name must be provided to be eligible):

• GRAND PRIZE Draw: Choice of iPad2 OR iPad Mini – 16 GB with Wi-Fi + 3G/Cellular ($500 value)
• SECOND PRIZE Draw: Donation to the Charity of Your Choice ($250 value)
• THIRD PRIZE Draw: Free registration for "Legal Update" course ($125 value)
• FOURTH PRIZE Draw: Free Lock Box ($86 value)
• FIFTH PRIZE Draw: Free Membership Fee for 1 Month ($75 value)
• SIXTH PRIZE Draw: Five draws for 1 Month Free Matrix User Fee ($21 value each)
• SEVENTH PRIZE Draw: Ten draws for Starbucks Card ($10 value each)
• EIGHTH PRIZE Draw: Ten draws for Tim Hortons Card ($10 value each)
• OPTION TO DONATE: All Draw Winners also have the Option to Donate the Cash Value of their Prize to Charity of Their Choice.

SURVEY DEADLINE: The survey will close on Friday, May 10th, 2013.

Your Board of Directors will use the information gathered from this Survey to measure Members’ opinions, attitudes, expectations, satisfaction and valuation of your Board’s products and services.

The conclusions reached from this project will assist OMREB in continuing to provide products and services that respond to our Members’ ever changing needs.

We thank you in advance for your participation and input.

April 19, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Invitation to All Candidate Forums

As an OMREB Member, are you aware of BCREA’s public policy positions, and how they relate to “Quality of Life” principles and the 2013 Provincial Election?

The Association aims to present thoughtful perspectives and balanced recommendations to decision-makers to help prosperous communities grow and ensure the future of the province. By supporting policies that ensure economic vitality, provide housing opportunities, preserve the environment, protect property owners, and build better communities with good schools and safe neighborhoods, REALTORS® care about enhancing the "Quality of Life" in the communities where they live and work.

ALL CANDIDATE FORUMS – April 20, 24 and 26: OMREB has prepared and submitted two questions to All Candidate Forums in our Board area – outlining the two main issues and recommendations that BCREA and its 11 real estate boards have presented to the government and discussed with their MLAs. These questions may or may not be drawn to be asked of and answered by the candidates at the forums. Click here to review.

Members are encouraged to attend the following BCREA (OMREB) sponsored 2013 BC Election All-Candidates Forums hosted by the Chambers of Commerce in Salmon Arm, Vernon and Kelowna.

SALMON ARM: Saturday, April 20
o Event: Public All Candidates Forum
o Time: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
o Location: Savings and Credit Union Recreation Centre (Auditorium), Salmon Arm o Constituency: Shuswap
o Hosts & Sponsors: Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce & BCREA (OMREB)

VERNON: Wednesday, April 24
o Event: Public All Candidates Forum
o Time: 7:00 to 9:00 pm
o Location: Shubert Centre – downtown Vernon
o Constituency: Vernon-Monashee
o Hosts & Sponsors: Vernon Chamber of Commerce & BCREA (OMREB)

KELOWNA: Friday, April 26
o Event: Kelowna-Mission Candidates Forum & Chamber Luncheon
o Time: 11:30 am to 1:30 pm
o Location: Ramada Hotel & Conference Centre, Kelowna
o Tickets: $40 KCC members, $55 future members (must purchase tickets in advance)
Register online by 4:00 pm on April 23rd:
https://kelownabccoc.wliinc25.com/external/wcpages/wcevents/eventregistration.aspx?eventID=6R4P4T
o Constituency: Kelowna-Mission
o Hosts & Sponsors: Kelowna Chamber of Commerce & BCREA (OMREB)

ELECTION DAY – “No Vote, No Voice”: Don’t forget to get out and exercise your right to vote on May 14th. The following web sites have been provided to help to prepare you for the forums and to enable you to make an informed decision at the polls.

• 2013 Candidates: http://bc2013.com/candidates/
On this webpage, political parties and independent candidates are listed in the far right column with links to webpages where you will be able to search your local candidates for more info.

• Party Platforms: http://bc2013.com/platforms/
See what each party has to say about the issues.

April 23, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Casting Call - Reality Realty!

Are you the next reality realty star? Cedarwood Productions Inc. based in Victoria, producers of several television series and documentaries, is looking for REALTORS® to star in a new reality television series!

Cedarwood is currently working on Realty Reality, which will premiere in January 2014 and air on CHEK across BC. as well as on the TELUS Optik cable system nationally.

Click here for letter and promo piece for information about the show and see if you would be interested in taking part in this advertising opportunity. Episodes will be filmed at 13 locations in the province, including one in Kelowna. List of locations and dates is included with the PDF.

Cedarwood is looking for REALTOR® Hosts/Presenters who are outgoing, confident and knowledgeable about all aspects of home buying, not just design. They should have a passion for building long-term relationships with their clients and want to help them find the perfect home by fully educating them about all aspects of the home buying experience.

Break a leg!

April 17, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: MARCH Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's MARCH 2013 Buyers Survey are posted! A total of 184 respondents participated in this survey – representing 55.9% of the 329 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 39.8% of the 462 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in March.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Cora Prevost of RE/MAX Enderby has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of MAY 2013 for her participation in the MARCH Survey. We thank Cora for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

MARCH SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

24.6% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 21.3% in February)*
16.2% by First Time Buyers (down from 19.7%)
10.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 7.1%)*
10.6% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 13.2%)
7.8% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 7.1%)*
7.3% purchasing Recreation Property (down from 12.6%)
6.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 6.3%)

* During the month of March, there was an increase in purchases by Move-up Buyers as well as owners of Strata units moving to Single Family homes, and Seniors moving into Retirement Communities.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
27.5% Empty Nesters/Retired (up from 18.8% in February)** 25.8% Couple without Children (same as February) 23.1% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 30.5%) 12.6% Single Female (up from 10.9%)** 7.7% Single Male (similar to February) 2.2% Single Parent with Children (down from 3.1%)

** In March, there was an increase in purchases by Empty Nesters and Single Females, while other categories remained the same or saw decreases.

Moving From:
57.6% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 68.2% in February) 17.9% from Alberta (up from 11.6%)*** 10.3% from Other Areas in BC (up from 5.4%)*** 8.7% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 5.4%)*** 2.7% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 3.1%) 1.6% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 3.1%) 1.1% from Outside Canada (down from 3.16%) 0% from NWT/Yukon (same as February)

*** Compared to February, there was more movement from Alberta, other areas of BC, and the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island.

March 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out

2011-2013 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages:
* Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 31 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2013 pie charts for first quarter - showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories * 2012 and 2011 pie charts to compare. * 2012 pie charts and 2011 pie charts to compare
. * 2011 pie charts to compare.


REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

April 2, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Sundry Supply Form Revised for GST/PST

Members are advised that a newly revised Sundry Supply Order Form reflecting changeover to GST/PST has been posted to REALTORLink and to MATRIX Help.

* REALTORLink > Board Forms > Administration - Sundry Supply Order Form (Revised April, 2013) - 35 of 37 documents.

* MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > Administration - Sundry Supply Order (Revised April, 2013)


Click here to download revised form. (Revised April 1 & corrected on April 8/13 re: 7% PST).

March 22, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Proposed Regulation Change – 7.21 Member Access to Listed Properties)

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following MLS® Regulation as set out below -- and boldfaced:

7.21 Member Access to Listed Properties

Access to listings Broker Loaded into the MLS® shall be made available to all Members subject to these Rules of Cooperation.

a) Properties listed for sale or lease on the MLS® are to be available to all members of the Board.

b) No listing will be Broker Loaded into the MLS® where a “no showing until” notation exists (with the exception of notice to tenants or if the property presents a safety issue due to structural or air quality concerns). OMREB reserves the right to require verification of the safety hazard if deemed necessary. This request is at the sole discretion of OMREB.

c) When an MLS® listing indicates “No offers until (specified date)”, the Listing Representative must maintain a record of all requests by Co-operating Representatives for offer presentations. Members shall document, and have signed by the Seller, any instructions used by the Seller regarding offer presentations. Any subsequent changes to the instructions shall be documented and signed by the Seller and be carried out in accordance with the above procedure. Such documentation must be provided upon request by the Board.

In either situation above, the restriction must be a condition in the MLS® Listing contract signed by the Seller.


RATIONALE BEHIND ABOVE CHANGES:

There are circumstances where members acquire listings that are unsafe to access. Generally these are properties in foreclosure that have structural or air quality issues. Our current regulation prevents these listings in our MLS® system. Therefore, it is recommended that the wording of Regulation 7.21 be adjusted to reflect this type of situation.

Click here for PDF of the above Memo that was emailed to Members today (March 22) outlining the proposed changes.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Tuesday, April 9th, 2013.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

March 21, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: February Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's FEBRUARY 2013 Buyers Survey are posted! A total of 129 respondents participated in this survey – representing 53.1% of the 243 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 39.7% of the 325 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in February.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Timothy Jones of Century 21 Executives Realty (Vernon) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of APRIL 2013 for his participation in the FEBRUARY Survey. We thank Tim for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

FEBRUARY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
21.3% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (up from 19.8% in January)*
19.7% by First Time Buyers (down from 24.8%)
12.6% purchasing Recreation Property (up from 11.6%)
9.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property (down from 13.2%)
7.1% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 10.7%)
7.1% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 2.5%)*
6.3% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 3.3%)*

* During the month of February, there was an increase in purchases by Move-up Buyers as well as Seniors moving into Retirement Communities, and owners of Strata units moving to Single Family homes.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
30.5% Two Parent Family/Children (down from 32.2% in January)
25.8% Couple without Children (similar to January)
18.8% Empty Nesters/Retired (down from 19.8%)
10.9% Single Female (similar to January)
7.8% Single Male (down from 9.9%)
3.1% Single Parent with Children (up from 2.5%)**

** In February, there was an increase in purchases by Single Parent Families with Children, while other categories remained the same or saw decreases.

Moving From:
68.2% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 61.5% in January)***
11.6% from Alberta (similar to January)
5.4% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 14.8%)
5.4% from Other Areas in BC (up from 4.1%)***
3.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (down from 4.1%)
3.1% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2.5%)***
3.1% from Outside Canada (up from 1.6%)***
0% from NWT/Yukon (same as January)

*** Compared to February, there was more movement from within the Board area and other areas of BC, and migration increased from overseas, but was down significantly from the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island.

FEBRUARY 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS:
* Full summary of survey results with pie charts
* This month's highlights
* Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? hand-out

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages:
* Compiled averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 30 months (since September 2010) to show trends.
* 2012 pie charts showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories
* 2011 pie charts to compare.
(First quarter charts for 2013 will be released in mid-April when March survey results are in).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

March 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: AGM Surveys Out Today!

Please disregard previous survey titled “Event – OMREB 2013 AGM & TECHNICAL FAIR” (now disabled) as it was sent to registrants in error via third party. Our sincere apologies for the inconvenience, especially if you took the time to complete the survey.

Two official OMREB Surveys were sent out late today via personalized emails with a link to online survey: 1) Evaluation Survey to attendees; and 2) Attendance Survey to those who registered and did not make it to the event. Check your inbox!

Below are the cover emails for each OMREB survey (without survey links):

2013 OMREB AGM - Evaluation Survey

Thank you for coming to the 54th Annual General Meeting of the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board on March 6, 2013 at Sparking Hill Resort.

Please take a few minutes to complete this Evaluation Survey to help us with the planning for next year's AGM. We value your feedback.


2013 OMREB AGM – Attendance Survey

As you were one of those that pre-registered for the 2013 AGM and did not attend, we would like to hear from you. OMREB is looking to improve our AGM attendance and communications regarding Registration and ask that you fill out this brief survey.

This year, we received more than 250 pre-registrations but only just over 170 actually attended. The following questions will be brief but very valuable to us. We appreciate your assistance.


DEADLINE FOR RESPONSES TO BOTH SURVEYS (extended due to Spring Break): Surveys will close at 11:00 pm on Monday, March 25th

We thank you in advance for taking the time to provide your input.

SURVEY INVITE: Please advise if you did attend but have not received an email invitation to complete the Evaluation Survey, or if you were registered but did not make it and have not yet received the Attendance Survey. Contact Jan Bauman at [email protected] for a link to the survey that relates to you.

March 12, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Recommended Tech Tools & Tips Posted!

For those of you who missed digital delivery expert Doug Devitre speak at OMREB's AGM last week, or were there and wish to download some helpful resources...

A link to Doug's Tech Tools and Tips for OMREB members now been posted on OMREB's REALTORLink "Spotlight News" along with the "2013-2014 President and Board of Directors" announcement.

You can download Doug's recommended tech tools (list of apps, tools and software) and "365 Technology Tips" here: http://dougdevitre.com/omreb

March 12, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Revised Sundry Supply Form Posted!

Members are advised that a newly revised Sundry Supply Order Form with price updates has been posted to REALTORLink and to MATRIX Help.

* REALTORLink > Board Forms > Administration - Sundry Supply Order Rv02-2013 (page 3 - 34 of 36 documents).

* MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > Administration - Sundry Supply Order (Revised February, 2013)

Click here to download revised form.

March 12, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Revised Sundry Supply Form Posted!

Members are advised that a newly revised Sundry Supply Order Form with price updates has been posted to REALTORLink and to MATRIX Help.

* REALTORLink > Board Forms > Administration - Sundry Supply Order Rv02-2013 (page 3 - 34 of 36 documents).

* MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > Administration - Sundry Supply Order (Revised February, 2013)

Click here to download revised form.

March 11, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Meet Your New Board of Directors!

OMREB's 2013-2014 Board of Directors were sworn in last week and have now been assigned portfolios.

The Board Of Director page on REALTORLink (Board Info) has been updated accordingly -- with new photos and contact information. This info has also been posted to MATRIX Help and to "Who to Ask" portal on REALTORLink (Board Resources). It will also be included with the Spring 2013 e-newsletter coming out this month.

Click here to download and print PDF.

March 11, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: FEBRUARY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The February 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed today to the 243 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 325 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during FEBRUARY (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by February 28th), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sundday, March 17th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

March 8, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: AGM Hot Topic Presentations!

For those of you who missed the informative and timely Hot Topic presentations at the AGM on Wednesday, or were there and wish to download copies, all three have now been posted on OMREB's REALTORLink "Spotlight News" along with the "2013-2014 President and Board of Directors" announcement.

For easy reference, you can also download and view from the following links:

* REALTOR®-to-REALTOR® Etiquette (Jane Field)
* Multiple Offers (Susan Tough)
* Foreclosures (Pihl Law Corporation)

March 7, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Smoke Alarm Awareness Campaign Launch in Kelowna!

ATTENTION: Kelowna Members! The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) and the Kelowna Fire Department are pleased to declare March as “Smoke Alarm Awareness Month”.

Hardcopies of the the following “Smoke Alarm Awareness” materials were delivered to Kelowna offices for distribution to Members on Wednesday, March 6th to provide a heads up prior to the campaign launch on Friday:

“How to Stay Safe at Home” brochure
“Smoke Alarm Awareness Month” brochure -- Full-page colour appearing on the back cover of the MLS® Review – Central Okanagan edition
(March 7th and 21st issues) • Kelowna Fire Department “Smoke Alarm Campaign” letter
Joint OMREB-Fire Department Media Release -- Launching the pilot program.

Hand-outs: The campaign package will include one copy of each item listed above for each office Member for use at time of listing during the month of March with the brochure being left with the Seller. Additional copies of the brochure will be available upon request (email [email protected]), or can be downloaded and printed.

Kelowna Awareness Campaign Info: Below is the first page of media release.

REAL ESTATE BOARD AND FIRE DEPARTMENT LAUNCH SMOKE ALARM AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

Kelowna, BC - The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) and the Kelowna Fire Department are pleased to declare March as “Smoke Alarm Awareness Month”.

“We are delighted to announce OMREB’s partnership with the Kelowna Fire Department to launch a collaborative public safety effort between REALTORS®, fire fighters and home owners,” says OMREB’s incoming President Karen Singbeil. “Working to promote the importance of functioning smoke alarms to help keep families safe in case of fire in their homes is a worthwhile community endeavor.”

With support from a number of provincial and local agencies, the BC Fire Chiefs' Association has launched a smoke alarm campaign with the goal to reduce the loss of life due fire. Many fire services in the province have initiated various programs throughout the year to get this message out – engaging a number of industries with the hope that the initiative eventually becomes a provincial level program.

”The Kelowna Fire Department is grateful to the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board and its membership for partnering with us and assisting fire safety personnel in educating the public about smoke alarms,” says Kelowna’s Deputy Fire Chief, Thomas Doherty. “With 700 REALTORS® helping to get the word out in Kelowna, this local program will help prevent deaths and reduce annual fatalities from residential structural fires in the city.”

Kelowna Campaign The purpose of the Kelowna campaign is to get home owners thinking and talking about smoke alarms with the help of REALTORS® to ensure that they have functioning alarms in their homes.

The Fire Department supplied copies of the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs brochure, ”How to Stay Safe at Home”, that has been distributed to Kelowna real estate offices to be included with listing documents and left with home sellers as a community service in March.

During the month of March, OMREB and the Kelowna Fire Department are also running a full-page colour ad on the back cover of the Central Okanagan editions of OMREB’s MLS® Real Estate Review publication to urge home owners to make sure all smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries.

While the pilot campaign focuses on Kelowna, the partners hope that it can expand to West Kelowna and other communities in the Central Okanagan through partnerships with their local Fire Departments, and eventually roll out Board-wide to include the North Okanagan and Shuswap for the full support and participation of OMREB’s 1,000 member REALTORS®.

March 6, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB Announces 2013-2014 President and Directors!

The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) is pleased to announce the election of REALTOR® Karen Singbeil of Sicamous to the position of President for the 2013-2014 term. She was installed along with 11 Directors representing the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap zones at OMREB’s Annual General Meeting on March 6, 2013.

Singbeil replaces outgoing President Rob Shaw of Vernon who stays on as Past President. Karen has been an OMREB Member for nine years (2004), and has served as a Director since 2009 – holding the Membership and Professional Standards portfolios (2010 and 2011), acting as Zone media contact for two years (2010 and 2011), and sitting on the Finance Committee (2011 to present). She was Director of Finance and a member of the Executive Committee for the past year. Karen has been a Residential Trading Services Applied Practice Course instructor since 2008, and became a Continuing Education (CPE) instructor for the BC Real Estate Association (BCREA) in 2011. She is an Associate Broker and has been a REALTOR® for 17 years (1996). Karen has lived in the Shuswap since 2004.

Darcy Griffiths of Royal LePage Downtown Realty (Vernon) was officially installed as the Vice President of the Board of Directors. An OMREB Member for 22 years (1991), Darcy first served as a Director in 2008/2009 and held the Education portfolio. She was elected again in 2010/2011, acted as North Zone media contact for one year (2010), and has held the Communications portfolio for three years (2010 to present) as well as taking on the role of Director of National Governmental Affairs in 2012. Darcy has taught two units of the Residential Trading Services Applied Practice Course for three years and is a new CPE instructor for BCREA. She has been a REALTOR® since 1991 and has sold real estate in Vernon for 12 years.

2013/2014 Board of Directors:

Karen Singbeil (RE/MAX at Mara Lake, Sicamous – President)
Darcy Griffiths (Royal LePage Downtown Realty, Vernon – Vice President)
Rob Shaw (Royal LePage Downtown Realty, Vernon – Past President)
Kent Jorgenson (RE/MAX Kelowna – Central Zone)
Scott Mayne (Points West Realty Group, Kelowna – Central Zone)
Cliff Shillington (RE/MAX Kelowna – Central Zone)
Tanis Read (Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty – Central Zone)
Christopher Miller (Royal LePage Kelowna – Central Zone)
Joe Pearson (RE/MAX Vernon – North Zone) *
Don Gilowski (Royal LePage Downtown Realty, Vernon – North Zone)
Steve Lewis (Royal LePage Access Real Estate, Salmon Arm – Shuswap Zone) **
Tara Gallant (Royal LePage Access Realty, Salmon Arm – Shuswap Zone)

* Past President (2003) ** Past President (2005)

Click here for media release.

March 1, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: 2013-2014 President and Vice President Announced!

The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) is pleased to announce the acclamation of Karen Singbeil (Sicamous) to the position of President and election of Darcy Griffiths (Vernon) as Vice President for the 2013-2014 term.

They will be installed along with 10 Directors representing the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap Zones at OMREB’s Annual General Meeting on March 6th.

Congratulations, Karen and Darcy!

Click here for announcement with photos.

February 26, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: January Buyers Survey Results Posted!

The results of OMREB's JANUARY 2013 Buyers Survey are posted! A total of 122 respondents participated in this survey – representing 54.5% of the 224 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 42.8% of the 285 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in January.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Tim Stanfield of RE/MAX Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" for the month of MARCH 2013 for his participation in the JANUARY Survey. We thank Tim for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

JANUARY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
24.8% by First Time Buyers (up from 17.5% in December)*
19.8% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (down from 29.9% in December)
13.2% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 9.3% in December)*
11.6% purchasing Recreation Property (similar to December)
10.7% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 5.2% in December) *
3.3% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (down from 4.1% in December)
2.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (down from 3.1% in December)

* During the month of January, there was a substantial increase in purchases by First Time Buyers, and Single Family Homeowners moving to Strata Unit, and in the sales of Revenue/Investment Properties compared to December, while sales in other categories declined.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
32.2% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 29% in December) **
25.6% Couple without Children (up from 20% in December) **
19.8% Empty Nesters/Retired (down from 21% in December)
10.7% Single Female (down from 15% in December)
9.9% Single Male (down from 13% in December)
2.5% Single Parent with Children (down from 4% in December)

** In January, there was an increase in purchases by Two Parent Families with Children, and Couples without Children compared to December, while other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
61.5% from Within OMREB Board Area (down from 68.7% in December)
14.8% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 7.1% in December) ***
11.5% from Alberta (up from 9% in December)***
4.1% from Other Areas in BC (same as December)
4.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (same as December)
2.5% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2% in December) ***
1.6% from Outside Canada (down from 3% in December)
0% from NWT/Yukon (down from 2% in December -- 16th month reported)

*** Compared to December, there was more migration from the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, Alberta and Saskatchewan/Manitoba in January, but less movement from within the Board area, from NWT/Yukon, and from overseas.

JANUARY 2013 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of survey results with pie charts, and here for highlights for this month, and for the “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for February 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS – Plus 2010-2013 Averages: Click
here for 2012 pie charts showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories, and here for 2011 to compare. Click here to view averages compiled for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - during the past 29 months (since September 2010) to show trends.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

February 18, 2013

BOARD & SHUSWAP ZONE NOTICE: Director Appointment from Shuswap

OMREB is pleased to confirm that the Chair of the Shuswap Zone Executive has advised that Tara Gallant from Royal LePage Access Realty in Salmon Arm has been appointed by the Shuswap Zone for the one year term replacing Karen Singbeil while she serves as President.

Tara has been a Member of OMREB since 2004 and has been very involved on the Shuswap Zone Executive for the past several years. She will be sworn in for her term at the March 6th OMREB AGM along with the rest of the Directors for the 2013-2014 term.

Congratulations, Tara!

February 15, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: New REALTORS® Care Ad!

