E-News

It’s a myth: There is no national 4-percent sales tax on home sales

In recent months numerous e-mails have circulated regarding a national transfer tax on home sales. One such e-mail was circulated regarding a "national real estate transfer tax," which would be applied to all home sales in 2011. This information is incorrect. In reality, a 3.8-percent tax would only be applied to certain sales for a small number of high income earners. Most people will not be affected by this tax at all.

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Home buying plans up for New York State in September according to latest poll

According to the latest poll by the Siena Research Institute (SRI), New York state consumer home buying plans increased 1.7 points to 3.7 percent in September. Overall, New York State consumer confidence increased 0.3 points, while the nation's confidence decreased 0.7 points. At 62.8, New York's overall consumer confidence is 5.4 points below the nation's confidence level of 68.2.

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Agency Disclosure legal webinar available in NYSAR’s Media Center

If you missed last Thursday's webinar, "Exploring the New Agency Disclosure Law," you're in luck. The webinar is available in NYSAR's Media Center and is accessible by clicking here.

This webinar, presented by NYSAR Director of Legal Services Anthony Gatto, Esq., addresses the newly passed Advanced Consent to Dual Agency and Agency Disclosure for Condominiums and Cooperative Apartments/Units law that will go into effect on January 1, 2011.

In addition, agency and agency disclosure were discussed at length in order to clarify many issues facing REALTORS on a daily basis.

Click here to access NYSAR's Media Center.

Earn cash back just for using electricity!
Energy Plus offers NYSAR members a unique program that includes tax savings AND cash rebates. Enjoy risk-free enrollment for your residence or business with no long-term commitments or cancellation fees. Eligible members must simply have an address within the Energy Plus service area, which covers all areas except those covered by the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA). Click here to learn more or enroll. Plus, earn extra cash just for referring friends to take advantage of the same unique benefits. Click here to learn more or to sign-up to become a referrer.

Become a valued resource for military personnel and their families with the HOMES certification

NYSAR has created a new Housing Our Military with Excellent Service (HOMES) Certification. With this certification, you'll learn the unique needs, issues and challenges of military and veteran clients. Demonstrate your commitment to those who serve their country by helping them select the best housing and financing options available to them.

To earn the certification, REALTORS must pass the three-day HOMES course. The Jefferson-Lewis Board of REALTORS will be offering the course November 15-17, 2010. Additional dates and locations to be announced.

Please note: This is a NYSAR certification and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS.

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The Triple Play REALTOR Convention and Trade Expo will be held December 7-9, 2010 in Atlantic City. Triple Play offers unique opportunities to build your referral base, discover innovative tools and learn from top industry experts.

Register online and save an additional $10. Also, if you register online by 11:59 p.m. tonight, October 15, 2010, you'll get the early bird price of just $65. Register now and save!

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