A substantial majority of both home owners and current renters agree that owning a home is a smart decision over the long term. That’s according to the results of a National Association of REALTORS® survey of 3,793 adults conducted online by Harris Interactive.

The American Attitudes About Homeownership survey found that in today’s challenging economy, 95 percent of owners and 72 percent of renters believe that over a period of several years, it makes more sense to own a home. In addition, an overwhelming majority of home owners are happy with their decision to own a home – 93 percent of owners surveyed would buy again.

“Home owners and renters agree that home ownership benefits individuals and families, strengthens our communities, and is integral to our nation’s economy,” said National Association of REALTORS® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “The results of this survey illustrate just how important issues related to home ownership are to people in this country.”

Read more and download summary of survey results here.

NVBR abides by the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics. Compliance with the Code is a core requirement for holding REALTOR® status. As a professional, you represent your client, your company and both the NVBR and REALTOR® brands. You are held to a high standard of professional conduct and business practices … That is why your clients choose you, your fellow REALTORS® enjoy working with you and your positive reputation continues to grow.

In the coming weeks, we will be featuring “Professional REALTOR® Business Practices.” These tips are included in NVBR’s new member orientation program and are a good reminder to all REALTORS®. More than tips, these items are expectations of conduct, and your fellow REALTORS® have a right and an obligation to hold you to these standards.

Respect for the Public and Fellow REALTORS® – Part Two

• Advise clients of other brokers to direct questions to their agent or representative.
• Communicate clearly. Do not use jargon that the general public does not readily understand.
• Be aware and respectful of cultural differences.
• Be aware of and meet all deadlines.
• Do not discuss financial details, terms or price with the seller unless you are the listing agent.
• Do not conduct business while under the influence of alcohol.
• Promise only what you can deliver and keep your promises.

Next week: Preparing for Showings

The 2011 NVBR Community Service Committee seeks member input on the organizations to which it will donate funds this year. Members are invited to discuss potential beneficiaries at the next Community Service Committee meeting, to be held January 27, 2011, at 1:30 pm at NVBR.

Anyone interested in joining the Community Service Committee is also welcome to attend. You can help us help local organizations in need. Get involved!

NVBR abides by the National Association of REALTORS® Code of Ethics. Compliance with the Code is a core requirement for holding REALTOR® status. As a professional, you represent your client, your company and both the NVBR and REALTOR® brands. You are held to a high standard of professional conduct and business practices … That is why your clients choose you, your fellow REALTORS® enjoy working with you and your positive reputation continues to grow.

In the coming weeks, we will be featuring “Professional REALTOR® Business Practices.” These tips are included in NVBR’s new member orientation program and are a good reminder to all REALTORS®. More than tips, these items are expectations of conduct, and your fellow REALTORS® have a right and an obligation to hold you to these standards.

Respect for the Public and Fellow REALTORS® – Part One

• Always follow the “Golden Rule.” Treat others as you would like them to treat you.
• Show courtesy, trust and respect to other real estate professionals
• Always respond promtly to inquiries and requests for information
• Schedule appointments as far in advance as possible. Call if you are delayed or must cancel.
• If a prospective buyer decided not to view an occupied home, promptly explain the situation to the listing broker or the owner.
• Communicate with all parties in a timely fashion.
• Present a professional appearance at all times. Dress appropriately and have a clean car.

Next week: Respect for the Public and Fellow REALTORS® – Part Two

Tuesday, January 11
, 2011
11:30 am – 1 pm
DoubleTree Hotel – South Burlington

REALTORS® are facing tough legislative challenges in the upcoming year.  Potential cuts or reductions in the mortgage interest deduction, fees on professional services such as real estate commissions, potential for property transfer tax increases and more threaten the dreams of home ownership and the vitality of the economy.

NVBR’s January Membership Meeting is your perfect opportunity to hear more about these pressing issues and learn more about REALTOR® core values:  economic development, tax and fiscal policy, and regulation and permitting.  You’ll hear from key individuals about how the change in Governorship and the Legislature may impact Vermont real estate.

Register here.

Members attending the NVBR Annual Meeting this week were updated on the negotiations surrounding the proposed sale of the VREIN MLS to the Northern New England Real Estate Network (NNEREN).

Read the FAQs.