Have you seen the back cover of the latest edition of the MLS® Review?

Launched with the February 2013 editions (in time for Valentine's Day), a full-page colour ad featuring OMREB's four 2012 REALTORS® Care Award recipients -- Dino Gini, Annette Lipkovits, Maureen Rucheinsky and Charlotte Hutchinson -- has replaced the popular “Hire a REALTOR” ads that have rotated for the past 2.5 years.

The REALTORS® Care promo will run most of 2013 to provide the winners with some ongoing exposure and acknowledgement, raise the profile of all Members as citizens who care and give back to their communities, and provide some incentive for bringing in even more nominations for the next Awards.

Alternate ads will appear strategically from time to time to promote other OMREB public service campaigns as partnerships develop during the year.

Click here for prototype of the ad. Take a look at the MLS® Review in your Zone to see the end result!

February 14, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: AGM - Early Bird Registration Expired!

Thank you to all our members who have already registered for the OMREB Annual General Meeting (AGM) on March 6th. What an excellent response!

Please be advised that the maximum quota for 150 hot lunches has already been met, so all other registrants will now receive a gourmet sandwich boxed lunch.

Don't miss out on this dynamic full-day event at Sparkling Hill Resort -- including "Hot Topic" speakers, a Business Essentials Technical Fair, and internationally renowned speaker Doug Devitre.

REGISTER NOW: Please click here for online registration and event details,

AGM OVERVIEWS

9:00–10:00 AM: Registration & Proxy Table is Open
10:00-11:30 AM: Annual General Meeting - includes 3 “Hot Topics Speakers”:
* Susan Tough on “Multiple Offers”
* Jane Field on “Business Etiquette”
* Lawyer Peter Borszcz on “Understanding Schedule A in Foreclosure”
11:30 AM-1:00 PM: Business Essentials Technical Fair & Lunch
1:00-1:15 PM: Door prizes!!!
1:15-2:15 PM: Doug Devitre – Session 1 "Mobile Sales Presentations"
2:15-2:30 PM: Break
2:30-3:30 PM: Doug Devitre – Session 2 "The How-To on Mobile Sales Presentations"
3:30-4:30 PM: Wine & Cheese Social – sponsored by Business Essential Vendors

January 13, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: JANUARY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The January 2013 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed this afternoon to the 224 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 285 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JANUARY (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by January 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Monday, February 18th at 11:00 pm.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

FEBRUARY 7, 2013

BOARD & ZONE NOTICE: Meet Your 2013 Zone Executives!

Members are advised that introduction and contact information for your 2013 Zone Executives have now been posted.

Click on Zone names below to download and view 2013 Executives:

* 2013 Central Zone Executive (Revised Feb 14/13)*
* 2013 North Zone Executive
* 2013 Shuswap Zone Executive
* 2013 Commercial Zone Executive

Central Zone Update: Please note that all requests for flowers are to be emailed to Sharon Fraess at: [email protected]

For future reference, this information has been archived to MATRIX Help > OMREB Provided Help Documents > 2013 Zone Executives, and uploaded to REALTORLink > Board Resources > Who to Ask.

February 6, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: 2013 OMREB Budget Approved and Posted!

OMREB’s final 2013 Budget was approved by the Board of Directors on January 17th. A letter from Board President Rob Shaw regarding financial updates is being distributed to Members via in-house courier on Wednesday, February 6th. Check your office mailbox!

The approved 2013 Consolidated Budget, and revised Long-Term Planning (5-Year) document are now posted in the "Spotlight News" section on OMREB's REALTORLink Home Page, along with a video of the Budget Presentation.

February 4, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Closed Next Monday!

Just a reminder that the Board Office will be closed for the new Family Day stat holiday on Monday, February 11th, 2013.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm -- on Tuesday, February 12th.

Wishing you a safe and happy day with Family and Friends...

January 31, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: New Sundry Supply Form Posted!

Members are advised that a newly revised Sundry Supply Order Form with price updates has been posted to REALTORLink and to MATRIX Help.

* REALTORLink > Board Forms > Administration - Sundry Supply Order Rv01-2013 (page 3 - 33 of 35 documents).

* MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > Administration - Sundry Supply Order Form (Revised January 31,2013)


Click here to download revised form.

January 22, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Complaints and Hearings (Section 1.6 - Findings)

You may recall last October Members were sent a notice regarding a proposal to revise the amount of fine penalties available for Professional Conduct Hearing Panels to impose for violations of the REALTOR® Code, and other OMREB Regulations. The Membership gave feedback both in support and against the amendments.

Given the mixed feedback from the Membership, your Directors undertook further research in consultation with other Boards and with the Professional Conduct Committee that had originally made the recommendations to increase the ceiling on penalties.

OMREB’s Professional Conduct Committee supports a higher ceiling on assessed fines as a way of discouraging the complacent acceptance of smaller fines which could be considered “the cost of doing business”, and to address repeat offenders.

The OMREB Directors have now revised the regulation proposal to include a maximum amount per case. This brings the proposed penalties in line with other Boards in BC and also addresses the recommendations from the Conduct Committee.

For details, click here to view complete Memo that was emailed to Members today (January 22) outlining the proposed changes.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Friday, February 15th, 2013.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

January 16, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: December Buyers Survey Results & Year-End Pie Charts!

The results of OMREB's DECEMBER 2012 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 100 respondents participated in this survey – representing 50% of the 201 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 39% of the 258 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in December.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Kyle Stolk of Realty Executives of the Okanagan (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of FEBRUARY 2013) for his participation in the DECEMBER Survey. We thank Kyle for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

DECEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
29.9% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
17.5% by First Time Buyers
11.3% purchasing Recreation Property (up from 9.1%)
9.3 % buying Revenue/Investment Property
5.2% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (down from 10.4%)
4.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
3.1% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

NOTE: During the month of December, there was an increase in the sales of Recreation Properties, and a decrease in Single Family Homeowners moving to Strata Units compared to November– as noted above. Other categories remained at similar levels to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
29.0% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 27.1%)
21.0% Empty Nesters/Retired (up from 19.4%)
20.0% Couple without Children (down from 27.1%)
15.0% Single Female (up from 10.0%)
13.0% Single Male (up from 8.8%)
4.0% Single Parent with Children (down from 5.3%)

NOTE: In December, there was an increase in purchases by Two Parent Families with Children, Empty Nesters, Single Females and Single Males compared to November – as noted above, while other categories saw decreases.

Moving From:
68.7% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 57.6%)
9.0% from Alberta (down from 11.6%)
7.1% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 10.5%)
4.0% from Other Areas in BC (down from 9.3%)
4.0% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 2.9%)
3.0% from Outside Canada
2.0% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 4.1%)
2.0% from NWT/Yukon (up from 0.6% in November -- 15th month reported)

NOTE: Compared to November, there was less migration from Alberta, the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, other parts of BC, and Saskatchewan/Manitoba in November, but more movement from within the Board area, Eastern Canada/Maritimes, and NWT/Yukon -- as noted above.

DECEMBER 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of December Survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for January 2013.

2012 PIE CHARTS - Year-End Averages: Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during 2012 (4 quarters - year-end), and here for 2011 to compare. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 28 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference (and download) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

January 4, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: DECEMBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The December 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed today to the 201 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 258 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during DECEMBER (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by December 31st), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Thursday, January 10th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix early the following week along with fourth quarter averages compiled for 2012 (pie charts).

Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyers Agents.

NOTE: Just reminder that a Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

January 3, 2013

BOARD NOTICE: 2013 Budget Forum Invitations!

Thinking and planning for a successful financial future? Come and have coffee with OMREB’s Finance Committee and find out how they are planning for your Board’s future.

These are the questions the Committee will answer:
$ What are the highlights of the OMREB 2013 Budget?
$ What is your Board’s overall financial health? $ How much does the Board spend to deliver the services that your membership dues are paying for?
$ What financial planning is taking place for long-term sustainability during this changing market?
$ What is your Board doing to streamline while still delivering value?

Zone Dates and Locations:

NORTH - Vernon: Wednesday, January 9th – 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Location: The Prestige Hotel – 4411 - 32nd Street, Vernon
Hosting: Rob Shaw, Joe Pearson and Janice Myers

SHUSWAP - Salmon Arm: Wednesday, January 9th – 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: The Comfort Inn & Suites – 1090 - 22nd Street Northeast, Salmon Arm
Hosting: Karen Singbeil and Janice Myers

CENTRAL - Kelowna: Thursday, January 10th – 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Location: The Ramada Hotel – 2170 Harvey Avenue, Kelowna
Hosting: Christopher Miller, Cliff Shillington and Janice Myers

Click here to download and print invitation (PDF).

RSVP BY JANUARY 8th: If you plan to attend, please RSVP by Tuesday, January 8th to [email protected] or call 250- 491-4560, Ext 221.

A copy of the proposed consolidated budget will be emailed to each Managing Broker and will be available on REALTORLink® the week of January 7th. A notice will be posted on MATRIX® for reference purposes. The final 2013 Budget will be posted on REALTORLink® once approved by the Board of Directors at their next meeting on January 17th, and will be included in the next Annual Meeting Package.

Hope to see you there!

December 17, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Board Office Holiday Closure!

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed for the Christmas holiday break -- from Tuesday, December 25th through Tuesday, January 1st.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours – 8:30 am to 4:30 pm - on Wednesday, January 2, 2013.

Wishing you all a safe and happy Holiday Season with Friends and Family. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year!

December 14, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: NOVEMBER Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's NOVEMBER 2012 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 172 respondents participated in this survey – representing 59% of the 292 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 42% of the 409 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in November.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Kathy Broderick of RE/MAX Vernon has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of JANUARY 2013) for her participation in the NOVEMBER Survey. We thank Kathy for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

NOVEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
28.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
18.9% by First Time Buyers
12.8% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 8.4% in October)*
10.4% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
9.1% purchasing Recreation Property (up from 7.3% in October)*
4.3% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
3.7% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 2.8% in October)*

* During the month of November, there was a jump in the sales of Revenue/Investment and Recreation Properties, and an increase in Seniors moving to Retirement Communities compared to October – as noted above. Other categories remained at similar levels to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
27.1% Couple without Children
27.1% Two Parent Family/Children (up from 18.6% in October)**
19.4% Empty Nesters/Retired (down from 24.0% in October)**
10.0% Single Female (down from 14.8% in October)**
8.8% Single Male (down from 16.4% in October)**
5.3% Single Parent with Children (up from 3.8% in October)**

** In November, there was a significant increase in purchases by Two Parent Families with Children, and by Single Parents compared to October – as noted above, while other categories saw decreases or remained at similar levels as the previous month.

Moving From:
57.6% from Within OMREB Board Area
11.6% from Alberta (down from 14.3% in October)***
10.5% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (down from 13.7% in October)***
9.3% from Other Areas in BC (up from 8.8% in October)***
4.1% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 0.5% in October)***
3.5% from Outside Canada (up from 2.2% in October)***
2.9% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0.6% from NWT/Yukon (15th month reported)

*** Compared to October, there was less migration from Alberta and the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island in November, but more movement from other areas of BC, Saskatchewan/Manitoba, and outside Canada -- as noted above.

NOVEMBER 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of November Survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for November 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS - Averages: Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the first nine months of 2012 (3 quarters), and here for 2011. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 27 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference and download on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

December 7, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: 2013/15 Director Positions Filled!

OMREB is pleased to announce the following election results for the 2013/2015 Board of Directors:

• Kent Jorgenson and Scott Mayne were re-elected by acclamation to represent the Central Zone.
• Don Gilowski and Joe Pearson have been elected to represent the North Zone. The Board also wishes to thank Bill Hubbard and Elspeth Manning for running for this volunteer position.
• Steve Lewis was re-elected by acclamation to represent the Shuswap Zone.

Directors will be sworn in at the Board’s AGM in March 2013.

December 6, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: NOVEMBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The November 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed this afternoon to the 292 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 409 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during NOVEMBER (all subjects removed, and all documents submitted and in the system by November 30th), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, December 12th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later in the week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

December 5, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: National Recognition for OMREB REALTORS® Care Award Recipients!

OMREB is thrilled to advise that our annual REALTORS® Care Award recipients are now receiving national recognition for their outstanding community contributions!

Starting with the 2012 Awards presented this month, our media releases about each deserving recipient are being posted on the Canadian REALTORS® Care Foundation website as well as on social media.

Charlotte Hutchinson, the 2012 Shuswap REALTORS® Care Award recipient, is the first to be published on www.REALTORSCare.ca with her story and photo appearing online today, and also promoted on the Foundation's pages on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

North Zone recipient Maureen Ruscheinsky’s story and photo will be posted next Monday, and the Central Zone recipient (to be announced on Friday) will be published after that.

November 14, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: OCTOBER Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's OCTOBER 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 183 respondents participated in this survey – representing 54% of the 339 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 38% of the 479 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in October.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Kathy York of RE/MAX Kelowna (Westside) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of DECEMBER 2012) for her participation in the OCTOBER Survey. We thank Kathy for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

OCTOBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

27.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
19.1% by First Time Buyers
10.1% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
8.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 7.1% in September)*
7.3% purchasing Recreation Property
5.6% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (up from 2.6% in September)*
2.8% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

* During the month of October, there was a jump in the sales of Single Family Homes to owners of Strata Properties, and in the sale of Revenue/Investment Properties compared to September – as noted above. Other categories remained at similar levels to the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
18.6% Two Parent Family/Children
24.0% Empty Nesters/Retired
23.0% Couple without Children
16.4% Single Male
14.8% Single Female (up from 12.6% in September)**
3.8% Single Parent with Children (up from 1.9% in September)**

** In October, there was a significant increase in purchases by Single Parents with Children, and by Single Females compared to September – as noted above, while other categories remained at similar levels as the previous month.

Moving From:
57.1% from Within OMREB Board Area (up from 50.9% in September)***
14.3% from Alberta (down from 21.4% in September)***
13.7% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 10.7% in September)***
8.8% from Other Areas in BC (up from 6.9% in September)***
2.7% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 1.3% in September)***
2.2% from Outside Canada
0.5% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (down from 6.3% in September)***
0.5% from NWT/Yukon (14th month reported)

*** Compared to September, there was less migration from Alberta and Saskatchewan/Manitoba in October, but more movement from the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, other areas of BC, and Eastern Canada/Maritimes -- as noted above.

OCTOBER 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of October Survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for November 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS - Averages: Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the first nine months of 2012, and here for 2011. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 26 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

November 8, 2012

RCMP ALERT: Computer Virus Phone Scam!

The Kelowna RCMP are cautioning computer owners to be more vigilant after several reports of telephone frauds regarding bogus viruses.

On November 7th, the Kelowna RCMP also received several reports of a common cold-call scam, otherwise known as the Microsoft Scam or the Virus Scam. Scammers call using well-known brands, such as Microsoft, to fool people into believing that something is wrong with their computers.

The scammers have been using phone spoofing, under the guise of Global PC Experts, but are believed to actually be calling from India. They tell the victim they can help and direct them to a website that then allows the scammers to take remote control of the computer.

The cold caller will then spend some time on the computer trying to demonstrate where the ‘problems’ are and in the process convinces the victim to pay a fee for a service that will fix the computer.

If you've been a victim of this scam, cancel your credit card, turn off your computer and have a trusted service provider remove any malware or spyware that the scammer may have installed.

Click here for RCMP media release. For more information on frauds or to report, please go to http://www.antifraudcentre.ca

November 7, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: OCTOBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The October 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed this afternoon to the 339 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 479 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during OCTOBER, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Tuesday, November 13th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later in the week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

November 1, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Fall e-Newsletter Delivered!

OMREB’s Fall 2012 edition of The Mainline CONNECTION e-newsletter was emailed to Members today. Check your inbox to stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead story features the announcement of OMREB’s technology partnership with the Kootenay Real Estate Board (KREB) to facilitate their move to the Matrix™ MLS® system. Review current Disciplinary decisions and proposed Regulation changes, Ethics resources, Tech news and Education info. Check out National Housing Day, winners of the 2012 Land Awards, and nomination packages for your Zone’s 2012 REALTORS® Care Awards. Plus important Education updates, and Board of Directors, Zone Executives and “Who to Ask at OMREB” contact info.

Click on link below to to view online ot copy URL below into your browser:
http://www.omreb.com/Newsletter/2012_V3/MainlineConnection_Fall12.pdf

NOTE: Use “Back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news.

OMREB's e-newsletter is published and distributed on a quarterly basis with the Winter issue slated for January 2013. This current edition has been loaded to REALTORLink (Board Info page) for reference purposes.

October 29, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Hearings Findings!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following Regulation as set out below in bold italics. (See linked memo for complete information as text below is only part of the changes proposed.)

1.6 FINDINGS

a) The Panel shall consider all of the evidence presented at the Hearing and the Voting Members of the Panel shall arrive at a majority decision. The Panel may impose any one, or more, of the following penalties on the Respondent and/or additionally named Respondent:

I. Reprimand the Respondent;

II. Order the suspension of the Respondent from Membership in the Board for set periods of time;

III. Impose on the Respondent a fine not exceeding [$5,000] $10,000 per infraction per incident;

IV. Order the Respondent to be required to attend and successfully complete a course of instruction relevant to the Real Estate vocation; (within a prescribed time);

V. Order the Respondent to pay the amount of costs of the Hearing [up to $4,000.00] (Note: It is proposed that the cap on assessing Hearing Costs to be removed);

VI. If the Respondent is a probationary Member extend their probationary period, such extension not to exceed twelve (12) months;

VII. Make such other order either on terms or otherwise as the Hearing Panel may deem appropriate in the circumstances.


COMPLETE MEMO: Click here for full Memo outlining the proposed changes to this regulation and the rationale behind them - as emailed to all Members today.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Thursday, November 15, 2012.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

October 29, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Signs/Sold Stickers!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following Regulation as set out below in bold italics. (See linked memo for complete information as text below is only part of the changes proposed.)

7.45 Signs and “Sold” Stickers

a) The Listing Brokerage has the exclusive right to install Multiple Listing “For Sale” signs on any property offered for sale through the Multiple Listing Service®.

b) The words “Multiple Listing Service®” or “MLS®” must be indicated on the sign and it is preferable that the MLS® number also appear.

c) The Listing Brokerage shall have the sole and exclusive right to mount "Sold" signs on any property and they shall only be installed after all conditions have been removed and the transaction becomes enforceable.

d) Sold Signs will be removed upon completion of the sale.

e) Multiple Listing “For Sale” signs are to be removed immediately after the expiry of the listing. (Revised 25/10/07)

f) All signage posted by Members including “For Sale” signs, “Open House” signs, and directional arrows [must] should comply with local municipal, regional or provincial bylaws and regulations. It is every Member’s responsibility to familiarize themselves with local signage bylaws. (Revised 25/10/07)


COMPLETE MEMO: Click here for full Memo outlining the proposed changes to this regulation and the rationale behind them - as emailed to all Members today.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Thursday, November 15, 2012.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

October 18, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: SEPTEMBER Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's SEPTEMBER 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 160 respondents participated in this survey – representing 54% of the 299 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 39% of the 416 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in September.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Trish Cenci of Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of NOVEMBER 2012) for her participation in the SEPTEMBER Survey. We thank Trish for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

SEPTEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

27.6% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers (maintaining - 26.6% in August)
21.2% by First Time Buyers (up from 16.2% in August)*
15.4% purchasing Recreation Property (maintaining - 15.3% in August)
10.3% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit (up from 8.6% in August)*
7.1% buying Revenue/Investment Property
3.2% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
2.6% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home (maintaining - 2.7% in August)

* During the month of September, there was a noticeable jump in sales to First Time Buyers and to Purchasers of Strata Units (moving from Single Family Homes) compared to August – as noted above. Other types maintained similar numbers from the previous month.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
22.6% Two Parent Family/Children
23.3% Empty Nesters/Retired (maintaining - 24.6% in August)
23.3% Couple without Children (up from 20.5% in August)**
18.2% Single Male (up from 11.6% in August)**
12.6% Single Female (up from 6.3% in August)**
1.9% Single Parent with Children

** In September, there was a significant increase in purchases by Couples without Children, Single Males and Single Females (12.6% from 6.3%) compared to August – as noted above.

Moving From:
50.9% from Within OMREB Board Area
21.4% from Alberta (up from 19.1% in August)***
10.7% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 9.8% in August)***
6.9% from Other Areas in BC (up from 4.9% in August)***
6.3% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 2.7% in August)***
1.9% from Outside Canada
1.3% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0.6% from NWT/Yukon (13th month reported)

*** Compared to August, there was more migration from Alberta, the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, other areas of BC and Saskatchewan/Manitoba – as noted above.

SEPTEMBER 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of September Survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for October 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS - Averages: Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the first nine months of 2012, and here for 2011. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 25 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

October 10, 2012

BOARD & CENTRAL NOTICE: Celebration of Life for Cliff Turick!

Friends and associates of Cliff Turick are advised that his “Celebration of Life” will be held at one of his favourite spots this weekend.

LOCATION: Two Eagles Golf Course (formerly known as Vintage Hills)
ADDRESS: 3509 Carrington Road, West Kelowna
DATE: Sunday, October 14th
TIME: 2:00 p.m.
MAP: Click here for Google Map and driving instructions.

Looking forward to a beautiful gathering of friends and loved ones to remember a dearly missed colleague…

October 9, 2012

BOARD & CENTRAL NOTICE: In Memory of Ed Rektor...

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of longtime OMREB Member and colleague Ed Rektor (72) of Realty Executives of the Okanagan on Thursday, October 4th.

IN MEMORIAM
Edard (Ed) Rektor

January 7, 1940 – October 4, 2012


Ed was a REALTOR® and Broker Owner in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario for 8 years before relocating to Kelowna in 1979. He became a licensed BC REALTOR® in 1980, was a member of OMREB for 32 years and served on a number of Board committees including Standard Forms, Legislative and Public Affairs, and Political Action committees. During his BC career, Ed worked for various Kelowna area real estate firms before joining Royal LePage in Westbank in 1999 and transferring to the Kelowna office in 2006. He moved to the Kelowna office of Realty Executives of the Okanagan in 2008 and was a member of the team until his August 2012 retirement due to illness.

Passionate about real estate and helping new REALTORS® get started in their new careers, Ed began instructing Units 7 and 8 of the Residential Trading Services Applied Practice Course for BCREA in 1985 and continued to teach until 2011. He also taught the pre-licensing course for the Ontario Real Estate Association (1974 to 1979) before moving to BC.

Over the years, Ed touched many lives, and will be greatly missed by his real estate colleagues and friends. Heartfelt wishes are extended to his wife Theresa and family, and close associates at this most difficult time.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, October 12th (1:30 pm) at Lakeview Heights Baptist Church in West Kelowna. Please refer to Obituary for details.

Click here for In Memoriam and Obituary.

October 9, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: SEPTEMBER Buyers Survey Out Today!

The September 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this morning to the 299 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 416 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during SEPTEMBER you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, October 14th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later in the week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

LINK ISSUES: If the link provided does not open the online Survey from the email, please his does not work, please open your web browser (Internet Explorer/Firefox, etc), and copy and paste the link into the “address” bar at the top of the browser page.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

October 3, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Precautionary Warning for Female REALTORS®!

