Sales of existing single-family homes, condos and co-ops have increased by 5.3 percent in the first six months of 2012 compared to last year. The statewide median sales price continues to show a stabilization trend despite easing slightly from a year ago. Click here to learn more.

The New York State Real Estate Education Foundation (NYSREEF) is offering scholarships to REALTORS allowing them to take a national designation course for free. Applications must be received by August 1. Click here to learn more.

This week's "Election Watch" features democratic Republican Rep. Chris Gibson vs. Democrat challenger Julian Schreibman. The latest polls have shown a near equal split in support for both candidates from voters in the district. Click here to learn more.

By a 45 to 28 percent margin, voters in New York said they agree with the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision upholding the constitutionality of the federal Affordable Care Act, according to the latest Siena Research Institute poll. Gov. Andrew Cuomo continues to enjoy a three-to-one favorability rating. Click here to learn more.

Today's NYSAR Radio, "Commission Issues" will re-air tomorrow, Wednesday, July 25, at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. You can also listen to it any time after tomorrow by visiting NYSAR.com. To listen to the show during one of its regularly scheduled hours, click here.

Get involved and help guide the future of your state association by signing up for 2013 committee service. Committee sign up will be available online only between July 1 and July 31 at NYSAR.com. Click here to learn more and to sign up.

Certified International Property Specialist – "Global Real Estate: Local Markets and Global Real Estate: Transaction Tools" will be offered August 1 and 2, respectively, at the Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS in White Plains, NY. These designation courses will give you the knowledge and expertise to conduct business with those from other countries and cultures. Click here for more information or to register.

Open enrollment for NYSAR's dental plan is quickly coming to an end. The United Concordia dental plan, administered by USI Affinity, features: three plan options giving you a range in coverage and cost; lower rates, which are guaranteed until June 30, 2014; the freedom to visit any dentist whether they are in or out-of-network; coverage for orthodontia; and more! Don't wait, visit www.myrealtorinsurance.com/nysar or call 888.834.3664 x18626 for more information and a customized quote.

NYSAR's compliance partner, PossibleNOW, makes DNC compliance easy. With DNCQuickcheck you can instantly verify phone numbers, access compliance training, generate reports for safe harbor defense assistance and much more. Individual accounts pay just $10/month (a 50-percent savings) or cover unlimited agents in one office for $100/month. To subscribe, visit www1.dncquickcheck.com or call 800.585.4888 and use member code SC1477NY.

The Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS and the Long Island Board of REALTORS are holding RPAC events open to members of their respective boards in the next few weeks. Click here to learn more.

The July RPAC silent auction item is rechargeable power stand for the iPhone. Bids must be placed by Tuesday, July 31, at 11:59 p.m. Click here to learn more.