Legislative and Advocacy

Why I'm an IAR Member
Advocacy, education, networking opportunities and more. Watch this video and see what your peers value most about being an IAR member.

Resolve to Get Involved in 2012
‎"Resolve to Get Involved" with local issues affecting the real estate industry or statewide through IAR governmental affairs! Attend the Illinois REALTOR® Lobby Day on March 27 or answer the next call for action — it can be that simple and YOU can make all the difference!

RVOICE: Making a Difference for REALTORS® and Property Owners
This year watch for new FREE materials to help you be an informative resource for your clients and prospects from IAR’s RVOICE program.

REALTOR® Advocacy on Vacant Property Initiatives
IAR Advocacy has been dealing with an onslaught of proposed initiatives, at the state and local levels, aimed at regulating vacant properties. IAR Assistant Director of Advocacy and Local Issues Mike Scobey writes of recent efforts in Cook County for the IARbuzz blog. A vacant property team created by the city of Fairview Heights is also being monitored by IAR Governmental Affairs in the metro east area of the state.

Industry News and Trends

FHA Extends Anti-Flipping Waiver Through 2012
FHA is extending its temporary waiver of the anti-flipping regulations through Dec. 31, 2012, in an effort to stabilize home values and improve conditions in communities experiencing high foreclosure activity, NAR reports.

What's Ahead for the Commerical Industry
In a new podcast, NAR Treasurer Bill Armstrong looks at three top issues at stake for the industry in the new year and the commercial forecast for 2012. 

Sales and Marketing

Tools and Trends to Watch in 2012
Social searches, the move toward mobile and changes in how listing data is shared will all be big topics this year, writes Todd Carpenter, NAR's director of digital engagement, in this Speaking of Real Estate blog post.

Reminder: 30 Under 30 Deadline is Jan. 15
REALTOR® Magazine is accepting applications for their annual “30 Under 30″ feature. Find contest rules and the online application form. The deadline to submit your application is Jan. 15. 

Latest on License Law

Prepare for Transition with IAR Education Offerings
With the transition deadline fast approaching, look to IAR's education options to help you prepare. There are over 50 branches to serve your transition needs and a wide array of home study or classroom options. Contact IAR at 217-529-2600 or visit www.illinoisrealtor.org/education.

IAR Transition Help Line
The IAR Transition Help Line is available 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. E-mail questions@IARlicenselaw.org or call 877-538-5861. Due to the high volume of calls to the help line you may have to leave a voice message, but your call will be returned. You can also find transition information at IARlicenselaw.org.