It has been brought to your Board's attention that female members should be wary of phone calls from a "prospective" buyer looking to set up viewing appointments at the last minute.

Please be on the look-out for calls from a "Cody Shaffer" at 780-906-6751 or 250-313-7211 (while the latter number has not shown up on call display, it has been given to members when he called from the 780 number). Apparently, last week he asked a female REALTOR® in Vernon to meet with him to see properties and called at the last minute to set-up. She put him off and arranged a face to face meeting in the office but he failed to show up, then called again to see if they could meet up quickly.

His language became sexually explicit and extremely inappropriate on the phone when she was rebooking the showing appointment, causing her to report the matter to her brokerage and the RCMP.

Please keep your head up and your wits about you if or when you receive a similar call from Mr. Shaffer or one of the telephone numbers noted, and report it to the RCMP.

September 21, 2012

BOARD & CENTRAL NOTICE: Remembering Cliff Turick...

Clifford Lawrence Turick of Kelowna B.C., beloved husband and best friend of Janice (Born) Turick, passed away peacefully surrounded by the ones he laughed with, lived for and loved on September 14, 2012.

OBITUARY
Clifford Lawrence Turick

August 8, 1946 – September 14, 2012


Cliff will stay with us always. He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife Janice, his daughter Dawne, Son Dustin (Jocelyn), Grandkids Cassidy and Bobby, two sisters Georgina, Lorna and one brother Brian (Stephanie). He was predeceased in death by his loving mother Emilia and father Steve Turick. Cliff also leaves a host of many loving friends, far too many to list -- but you know who you are.

In his leisure Cliffy enjoyed spending every moment with his "Girls" -- Bella and Mocha, his two overly obnoxious boxers, but that's exactly how he liked them. Nothing made him smile more than watching guests fend off the "Girls" as they arrived to visit.

He also loved to fish with Dustin and anyone else that would take him along. Cliff loved being at his granddaughter’s barn in Langley surrounded by horses and watching Cassidy pick up poop, and of course ride. The jokes were always flying, but we had the luckiest horses in the lower mainland. Cliff always made sure he had freshly imported carrots or apples from Kelowna when visiting them.

Cliff was a local REALTOR® here in town, working for Realty Executives. He loved his job and his clients were never just clients -- they became friends. Cliff would go to any length to help all those who listed with him, seeing others happy and successful contributed to his amazingly infectious smile that he carried with him EVERYDAY!!

Cliff's family will be holding a celebration of his life at a later date still to be determined. If you wish to attend please email your contact info to [email protected].


For photo and PDF of Obituary plus “In Memoriam” tribute from OMREB (originally posted on September 19th), click here.

September 18, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: AUGUST Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's AUGUST 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 225 respondents participated in this survey – representing 54% of the 414 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents, and 39% of the 581 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in August.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Carmelita Obradovic of Realty Executives of the Okanagan (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of OCTOBER 2012) for her participation in the AUGUST Survey. We thank Carmelita for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

AUGUST SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

26.6% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
16.2% by First Time Buyers
15.3% purchasing Recreation Property (up from 9.7% in July)*
9.9% buying Revenue/Investment Property
8.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
6.8% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community (up from 3.9% in July)*
2.7% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

* During the month of August, there was a noticeable jump in sales to Buyers of Recreation Property (15.3% compared to 9.7%) and to Purchasers of Retirement Home/Seniors Community Units (6.8% compared to 3.9%) over July.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
33.0% Two Parent Family/Children (from 26.4% in July)**
24.6% Empty Nesters/Retired
20.5% Couple without Children
11.6% Single Male
6.3% Single Female
3.6% Single Parent with Children

** In August, there was a significant increase in purchases by Two Parent Families with Children -- 33.0% compared to 26.4% in July.

Moving From:
58.7% from Within OMREB Board Area (47.2% in July)***
19.1% from Alberta
9.8% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
4.9% from Other Areas in BC
2.7% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
2.2% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
1.3% from Outside Canada
1.3% from NWT/Yukon (12th month reported)

*** Compared to July, there was more movement within the Board Area in August -- rising to 58.7% of purchases from 47.2% in the previous month.

AUGUST 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of August Survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for September 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS - Averages: Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the first six months of 2012, and here for 2011. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 24 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

September 12, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change - Manufactured Homes!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following MLS® Regulation as set out below by adding to Section 7.27 noted in bold italics (see linked memo for complete information as text below is only part of the changes proposed):

7.27 Manufactured Homes and Recreational Models
a) Manufactured Homes


Manufactured homes may be Broker Loaded into the MLS® on the following basis: Where the manufactured home is registered in the Manufactured Home Registry for British Columbia and where the manufactured home is situated in a recognized manufactured home park, affixed to a designated “pad” and the right to use that “pad” is transferable to a Buyer upon entering into a satisfactory rental agreement with the operator of the manufactured home park; or

Where the manufactured home is affixed to land which is owned by the Seller, other than land in a manufactured home park, and is duly registered in the Land Title Office and where both the land and the manufactured home thereon are included for sale in the listing; or

Where the manufactured home is affixed to land which is leased by the Seller, other than land in a manufactured home park, and is registered in the Manufactured Home Registry for British Columbia and affords the right to a Buyer to continue to reside at that location upon assuming the balance of the current lease and/or option or entering into a satisfactory agreement with the owner of the property; Listings will not be Broker Loaded into the MLS® for manufactured homes, without both the MHR number and a CSA or B.C. Electrical Inspection Label number, or an acceptable certification approval for the province of BC. Copies of appropriate documentary evidence of approval and permits for any electrical improvements or additional wiring must be on file with the listing brokerage.

FOR COMPLETE MEMO: Click here for full copy of Memo outlining all of the proposed changes to this regulation and the rationale behind them - as emailed to all Members this afternoon.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than September 27, 2012. Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

September 10, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: AUGUST Buyers Survey Out Today!

The August 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this morning to the 414 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 581 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during AUGUST you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, September 16th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later in the week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

LINK ISSUES: If the link provided does not open the online Survey from the email, please his does not work, please open your web browser (Internet Explorer/Firefox, etc), and copy and paste the link into the “address” bar at the top of the browser page.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

September 6, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: New Membership Forms Posted!

Brokers and Administrators are advised that changes have been made to Membership forms that have now been posted to OMREB Common Forms Repository in the MATRIX Help section and to Board Forms on REALTORLink.

Click here for revised Member Information Form and here for updated Application for Active Membership package.

August 28, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: JULY Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's JULY 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 216 respondents participated in this survey – representing 54% of the 402 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 36% of the 603 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in July.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Shawna Sidhu of RE/MAX Vernon has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of AUGUST 2012) for her participation in the JULY Survey. We thank Shawna for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

JULY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

22.8% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
19.9% by First Time Buyers
13.1% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
10.7% buying Revenue/Investment Property (up from 6% in June)*
9.7% purchasing Recreation Property (up from 7.6% in June)*
4.4% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
3.9% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

* During the month of July there was a significant jump in sales to Buyers of Revenue/Investment Property (10.7% compared to 6%) and Recreation Property (9.7% compared to 7.6%) over June.

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
26.4% Two Parent Family/Children
24.5% Empty Nesters/Retired (up from 16.7% in June)**
19.9% Couple without Children
16.7% Single Female (up from 13.5% in June)**
10.2% Single Male
4.6% Single Parent with Children

** In July, there was a significant increase in purchases by Empty Nesters (24.5% compared to 16.7%) and Single Females (16.7% compared to 13.5%) over June.

Moving From:
47.2% from Within OMREB Board Area
19.4% from Alberta (up from 13% in June)***
13.4% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
9.7% from Other Areas in BC
4.6% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes (up from 2.1% in June)***
2.3% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
1.9% from Outside Canada
1.4% from NWT/Yukon (11th month reported – up from 0% in June)***

*** Compared to June, there was more migration from Alberta (19.4% of purchases compared to 13%), Eastern Canada and the Maritimes (4.6% compared to 2.1%), and from the North West Territories and Yukon (1.4% compared to 0%) during the current reporting month (July).

JULY 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of July survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for August 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS - Averages: Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the first six months of 2012, and here for 2011. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 23 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

August 27, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Revised Inter-Board Listings Info Posted!

Members are advised that the Inter-Board Listings Information package has been updated and posted online for reference purposes.

You will find this package in MATRIX HELP > OMREB Common Forms Repository > OMREB Board Forms > Listing - Inter-Board Listings Info (Aug12), and on REALTORLink > Board Forms > Listing - Inter-Board Listings Info (Aug12) .

Click here to view and download revised info.

August 9, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: JULY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The July 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 402 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 603 deals completed last month on behalf of Buyers.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JULY, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, August 26th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later in the week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

LINK ISSUES: If the link provided does not open the online Survey from the email, please his does not work, please open your web browser (Internet Explorer/Firefox, etc), and copy and paste the link into the “address” bar at the top of the browser page.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

August 7, 2012

BOARD ALERT: Multiple Emails for Peachland Development!

Members are advised that an email promoting "The Cottages of Paradise Valley" development in Peachland on Saturday, August 4th has been inadvertently distributed repeatedly with some recipients receiving 12 to 20 times.

Sales Representatives Debora Annan and Roger Cyr of RE/MAX Kelowna Westside are extremely apologetic, and thank you for your patience and understanding. They are hoping to have the issue resolved as soon as possible.

July 24, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Summer e-Newsletter!.

OMREB’s Summer 2012 edition of The Mainline CONNECTION e-newsletter is being emailed to Members this afternoon. Watch your inbox!

Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead “Advocacy in Action” story features a summary of OMREB’s 2012 Government Relations activities - federal and provincial initiatives. Read what a fellow Member has to say about recent and upcoming PDP seminars, review current Disciplinary Decisions and Regulation Changes, and find out about a new page on REALTORLink, LockBox Safety, Member Insurance and Tech Support contacts. Check out CREA’s new Commercial ICX.ca app, and BC Real Estate Council’s “Working with Strata Management Companies” brochure. Plus important Education Updates, and revised “Who to Ask at OMREB” info.

Click here to download newsletter PDF or to view online.

NOTE: Use “Back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news.

OMREB's e-newsletter is published and distributed on a quarterly basis with the Fall issue slated for late September/early October 2012. This current edition has been archived to REALTORLink for reference purposes.

July 24, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: In Memory of Barbara Humphreys...

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of past member Barbara Humphreys.

IN MEMORIAM
Barbara D. Humphreys
October 11, 1927 to July 12, 2012


Barb joined OMREB 1987 when she became licensed and began her real estate career with RE/MAX Associates in Westbank, where she worked until the brokerage was sold in 1993.

Over the years, she touched many lives and will be greatly missed by her real estate colleagues and friends. Heartfelt wishes are extended to Barb’s family in Summerland and Revelstoke.

A memorial gathering will be held at the Summerland Funeral Chapel on Wednesday, July 25th, 2012 at 2:00 pm -- 13205 Rosedale Avenue, Summerland, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Barbara's memory to the BC Lung Association www.bc.lung.ca. Condolences may be directed to the family through www.providencefuneralhomes.com

Click here for Obituary.

July 19, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Member Life Insurance!

Did you know?

As part of your OMREB membership, the Board carries - and pays the premiums for - a life insurance policy for basic coverage for all Members. The qualifying period for this coverage is one full year as a Member of the Board. The maximum amount of basic life insurance - without evidence of insurability - is $10,000 up to the age of 65 and $5,000 from age 65 to 70. Coverage terminates at age 70.

If a Member ceases to be a licensee Member in good standing with the Board for more than six months, upon returning to membership, a one year waiting period will apply for reinsurance.

Due to the large membership base, as the governing Board for the Members, the Board processes the claims and is the beneficiary to receive the proceeds. At the time of processing the claim, the Board requests a written letter from the spouse or family member advising the Board who to forward the proceeds to.

The insurance company has also provided the Board with information on eligibility for Members who may wish to increase their coverage from basic at their own cost.

If any Members are interested in obtaining the information on increased coverage, you may contact Kathy Barber at the Board Office (250-491-4560, ext 228) and she will be pleased to forward the information.

Click here to download and print this reminder. Please note that this information is included in the OMREB Member Orientation package (binder or new USB stick).

July 18, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Revised Sundry Supply Form!

Members are advised that a newly revised Sundry Supply Order Form has been posted to REALTORLink > Board Forms > Administration - Sundry Supply Order Rv-2_07-2012 (page 3 - 31 of 33 documents).

Due to increased shipping costs, the price of lockboxes has been updated to $88 from $86.

The revised form has also been posted in the MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > OMREB Board Forms > Administration-Sundry Supply Order Form (Revised July 18, 2012) - scroll down to bottom of list to locate link.

Click here to download and print new form.

July 18, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: JUNE Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's JUNE 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 193 respondents participated in this survey – representing 55% of the 352 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 32% of the 611 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in June.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that James Erhardt of Prudential Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of JULY 2012) for his participation in the JUNE Survey. We thank James for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

JUNE SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:

29.3% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
22.8% by First Time Buyers
16.8% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
7.6% purchasing Recreation Property
6.0% buying Revenue/Investment Property
5.4% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
4.3% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
31.8% Two parent family/children
20.8% Couple without children
16.7% Empty Nesters/Retired
13.5% Single Female
13.0% Single Male
4.2% Single Parent with children

Moving From:
55.4% from Within OMREB Board Area
13.0% from Alberta
12.4% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (up from 7.7% in May) *
10.4% from Other Areas in BC
3.6% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba (up from 0.9% in May) *
3.1% from Outside Canada (1.4% in May)
2.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0% from NWT/Yukon (10th month reported)

* Compared to May, there was more migration from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (12.4% of purchases compared to 7.7%) and from Saskatchewan and Manitoba (3.6% compared to 0.9%) this month.

JUNE 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of June survey results with pie charts and here for this month's highlights. Click here for “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for July 2012.

2011 & 2012 PIE CHARTS - Averages: Click Click here for pie charts showing for averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the first six months of 2012, and here for 2011. Click here for averages for the two main categories - Buyer Type and Where From - compiled for the past 22 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

July 17, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: In Memory of Bill Hunter...

The Board of Directors, staff, friends and colleagues at OMREB sadly mourn the loss of former longtime member and Past President Bill Hunter (81) who passed away on Thursday, July 12th in Nanaimo.

IN MEMORY OF BILL HUNTER
OMREB Past President 1973/74
(December 17, 1930 – July 12, 2012)


Bill served as OMREB President in 1973/74 and was a member until his retirement in 2007. One of the two original founders, Bill was a senior partner at Lakeland Realty from 1967 until 1995 when the firm was sold. He transferred to Tafco Realty Corp. at that time and served as Managing Broker until he retired.

Our condolences and heartfelt thoughts go out to Bill’s wife Roberta, daughters Lisa and Julianna, and their families at this most difficult time. At the family’s request, there will be no service.

Click here for a copy of this In Memoriam plus Obituary and photos.

July 13, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: New Sundry Supply Form!

Members are advised that a new Sundry Supply Order Form has been posted to REALTORLink > Board Forms > Administration-Sundry Supply Order RV07-2012 (page 3 - 31 of 33 documents).

The revised form has also been posted in the MATRIX Help > OMREB Common Forms Repository > OMREB Board Forms > Administration-Sundry Supply Order Form (Revised July 2012) - scroll down to bottom of list to locate link.

Click here to download and print new form.

July 9, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: JUNE Buyers Survey Out Today!

The JUNE 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed late this morning to the 352 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 611 deals completed on behalf of Buyers last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JUNE, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, July 15th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later next week.

LINK ISSUES: If the link provided does not open the online Survey from the email, please his does not work, please open your web browser (Internet Explorer/Firefox, etc), and copy and paste the link into the “address” bar at the top of the browser page.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

June 28, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB StrataDocs Survey Emailed!

Watch your inbox for the OMREB StrataDocs Survey emailed to Members this afternoon! Your OMREB Board of Directors received good feedback - both positive and negative - from some Members regarding the StrataDocs Program and proposed Regulations.

Concerns expressed fell into these three categories:

1) Concerns about the Regulations proposed and particularly the ones pertaining to archiving the documents and posting to MATRIX. These have been addressed by your Directors with revisions to the proposed Regulations. The archiving regulation has been removed, and documents that are publicly available (such as a Strata Plan or Bylaws) can be posted on MATRIX.
2) Concerns about the resource capacity of the OMREB and the impact on staff time.
3) Concerns that this is a service that Members did not request.

Given this feedback to the initial Regulations and the program itself, your Directors have extended the feedback period to get more Member input and are requesting your response to this short survey (4 questions).

SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Prior to completing the survey, Members are asked to please review the supporting documents – revised StrataDocs Q&A, and the revised Regulations -- provided with the cover email.

DEADLINE FOR RESPONSES: This survey will close at 11:00 pm on Sunday, July 15th, 2012

June 28, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Desert Cove/Parker Cove Form Removed from WEBForms™

North Zone Members are advised that the new Contract of Purchase and Sale of Leasehold Interest in Indian Reserve Lands - Desert Cove/Parker Cove posted to WEBForms™ earlier this month, and on hold for further update, will now not be made available on WEBForms™ upon the advice of BCREA's Standard Forms lawyer, Brian Taylor who has concerns for potential liability exposure for the OMREB and its Members who use the form.

While there are particular nuances to the sale of these leasehold lands on Desert Cove and Parker Cove that local lawyers are aware of, the form allows money to be transferred to the seller of the lease before the lease is registered to the buyer. This is a liability exposure if for some reason the lease does not register.

BCREA’s lawyer recommends the use of the standard Contract of Purchase and Sale of a Leasehold Interest in Indian Reserve Lands provided by BCREA on WEBForms™ and recently updated to reflect designated agency. Should Members decide to use a form that does not protect the buyer from the above scenario, they need to fully explain the risk to the buyer.

WFN NOTE: The existing Contract of Purchase and Sale of a Leasehold Interest - West Bank First Nations Land is not affected by this, and remains available on WEBForms™ . A revised version was recently posted to reflect designated agency and a new update to include the missing "Personal Information" clause is forthcoming.

June 25, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB Office Closed Canada Day!

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed on Monday, July 2nd for the stat holiday.

OMREB Staff will resume regular office hours - 8:30 am to 4:30 pm - on Tuesday, July 3rd.

Wishing you a safe and happy Canada Day with friends and family!

June 19, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: MAY Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's MAY 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 223 respondents participated in this survey – representing 55% of the 406 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 35% of the 637 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in May.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Cynthia Bentley of Century 21 Lakeside in Scotch Creek has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of JULY 2012) for her participation in the MAY Survey. We thank Cynthia for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

MAY SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
25.5% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
20.9% by First Time Buyers
12.3% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
11.4% purchasing Recreation Property (up from 4.8% in April)*
7.7% buying Revenue/Investment Property
4.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
2.7% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

*Recreation property sales improved significantly over April with 11.4% of purchases in compared to 4.8%

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
28.7% Two parent family/children
24.2% Empty Nesters/Retired (up from 16.8% in April)**
23.7% Couple without children
11.2% Single Female
9.4% Single Male
3.1% Single Parent with children

**Interesting to note the relative “balance” this month between two-parent families, couples without children, and empty nesters/retirees -- due to a rise in purchases by the latter group.

Moving From:
59.5% from Within OMREB Board Area
16.2% from Alberta
10.8% from Other Areas in BC (up from 6.8% in April)***
7.7% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
2.7% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
1.4% from Outside Canada
0.9% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
0.4% from NWT/Yukon (9th month reported)

*** More migration from other areas of BC this month with 10.8% of purchases compared to 6.8% in April

MAY 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of results with pie charts and here for highlights for the month. For averages for the first quarter of this year (pie-charts), click here, and to download “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for June 2012, click here.

2011 AVERAGES: Click here to download pie charts illustrating averages compiled for all five Survey categories during 2011. Click here for averages (two categories - Buyer Type and Where From) during the past 21 months (since September 2010).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

June 11, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: MAY Buyers Survey Out Today!

The MAY 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed late this morning to the 406 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 637 deals completed on behalf of Buyers last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during MAY, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, June 17th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later next week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

June 7, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change-Fees & Billing Procedures!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following OMREB Regulations with the additions as set out below (boldfaced italics). JUNE 12th: Further updated with text additions to item 3.2.

SECTION 3 – Fees, Dues, Levies and Exemptions

3.2 JOINING FEES

Joining Fees for Active Members in the amount shown on the attached Schedule shall be submitted in advance along with the application for membership.

Fees tendered by unsuccessful applicants shall be returned, in full, to such applicants within thirty days of the date of rejection of the application.

In the event that no application has been received at the Board offices within thirty days from the date a licensee is attached to an Active Brokerage Member, service fees will begin and be the responsibility of the Member Brokerage until such time that the application has been received by the Society.

3.9 BILLING AND COLLECTION PROCEDURES
*** i) The Member Brokerage shall be responsible for ensuring the appropriate documentation has been submitted to the Board within ten days of the cancellation of license of a Representative member. Service Fees will continue to apply to the Representative/Managing Broker until such time as proof of the Representative license surrender has been provided to the Board. ***

RATIONALE It was determined that a Regulation be added to hold the Managing Broker accountable for the loss of income: a) in the case of a Licensee whose application has not been submitted within the thirty day requirement; or b) in the case of a Member who has left if notification has not arrived at the Board within ten days of cancellation of the license.

Click here for copy of Memo outlining the change and the rationale behind it - as emailed to all Members this morning. (June 11th - Memo updated.)

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than June 22, 2012.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

June 7, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Change-Reporting Sales Exclusive of HST/GST!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following MLS® Regulation with the addition as set out below (boldfaced italics).

SECTION E – SALES
7.35 Reporting Pending Sales, Time Clauses, Collapsed Sales and Firm Sales

e) Firm Sales: An important part of the inherent values of the MLS® system is the transaction data accumulated for sales of listed properties. Therefore, it is the responsibility of all Members to ensure, regardless of their business model, that property sales information for properties listed on the MLS®, including sold prices be reported to the MLS®. Upon final subject removal, the sold information including sold date, name(s) of Buyer, Price, Selling Agency and Salesperson must be reported to the MLS® system within 72 hours. The sold date entered will be the date that the final subject condition was waived or removed. The reported sold price will be the amount exclusive of any HST/GST negotiated within the sale price found on Line 1 of the Contract of Purchase and Sale. Members are not permitted to avoid these reporting responsibilities to the OMREB by, for example, cancelling a listing between receipt (or anticipated receipt) and acceptance of an offer, or encouraging a Seller to do so.

Click here for copy of Memo outlining the change and the background rationale behind it - as emailed to all Members this morning. (Updated June 11th.)

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than June 22, 2012.

Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director, at [email protected]

June 5, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Contracts for Reserve Lands to be Pulled & Updated ASAP!

Brokers and Members are advised that the following forms regarding Reserve Lands will be removed from WEBForms™ later today and reposted as soon as they have been revised to include the new Agency portion of the standard Contract of Purchase and Sale:

* Contract of Purchase and Sale of Leasehold Interest in Indian Reserve Lands - Desert Cove/Parker Cove (North Okanagan): New form posted online yesterday will be pulled and updated.

* Contract of Purchase and Sale of a Leasehold Interest - West Bank First Nations Land* (Central Okanagan): Existing form will be pulled and updated.

NOTE: The current forms should not be used and will be replaced with revised versions as soon as possible.

We regret any inconvenience this may cause and thank you for your patience.

May 16, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: April Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's APRIL 2012 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 192 respondents participated in this survey – representing 58% of the 333 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 38% of the 507 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in April.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Dave Domeij of Royal LePage Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of JUNE 2012) for his participation in the April Survey. We thank Dave for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

APRIL SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
31.0% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
17.6% by First Time Buyers
16.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
10.7% buying Revenue/Investment Property
4.8% purchasing Recreation Property
4.3% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
3.2% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
30.4% Two parent family/children
27.7% Couple without children
16.8% Empty Nesters/Retired
11.5% Single Female
9.4% Single Male
3.7% Single Parent with children

Moving From:
58.6% from Within OMREB Board Area
19.4% from Alberta
7.9% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
6.8% from Other Areas in BC
4.2% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
2.1% from Outside Canada
1.0% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
0% from NWT/Yukon (8th month reported)

APRIL 2012 RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of results with pie charts and here for highlights. For averages for the first quarter of this year (pie-charts), click here, and to download “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for May 2012, click here.

2011 HIGHIGHTS & AVERAGES: Click here for 2011 highlight comparisons for each month in 2011, and here to download pie charts illustrating averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the past year.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on Statistics page on REALTORLink®.

May 4, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: April Buyers Survey Out Today!

The April 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed late this morning to the 333 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 507 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during APRIL (in system by April 30th), you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, MAY 13th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later next week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

May 3, 2012

REALTY WATCH ALERT: Missing Kelowna Man!

RCMP are asking for public assistance in locating a 49-year-old Kelowna man who went missing late last week, along with his truck and ATV.

On April 30th, 2012 at 2:15 pm, the Kelowna RCMP received a report of a missing person from a residence on the 1400 block of Cherry Crescent. The report indicated that William HERMAKIN (49) had not been seen since April 26th, 2012 at about 10:00 am.

HERMAKIN is under medical care and requires medication for his condition. He left no indication as to where he may be headed or when he might return. It was later determined that he had picked up his ATV from the storage facility where it was normally kept.

HERMAKIN is described as a Caucasian man, 175cm (5'9"), 84 kg (185 lbs), with brown hair and hazel eyes. He has a scar on his nose as well as both ears. He was last seen wearing a white and green dress shirt with blue jeans.

MAY 4 UPDATE: HERMAKIN's vehicle is a green 1996 Ford F250 with BC plates 1978KB. Please note that his ATV would likely be in the bed of the truck as he did not take the U-Built trailer. Initial media release indicated his truck was a Ford F150 and that he may be hauling ATV on the trailer.

File 2012-20422: Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of William HERMAKIN is asked to call the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300.

Click here for RCMP media release and photo.

May 1, 2012

BOARD ETHICS NOTICE: QR Estates Prize Winners !

QR Estates is happy to announce that following the Board's AGM, 10 OMREB Members have won sign packages with personalized QR Codes.

Signs and codes have been distributed to the following Members:

* Grand Prize Winner - 5 sign package: George Patridge

* Six-month Winners - 3 sign packages: Delaine Dyrdal, Alice Hooper, Blake Roberts, Barry Gellner

* Three-month Winners - 1 sign package: Carol Shalovelo, Deb Deveau, Cheryl Kaminsky, Michael Craddock, Russell Armstrong

Congratulations to all!

April 26, 2012

BOARD ETHICS NOTICE: Reminder to Secure Properties!

It has been brought to the attention of your Board that some Members when showing properties are not being diligent in ensuring the property is secure upon departure.

Some examples include: leaving a lockbox open with front door key left in; leaving sliding glass doors open; leaving front doors unlocked; and not calling the listing representative prior to showings.

As the spring market becomes more active, haste must not trump professionalism as it leaves a poor impression with Sellers.

Please review the recent article entitled, Reminder - The Three Cs of Courtesy, Communication, Common Sense, posted earlier this week along with the Discipline Report (Monday, April 23rd). Click here to view.

NOTE: See April 23rd posting below for the current Professional Conduct Report and all four accompanying articles.

April 23, 2012

BOARD ETHICS NOTICE: Professional Conduct Report and Articles!

OMREB’s Professional Conduct Committee is pleased to release its April "Discipline Report" and four related Business Practice articles for Members' attention.

Click on file name to open and download:

04_2012 Disciplinary Decision (Committee report for April 2012)
Memo-Decommissioning mobile electrical
Memo-Regulation 7.13
Memo-Written Offers
Reminder-The three C's

Please note that these documents have also been posted to OMREB's new Professional Conduct and Ethics page on REALTORLink where Members can find information related to matters dealt with by the Committee ("Disciplinary Decisions"), as well as current and archived Ethics "Education Memos", download various "Complaint Forms" (forms and processes), and refer to "Professional Standards - Rules and Regulations" (REALTOR® Code, OMREB Regulations and link to RECBC Professional Standards Manual).

April 20, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: March Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's March 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 181 respondents participated in this survey – representing 75% of the 241 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 37% of the 492 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in March.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Charlie Veaudry of Century 21 Executives (Vernon) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of MAY 2012) for his participation in the March Survey. We thank Charlie for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

MARCH SURVEY SUMMARY
Property Type:
28.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
21.3% by First Time Buyers
12.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property
9.6% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
5.6% Recreation Property Buyers
3.9% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
3.4% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
30.9% Couple without children
18.2% Two parent family/children
17.1% Empty Nesters/Retired
14.9% Single Male
13.8% Single Female
6.1% Single Parent with children

Moving From:
63.0% from Within OMREB Board Area
12.7% from Alberta
10.5% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
9.4% from Other Areas in BC 2.2% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
1.7% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0.6% from NWT/Yukon (seventh month reported)
0% from Outside Canada

MARCH RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of survey with pie charts and here for highlights. For averages for the first quarter of this year (pie-charts), click here, and to download “Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?” hand-out for April 2012, click here.

2011 HIGHIGHTS & AVERAGES: Click here for 2011 highlight comparisons for each month in 2011, and here to download pie charts illustrating averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the past year.

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on Statistics page on REALTORLink®.

April 20, 2012

REALTY WATCH ALERT UPDATE: Missing Kelowna Teen Home!

Good News! Kelowna RCMP have advised that missing Kelowna teen, Maggie Higgott (16), has returned home safely. The alert has been called off...

April 20, 2012

REALTY WATCH ALERT: Missing Kelowna Teen!

Kelowna RCMP are looking for assistance in locating a missing Kelowna teen, Maggie Higgott (16), who failed to return home last night from an evening with her friends.

On April 19th, 2012 at about 9:30 pm, the Kelowna RCMP received a report of a missing youth from the 100 block of Brighton Road in Kelowna (Highway 33-Rutland area). The teen's father called the police, concerned that his daughter Maggie HIGGOTT, had not come home from an evening with her friends.

The father explained that it was highly unusual for Maggie to not return or at least advise her parents where she would be. He apparently received a text message from Maggie at 5:30 saying "I'll see you later," but then her cell phone was shut off. Information suggests that Maggie was in Osoyoos at the time but the trail runs cold from there.

Foul play is not currently suspected but there is cause for concern especially considering the persons with whom she is suspected of associating.

Maggie is 5'8" and approximately 200 pounds with short dark hair and brown eyes. She was last seen wearing a black toque, grey sneakers, black t-shirt and burgundy hoodie with a striped back pack.

File 2012-18375: If you have any information, please call the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300.

A Realty Watch fan-out has been sent to OMREB members in Penticton, Peachland, West Kelowna, Kelowna, Big White, Lake Country and Vernon. Click here for RCMP media release and photo.

April 12, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: In Memory of Bonnie Hunter...

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of OMREB member Bonnie Hunter of Kelowna.

Bonnie became licensed as a REALTOR® in 2005 and became a Member of OMREB. She worked with Premier Canadian Properties in Kelowna for five years before joining the Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty team in December 2010.

Bonnie will be sadly missed by her many real estate colleagues and friends, and the countless people whose lives she touched. Heartfelt wishes go out to her family.

A funeral service will be held at 1:30 pm on Monday, April 16th at First Memorial Funeral Services, 1211 Sutherland Avenue, Kelowna (250-762-2299).

Click here for photo and tribute. An obituary is not available at this time.

April 10, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: StrataDocs Website Q & A!

Members are advised that the implementation of the StrataDocs website will be delayed until after the Board of Directors' next meeting on May 17th when they will have the opportunity to review Member concerns. The feedback period has been extended to April 30th.

Many Members have expressed concerns about the proposed regulation 7.61 Archiving of Documents which the Directors will be taking under advisement before passing any regulations pertaining to the website.

Click here for Questions and Answers addressing Member questions to date.

If you have any questions or concerns, please send your feedback to Janice Myers, Executive Director at [email protected] by April 30th.

April 10, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: March Buyers Survey Out Today!

The March 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 241 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 392 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during MARCH, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Tuesday, April 17th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later next week.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - NOT for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

April 2, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Spring 2012 e-Newsletter!

OMREB’s Spring 2012 edition of The Mainline CONNECTION e-newsletter was emailed to Members today. Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead story features a Message from OMREB’s new President, Rob Shaw. Check out the photo coverage of the AGM at Sparkling Hill Resort, complete with 25-Year Pin Recipients, and Draw Winners! Meet your new 2012 Board of Directors, review Regulation Changes reflecting the soon to be launched StrataDocs website, and learn about Online Education options.

Click here to view or download (PDF). Use “back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news. This newsletter has been posted to REALTORLink for reference purposes.

OMREB's e-newsletter is published and distributed on a quarterly basis with the next issue slated for late June 2012.

April 2, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Revisions – OMREB StrataDocs!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following MLS® Regulation as set out below in red by adding Section L – OMREB StrataDocs.

RATIONALE FOR THIS CHANGE
The Board will launch StrataDocs on April 16, 2012 with our initial partners with whom OMREB has signed contracts: Coldwell Banker KelCom, Kelowna Condominium Services Inc., and Associated Properties. In addition to the Click Agreement that Members will agree to upon ordering the documents on the StrataDocs site, regulations addressing the use of this website are required.

Click here for copy of Memo outlining the change - as emailed to all Members this morning.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Tuesday, April 17th. Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director at [email protected].

March 26, 2012

BOARD & ZONE NOTICE: Meet Your 2012 Zone Executives!

Portfolios have now been confirmed for all Zone Executives and Board of Director Liaisons have been appointed for the Central and North Zones. "Introducing Your 2012 Executive" handouts with photos and contact details have been posted on OMREB's Board Resources page on REALTORLink®.

Meet your new Zone Executives for 2012...

CENTRAL ZONE EXECUTIVE Chair: Sheryl Lobsinger
Treasurer: Greg Dusik
MLS® Tour: Kevin Philippot
Cards & Flowers: Jesse East
Social Committee: Brad Bredin, Anthony Bastiaanssen, Joel Sherlock
Technology & Communication: Michael Craddock
Zone Charity/Bursaries/REALTORS® Care: Deborah Moore (Past Chair)
Director Liaison: Tanis Read

NORTH ZONE EXECUTIVE Chair: Elspeth Manning
Treasurer: Maggie Garvey
Secretary & Scholarships: Jacqui Hughes
Communications/Media Liaison: Shelinda Morin
Scholarships: Bev Carlson
Scholarships: Tamara Cinnamon
Director at Large: Chelsea Muir
Director at Large: Jake Russell
Director Liaison: Sharon Dahl

SHUSWAP ZONE EXECUTIVE
Chair: Tina Cosman
Co-Chair: Jay Agassiz
Treasurer: Tara Gallant
Secretary: Susanne Rahn
Director at Large: Pauline Wiens
Director Liaison: Steve Lewis

Click here to download and view the new Executive Committees for all three Zones. They have been posted separately on REALTORLink®.

March 21, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Meet Your 2012 Board of Directors!

Members are advised that the Board of Director information has now been updated on OMREB's REALTORLink Board Info page. Contact information is included along with Director photos and portfolio details for the 2012-2013 term.

OMREB welcomes new Directors Christopher Miller, Tanis Read and Cliff Shillington who are representing the Central Okanagan Zone, and Sharon Dahl who represents the North Okanagan Zone.

Click here for PDF and here for Board of Directors page on REALTORLink.

NOTE: 2012 Zone Executive info will be posted as soon as all portfolios are confirmed (following scheduled North Zone meeting on March 23rd).

March 20, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: 2012 AGM Evaluation Survey!

Members who attended OMREB's 53rd Annual General Meeting on March 8, 2012 at Sparking Hill Resort will be receiving an Evaluation Survey via email today. Watch your inbox!

Please take a few minutes to provide your feedback to help us with the planning for next year's AGM. Your opinion counts.

DEADLINE FOR RESPONSES: The survey will close at 11:00 pm on Monday, March 26th.

Click here for sample of survey - NOT for completion as online link will be included with your email invitation. If you attended the AGM and do not receive an email, please email [email protected] for a link.

March 19, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: February Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's February 2012 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 123 respondents participated in this survey – representing 43% of the 285 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 32% of the 385 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in February.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Amanda Westrheim of Century 21 Assurance (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of April 2012) for her participation in the February Survey. We thank Amanda for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

FEBRUARY SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
20.7% by First Time Buyers
20.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
14.0% buying Revenue/Investment Property
13.2% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
6.6% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
4.1% Recreation Property Buyers
3.3% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

It is interesting to note that first-time buyers and move-up buyers appear to be neck and neck this month!

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
28.0% Two parent family/children
23.2% Couple without children
16.8% Empty Nesters/Retired
12.8% Single Female
9.6% Single Male
4.8% Single Parent with children

Moving From:
64.8% from Within OMREB Board Area
19.2% from Alberta
9.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
4.8% from Other Areas in BC
0.8% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
0.8% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0% from Outside Canada
0% from NWT/Yukon (fifth month reported)

FEBRUARY RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of survey with pie charts and here for highlights.

COMMENT & ANSWER: The following comment/query was received from one Survey respondent this month…

“Are we breaching any confidentiality to our clients??? I ask because we are associating a specific MLS # to these questions and answers. It is not just answers to a standard list of questions that are applied to all of my sales that month, from which there's no simple way to determine if the Alberta buyer applies to my 1st or 3rd sale of the month. Instead, it now accurately connects the answers to specific individual transactions by linking them to exact MLS #'s for each set of questions.”

OMREB Reply: Members are advised that there is no breach of confidentiality as we do NOT publish any MLS numbers in the Survey Results or reference any specific properties. Please note that MLS numbers are not noted in any of the answers/responses collected.

2011 HIGHIGHTS & AVERAGES: Click here for highlight comparisons and here for pie charts showing averages compiled for all five Survey categories during the past year (PDFs).

REALTORLink Archive: Monthly Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference on Statistics page on REALTORLink®.

March 12, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: 2011 Buyers Survey Pie Charts!

Members are advised that pie charts have been created and are now available to illustrate 2011 averages for results compiled for all five survey categories last year:

* Where Buyers Were From (previously posted)
* Buyer-Property Types
* Family Dynamic
* How Financed Purchase
* Where Buyers Purchased

Click here for pie charts. For easy reference, they will be posted in the Monthly Buyers Survey section (2012 folder) on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink.

March 9, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: February Buyers Survey out today!

The February 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed this afternoon to the 285 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 384 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during FEBRUARY, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, March 18th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

March 9, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Board Announces 2012 President and Directors!

The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) is pleased to announce the election of REALTOR® Rob Shaw of Vernon to the position of President for the 2012-2013 term. He was installed along with 11 Directors representing the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap zones at OMREB’s Annual General Meeting on March 8, 2012.

Shaw replaces outgoing President George Cwiklewski of Kelowna who stays on as Past President. Rob has been an active REALTOR® and member of OMREB since 1995, and has been a Director for seven years – serving from 2003 through 2009, and returning in 2011. During this time, Rob has held various portfolios including MLS® and Technology, Education, Communication, and Provincial Governmental Affairs, and served as Zone media contact. This past year, he served on the Executive and Finance committees.

Click here for media release announcing OMREB's new President, Vice President and Board of Directors.

March 2, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: January Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's January 2012 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 119 respondents participated in this survey – representing 58% of the 207 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 40% of the 297 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in January.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Heather Paulsen of RE/MAX Shuswap (Salmon Arm) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of April 2012) for her participation in the January Survey. We thank Heather for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

JANUARY SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
23.6% by First Time Buyers
16.7% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
16.7% buying Revenue/Investment Property
6.1% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
4.4% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
4.4% Recreation Property Buyers
4.4% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Buyer Type (Family Dynamic):
28.6% Two parent family/children
23.5% Couple without children
14.3% Empty Nesters/Retired
13.4% Single Female
13.4% Single Male
4.2% Single Parent with children

Moving From:
64.7% from Within OMREB Board Area
10.9% from Alberta
10.9% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
10.1% from Other Areas in BC
1.7% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba 0.8% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0.8% from Outside Canada
0% from NWT/Yukon (fourth month reported)

JANUARY RESULTS & HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for full summary of survey with pie charts and here for highlights.

2011 HIGHIGHTS & AVERAGES: Click here for highlight comparisons and here for a pie chart re: Where Buyers Were From during the past year. More pie charts showing 2011 averages for the other four categories will be compiled and posted at a later date.

REALTORLink Archive: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

February 29, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Carpooling to AGM Recommended!

Since parking will be at a premium at Sparkling Hill Resort, Members are encouraged to carpool to the OMREB AGM events on March 8th!

Please note that the response to the AGM and Tradeshow has been overwhelming with twice as many RSVPs as anticipated, so the resort's guest parking lot will not be able to accommodate a high volume of solo-occupied vehicles. OMREB and Sparkling Hill thank you in advance for your cooperation.

LOCATION: Sparkling Hill Resort is accessed via the road through Predator Ridge Golf Resort - follow the signs. Click here for directions (use white circle on scroll bar to right of text box).

AGENDA: Noted below for those Members who have RSVP'd and received email confirmations for the various AGM events.

10:00 am – 1:30 pm: Tradeshow in the Fireside Lounge - just outside the Ballroom. This year’s theme is “Social Media and Tools for REALTORS®”
10:30 am – 12:00 pm: Speakers - Brent Matsalla and Don Power from QR Estates presenting – "3 Must Have Marketing Trends for REALTORS®"
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: LUNCH - buffet set-up upstairs in Restaurant. NOTE: Seats full to capacity at RSVP deadline (4 PM, Feb. 27).
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm: Member Linking Session/Annual General Meeting of Members
- industry updates from CREA, BCREA, RECBC, REFBC, E&O, and OMREB - with AGM to follow 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: QR Estates Meet and Greet "Wine & Cheese" social (Addressing questions regarding social media, QR Codes, marketing trends, how to’s, etc.). NOTE: Seats full to capacity at RSVP deadline (4 PM, Feb. 27).

February 23, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: RSVPs Due for AGM on Monday!

Members are reminded that RSVPs are required for those who plan to attend OMREB's AGM on March 8th at Sparkling Hill Resort (Vernon), and are due for submission by 4:00 pm on Monday, February 27th.

NOTE - Updated Feb 24/12: As seating will be limited for the luncheon and speaker sessions, those arriving at the venue without notifying OMREB with an RSVP (completed form) and receiving a confirmation will not be accommodated. You will receive an email confirmation from Christine Andrews when your RSVP form has been received and processed. If you already sent your RSVP and HAVE NOT received a confirmation from Christine, please resend your form and indicate how the original submission was sent (by fax or email).

Please complete and submit Registration Form to indicate which portions of the AGM (10:00 AM to 4:00 PM) you wish to attend: Tradeshow and Guest Speakers (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM); Lunch (12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM); Member Linking Session and AGM (1:00 pm to 2:30 PM); QR Estates Meet and Greet Social (2:30 PM to 4:00 PM).

As noted on the form, RSVPs can be submitted to OMREB via fax or scanned and emailed to Christine Andrews [email protected] prior to the deadline.

Click here for Notice of Meeting and Registration Form (included in Meeting package distributed to all Members via in-house courier during the week of February 13th).

February 20, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: January Buyers Survey out today!

The January 2012 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed today to the 207 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 297 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JANUARY, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, February 26th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

The monthly survey was launched in late 2010 and is scheduled to go out mid-month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – January 31st for this survey).

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

February 13, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Shuswap Member Wins Touchbase Contest!!

The Touchbase Team is pleased to announce that Rob McKibbon of Century 21 Lifestyles in Salmon Arm is the winner of the recent Touchbase Plus Contest.

Rob was awarded the 32 GB/Wi-Fi table of his choice (Samsung Galaxy, Motorolla XOOM or Blackberry Playbook). click here for photo.

Congratulations, Rob!

February 13, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB AGM - March 8th!

Save the date! OMREB's Annual General Meeting is on March 8th, 2012.

Watch for the Notice of Meeting packages arriving at your office - North and Shuswap Zones on February 15th, and Central Zone on February 16th.

The AGM will be held on Thursday, at Sparkling Hill Resort - 888 Sparkling Place, Vernon in the Austria Ballroom.

10:00 am – 1:30 pm: Tradeshow in the Fireside Lounge - this year’s theme is “Social Media and Tools for REALTORS®”
10:30 am – 12:00 pm: Speakers - Brent Matsalla and Don Power from QR Estates presenting – Three “Must Have” Marketing Trends for REALTORS®
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm: Member Linking Session/AGM
- industry updates with AGM to follow 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm: QR Estates Meet and Greet "Wine & Cheese" social (Addressing questions on social media, QR Codes, marketing trends, how to’s, etc.)

The Member Linking Session will include the following guest speakers:

* Georges Pahud, Immediate Past President of CREA
* Rick Valouche, President of BCREA
* Bryon Brandle, Chair of RECBC
* Steve Mullock, the Board of Governors for the Real Estate Foundation
* Randy Forbes, Chair of Real Estate Errors and Omissions Corporation
As well as an update from your OMREB Board of Directors

Check out these links:
QR Estates - www.qrestates.com
Don Power - www.donpower.com, @donpower (Twitter)
Brent Matsalla - @brentmatsalla (Twitter)

click here for outline of QR Estates presentation: "3 Must Have Marketing Trends for REALTORS®"

February 10, 2012

CASTING CALL: REALTOR® Co-Host for Hit TV Series “Love It or List It”!

W Network’s primetime, reality series “Love It or List It” is coming to Vancouver. Now in its fifth successful season, the show is on the quest in BC to cast a dynamic REALTOR® Co-Host for the new Vancouver version.

Are YOU or someone you know a Professional REALTOR® (male or female):
• Credentialed Professional
• Experienced in the Vancouver and surrounding market
• Outspoken with definite opinions
• Highly confident and assured with mega personality
• Attractive and engaging
• Has a good sense of humour

Deadline for submissions is February 27th. Applicants must included a photo, resume/bio, and a walk and talk video. For full application requirements and detailed submission instructions, click here

February 6, 2012

REALTY WATCH UPDATE: West Kelowna Man Still Missing!

Andrew Lalonde's family and police are looking for any tips or information that will give them some assistance in locating him. Click here for RCMP media release and photo.

Andrew Lalonde was last seen on the evening of January 17th when he left his residence on Boucherie Road, leaving his personal items like his car and cell phone at home and the door open. There have been some reports of people seeing Lalonde on the days prior to his disappearance but nothing since that time.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue, police, family and friends have completed extensive searches around Okanagan Lake, Boucherie Mountain, neighborhoods, shelters, Kelowna General Hospital, and other community services, with negative results.

Lalonde has an alcohol addiction and his family is quite concerned that he may have gotten disoriented and wandered off somewhere. He is 30 years old Caucasian man (but his mother says he may appear to be aboriginal), 5'9" and 176 pounds with short brown hair and brown eyes.

All residents of Kelowna and West Kelowna are asked to check outbuildings or anywhere that Lalonde may have crawled to seek shelter. If you see Lalonde or have any information as to his whereabouts, please call the West Kelowna RCMP at (250) 768-2880, Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestoppers.net to report.

February 6, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Update re: Amending Offer of Compensation by Listing Brokerage

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise MLS® Regulation Section F - Commission with respect to amending Offer of Compensation offered by listing brokerage.

Addition to SECTION F - Commission:
7.40 – Modifying Offer of Compensation offered by Listing Brokerage

A Cooperating Brokerage, when negotiating on behalf of a Buyer, may only use the terms of an offer to Purchase to modify the Listing Broker's offer of Compensation to co-operating brokers if:
a) The buyer has authorized the Cooperating Brokerage to do so in a separate written document and;
b) There has been prior consultation regarding compensation between the Cooperating Brokerage and the listing broker.


Click here for details of the proposed regulation change and the rationale behind it, plus supporting education piece - as per Memo emailed to members on February 6th.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Wednesday, February 22, 2012.

February 1, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB 2012 President and VP Announced!

Members are advised that at the January Directors Meeting Rob Shaw (Vernon) was acclaimed OMREB President and Karen Singbeil (Sicamous) was elected Vice President for the 2012-2013 term commencing at the OMREB AGM on March 8th.

Congratulations, Rob and Karen! We are looking forward to a great year...

Click here for announcement with photos.

January 24, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: December Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's December 2011 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 103 respondents participated in this survey – representing 48.6% of the 212 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 38.7% of the 266 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in December.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Michael Fredrickson of Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty (Kelowna) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of February 2012) for his participation in the December Survey. We thank all survey particpants for taking the time to answer the required questions about their Buyers and purchases.

DECEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
23.8% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
21.8% buying Revenue/Investment Property
19.8% by First Time Buyers
8.9% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
7.9% Recreation Property Buyers
5.0% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
3.0% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

It is interesting to note that the number of revenue and investment property purchases improved significantly and rose to second on the list for December (from fourth) – pushing first-time buyers down to third place. Reported purchases of recreation properties saw a noticeable improvement as well.

Moving From: 68.9% from Within OMREB Board Area
12.6% from Alberta
8.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
2.9% from Other Areas in BC
2.9% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
2.9% from Outside Canada
1.0% from NWT/Yukon (third month reported)
0% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes

RESULTS: Click here for full summary of DECEMBER results with pie charts.

HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for highlights and here for averaging comparisons for the past 16 months (September 2010 through December 2011). For the current Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? (January handout), click here.

REALTORLink Archive: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

January 20, 2012

REALTY WATCH ALERT: Missing West Kelowna Man!

West Kelowna RCMP are asking for the public's assistance in locating a vulnerable missing person.

In the early morning hours of January 19th, the West Kelowna RCMP received a call from the concerned mother of Andrew Lalonde. A family member had recently attended his house, finding the door to be open and no one inside. Lalonde's car was left in the driveway and his cell phone at home.

He has no history of going missing, but his family is quite concerned, especially due to the recent extreme weather in the area. He is known to suffer from a mental illness and may be experiencing psychological difficulties.

Lalonde is described as a 30 year old Caucasian man. He is 5'9" and 176 pounds with short brown hair and brown eyes. He had last been seen the evening of January 17th, 2012.

File 2012-2753: If you see Lalonde or have any information as to his whereabouts, please call the West Kelowna RCMP at (250) 768-2880, Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.crimestoppers.net to report.

A Realty Watch fan-out has been sent to OMREB members in Penticton, West Kelowna, Kelowna, Big White, Lake Country and Vernon. Click here for RCMP media release and photo.

January 17, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Draft 2012 Budget Posted for Review!

Members are advised that a draft of the 2012 OMREB Budget and Notes to the proposed Budget have been posted to the Spotlight section in REALTORLink for your review.

Please send any comments or questions to Rob Shaw, Finance Chair at [email protected] by Thursday, January 26th. Your Board of Directors will be reviewing feedback at their meeting on Friday, January 27th when they will formally pass the budget.

Click here to download and view 2012 Budget and here for corresponding Notes.

January 13, 2012

BOARD/ZONE NOTICE: 2012 Zone Executives!

Here are your new Zone Executives for 2012...

CENTRAL ZONE
Chair: Sheryl Lobsinger
Treasurer: Greg Dusik
MLS® Tour: Kevin Philippot
Cards & Flowers: Jesse East
Social Committee: Brad Bredin, Anthony Bastiaanssen, Joel Sherlock
Technology & Communication: Michael Craddock
Zone Charity/Bursaries/REALTORS® Care: Deborah Moore (Past Chair)
Director Liaison: Barret Watson (until March AGM)

NORTH ZONE
Chair: Elspeth Manning
Treasurer: Maggie Garvey
Secretary: Jacqui Hughes
Communications/Media Liaison: Shelinda Morin
Scholarships: Bev Carlson
Director Liaison: Rorie Holton
Newly elected (portfolios to be determined):*
Tamara Cinnamon
Chelsea Muir
Jake Russell

* Update to follow after initial January meeting

SHUSWAP ZONE
Chair:
Tina Cosman
Co-Chair: Jay Agassiz
Treasurer: Tara Gallant
Secretary: Susanne Rahn
Director: Pauline Wiens
Director Liaison: Steve Lewis

NOTE: The new "Introducing Your 2012 Executive" handout with photos and contact details included will be posted on MATRIX and REALTORLink® when portfolios for all three Zones have been confirmed.

January 12, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: Building Sustainable Communities Conference in Kelowna!

The Real Estate Foundation of British Columbia encourages interested OMREB members to attend the upcoming Fresh Outlook Foundation's "Building SustainABLE Communities" conference (February 27th to March 1st) in Kelowna at the Delta Grand.

This will be the fifth year for the conference that focuses on a variety of community sustainability topics like water management, youth engagement, community design, zero waste, housing partnerships, green buildings, transportation solutions, cross-cultural and cross-sector collaboration, and successes in planning, agriculture, and GHG reduction.

Click here for online information about the conference, here for the event program, and here for registration fees (starting at $30 for a single session). Registration is available here.

January 9, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: December Buyers Survey out today!

The December 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed today to the 212 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 266 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during DECEMBER, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, January 15th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

The monthly survey was launched on October 1, 2010 and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – December 30st for this survey). The January 2012 Survey is scheduled for release in early February – the first data collected under the new “Sold Reported Date” policy.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

January 3, 2012

BOARD NOTICE: 2012 Schedules Posted!

Members are advised that the following 2012 schedules were posted to REALTORLink on December 23rd and are available here for review (click on title to download and print):

* MLS Review - 2012 Delivery Schedule

* OMREB In-House Courier - 2012 Delivery Schedule

December 19, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Winter 2011 e-Newsletter!

OMREB’s Winter 2011 edition of The Mainline CONNECTION e-newsletter will be emailed to Members today. Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead story features the launch of OMREB’s Realty Watch program. Check out the Education Updates outlining the Future of REP with new relicensing requirements for 2013/14 renewals, and 2015 and beyond, and BCREA’s Education Plan.

Click here to view online. Use “back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news. Documents may be slower than usual to load and close.

OMREB's e-newsletter is published and distributed on a quarterly basis with the next issue slated for late March 2012.

December 19, 2011

BOARD ADVISORY: Holiday Office Closings!

Members are advised that the Board Office will be closed from Monday, December 26th through Monday, January 2nd. Staff will resume regular hours on Tuesday, January 3rd (8:30 am to 4:30 pm).

ETHICS ADVOCATE: Please note that OMREB Ethics Advocate Gretchen Gebhard will be available from December 27th through 30th (Tuesday to Friday). She can be reached at 250-4910-4560, Ext 237 or toll free at 1-866-491-4560, Ext 237.

SENTRILOCK: SentriLock advises that they will be closed on December 24th and 25th, and on January 1st. Normal operating hours are 5:00 am to 8:59 pm PST (8:00 am to 11:59 pm EST), seven days a week.

Wishing you and yours a Safe and Happy Holiday Season...and a Prosperous New Year. We look forward to seeing you all in 2012!

December 16, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: 2012/14 Director Positions Filled!

OMREB is pleased to announce the following election results for the 2012/2014 Board of Directors:

• Christopher Miller, Cliff Shillington and Tanis Read were elected by acclamation to represent the Central Zone
• Darcy Griffiths has been re-elected to represent the North Zone. The Board also wishes to thank Sharon Dahl for running for this volunteer position.
• Karen Singbeil has been re-elected to represent the Shuswap Zone.

December 15, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: November Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's November 2011 Buyers Survey are now posted! A total of 139 respondents participated in this survey – representing 43.4% of the 297 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 35.2% of the 395 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in November.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Jake Russell of Sutton Group Lakefront Realty (Vernon) has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of January 2012) for his participation in the November Survey. We thank Jake for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

NOVEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
22.1% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
22.1% by First Time Buyers
13.2% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
6.6% buying Revenue/Investment Property
5.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
3.7% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
3.7% Recreation Property Buyers

Moving From: 58.7% from Within OMREB Board Area
4.3% from Other Areas in BC
14.5% from Alberta
12.3% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
4.3% from Other Areas in BC
3.6% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
3.6% from Outside Canada
2.2% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
0.7% from NWT/Yukon (second month reported)

RESULTS: Click here for full summary of NOVEMBER results with pie charts.

HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for highlights and here for averaging comparisons for the past 15 months (September 2010 through November 2011). For the current "Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?" (December handout), click here.

REALTORLink Archive: A new Monthly Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

NEXT SURVEY: The December Survey will be emailed in early January to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of DECEMBER (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

December 8, 2011

BOARD ADVISORY: Changes to OMREB’s Statistics Reporting Process!

Effective January 1st, 2012, OMREB will change the way in which sold MLS® listings are processed in the board’s MLS® system, Matrix®. The current reporting method for Sold Information in OMREB’s MLS® system is flawed and subject to error.

Using the ‘Sold Date’ in its current configuration allows for the sold date to be modified, in some cases up to 72 hours. For example, if the sale occurs on a weekend, the Sold Date can be modified backwards up to 72 hours. This causes anomalies in the statistics where Sales Volume and Unit Sales do not match throughout a month. Without maintaining weekly updates to OMREB’s statistics, the totals do not calculate correctly. Thus, the reason for the forthcoming change.

Starting January 1st, when an MLS® listing is marked as ‘Sold’ status, the ‘Selling Date’ field will be renamed to ‘Sold Reported Date’. This field will be automatically assigned by the Matrix® system and cannot be modified. The ‘Final Subject Removal’ field will be appended to include the text ‘Firm Sale Date’, so as to remove any confusion as to the date fields.

This new method of reporting will ensure that the ‘Sold Reported Date’ remains constant and consistent, ensuring that OMREB’s statistics are accurate and correct month to month, year to year.

This information was emailed to all OMREB Members today, and was also sent to all OMREB Office Admin Contacts and REALTORS® Assistants.

A reminder will be posted before Christmas and again in the New Year.

December 6, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: November Buyers Survey out today!

The November 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed today to the 298 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 395 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during NOVEMBER, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, December 11th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey is attached to this email - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

The monthly survey was launched on October 1, 2010 and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – November 30th for this survey). The December 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early January.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

November 23, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: October Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's October 2011 Buyers Survey are posted! A total of 177 respondents participated in this survey – representing 57.8% of the 306 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 42.6% of the 415 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in October.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Brendan Stoneman of RE/MAX Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of December) for his participation in the September Survey. We thank Brendan for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

OCTOBER SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
21.9% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
19.5% by First Time Buyers
13.0% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
12.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property
7.7% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
6.5% Recreation Property Buyers
1.8% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Moving From:
46.0% from Within OMREB Board Area
15.3% from Other Areas in BC
14.2% from Alberta
13.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
4.5% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
3.4% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
2.8% from Outside Canada
0.0% from NWT/Yukon (second month reported)

RESULTS: Click here for full summary of OCTOBER results with pie charts.

HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for highlights and here for averaging comparisons for the past 14 months (September 2010 through October 2011). For the current "Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?" (November handout), click here.

REALTORLink Archive: A new Monthly Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

NEXT SURVEY: The November Survey will be emailed in early December to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of NOVEMBER (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

November 22, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: MLS® Online Service/Database Usage - Regulation Update!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise MLS® Regulation 7.55 with respect to MLS® Online Service/Database Usage.

It is easier today than at any other time in history to imitate, manipulate, copy and exploit the works of others without their consent. The Internet and high-tech tools have combined to create an environment where massive amounts of information are not only viewable, but also capable of being copied with the click of a mouse. The natural tendency for people is to assume that if they can see a work they have the right to take it and use it as if it was their own. As a result, it has become an enormous challenge to control copyright infringements and maintain control over the use of content.

For these reasons, it is now increasingly more important for Boards and their Members to protect their intellectual property rights and ensure that listing information is managed and controlled properly. This includes protecting the rights, both in the compilation of listings that make up each MLS® system, and in the encoded text, photographs, images and other multimedia, including the geographic and property information that make up each MLS® listing.

In order for your Board to adequately protect the copyright of the MLS® database, OMREB’s MLS® Regulations need to clearly set out that the Board is the copyright owner of the data compilation, and the elements that constitute a listing.

Click here for details of the proposed regulation change and the rationale behind it - as per Memo emailed to members on November 22nd.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Wednesday, December 7th, 2011.

November 17, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: RCMP Welcome to Realty Watch!

Kelowna RCMP would like to thank the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board for your partnership in Realty Watch. (Click here for PDF of email that has been forwarded to members.)

It's brand new...and with anything new, it will take some getting used to...and we'll work out the kinks along the way. We are so pleased to have the opportunity to work with such an energetic dedicated group.

We do want to take this opportunity to remind everyone that Realty Watch is about keeping our community safe...and our community includes all of you. Police are not asking anyone to go above and beyond your current role in the community. We remind you that:

1. You observe, record and report any suspicious criminal activity to police through the appropriate police phone number (i.e. 250-762-3300 – Kelowna Detachment).
2. 9-1-1 can be used in an emergency situation, where life is being threatened.
3. Never put yourself in harms way to prevent a crime...observe, record and report.
4. You are not above the law...so please don't break any in your efforts to observe, record and report.
5. You are extra "eyes and ears" for the police in our communities. We appreciate your assistance and want everyone to go home safely.
6. We want to celebrate our successes, so please brag about it when it happens.

Looking forward to working with all of you...Thanks again for being extra "eyes and ears"...

Sgt. Ann Morrison
NCO i/c COSU (Community Operational Support Unit)
MEAP Referral Agent
Kelowna Detachment
office:(250)470-6231
fax: (250)470-6348
cell: (250)878-7299
[email protected]

November 16, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Realty Watch Launched in Central Okanagan!

The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) and the Kelowna RCMP Detachment are pleased to announce the Central Okanagan launch of the Realty Watch program – rolled out to Kelowna member REALTORS® at the Ramada Lodge today during the lunch hour. Central Zone members with Touchbase profiles will have received a test fan-out alert sent during the event.

Seeing the success of the Realty Watch network across the Lower Mainland, OMREB is thrilled to launch our pilot Realty Watch program in the Central Okanagan where there are close to 800 member REALTORS® from Peachland to Lake Country to assist police as extra ‘eyes and ears’ in their communities. When the program is in full swing, it will be rolled out Board-wide to include the North Okanagan and Shuswap Zones, and the RCMP detachments in those communities, for the support of OMREB’s 1,100 member REALTORS®.

Click here for BC Realty Watch video on YouTube.

Touchbase Profile: As the majority of OMREB’s membership is already familiar with and using Touchbase on a daily basis, everyone in the system will be included in most fan-outs to provide optimum awareness up and down the Valley. If you do not already have a Touchbase profile and are interested in supporting Realty Watch, please sign up now. A link to the Touchbase site is available on the MATRIX Home Page > External Links: https://www.touchbaserealestate.com. Logon using your OMREB ID number and password (just like you are logging on to MATRIX), and follow the prompts to set-up your profile. Interested unlicensed assistants will need an Office Administrator at their firm to add them to the Touchbase system.

The prime objective for Realty Watch is crime prevention and the emergency assistance to police in the case of missing persons or abductions. The program is a cooperative effort between police and the real estate industry to stop crime before it happens. Fan-outs can only be initiated by the RCMP and sent to OMREB members by Board Staff.

Responding to Fan-outs - RCMP Protocol: The Kelowna RCMP has provided details regarding the protocol for responding to fan-out alerts. Click here for RCMP "Welcome to Realty Watch" email that has been forwarded to members (November 17th).

Program Info: Click here for media release, here for brochure, and here for poster outlining OMREB’s Realty Watch program. This info will be archived to OMREB News > Board Notices tab for future reference, and also be posted to www.omreb.com > Front Page News for public awareness and archived to Board News.

November 14, 2011

SENTRILOCK ADVISORY: Transfer of Lockbox Ownership!

It has come to the attention of the Board that the registered ownership of lockboxes is not being transferred.

Please note that if you sell your lockboxes, they must be transferred in the system in order to:

• Receive showing notifications
• Receive assistance from SentriLock whenever there is an issue with the lockbox
• Provide a one day access code if another Agent is trying to show your property and their SentriCard becomes defective, as only the registered owner of the lockbox can provide this.

If assistance is needed to complete this process, please call the Board Office. Proof of ownership is required.

November 4, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: October Buyers Survey out today!

The October 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing will be emailed today to the 306 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 415 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during OCTOBER, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted. A separate survey should be completed for each deal. Watch your inbox!

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Monday, November 14th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey is attached to this email - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents.

The monthly survey was launched on October 1, 2010 and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – October 31st for this survey). The November 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early December.

NOTE: A Monthly Buyers Survey section is available on OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights are posted and archived for easy reference.

October 31, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Regulation Update re: Compliance!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the following MLS® Regulation with respect to Compliance.

Modify SECTION 7 - MLS® RULES AND PROCEDURES, Section B – Compliance to read as noted below in bold italics:

The Board actively enforces compliance of these regulations by:

4) Submitting a report of non compliance of a specific MLS® regulation (s) by a member to the Professional Conduct Committee of the Board for investigation and appropriate action as per OMREB Regulations: SECTION 1 – PROCEDURES TO DEAL WITH COMPLAINTS AND HEARINGS.


RATIONALE: With the introduction of the new Professional Conduct Regulations, Section 7 needs modification to ensure that enforcement of MLS® regulations are under the authority of the Professional Conduct Committee rather than the Board of Directors for assessment of appropriate penalties.

Click here for details regarding the proposed regulation change and the rationale behind it - as per Memo emailed to members this afternoon.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Friday, November 18th, 2011.

October 31, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: New Multi Media Links Regulation!

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to add the following Regulation to OMREB MLS® Rules - 7.14: Multi-Media Links in MLS® and REALTOR.ca, noting (in part) that:

"All multimedia links made available on REALTOR.ca, if implemented by the OMREB, must be limited to property specific information and advertisement of private sales is not permitted on those links."

RATIONALE: Revisions to the MTC (MLS® and Technology Council) Policy regarding Multimedia links have resulted in CREA recommending changes to Boards and Associations MLS® rules, regulations, or policies to reflect the revised MTC Policy.

Click here for detailed Memo outlining OMREB's new regulation and the rationale behind the change, as that emailed to all members today for review.

Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Friday, November 18th, 2011.

October 28, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Strata Plan Search Guide Posted!

For easy reference, the Guide to Searching Strata Plans on BC Online is now posted to the MATRIX HELP section in two places: OMREB Provided Help Documents > Guide to Searching for Strata Plans on BC Online; and OMREB Common Forms Repository > OMREB Board Forms > Listing - 2011 Guide to Searching Strata Plans.

The Guide has also been uploaded to REALTORLink > Board Forms > Listing - 2011 Guide to Searching Strata Plans.

Regulation Update - As members were advised via email and MATRIX on October 25th:

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, MLS® Regulation 7.22 has been revised to include the requirement to obtain a current copy of the Registered Strata Plan for all strata property listings. Click here for copy of memo sent to Members on October 3rd outlining the revision that has now been passed, along with the Report from Council regarding the importance of accurately describing parking stalls and storage lockers for stratas, and a guide on how to order a registered Strata Plan through BC Online.

October 25, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Strata Plan Requirement Passed!

Members are advised that in accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, the OMREB Board of Directors has revised MLS® Regulation 7.22 by adding the requirement to obtain a current copy of the Registered Strata Plan for all strata property listings.

Click here for copy of memo sent to Members on October 3rd outlining the revision that has now been passed, along with the Report from Council regarding the importance of accurately describing parking stalls and storage lockers for stratas, and a guide on how to order a registered Strata Plan through BC Online.

October 25, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Call for 2012-2014 OMREB Director Nominations!

CENTRAL ZONE

OMREB is calling for nominations for three (3) Director positions available for the Central Okanagan Zone on the 2012/2014 Board of Directors. At least one of the Directors to be elected must hold a Managing Broker or Associate Broker License.

Please forward nominations by November 14th to:
Nominating Chair- Geri Surinak
email to: [email protected]
Fax to: 250-861-5722 (Attention: Geri Surinak)

Click here for 2012 Central Zone Director Nomination Package (Director requirements, nomination form and OMREB Volunteer Director Job Description).

NORTH ZONE

OMREB is calling for Nominations for one (1) Director position available for the North Okanagan Zone on the 2012/2014 Board of Directors. The Director to be elected must hold a Managing Broker or Associate Broker License.

Please forward nominations by November 14th to:
Nominating Chair - Howard Neufeld
Email to: [email protected]
Fax to: 250-545-1957 (Attention: Howard Neufeld)

Click here for 2012 North Zone Director Nomination Package (Director requirements, nomination form and OMREB Volunteer Director Job Description).

SHUSWAP ZONE

OMREB is calling for nominations for one (1) Director position available for the Shuswap-Revelstoke Zone on the 2012/2014 Board of Directors. The Director to be elected must hold a Managing Broker or Associate Broker License.

Please forward nominations by November 14th to:
Nominating Chair - Merry Anderson
Email to: [email protected]
Fax to: 250-675-4373 (Attention: Merry Anderson)

Click here for 2012 Shuswap Zone Director Nomination Package (Director requirements, nomination form and OMREB Volunteer Director Job Description).

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: All nominations must be to the Nominating Chairs no later than 4:00 pm on Monday, November 14, 2011.

October 19, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: September Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's September 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 187 respondents participated in this survey – representing 52% of the 362 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 39% of the 483 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in August.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Lisa Houle of Royal LePage Downtown Realty in Vernon has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of November) for her participation in the September Survey. We thank Lisa for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

SEPTEMBER SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
21.3% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
18.6% by First Time Buyers
13.1% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
11.5% buying Revenue/Investment Property
10.5% Recreation Property Buyers
4.9% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
3.8% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Moving From:
50.3% from Within OMREB Board Area
18.9% from Alberta
13.0% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
8.1% from Other Areas in BC
4.3% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
2.7% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
2.2% from Outside Canada
0.5% from NWT/Yukon (first month reported)

RESULTS: Click here for full summary of SEPTEMBER results with pie charts.

HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for highlights and here for averaging comparisons for the past 13 months (September 2010 through September 2011). For the current "Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?" (October handout), click here.

REALTORLink Archive: A new Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

NEXT SURVEY: The October Survey will be emailed in early November to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of OCTOBER (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

October 12, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: September Buyers Survey Out Today!

The September 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing has been emailed today to the 362 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 483 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during SEPTEMBER, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted (new last month). Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal.

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Tuesday, October 18th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents. The October 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early November.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1, 2010 and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – September 30th for this survey).

NOTE: A new Monthly Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

October 11, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Reminder to Notify the Board if an Administrator or Unlicensed Assistant Leaves!

Just a reminder that it is the responsibility of the Managing Broker or Sales Representative to notify the Board if an Administrator or Unlicensed Assistant leaves.

Please use the Matrix® Request to Cancel Access form found on Matrix® under the HELP tab in Board Forms, or the matter will be put before the Professional Conduct Committee for their review and fines could be imposed pursuant to OMREB Regulations: Section 7 - MLS® Rules and Procedures. It is also important to notify the Board if the Administrator’s or Unlicensed Assistant’s email address changes.

Click here for form.

Excerpt from the Signed Agreements:

As Managing Broker you will be responsible for:

o All the work performed in Matrix® by your Brokerage staff, including ensuring that your staff complies with all Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board’s Rules and Regulations with respect to Section 7 – MLS® Rules and Procedures.

o Notifying the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board immediately of any staff changes within your office, including new employees that require access to Matrix® and employees that no longer are working in your office. This is to ensure the security of the MLS® system and your Brokerage’s listing data. If staff leaves and you don’t advise us to cancel their access codes, then you will provide unauthorized access to Matrix® which is in contravention of OMREB Regulations making you liable for fines or loss of access. To notify the Board of any staff changes, simply email [email protected]

o Determining which Brokerage staff members have access to Matrix®.

As an employing REALTOR® you will be responsible for:

o All the work performed in Matrix® by your unlicensed assistant, including ensuring that your unlicensed assistant complies with all Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board’s Rules and Regulations with respect to Section 7 – MLS® Rules and Procedures.

o Notifying the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board immediately of any unlicensed assistant changes within your employ, including new unlicensed assistants that require access to Matrix® and unlicensed assistants that no longer are working for you. This is to ensure the security of the MLS® system and your listing data. If an unlicensed assistant leaves and you don’t advise us to cancel their access codes, then you will provide unauthorized access to Matrix® which is in contravention of OMREB Regulations making you liable for fines or loss of access privileges. To notify the Board of any changes, simply email [email protected].


Excerpt from OMREB Regulation 7 – MLS® Rules and Procedures:

7.53 MLS® Online Service Usage

d) Access to the Board’s On-Line MLS® Service/Database shall be restricted to Active Members and only those Non-Members as approved by the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board. Access to codes in the Board’s Online MLS® Service/Database is provided to Members at the absolute discretion of the Board and such access may be terminated at any time for breach of these Regulations or the Bylaws, or for any reason.

Approved Non-Members shall include, but not limited to, Administrative Staff of Member Brokerages and Unlicensed Assistants of Members who are duly authorized employees in behalf of Members. Managing Brokers, Associate Brokers, and Sales Representatives shall accept full responsibility and be liable to the Board for the use of the MLS® Service/Database and all the work performed in the MLS® database by Non-Members working on their behalf; including ensuring that Non-Members within their employ are complying with all Board MLS® Rules, Regulations and Procedures. In order to ensure there is not unauthorized access to the MLS® Service/Database, Managing Brokers, Associate Brokers and Sales Representatives must advise the Board promptly of any staffing changes. (Revised 02/18/10)

October 4, 2011

STAYING CONNECTED: Fall e-News!

The Fall edition of OMREB's quarterly online newsletter is being emailed to all OMREB Members today and has also been posted to REALTORLink. Watch your inbox!

Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead story features the new Professional Conduct Committee formed to provide more Member involvement in the enforcement of rules and regulations with a new Complaints and Hearings process. Meet the new Chair, Jim Mayne!

Click here to view online. NOTE: Use “back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news.

OMREB's e-newsletter is published and distributed on a quarterly basis with the next issue slated for late December 2011.

September 22, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: August Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's August 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 146 respondents participated in this survey – representing 43% of the 339 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 32.5% of the 448 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in August.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Linda Kerry of Macdonald Realty Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of October) for her participation in the August Survey. We thank Linda for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

AUGUST SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
22.9% by First Time Buyers
17.4% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
11.1% buying Revenue/Investment Property
10.4% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
7.6% Recreation Property Buyers
5.6% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
3.5% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Moving From:
50% from Within OMREB Board Area
18.8% from Alberta
10.4% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
10.4% from Other Areas in BC
6.3% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
2.8% from Outside Canada
1.4% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba

RESULTS: Click here for full summary of AUGUST results with pie charts.

HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for highlights and here for averaging comparisons for the past 12 months (September 2010 through August 2011). For the current "Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?" (September handout), click here.

REALTORLink Archive: A new Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

NEXT SURVEY: The September Survey will be emailed in early October to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of SEPTEMBER (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

September 9, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: August Buyer Survey Out Today!

The August 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing has been emailed today to the 339 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 448 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during AUGUST, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted (new last month). Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal.

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Sunday, September 18th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents. The September 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early October.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1, 2010 and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – August 31st for this survey).

NOTE: A new Monthly Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

September 9, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: OMREB Provincial Government Relations Update RE: HST Referendum Results!

On Tuesday, September 6th, OMREB Representatives met with local MLAs including Stewart, Letnik, Thompson, Foster which was also attended by various stakeholders related to the industry including Canadian Home Builders – Central Okanagan Chapter, Urban Development Institute, Chamber of Commerce and Southern Interior Construction Association.

In that meeting, we all impressed that government needs to get something figured out fast and that we cannot wait for answers regarding establishing transitional rules. We asked them to impress to the Finance Minister that strong and decisive leadership is needed now. Projects are on hold and many consumers are taking a wait and see approach. In that meeting, there were a number of proposals and ideas put forth regarding what might stimulate consumers to action, and various formulas were discussed whereby government could mitigate the negative impact of unraveling the current tax system making way for the reintroduction of the PST and GST.

Last week, BCREA contacted the Minister of Finance urging the speedy creation of transition rules and asked for clarification on whether PST will apply to new homes and how real estate commissions will be taxed. Real Estate Boards and REALTORS® across the province are getting lots of questions. It is difficult for a REALTOR® to offer professional counsel to their clients in light of these circumstances. As the transition is not expected to be complete until March 31, 2013, this means some potential new home buyers may put off their purchases until that time if they sense that there is not a concrete plan and transition rules set forth. In particular, we know well that our market in this region is particularly sensitive to these issues of taxation given our recreational and secondary home markets for both new construction and resale.

Feedback on this issue that you may have to forward to our local MLAs can be sent to Janice Myers, Executive Director at [email protected]

Click here for PDF of notice.

September 1, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: New Look to REALTORLink® Pages!

OMREB is happy to advise that the Board's Home and Department pages on REALTORLink® have been updated with new colours and logo to reflect the tones displayed on our public website, www.omreb.com

We hope that Members find the improved new look cleaner, crisper and easier on the eyes...

August 25, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Email Box Full?

Just a reminder for members to check their email inboxes to be sure that they are not full and are able to accept new email messages.

OMREB recently sent out an important notice via email on regulation changes. Some recipients did not receive that message due to full mailboxes.

Members are also asked to keep their email addresses up to date. You can either notify OMREB of your correct email, or proceed to the Education and Invoice History website to update your email address manually in the "My Services" section > View/Update Personal Information.

August 19, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Memo Regarding New Commercial Review

Click here for Memo to all OMREB Members from the Commercial Zone Executives regarding the new Commercial Real Estate Review publication.

August 11, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: July Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's July 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 152 respondents participated in this survey – representing 43% of the 352 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 28% of the 542 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in July.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Steve Hampton of Coldwell Banker Horizon Realty has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of September) for his participation in the July Survey. We thank Steve for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

JULY SURVEY SUMMARY & HIGHLIGHTS

Property Type: 26.0% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers
14.0% by First Time Buyers
11.5% moving from Single Family Home to Strata Unit
9.3% buying Revenue/Investment Property
4.7% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
4.7% Recreation Property Buyers
4.0% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community

Click here for full summary of JULY results with pie charts.

HIGHLIGHTS: For highlights and averaging comparisons for the past 11 months (September 2010 through July 2011), click here. For the current "Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?" (August handout), click here.

REALTORLink Archive: A new Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

August 3, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: New SentriLock Support Ticket

The SentriLock Customer Care Team advises that one of their main goals is to improve the member experience, and as a result, will soon make some very exciting additions to the format of the SentriLock support ticket email.

Not only will there be a direct link to the ticket information, but also a link for members to participate in an online survey and to several interactive tutorials. This survey will give members a voice to express any concerns or admiration they had during their call with SentriLock.

Below is a copy of the new email format:

Thank you for contacting SentriLock Support. Next to security, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We hope that your experience today was reflective of that and we invite you to take a quick 5 question survey so you can help us redefine what service means to you.

http://survey.sentrilock.com/survey/sid/EZ567Y2/1430091

To view your troubleshooting ticket, please click below: (Expired SentriCard - 14300912)

http://lockbox.sentrilock.com/lbs/support/ticketedit/14300912/

Become a SentriExpert! Watch our interactive tutorials to learn how to perform our most basic functions, like renewing your SentriCard ®, to our most advanced features, like customizing your lockbox.

http://www.youtube.com/sentrilock1

Sincerely,
SentriLock Customer Care Team
www.sentrilock.com
1-877-736-8745
Steven Sklar

August 3, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: July Buyers Survey Out Today!

The July 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed today to the 357 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers Agents for the 542 deals completed last month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JULY, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted (new last month). Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1, 2010 and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – July 31st for this survey).

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, August 10th at 11:00 pm. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online - link provided in personal email to Buyer's Agents. The August 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early September.

NOTE: A new Monthly Buyers Survey section has been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference.

July 29, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Changes to the MLS® Review and launch of Commercial Review!

You may have noticed that the MLS® Real Estate Review publication has received a make-over...

The front cover design has been upgraded to a more professional look and the size of the publication has been reduced so that it is now a standardized tabloid format - giving more press options for printing. Click here for sample cover.

As well, the Commercial Zone of OMREB has approved its own branded Commercial Review publication which will be produced 6 times per year, and will feature Commercial, Business and Farm Opportunities.

By reducing the size of the publication and taking the commercial listings out to be in their own publication, OMREB is able to keep printing costs down. Not only do we have a large listing inventory which increases costs, but paper prices are also on the rise.

The first Commercial Review will be delivered to offices Thursday, August 4th - provided that everything goes smoothly with the first run of the publication which is now in the testing phases.

You can send your feedback to [email protected]

July 20, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Buyers Survey Results Now on REALTORLink®!

A new Monthly Buyers Survey section has now been added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink® for easy reference.

Survey results will be posted monthly. 2011 results have now been archived for January through June, while 2010 results are archived for September through December.

Averages and highlights accumulated to date will also be updated and posted monthly along with a revised and current Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap? handout.

July 19, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: June Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's June 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 153 respondents participated in this survey – representing 42% of the 369 OMREB sales representatives who acted as Buyers Agents and 29% of the 538 deals closed on behalf of Buyers in June.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Carolyn Lorrain of RE/MAX Revelstoke has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of August) for her participation in the June Survey.

JUNE SURVEY SUMMARY & HIGHLIGHTS

Property Type: 23.8% by First Time Buyers 21.1% of purchases were by Move-Up Buyers 10.9% buying Revenue/Investment Property 6.8% moving from Single Family to Home Strata unit 6.1% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home 6.1% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community 5.4% Recreation Property Buyers

Moving From: 45.6% from Within OMREB Board Area 18.8% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island 16.1% from Alberta 12.8% from Other Areas in BC 3.4% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba 2.7% from Outside Canada 0.7% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes

Click here for full summary of JUNE results with pie charts.

Click here for highlights and averaging comparisons for the past 10 months, and here for the current "Who is Buying Homes in the Okanagan-Shuswap?" handout.

REALTORLINK ARCHIVE: In the near future, a new Buyers Survey section will be added to OMREB's Statistics page on REALTORLink where Buyers Survey results, averages and highlights can be posted and archived for easy reference. Watch the MATRIX Home Page for an advisory!

July 12, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: MLS® Regulation Revision re: Multiple Offers

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the MLS® Regulation 7.33 – Multiple Offers, as set out in the attached - the only change being shown in the strikethrough.

The entire Regulation is printed as a reminder to Members, and to provide context to the change. A Member was recently fined $1,000 for not adhering to the regulation.

Click here for details. This Memo was emailed to all Members today.

NOTE: Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Wednesday, July 27th, 2011. Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director: [email protected]

July 12, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: MLS® Regulation Addition re: Mere Postings

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the MLS® Regulation 7.19 Contingent Listings by adding clause (d) Mere Postings, as outlined in the attached.

Click here for details and education piece from BCREA that will be posted to WEBForms for future reference. This Memo was emailed to all Members today.

NOTE: Any Member who has a position regarding this Regulation revision should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Wednesday, July 27th, 2011. Please direct your comments and questions to Janice Myers, Executive Director: [email protected]

July 8, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: June Buyers Survey Out Today!

The June 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from, what and where they are purchasing was emailed this morning to the 369 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers' Agents for 538 deals completed last month.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1st and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – June 30th for this current survey).

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during JUNE, you will receive a link to the online survey in a separate email for each deal with its MLS Number noted (new for this month). Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal.

If you did not receive an email invitation as a Buyers Agent for a sale that was completed and unconditional during June, please email [email protected].

DEADLINE: The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be 4:00 pm on Monday, July 18th. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

SAMPLE SURVEY: Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey is attached for your info - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online and accessible via link provided in personal email invitation). The July 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early August.

MAY RESULTS: Results and highlights from the May 2011 Buyers Survey were posted to the Matrix Home Page in mid-June and will remain until the June results are posted in mid-July. They are archived here in the Board Notices tab..

July 6, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: June Stats & Releases Posted!

Members are advised that the June 2011 Statistics packages and Media Releases for each Zone are now available on REALTORLink® (please login to access).

The stats were posted for members on Saturday, July 2nd and the releases were uploaded before noon today.

Public Site: Current and archived Market Statistics are also available to the public on www.omreb.com. Click here to view online. NOTE: Use “back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news.

July 4, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Stay Connected with Summer e-News!

The summer edition of OMREB's quarterly online MAINLINE Connection newsletter is being emailed to all OMREB Members today and has also been posted to REALTORLink. Watch your inbox!

Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The lead story features Member Survey Draw Winners and thanks members who took the time to provide their feedback. Survey results will assist OMREB's Board of Directors in Strategic Planning to provide products and services that respond to our Members’ ever changing needs.

Click here to view online. NOTE: Use “back” button (if available) to return to newsletter from linked docs or close document with “X” at top right of each page to resume reading e-news.

OMREB's e-newsletter is published and distributed on a quarterly basis with the next issue slated for late September 2011.

June 27, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: MLS® Review Racks Now Available Through Board!

OMREB advises that the Board has now taken over the ordering and sales of the black two-shelf MLS® Real Estate Review racks, and they are now available to all Zone Offices.

Please note that there is currently a limited supply in stock. These indoor racks (not weather proof) will be added to the Board's Sundry Supply Order Form at a cost of $72 plus $8.64 HST for a total of $80.64.

The racks can be delivered the Board's in-house courier, or by regular courier to those offices who are not on the regular Board delivery list.

To order, click here to download, print and complete the revised Sundry Supply Order Form that will be available with Board Forms on REALTORLink and the OMREB Common Forms Repository in the HELP Section on Matrix. Fax your order into the Board Office as noted on the form.

If you have any questions, please contact Kate Smith or Karen Hansen at the Board: 250-491-4560 or 1-866-491-4560 Toll Free (Ext 227 for Kate / Ext 221 for Karen).

An email has been sent to all Managing Brokers, and copied to Zone Executives, to advise of the change.

June 17, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Sub-Area Name Changes for Lake Country

Further to the letters of concern received from Carr’s Landing Community and Recreational Association, Lake Country Chamber of Commerce and Lake Country Mayor’s Office, the OMREB Board of Directors have approved the following changes to the sub-areas represented in the MATRIX MLS® System and the MLS® Real Estate Review:

1) CHANGE the Name of Carr’s Landing District TO: Lake Country North West

2) CHANGE the Name of Lake Country West TO: Lake Country South West

Members are advised that these changes are effective immediately, so please update your listings accordingly.

The Carr’s Landing District represented on our map included areas not appropriately identified as Carr’s Landing, and thereby, caused some confusion for constituents and was deemed to violate legal neighborhood constituencies. The above solution is a compromise that does not require OMREB to extensively revise our database.

June 17, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: SentriCard® Reminder

It is extremely important to everyone concerned that SentriCards® are updated by putting the card in the card reader after a day of showings.

The information stored on the chip of your card contains important showing activity information, and once placed in the card reader, transfers that important data to the system and provides the Listing Agent with the information that someone has been to their property.

By updating your card regularly, the Listing agent has an accurate and timely audit trail of showing activity on listings.

June 17, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Personal Real Estate Corp Reminder!

Do you have a Personal Real Estate Corporation (PREC) designation but it is not appearing with your profile on REALTOR.CA? Please notify the Board immediately so your designation can be added.

REMINDER: If you obtain the PREC designation in the future, please remember to advise OMREB about this as the Real Estate Council does not provide us with Licensee updates.

Please contact Member Services Coordinator Kate Smith at 250-491-4560, Ext 227 / 1-866-491-4560 Toll Free, or [email protected] to keep your information up to date.

June 16, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: May 2011 Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's May 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 151 respondents participated in this survey – 40% of the 376 OMREB sales representatives who closed the 538 deals on behalf of Buyers last month.

MAY SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type: 27.4% of purchases were by Move Up Buyers
19.2% by First Time Buyers
9.6% moving from Single Family to Home Strata unit
7.5% buying Revenue/Investment Property
6.2% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home
5.5% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
2.7% Recreation Property Buyers

Family Dynamic: 29.8% of Buyers were Two Parent Families with Children
23.2% Empty Nesters or Retired
21.2% Couples without Children
13.9% Single Females
9.9% Single Males
4.6% Single Parent Families with Children

Financing: 60% financed via Conventional Mortgage (with more than 20% down)
26% paid by Cash
14.7% by High Ratio Mortgage (less than 20% down)
0.7% required Rental Income to Qualify for Financing

Moving From: 53.6% from Within OMREB Board Area
19.2% from Alberta
11.9% from Other Areas in BC
6.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
4% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
3.3% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
1.3% from Outside Canada

Moving To: 49.7% of purchases were in Kelowna/West Kelowna
25.2% in Vernon/Coldstream
9.3% in Central Okanagan (other than Kelowna/West Kelowna)
6% in Shuswap/Revelstoke (other than Salmon Arm)
6% in North Okanagan (other than Vernon/Coldstream) 4% in Salmon Arm

May 2011 Survey Results: Click here for a summary of MAY results with pie charts added for quick reference.

2011 AVERAGE – January through May: On average during the first 5 months of 2011, home buyers have been coming from within the OMREB Board area (60.3%); Alberta (13.84%); other areas of BC (8.10%); Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (8.08%); Eastern Canada/Maritimes (3.86%); Saskatchewan/Manitoba (2.94%); and outside Canada (1.88%). So far this year, on average move-up buyers accounted for 28.86% of the purchasers while first-time buyers comprised 19.8%.

9-MONTH AVERAGE - September 2010 through May 2011: On average, over the last quarter of 2010 and first quarter of 2011, home buyers have been coming from within the OMREB Board area (59.09%); Alberta (14.42%); Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (10.56%); other areas of BC (7.97%); Eastern Canada/Maritimes (2.98%); Saskatchewan/Manitoba (2.67%); and outside Canada (1.88%). On average move-up buyers accounted for 25.97% of the purchasers while first-time buyers comprised 11.12% during the 9 months OMREB’s Buyers Survey has been conducted.

2010-2011 Highlights: Click here for highlight comparisons-averages for the past 9 months.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Louisa Cochrane of RE/MAX Vernon has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of July) for his participation in the May Survey. We thank Louisa for taking the time to answer the required questions about her Buyers and their purchases.

NEXT SURVEY: The June Survey will be emailed in early July to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of JUNE (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

June 15, 2011

OMREB NOTICE: Sub-Area Changes Outside Board Area for Shuswap

OMREB Members in the Shuswap Zone are advised of the following changes to the Outside Board Area – Sub Areas, effective immediately:

RENAME: MP - Monte Lk / Paxton Vly
TO: MLWW – Monte Lake / Westwold

ADD: AL - Adams Lake

REMOVE: US – United States

REMOVE: VA – Vancouver

These changes are now completed. Please update your listings accordingly - where necessary.

Thank you,
OMREB Technical Department
Charles Howarth, MCP IT Manager - OMREB Phone (Kelowna and Area): 250-491-4560, Ext 232 All Other Areas: Toll Free - 1-866-491-4560 Email: [email protected]

June 13, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: MLS® Regulation Revision - Section 7.9 Deadline for Entry of Listings

In accordance with Section 18 of the OMREB By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the above noted MLS® Regulation as set out in the attached.
Click here for detailed Memo emailed to Members. The deadline for comments is July 5th.

June 8, 2011

BOARD ADVISORY: May Buyers Survey Out Today!

The May 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing was emailed to applicable Members this morning.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1st and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – May 31st for this survey).

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during MAY, you will receive an email with a link to the online survey. Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal.

The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, June 15th. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey - for info only and not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online with link provided in personal email. The June 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early July.

NOTE: Results for the April Survey and highlights for the past eight months were posted on May 20th and are still available for downloading and review (scroll down for May 20 posting). Results from past surveys are also archived here.

June 7, 2011

BOARD ADVISORY: Remembering Erik Lund...

LUND, Erik Philip (July 2, 1926 to June 3, 2011) – It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of long-time member Erik Lund, formerly of Royal LePage Kelowna and 4 Seasons Realty.

Erik joined OMREB in 1970 and was licensed as an Associate Broker at the time of his retirement. He served as a Director of the Board in 1978, and sat on the Arbitration, Discipline, Complaints and Ethics Committee.

Erik is remembered as a kind and friendly gentleman. Over the years, he touched many lives and will be greatly missed by his real estate colleagues and friends. Heartfelt wishes are extended to Erik’s wife Cecile, son Flemming, family and close associates at this most difficult time.

In accordance with Erik’s wishes, there will not be a funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Erik’s memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting www.mem.com.

Click here for Obituary (news clipping with photo).

June 1, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: SentriLock Reminder!

When experiencing troubles with a lockbox or SentriCard®, members are reminded to please contact SentriLock first via toll free number on the reverse side of your SentriCard® (1-877-736-8745).

Then, if the lockbox or SentriCard® has been deemed defective by SentriLock, the defective item must be returned to the OMREB Board Office for replacement. Please do NOT throw it out.

May 27, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: From the Boardroom - May 2011!

Your Directors met on Thursday, May 19, 2011. The highlights of this meeting are included in the current From the Boardroom report:

* MLS® and Other Regulations
* Communications and Strategic Planning
* Membership
* Federal and Provincial Affairs
* StrataDocs Website Project

NOTE: The OMREB Directors want you to be aware that several Regulation Change proposals will be sent out in the coming weeks - as outlined in this Boardroom report. Please watch for them to arrive by email and they will be posted to the MATRIX Home Page. You will have an opportunity to give the Directors feedback prior to their formal approval.

Click here to review the latest Boardroom Summary with details regarding proposed regulation changes, new member applications and current membership numbers.

May 20, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: April Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's April 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 100 respondents participated in this survey – 28% response rate for the 440 deals completed by OMREB members representing Buyers for April, or 31% of the 328 OMREB sales representatives who closed sales on behalf of Buyers last month.

APRIL SURVEY SUMMARY

Property Type:
27.7% of purchases were by Move Up Buyers
14.9% Moving from Single Family to Home Strata unit
10.6% by First Time Buyers
6.4% buying Revenue/Investment Property
6.4% Recreation Property Buyers
6.4% moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community
5.3% moving from Strata property to Single Family Home

Family Dynamic:
32.3% of Buyers were Two Parent Families with Children
24.2% Empty Nesters or Retired
17.2% Couples without Children
13.1% Single Females
10.1% Single Males
5.1% Single Parent Families with Children

Financing:
54.2% financed via Conventional Mortgage (with more than 20% down)
34.4% paid by Cash
13.5% by High Ratio Mortgage (less than 20% down)
1% required Rental Income to Qualify for Financing

Moving From:
54.5% from Within OMREB Board Area
21.2% from Alberta
12.1% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island
5.1% from Other Areas in BC
5.1% from Eastern Canada/Maritimes
2% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba
0% from Outside Canada

Moving To:
56% of purchases were in Kelowna/West Kelowna
13% in Vernon/Coldstream
10% in Shuswap/Revelstoke (other than Salmon Arm)
10% in Central Okanagan (other than Kelowna/West Kelowna)
6% in Salmon Arm
5% in North Okanagan (other than Vernon/Coldstream)

APRIL 2011 SURVEY RESULTS: Click here for a summary of April results with pie charts added for quick reference.

8-MONTH AVERAGE - September 2010 through April 2011: On average, over the last quarter of 2010 and first quarter of 2011, home buyers have been coming from within the OMREB Board area (59.59%); Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island (11.93%); Alberta (11.35%); other areas of BC (7.48%); outside Canada (2.86%); Saskatchewan/Manitoba (2.85%); and Eastern Canada/Maritimes (2.07%). During this period, move-up buyers accounted for 23.24% of the purchasers while first-time buyers comprised 21.43%.

2010-2011 HIGHLIGHTS: Click here for highlight comparisons for the past 8 months.


CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Derek Martin of RE/MX Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of June) for his participation in the March Survey. We thank Derek and all Member participants for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

The May 2011 Survey will be emailed in early June to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of MAY (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

May 11, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: April Buyers Survey Out Today!

The April 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from, what and where they are purchasing was emailed this morning to the 328 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers' Agents for 440 deals completed last month.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1st and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – April 30th for this current survey).

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during APRIL, you will receive an email with a link to the online survey. Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal. If you are not clear on which deals to include for this past month, contact Jan Bauman at [email protected] for MLS numbers.

If you did not receive an email invitation and acted as a Buyers Agent for a sale that was completed and unconditional during April, please email [email protected].

DEADLINE: The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Wednesday, May 18th. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

SAMPLE SURVEY: Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey is attached for your info (for information only - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online and accessible via link provided in personal email invitation). The May 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early to mid-June.

FEBRUARY RESULTS: Results and highlights from the March 2011 Buyers Survey are still posted on the Matrix Home Page..

May 4, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: 2011 OMREB Member Survey Invitation!

Please be advised that the invitation for the 2011 OMREB Member Survey was be emailed to Members yesterday afternoon by Alec Milne of Framework Partners. Check your inbox! ( Click here for a sample of the personalized email with survey link highlighted.)

In order to determine your views, we are asking for a few moments of your time to respond to this survey. On Wednesday, May 4th, you were be contacted by Framework Partners, an independent research firm, who will ask you to complete an online survey.

We recognize that your time is valuable. By completing the survey, you will automatically be entered into a draw for one of the following prizes (your name must be provided to be eligible):

• GRAND PRIZE Draw: Choice of iPad 2 OR Blackberry Playbook ($500 value)
• SECOND PRIZE Draw: Donation to the Charity of Your Choice ($250 value)
• THIRD PRIZE Draw: Free registration for “Legal Update” course ($125 value)
• OPTION TO DONATE: Draw Winners have the option to donate their prize to charity

DIRECT LINK TO ONLINE SURVEY: http://www.framework-partners.com/survey/omreb.html

SURVEY DEADLINE: Friday, May 20th, 2011.

Your Board of Directors will use the information gathered from this survey to measure members’ opinions, attitudes, expectations, satisfaction and valuation of your Board’s products and services. The conclusions reached from this project will assist OMREB in continuing to provide products and services that respond to members’ ever changing needs.

We thank you in advance for your participation and input.

April 29, 2011

MAY 2 ELECTION DAY: Get Out and Vote!

Just a reminder that 2011 Federal Election Day is Monday, May 2nd. OMREB Members are encouraged to get out and vote for the Candidate and Party of their choice.

To help make an informed decision, the Board is providing information regarding the four Electoral Districts within OMREB’s jurisdiction along with links to candidate bios and party websites.

Click here to download info.

April 20, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: March Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's March 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 90 respondents participated in this survey – 19% response rate for the 476 deals completed by OMREB members representing Buyers for March, or 27% of the 335 OMREB sales representatives who closed sales on behalf of Buyers last month.

March Survey Highlights: 25.6% of purchases were by Move Up Buyers, 18.9% by First Time Buyers, 13.3% Moving from Single Family to Home Strata unit, 11.1% Buying Revenue/Investment Property, 5.6% Moving from Strata to Single Family Home, another 5.6% Recreation Property Buyers, and 2.2% Moving into Retirement Home/Seniors Community; 25.8% of Buyers were Couples without Children, another 25.8% were Empty Nesters or Retired, 22.5% were Two Parent Families with Children, 13.5% Single Males, 6.7% Single Females, and another 6.7% were Single Parent Families with Children; 45.3% financed via Conventional Mortgage (with more than 20% down), 37.2% paid by Cash, 16.3% by High Ratio Mortgage (less than 20% down), and 2.3% required Rental Income to Qualify for Financing; 57.8% were from Within OMREB Board Area, 13.3% from Alberta, 8.9% from Other Areas in BC, 6.7% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, 4.4% from Saskatchewan/Manitoba, another 4.4% from Manitoba/Maritimes, and 4.4% from Outside Canada; 47.8% of purchases were in Kelowna/West Kelowna, 14.4% in Vernon/Coldstream, 12.2% in Shuswap/Revelstoke (other than Salmon Arm), 10% in North Okanagan (other than Vernon/Coldstream), 7.8% in Central Okanagan (other than Kelowna/West Kelowna), and another 7.8% in Salmon Arm.

March Survey Results: Click here for a summary of March results (pie charts have been added for quick reference), and click here for highlight comparisons for January through March 2011 and September through December 2010.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Jann Harrison of Royal LePage Kelowna has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of May) for his participation in the March Survey. We thank Jann and all Member participants for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

The April 2011 Survey will be emailed in early May to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of APRIL (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

April 19, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Summer Student Posting!!

The Board is seeking an energetic, multi-tasking business focused student to work full-time over the summer on various projects, as assigned and as may arise. Click here to download and print Ad.

Summer Employment Term: Approximately 12 weeks

Examples of Summer Projects Include:

• Working with the Commercial Building Award Committee to find eligible nominations;
• Assisting with research and development of Board Policy & Procedure Manual;
• Assisting with articulation of “process documentation” for various staffing positions;
• Research for various IT projects such as street and city dictionary enhancements to the OMREB’s Multiple Listing Service® software.

Qualifications: The ideal candidate will be a confident and independent self-starter able to find ways to contribute in a team environment with new ideas and perspective, and will have strong research, analytical and organization skills including the ability to write concise reports. The successful student will have outstanding computer skills and an interest in the real estate profession.

Application Requirements: Please apply with resume attachment and cover letter outlining how your education path and life experience make you an ideal candidate for this position.

Apply Via Email to: Attention - Executive Director: [email protected]

By Application Deadline: 4:30 pm on Friday, May 5th, 2011.

April 13, 2011

BOARD REMINDER: One Day Access Codes!

The Board has received numerous complaints from Board Member Appraisers with regards to Member REALTORS® being reluctant to or not knowing how to provide one-day-access codes to gain access to lockboxes so that Appraisers can conduct appraisals on properties.

OMREB is working diligently to provide Appraisers who are Members of the Board with their own SentriCards®. However, in the meantime, we remind Members that entry is easily facilitated with one day access codes. These codes can be modified to specific and limited times, and once you know how to assign them they are also easy to administer for Home Inspectors.

Assistance in obtaining a one-day-access code is available by calling the SentriLock toll-free number on the back of the SentriCard® or on-line at www.sentrilock.ca

Once signed on, go to HELP in the top right hand corner then select the link for Main Menu for Agents. From there, scroll to the bottom of the page where you will find a link for Add 1 Day Codes. By following the instructions you will be able to assign and provide a one-day-access code for the Appraiser.

Remember, the Appraiser could be working for your client next time! Let’s help them do their jobs conveniently and professionally. For any additional assistance, please contact Kate Smith or Karen Hansen at the OMREB Office: 250-491-4560 or 1-866-491-4560 Toll Free.

April 13, 2011

REAL ESTATE FOUNDATION OF BC: 2010 Grant Activity Reported!

While the Real Estate Foundation of BC’s income is still recovering after the last major economic downturn, the Staff and Board were more active than ever during 2010.

The Board of Governors approved 67 grants totalling nearly $1.8 million last year. With a focus on projects that demonstrate leadership and innovation, collaboration and scalability, and which provide an ongoing resource for the community, the Foundation provided grants from $2,000 to over $200,000 to support sustainable and responsible land use and real estate practices.

As income grows, the Foundation will be able to increase its grants budget once again. For a summary of last year's grants and acivities, click here to download the REFBC 2010 Annual Report. For more information about the Foundation and its role, visit: www.realestatefoundation.com.

April 12, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: March Buyers Survey Out Today!

The March 2011 Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from, what and where they are purchasing was emailed this morning to the 335 OMREB Members who acted as Buyers' Agents for 476 deals completed last month.

The new monthly survey was launched on October 1st and is scheduled to go out the first week of each month for deals that became unconditional during the previous month (all subjects off and paperwork submitted and in the system by the last day of the month – March 31st for this current survey).

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during March, you will receive an email with a link to the online survey. Watch your inbox! A separate survey should be completed for each deal. If you are not clear on which deals to include for this past month, contact Jan Bauman at [email protected] for MLS numbers.

If you did not receive an email invitation and acted as a Buyers Agent for a sale that was copleted and unconditional during March, please email [email protected].

DEADLINE: The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be Tuesday, April 19th. The survey results will be posted on Matrix later that week.

SAMPLE SURVEY: Click here for sample (PDF) of the monthly survey is attached for your info (for information only - not for completion and submission as the actual survey is online and accessible via link provided in personal email invitation). The April 2011 Survey is scheduled for release in early to mid-May.

FEBRUARY RESULTS: Results and highlights from the February 2011 Buyers Survey are still posted on the Matrix Home Page (March 18th news item).

April 4, 2011

BOARD NEWS: Spring 2011 e-Newsletter!

OMREB’s Spring 2011 edition (Volume 2, Issue 1) of The Mainline CONNECTION e-newsletter is being emailed to Members today! Stay connected about Board activities, regulation updates and disciplinary actions, new members, and various “need to know” items.

The theme of this issue is “New Beginnings” – featuring a message from OMREB’s new President George Cwiklewski who takes up the challenge to raise the bar of professionalism and a higher quality of life for the Membership and Clients. An introduction to the members who serve as your 2011-12 Directors is also included for your information.

To read, Click here to view the online version or here to download and view the PDF. Use the “Back” button to return to newsletter from linked documents.

March 23, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Meet Your 2011 Directors!

The Board of Directors page on REALTORLink® > Board Info has been updated to include photos, portfolios and contact information for OMREB's 2011-2012 President George Cwiklewski and 11 Directors.

Click here to "meet" your new Board of Directors (download PDF of page)!

March 18, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: February Buyers Survey Results!

The results of OMREB's February 2011 Buyers Survey are in! A total of 96 respondents participated in this survey – 27% response rate for the 360 deals completed by OMREB members representing Buyers for January, or 32% of the 268 OMREB sales representatives who closed sales on behalf of Buyers last month.

February Survey Highlights: 31.9% of purchases were by First Time Buyers, and 24.2% by Move Up Buyers; 26.4% of Buyers were Two Parent Families with Children, 25.3% Couples Without Children, 16.5% were Single Females, 16.5% Empty Nesters/Retirees, 7.7% Single Parents with Children, and 6.6% Single Males; 55.8% financed via Conventional Mortgage (with more than 20% down), 31.6% by High Ratio Mortgage (less than 20% down), and 11.6% paid by Cash; 69.9% were from Within OMREB Board Area, 8.6% from Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island, 8.6% from Other Areas in BC, and 6.5% from Alberta; 64.2% of purchases were in Kelowna/West Kelowna, 20% in Vernon/Coldstream, and 4.2% in Salmon Arm.

February Survey Results: Click here for a summary of February results (pie charts have been added for quick reference), and here for highlights in comparison to January. For 4th quarter 2010 comparisons (September through December), click here.

CONGRATULATIONS! We are happy to report that Ken Magel of RE/MAX Shuswap has won the draw for a "Free MATRIX User Fee" (month of April) for his participation in the February Survey. We thank Ken and all Member participants for taking the time to answer the required questions about his Buyers and their purchases.

The March Survey will be emailed in early April to members who acted as Buyers Agents for deals that officially closed during the month of March (became unconditional with all subjects removed and paperwork in the system by the end of the month).

March 16, 2011

SENTRILOCK NOTICE: New Lockbox Marketing Pieces!

SentriLock has released its 8th Edition of the SentiCares Agent newsletter (March 17, 2010). This user update introduces two new marketing pieces SentriLock has crafted for our Members:
* The Competitive Advantage flyer is to encourage Agents in the usage of electronic lockboxes, and the many benefits they have over mechanical lockboxes.
* The Homeowner Advantage flyer is a customizable PDF document that your listing Agents can use to inform homeowners about the security and conveniences of electronic lockboxes.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during September, you will receive an email with a link to the online survey on Friday, October 1st. Watch your inbox! A separate survey must be completed for each deal. The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be October 15th. The survey results will be posted at a later date.

Click here to download current issue. All past Agent Newsletters can be accessed directly via a link provided in the right column of the MATRIX Home Page as "SentriCares Newsletters": www.sentrilock.com/sentricares.

SentriLock looks forward to announcing exciting new features and system enhancements that bring even more value to the lockbox system investment for our membership. Stay tuned for more system user tools and tips!

March 14, 2011

SENTRILOCK NOTICE: SentriLock Adds More Support!

Sentrilock is excited to advise that they will be welcoming 8 new employees to their Support Center team:

"Over the course of the past few months, we have experienced a fluctuation in call volumes and unpredictability in call delivery patterns. These uncontrollable factors have presented challenging scenarios for our Support Center staff, though they continue to strive to exceed expectations.

Despite these challenges, I’m proud to share with you that we continue to meet our Average Speed of Answer (ASA) goal of less than 30 seconds. Although our overall goals are being achieved, there are intervals during the day in which callers may experience longer hold times. This primarily occurs between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. ET (Eastern Time) or 8:00 a.m. to noon PT (Pacific Time). During other parts of the day (morning or late afternoon), your members will most likely experience very little hold times.

We anticipate that, with the addition of 8 new resources along with our continued real-time adjustments and inter-departmental assistance, these challenges will begin to fade.

We appreciate your understanding and support towards ensuring a high level of service for your members.

Chris Ralstin - Senior Manager, Customer Relations"
If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during September, you will receive an email with a link to the online survey on Friday, October 1st. Watch your inbox! A separate survey must be completed for each deal. The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be October 15th. The survey results will be posted at a later date.

March 11, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: 2011-2012 President and Directors

The Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) is pleased to announce the election of George Cwiklewski of Kelowna to the position of President for the 2011-2012 term. He was installed along with 11 Directors representing the Central Okanagan, North Okanagan and Shuswap Zones at OMREB’s Annual General Meeting on March 10th.

Cwiklewski has been a Member of OMREB since 1994 and has served as a Director for the past five years. He replaces outgoing President Brenda Moshansky of Peachland who stays on as Past President.

“This is a challenging and exciting time to become President,” Cwiklewski says. “I am very proud to represent the professional REALTORS® of the Okanagan, Shuswap and Revelstoke areas, and of the Board’s role in furthering professionalism through continuing education. I fully support the many initiatives undertaken by our members to help attain a higher quality of life in all our communities.”

Cwiklewski has been a REALTOR® for 17 years and with Macdonald Realty since 1996. A resident of Kelowna for more than 40 years, he has been recognized for outstanding community service and contribution to the well-being of our city, particularly through his cultural efforts and support of the arts. George was the recipient of OMREB's first REALTORS® Care Award for the Central Okanagan in 2006. He was a finalist for the “Man of the Year” and awarded the “Honour in the Arts” for the City of Kelowna's Civic and Community Awards in 2008.

“As President, I look forward to continuing to raise the profile of our Board locally and within the province while working with governments and other stakeholders to enhance housing opportunities for families in the Board area,” notes George. “I am hopeful that relatively low mortgage rates and moderate home prices will continue to allow more first-time buyers to enter the market this year, and will encourage investors to develop more rental opportunities for those who are not in a position to buy.”

“As consumer confidence strengthens, the economy improves and employment grows, and the market stabilizes and begins to normalize in the Okanagan, more buyers and sellers will be able to reach their housing goals in 2011,” he adds. “Our region will continue to attract national and international buyer interest through our exceptional lifestyle and weather – not to mention the pristine lakes, wineries and orchards, ski hills and golf courses, schools and commerce, arts and sports, and a very busy international airport.”

Rob Shaw of Royal LePage Downtown Realty in Vernon was officially installed as the Vice President of the Board of Directors. Rob has been a Member of OMREB since 1995 and has served as a Director for six years – serving from 2003 through 2009 and returning for 2011/2012 – and has held various portfolios during this time.

OMREB’s 2011/2012 Board:
• George Cwiklewski (Macdonald Realty, Kelowna – President)
• Rob Shaw (Royal LePage Downtown Realty, Vernon – Vice President)
• Brenda Moshansky (Coldwell Banker-Horizon Realty, Kelowna – Past President)
• John Adolf (Prudential Kelowna Properties – Central Zone)
• Francis Braam (Royal LePage Kelowna – Central Zone)
• Kent Jorgenson (RE/MAX Kelowna – Central Zone)
• Scott Mayne (Points West Realty Group, Kelowna – Central Zone)
• Barret Watson (Coldwell Banker Horizon, Kelowna – Central Zone)
• Darcy Griffiths (RE/MAX Vernon – North Zone)
• Rorie Holton (Royal LePage Downtown Realty, Vernon – North Zone)
• Steve Lewis (Shirley Real Estate, Salmon Arm – Shuswap Zone)
• Karen Singbeil (RE/MAX at Mara Lake, Sicamous – Shuswap Zone)

Click here to download printable PDF of this release with photo of OMREB 2011-12 President George Cwiklewski.

March 4, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: From the Boardroom Update for February!

Your OMREB Directors met on February 25th, 2011. Click here for highlights of the meeting regarding: MLS Regulations, Communications, Membership and Professional Standards, Provincial/Federal Political Action, and Strategic Planning.

NOTE: This "From the Boardroom" update contains a Member Consent to Discipline.

February 23, 2011

BOARD UPDATE: HST Facts for Home Buyers - Update!

With the introduction of the HST, home buyers want to clearly understand how it affects new and resale housing. While HST now applies to new residential housing, the BC government has implemented changes that minimize or eliminate the net impact to home buyers.

NEW! For the government rationale behind the Harmonized Sales Tax and answers to consumer questions, visit: www.hstinbc.ca/

For comprehensive information regarding the HST and how it affects the cost of new homes and professional services, visit the Shelter Taxes section of BCREA's website: www.bcrea.bc.ca/sheltertaxes/hst.htm

Included on the BCREA HST page are links to: Government of BC media release and backgrounder, Province Increases New Housing Rebate Threshold; and Ministry of Finance Tax Information Notice titled, Residential Housing - New Housing Rebates and Transitional Rules for British Columbia HST.

CHBA Fact Sheet: To help home buyers understand the HST, the Canadian Home Builders' Association (CHBA) has prepared a simple fact sheet to clarify the tax and help consumers calculate their new home tax rebate - a rebate that is available for all new residential home purchases.

Click here to download HST for Home Buyers: How Will HST Affect Me? (CHBA).

All documents and links mentioned above have been posted to OMREB's public website www.omreb.com under Buying a Home > The Hidden Costs (HST section) for easy reference for buyers: www.omreb.com/page.php?pageID=64.

February 9, 2011

BOARD NOTICE: Inter-Board Listing Info Posted!

Taking the mystery out of the inter-board process...

When a REALTOR® accepts a listing outside our Board area, this is called an “inter-board listing”. OMREB works in cooperation with the jurisdictional board to get your listed property put on the MLS® system representing the area in which it is located. Only the jurisdictional board has the ability to feed the listings for properties within its board area to CREA for inclusion on their public website REALTOR.ca.

For example, a property located in Williams Lake can be listed by a Kelowna OMREB member, but the BC Northern Board would need to add the listing to their MLS® system in order for it to show publicly for sale on REALTOR.ca. This is the intent of the “Pledge of Co-operation” between all the Real Estate Boards within British Columbia.

There is a process to follow in listing out-of-board area properties. Click here for an information package available to assist members with this process. The document can be found in the new OMREB Common Forms Repository in the HELP tab of Matrix® and has been posted on REALTORLink® under Board Forms > Inter-Board Listings Info.

Inquiries concerning out-of-board area listings should be directed to Karen Hansen at the OMREB Office: 250-491-4580, Ext 221 (Toll Free 1-866-491-4560, Ext 221) or [email protected]

September 28, 2010

BOARD NOTICE: New Monthly Buyers Survey Launches This Week!

OMREB is pleased to announce the launch of a new monthly Buyers Survey to determine where buyers are from and where they are purchasing. The survey will be emailed to applicable Members the first of each month for deals that became unconditional (all subjects off) during the previous month.

If you acted as a Buyer's Agent for a sale that was completed during September, you will receive an email with a link to the online survey on Friday, October 1st. Watch your inbox! A separate survey must be completed for each deal. The deadline for responses to this month's survey will be October 15th. The survey results will be posted at a later date.

Click here for a sample (PDF) of the September survey slated for release on this week (not for completion and submission as the actual survey will be online).

June 1, 2010

BOARD NOTICE: Proposed MLS Regulation Revisions - 3 Pillar Compliance!

In accordance with Section 18 of OMREB Bylaws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the MLS® Regulations to comply with CREA's Three Pillars. Click here for Memo to Members outlining the rationale for changes, and on the above link for the proposed revisions. Click here for Memo to Members outlining the rationale for changes, and here to review the proposed revisions. The deadline for comments to the Board is Friday, June 4th.

May 26, 2010

BOARD INFO: New "Who to Ask Guide"!

Click here for new "Who to Ask Guide" outlining 'who to ask about what' at the Board Office.

NOTE: This information is also available in the Matrix HELP Section under "OMREB Provided Help Documents" and on the "Board Info" page on REALTORLink.

APRIL 26, 2010

PROPOSED MLS® REGULATION REVISIONS: Section H - Lockboxes and Keys!

In accordance with Section 18 of the Board By-Laws, please be advised that your Board of Directors intends to revise the above noted MLS® Regulation.

Rationale: The Regulations required updating and revisions as a result of the move from SUPRA to Sentrilock, and because the Shuswap Zone has now also converted from a mechanical system to the Sentrilock electronic system.

Any Member who has a position regarding the attached Regulation revisions and additions should ensure that comments are received in writing by the Board Office no later than Wednesday May 12th, 2010. Please direct your comments to Janice Myers, OMREB Executive Director. Her email address is: [email protected]

Click here for Memo and proposed changes - emailed to all OMREB Members today.

March 25, 2010

OMREB LOCKBOX EXCHANGE: Answers to the Top Four Questions!

OMREB has received an overwhelming number of calls with regards to the lockbox exchange, so to answer the top four questions:

1. Q. If I only have three AE-II (Grey) lockboxes do I get a credit for half a new lockbox?

A. No, there is no credit for one grey lockbox. A suggestion is to either sell the one to someone who also has an odd number or buy one from someone who also has an odd number.

2. Q. Do I need to fill out the form to report the lockboxes I will be bringing in for exchange?

A. No, the form is for ordering more lockboxes than what will be received at the exchange.

3. Q. How do I know what lockboxes are in my inventory?

A. By accessing the website link below a member's lockbox inventory can be looked up and a report printed.

Select Agents - Log on to SupraWeb then by using the key number from the back of your key and your pin number, then select our Board and this will log you on to the SupraWeb. At the top of the page, there will be a link for Listings then on the left will be a link to KeyBoxes and this should give you a list of all your lockboxes. If there is a Yield sign in the right hand column, click on the sign then add the keybox back into the system. It will tell you the box will need to be deleted first, so say Yes to this screen which will take you to the next screen where you will select Add.

http://www.gesecurity.com/portal/site/GESecurity/menuitem.89ac3174dcfc02daa78bdd9856030730/?vgnextoid=30954c85b2aba010VgnVCM100000592d7003RCRD

4. Q. I haven't received the invitation email from SentriLock to register for the training and exchange. What do I do?

A. Check to ensure the email address the Board has for you is current - this will be the email address on Matrix® as well. If the address is correct, check your junk mail box as some virus protectors and service providers are treating the email as Spam. If neither of these is the problem, then call the SentriLock Support line at 1-877-433-6998 and press "1" for Technical Support. They will be happy to register you for the training and exchange.

Click here for a printable version of this Q & A.

March 15, 2010

BOARD NOTICE: 2009 REALTORS® Care Award Recipients!

Four members who give of their time, money and expertise through exemplary volunteer efforts were acknowledged at OMREB's AGM on March 9th as the 2009 REALTORS® Care Award recipients: Marg Kentel of RE/MAX Shuswap Realty (Shuswap), Heidi Lussi of RE/MAX Vernon (North), and Marvyn Baker and Terry Courtney of Royal LePage Kelowna (Central). Click here for media releases.

March 11, 2010

BOARD NOTICE: Copies of 2009 Annual Report Available!

Members are advised that digital copies of the 2009 OMREB Annual Report, 2010 Consolidated Budget (Draft 4) and 2010 Budget Notes have been loaded to REALTORLink® (Board Resources > News & Events). Or click here for Annual Report, here for Budget and here for Notes.

March 10, 2010

BOARD NOTICE: Copies of 2009 Annual Report Available!

Members are advised that a number of copies of OMREB's 2009 Annual Report are available from the Board AGM on March 9th. If you are interested in receiving a copy via the next in-house courier, please email Christine Gagne at [email protected].

February 18, 2010

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Contract of Purchase & Sales Forms - March 1st Update!

Members are advised that as of March 1, 2010, revised "Contract of Purchase and Sale (CPS)- Residential" and "CPS-Commercial" forms will be posted on WEBForms™. Please do not use the previous version!

For detailed Memo to Brokers, click here.

January 12, 2010

BOARD NOTICE: Invitation to Budget Forums!

The OMREB Finance Committee invited all members to attend 2010 Budget Forums in their zone area on January 20th (Kelowna) or 21st (Vernon and Salmon Arm).

Learn about the financial status of the Board and changes in projected revenues and expenditures from 2009 to 2010, the services the Board will be providing in 2010, and how your membership fees will be spent, and provide your feedback before the 2010 Budget is officially passed.

Click here for invitation detailng why you should attend plus Zone dates, times and locations.

November 5, 2009

IMPORTANT UPDATE RE:
Media Reports Regarding Competition Bureau & CREA!

All OMREB Members are advised not to speak to the media regarding this issue. Any Media enquiries must be directed to the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board or to CREA.

Alyson Fair, Publicist in CREA's Communications Department, is available to handle those requests at 613-237-7111 or through email at [email protected] or email OMREB Executive Director Janice Myers at [email protected].


QUESTIONS & ANSWERS: (New)

For some helpful "Questions and Answers", click here. Please watch for updates as this file evolves.

SUMMARY:

CREA has been in communication with the Competition Bureau regarding the inquiry by the Commissioner of Competition into certain practices in the residential real estate brokerage industry in Canada. The Bureau has recently informed us of the Commissioner's conclusions and her intention to bring an application to the Competition Tribunal.

1. CREA does not agree with the Commissioner's conclusions, either as a matter of fact or as a matter of law. CREA believes that the Bureau's concerns are based on a fundamental misunderstanding of the way in which the rules of the MLS® system operate.

2. CREA has always indicated its desire to be responsive to concerns expressed by the Competition Bureau and to engage in productive dialogue with the Bureau. Although CREA believes that the Bureau's concerns about the MLS® rules the Bureau is focusing on are unfounded, it is evident that these concerns have become a flashpoint for the Bureau. The Board of Directors of CREA has determined that it will pursue a consensual resolution with the Bureau, subject to member support.

3. It would not be appropriate for CREA or members of organized real estate to comment further on ongoing settlement discussions with the Competition Bureau. If a settlement is reached, that will become a matter of public record.

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos are owned by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify the quality of services provided by real estate professionals who are members of CREA.

For CREA news release clarifying media inaccuracies, click here.

November 3, 2009

INTEGRATED RELOCATION PROGRAM -
Directory Registration for Participating Supplier Opportunities

Brookfield Global Relocation Services (formerly Royal LePage Relocation Services) has recently renewed its Integrated Relocation Program (IRP) contract with the Canadian Government - effective December 1, 2009.

The IRP ensures that Government of Canada employees and members of the Canadian Forces and RCMP are provided with information, counselling and professional assistance throughout the relocation process - including relocation planning, marketing assistance, destination services and access to third party services providers (TPSP) such as REALTORS®, lawyers and notaries, home inspectors and appraisers, and rental service agents.

Click here for Brookfield's letter to BCREA encouraging member REALTORS® to take advantage of the business opportunities generated by the IRP.

The TPSP Directory compiled during the previous contract included 11,380 active suppliers and 8,770 were REALTORS®. All interested suppliers are encouraged to register to participate in the new directory. Visit www.irp-pri.com, click on "Suppliers" then "Suppliers Login" and follow the step-by-step directions to register.

October 20, 2009

2009 OMREB MEMBER SURVEY
- Results Posted & Draw Winners Announced!

Thank you to all members who took the time to participate in the 2009 OMREB Member Survey in September.

Your feedback is very much appreciated and will assist the Board in Strategic Planning for 2010. A record 41% of the Board’s membership was represented in the Survey responses received this year.

The 2009 survey results are now posted on REALTORLink® under Board Resources > News & Events.

We are happy to announce the 2009 winners of the draws for free OMREB membership dues commencing on January 1, 2010:

Judy Fischer, RE/MAX Enderby – 1 month free dues

Garth Lord, RE/MAX Shuswap Realty – 3 months free dues

Geoff Treadgold, Royal LePage Kelowna – 6 months free dues

Congratulations Judy, Garth and Geoff!

October 13, 2009

ENVIRONMENTAL CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION -
"Solutions for Climate Prosperity"

Okanagan Environmental Industry Alliance is promoting its upcoming 2nd Annual OEIA Conference and Exhibition on October 20, 2009 at the Rotary Centre for the Arts.

The theme for this years’ event is "Solutions for Climate Prosperity" and the "how-to of green building and energy efficiency". This event will focus on industries which are Okanagan-wide and has a great line up of speakers and exhibitors.

Click here for OEIA conference flyer with registration and tradeshow information.

September 21, 2009

PROPOSED REGULATION REVISIONS -
Investigation & Investigators' Reports

Click here to view the proposed regulation revisions to Section 1.4 Investigation and Section 1.5 Investigators Reports. A memo with the proposed revisions was emailed to OMREB members today.

June 9, 2009

ADOPTED REGULATION CHANGE:
7.41 Advertising Another Member's Listing

A memo regarding the adopted MLS® Regulation Change was emailed to OMREB Broker Owners today. Click here to view memo.

June 4, 2009

ANNOUNCING: Member Demos for New MLS® System!

As announced recently, OMREB will launch your new and improved MLS® system in January 2010. We are excited to give you a first peek at the new MATRIX® system's user-friendly technology with member demonstrations in all three zones during the week of June 15th.

These two-hour sessions will provide a look at the many features and benefits of this exciting next-generation MLS® system. Registration is not required to attend the demo of your choice - no need to call or RSVP!

Click here for flyer with Demonstration dates and locations. Click here for more information. Visit www.tarasoft.com.

Kelowna Location: The theatre (S104) is in the Student Services Building ("S" in attached map) at Okanagan College. Parking is available in the front - off KLO Road. Walk up the stairs and the SS building is on the right. There is a pit area inside (lower floor) and the theatre is right there. Look for signage. Click here for map to KLO Campus.

May 2009

ANNOUNCEMENT: New MLS® System for OMREB Coming January 2010!

As discussed and approved by the membership at the March 2009 AGM, OMREB has now formally entered into a contract with Tarasoft to provide your next MLS® System - MATRIX.

Although the actual launch will not be until January 2010 with training beginning in the fall, we are organizing Member demonstrations in Kelowna, Vernon and Salmon Arm. and will announce locations shortly. These sessions will be in mid-June and will provide you with your first look at the many features and benefits of this exciting new system.

More information will be forthcoming about the who, what, where, and whys of this important change. Visit www.tarasoft.com.

May 4, 2009

SUPRA NOTICE - Long Wait Times!

Dear Valued Customer,

Today we are experiencing long hold times due to low staffing. Several members of our staff are either out sick or unable to take their kids to school because of the recent district closures resulting from the Swine Flu outbreak.

We are working as efficiently as possible to keep call times down and get to the next call as soon as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to you or your members.

Thank you for your patience,

GE Security Support Team

May 2, 2009

LOOK AFTER YOURSELF - Important Flu Prevention Tips!

Click here for the informative pandemic preparedness booklet "LOOK AFTER YOURSELF - How to Care for Yourself and the People You Care About".

April 29, 2009

SUPRA VS SENTRILOCK – Compare the Products!

Below are links to information regarding each of the products, their functionality and features, please take a moment to view them both. There will be a survey monkey to voice your preference or concerns at a later date which will assist the Lock Box Task Force with an overview of the opinion and wishes of the membership majority.

Select the link below by holding down the Control (Ctrl) key on the keyboard, hover the curser over the link and left mouse click.

Supra ActiveKey: www.supraekey.com – scroll down the screen to the ActiveKey link.

Sentrilock: www.sentrilock.com/lbliveca - will require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player. Follow the tabs at the bottom of the centre screen.

Once the products have been viewed, if you have any questions or concerns, please email Kate Smith at [email protected].

April 29, 2009

50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA - We're Making A Difference!

Great Fun, Great Food, Great Music, Great Company... OMREB's 50th Anniversary Gala at The Delta Grand Okanagan on April 22nd was an outstanding success - thanks to the 320 members and industry partners who joined the Board’s Directors and Staff to celebrate this exciting milestone.

Showcasing REALTORS’® commitment to improving the “Quality of Life” in the communities we live and work in, the event raised over $10,000 for the food banks within the Board area.

The gala began with the honorary piping of Past Presidents into the ballroom before dinner was served. The room was beautifully decorated, the meal was delicious, and the music excellent. There was plenty of opportunity to mingle and dance throughout the evening.

Thank you to everyone in attendance for making this an evening to remember. The Board extends a very special thank you to MC Robert Fine, all of our sponsors for their wonderful support, and everyone who generously donated items for the Silent and Live Auctions. The event would not have been possible without you.

GOLD SPONSORS

SILVER SPONSORS BRONZE SPONSORS

April 17, 2009

IMPORTANT SUPRA NOTICE - Data Centre Maintenance on Wednesday!

On Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 from 5:30 pm PT through 7:30 pm PT GE Security (Supra) will be conducting maintenance on the data centre.

During this time, the only service available to you will be update codes from Kim Voice and Kim Web. SupraNET, AWP, and all other features of Kim Voice and Kim Web will be unavailable. This outage affects the availability to obtain reports and search information with regards to Lockbox activity. GE Security apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and thanks you for your understanding.

Thank you for your support,

GE Security Support Team

April 8, 2009

MARCH 2009 STATS & GRAPHS - Available Soon!

Members are advised that the March 2009 Statistics and Graphs for all Zones were loaded early this morning but have as yet to be picked up by REALTORLink® due to an issue with the CREA web crawlers. We are hoping they will be available online for all OMREB members soon.

In the meantime, the Stats have been emailed to all OMREB Managing Brokers for distribution as needed within their offices.

March 31, 2009

2009 BC LAND SUMMIT IN WHISTLER - May 20 to 22, 2009

Mark your calendars! Members are invited to participate in the 2009 BC Land Summit – “A Better Future: Adapting to Change” – in Whistler from May 20 to 22, 2009.

The Summit will be an interdisciplinary conference organized by six professional organizations, all of whom share ties to land use in British Columbia and who will combine their 2009 annual conferences into an exciting joint venture. The event will build on the success of the 2004 BC Land Summit in Vancouver, and will provide opportunities to learn, share ideas, collaborate and network with others working in diverse land-related fields.

For more information, visit www.bclandsummit.com.

March 30, 2009

TROUBLE PRINTING ON THE EDU-INV HISTORY LINK?

There appears to be a problem with the print feature on the invoice history side of the Education-Invoice History Website.

If this is your situation, there is a work-around. Once you have a statement on screen, at the top of the page you will see a box that reads ‘Select a format’. Click on the 'Down' arrow and choose ‘Acrobat (PDF) file’, then select 'Export', and next select 'Open'. Once the pdf document opens you should be able to print from there.

If you experience any issues with this or have any questions, please call Kate Smith at the Board office: 250-491-4560.

March 30, 2009

50th ANNIVERSARY GALA - Revised Forms Available!

The Ticket Order and Sponsorship forms for OMREB's 50th Anniversary Gala at The Delta Grand Okanagan on April 22nd have been revised with an update to the fax number.

Click here for updated Ticket Order form and here for Sponsorship form.

March 23, 2009

PROPOSED REGULATION REVISION - 7.41 Advertising Another Member's Listing

A memo about the Proposed MLS® Regulation Change regarding advertising another member's listing was emailed to OMREB members today.

Click here to view memo.

March 19, 2009

IN MEMORY OF FRED HORN (April 23, 1932 – March 16, 2009)

The Board of Directors, staff, friends and colleagues at OMREB sadly mourn the loss of long-time member Frederick (Fred) Douglas Horn of Kelowna who passed away on Monday, March 16th.

A member of OMREB for 25 years, Fred spent 35 years in real estate – 18 as an agent and 17 in sales and subdivisions. He first entered real estate in Alberta in the mid-1970’s and had been active in the Kelowna market since 1982. Over the years, Fred worked with Western Realty, NRS Western Realty, Countrywide and, most recently, with Prudential Kelowna Properties.

Fred came to Kelowna as a young child with his parents and in his teens helped his father clear timber on what is now Lakeview Heights. He later relocated to Alberta to work on his aunts’ farm near Rockyford where he married Toni Moser and started a family. They moved to Spirit River where he bought grain for the Alberta Wheat Pool and got into the real estate market. Fred married Rosemarie in 1978 and they moved to Kelowna in 1982.

Our condolences and heartfelt thoughts go out to Fred’s two children, wife Rosemarie and her four children, and their families at this most difficult time. A service of remembrance will be held on Friday, March 20 at 1:30 pm at Hanson’s Arbor Westwood Funeral Chapel, 2541 Church Road, West Kelowna (250-768-3702). Donations in Fred's memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation - BC & Yukon.

March 16, 2009

CONGRATULATIONS - 2009-2010 OMREB DIRECTORS!

Your 2009-2010 OMREB Directors, as installed at the AGM on March 13th, 2009 are:

March 5, 2009

OMREB AGM - Registrations Due by Monday, March 9th!

Members are reminded to RSVP by Monday, March 9th for the Board's 50th AGM on Friday, March 13th at the Coast Capri in Kelowna.

Click here for details and registration form. Don't miss out on some important information!

March 5, 2009

SUPRA NOTICE - "ShowingValue" Email Enhancement

Great news for members! SUPRA (GE Security) has been making enhancements to ShowingValue, the email and feedback notification included with your service.

Your keyholders will start seeing the name of the person showing their listing, and the address if the box is assigned to an address - without having to log into www.supraekey.com. If you are currently getting ShowingValue email notifications, you don't need to do anything as you will receive the new email format automatically.

If you are not using the ShowingValue email notification feature, here are the simple steps to enable this feature:

  1. Log into KIMweb at www.supraekey.com using your key serial number and PIN.


  2. Click on "ShowingValue" on the left side of the page, under Activity Reports.


  3. Click on the "Change Email Settings" link.


  4. Choose the "After showing agent eSYNC" or "After keybox opening" option. This will be the first option in the list, and the wording will vary by which kind of key you have. It is important to check this first option as this is the only option that will receive the enhanced emails.


  5. Click "Save Now" at bottom right of page. You are now set up to get enhanced emails and enjoy the time savings of the enhancements.
Stay tuned as Supra/GE Security continues to improve other aspects of the service.

February 23, 2009

OMREB MEMBER CONSENT ORDER

A Consent Order was signed on February 5, 2009 between OMREB and a member. Click here for information.

February 16, 2009

OMREB Annual General Meeting: Friday, March 13th

Members are invited to attend the Board's AGM in March. Come out and mingle with your fellow REALTORS®!


February 16, 2009

OMREB'S 50TH ANNIVERSARY GALA: Wednesday, April 22nd

Live and silent auctions, dancing and lots of fun. Fundraiser for local Food Banks in each zone. Join us in celebrating OMREB's 50 years!

For more information, contact Susan McLaughlin at 250-491-4560, ext. 229 or [email protected]

January 6, 2009

OMREB Members Invited to 2009 Budget Forums

The OMREB Finance Committee invites all Members to attend the 2009 Budget Forums on January 13th (Kelowna) and January 14th (Vernon and Salmon Arm).

Why you should attend:

  1. You will learn the financial status of your Board.
  2. You will learn your Board's plans for financial planning during this changing market.
  3. You can give feedback to the Finance Committee before the 2009 Budget is officially passed.
Zone Dates and Locations:

Kelowna: Tuesday, January 13th (1 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.) - OMREB Boardroom, #112 - 140 Commercial Drive, Kelowna. Francis Braam and Janice Myers hosting.

Vernon: Wednesday, January 14th (9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.) - Royal LePage Vernon, 4007 - 32nd Street, Vernon. Rob Shaw and Janice Myers hosting.

Salmon Arm: Wednesday, January 14th (1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.) - Century 21 Lifestyles Realty Board Room, 365 Ross Street NE, Salmon Arm. Bob Cliffe and Janice Myers hosting.

A copy of the proposed consolidated budget will be sent to each Managing Broker by email, and will be available on REALTORLink® the week of January 12th.

A copy of the 2009 Budget will be posted on REALTORLink® once approved by the Board of Directors at its next meeting on January 23rd, and will be sent out in the next Annual Meeting Package.

Hope to see you out!

December 18, 2008

OMREB Welcomes Five Newly Elected Directors to the 2009 Board!

Congratulations to the following Directors elected to the OMREB Board for two-year terms beginning in March 2009!

Central Zone:

  1. Corry Perret - Managing Broker elected by acclamation
  2. Brenda Moshansky - Re-elected
  3. George Cwiklewski - Re-elected
North Zone:
  1. Joe Pearson - Associate Broker re-elected by acclamation
  2. Reiner Stass
The Board wishes to thank the other nominated candidates: Tim Down, Christopher Miller, and Howard Neufeld.

December 17, 2008

WEBFormsTM Revised and New - 2008

The following forms have been revised for 2008:

Click here to obtain the revisions to the forms above. These revisions can be made to the current version you may have remembering to have all parties initial any changes made to the document.

The following forms are new for 2008: These forms were made available on WEBFormsTM on Friday, November 14.

September 12, 2008

Attention REALTORS® - Beware of Young Man in Okanagan perpetrating Potential Fraud

Attention REALTORS® - Beware of Young Man in Okanagan perpetrating Potential Fraud - Click here for the full story.

September 12, 2008

OMREB Going Green

Following suit with many of the other Boards OMREB will not be ordering any further hard copies of the MLS® Forms. There are limited quantities in stock at this time of the Contract of Purchase & Sale, Contract of Purchase and Sale Addendum, Exclusive Buyers Agency, Limited Dual Agency, Multiple Listing Contract, Working with a REALTOR® brochure, Property Disclosure Statement - Residential & Strata and the Buying & Selling a Home brochures, once these quantities have been depleted there will be no further ordering of these forms. The most current Sundry Supply Order Form has been posted to REALTORLink® for ordering.

September 12, 2008

Sundry Supply Order Forms

Due to some price changes, updates in product and information the Sundry Supply Order form has been updated. Please replace any & all previous versions.

September 12, 2008

Strata Documentation and Listings

It has come to the attention of the Board that some Members are not complying with the listing documentation requirements as they relate to Strata properties. When a listing agent does not have any or has limited strata documentation regarding a listed property this effectively means the he/she does not really have all the facts concerning the property they represent.

Please click here to access an excerpt from the "Licensee Practice Manual" Sixth Edition 2006 that addresses this important issue.