The Real Estate Ripple

The REALTOR® Party, Legislative meetings, & RPAC with Karen Robertson

In this episode your Host, Connie Vavra and Karen Robertson, a seasoned REALTOR® with over 30 years of experience, discuss the vital role real estate professionals take in shaping community policy and advocacy efforts. From advocating for private property rights to influencing legislation at the state and national levels, Karen emphasizes the impact of REALTORS® in driving positive change. Discover how realtors collaborate, share stories, and work tirelessly to represent consumer interests effectively - a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of real estate and community development. Tune in for insightful discussions on the Realtor Party’s mission and impactful initiatives.
Show Notes
About the Guest(s):
Karen Robertson is a seasoned managing broker at crosstown Realtors Otahomer, Glenn, and Plainfield, with over 30 years of experience in the real estate industry. With a background in building and development, Karen brings a unique perspective to her role as a realtor. She has been actively involved in the Homebuilders association at the state, local, and national levels and is dedicated to advocating for private property rights and shaping policies that benefit communities.
Episode Summary:
In this engaging episode, Karen Robertson sheds light on the impact of the REALTOR® Party on the real estate industry and the community. Discussing her extensive background in building, development, and real estate, Karen delves into how real estate professionals collaborate rather than compete. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy, policy formation, and community involvement in driving positive change.
Key themes explored include advocating for private property rights, shaping local policies, engaging in government affairs, and the significance of the Realtor Party in addressing housing challenges. Karen shares real-world examples, such as influencing a local ban on short-term rentals to accommodate individuals in transition and promoting veteran-friendly policies in real estate transactions.
Key Takeaways:
Advocacy for private property rights and community engagement are crucial aspects of being a real estate professional.
The REALTOR® Party plays a significant role in shaping policies that benefit homeowners, renters, and communities.
Collaborating with elected officials and government agencies can lead to positive outcomes for housing issues.
REALTORS® have a voice in advocating for fair housing practices and addressing housing challenges.
Involvement in the REALTOR® Party grants opportunities to influence legislation and support initiatives that benefit diverse communities.
REALTOR® Advocacy | Illinois REALTORS®
REALTORS® Political Action Committee | Advocacy | Illinois REALTORS®
 
 

Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® 52nd Annual Golf Outing June 27, 2024

Welcome to the “Keeping Up with the Currents Real Estate Real Talk” podcast, where host Connie Vavra discusses the latest trends and insights in the world of real estate. In this episode, Connie is joined by Matt Persicketti, REALTOR® at Oakleaf Realty, and Molly Babyak, the Director of Education Advanced for Three Rivers. They discuss the details of the 52nd annual golf outing at The Bluffs in Channahon, Illinois. They highlight the fun and networking opportunities the event offers, as well as the importance of fundraising for community support. The episode also covers the event schedule, raffle prizes, and sponsorship opportunities.
Register for our golf outing here: Three Rivers | Association of REALTORS® (trarealtors.net)
Register for Dinner only here: Three Rivers | Association of REALTORS® (trarealtors.net)
 
 
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
 

First Time Home Buyer Challenges and How to Fix Them

Show Notes
About the Guest(s):
Joe Medrano is a seasoned loan officer with over 25 years of experience in the banking industry. He has worked at various financial institutions, including big banks, small community banks, and credit unions. Joe is currently a loan officer at loanDepot, one of the largest non-bank lenders in the United States. He specializes in helping first-time homebuyers navigate the complex process of obtaining a mortgage and purchasing their first home.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Connie Vavra interviews Joe Medrano, a loan officer at loanDepot, about the challenges faced by first-time homebuyers and how to overcome them. Joe shares his personal experience as a first-time homebuyer and the mistakes he made, which inspired him to specialize in helping others avoid similar pitfalls. The main challenges discussed are the lack of funds for a down payment and credit issues. Joe provides valuable insights and advice on how first-time homebuyers can overcome these challenges and achieve their dream of homeownership.
Key Takeaways: - Lack of funds for a down payment is a common challenge for first-time homebuyers. Joe explains the concept of “cost of waiting” and how waiting to save for a 20% down payment can result in missed equity gains and higher home prices. - There are various down payment assistance programs available, such as the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IDHA) programs. These programs offer forgivable, deferred, or repayable down payment assistance, depending on the borrower’s eligibility and preferences. - Credit issues can also be a significant challenge for first-time homebuyers. Joe emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good credit score and provides tips on improving credit, such as paying bills on time and reducing credit card balances. - Joe highlights the importance of education and personalized guidance for first-time homebuyers. He emphasizes the need for borrowers to work with loan officers who are knowledgeable about down payment assistance programs and can provide tailored advice based on individual circumstances. - Joe and Connie discuss the importance of confidentiality and trust in the client-lender relationship. They assure listeners that their conversations and personal information will remain confidential, creating a safe space for clients to discuss their financial situations.
Notable Quotes: - “The longer you wait to save for a down payment, the more you’re missing out on equity gains and tax advantages.” - Joe Medrano - “If you’re going to make a payment anyway, you may as well make the payment to the bucket that’s going to create equity for you.” - Joe Medrano - “It’s not like I go home and talk to you about your credit issues with the realtor. Yeah, no, not unless you want me to. It’s between me and the customer, you.” - Joe Medrano
 
loanDepot - Joe Medrano
   Illinois Housing Development Authority
 
 

What is a Governmental Affairs Director and why you should attend 2024 Capitol Conference! with Nora Gruenberg.

In this episode join me, Connie Vavra, your guide through the ever-evolving world of real estate, as we navigate the complexities of how government policies intertwine with our industry. Listen in as I welcome Nora Gruenberg from the Illinois Realtors Government Affairs Program to shed light on the pivotal role of Government Affairs Directors. Nora offers invaluable insights into their advocacy for real estate-friendly policies, the significance of local government engagement, and the collaborative efforts required to dissect and influence complex legislation. We explore the direct impact of these policies on housing affordability and access, underscoring the importance of a united front between realtors, elected officials, and communities to ensure a favorable environment for real estate transactions.
In our conversation, we reflect on the tangible effects of realtor advocacy with a case study from Plainfield, illustrating the power of community and professional involvement in legislative matters. Hear about my eye-opening experience at the Capital Conference in Springfield and learn how every individual's participation can tip the scales in policymaking. This episode is not just a discourse but an invitation for realtor members to join the movement and bolster the government affairs department through proactive engagement. We also unveil practical steps you can take to remain at the forefront of advocacy, ensuring that your voice and the interests of the real estate sector are heard loud and clear. So tune in, as we collectively steer through the dynamic currents of today's property landscape, armed with expert advice and the shared goal of a thriving real estate community.
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------
(0:00:00) - Real Estate and Government Affairs
(0:14:04) - Realtor's Impact on Local Government
(0:27:37) - Real Estate Real Talk & Insights
--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------
(0:00:00) - Real Estate and Government Affairs
Government Affairs Directors advocate for real estate policies, involving realtors, elected officials, and staff to ensure fair transactions.
(0:14:04) - Realtor's Impact on Local Government
Community involvement, Realtor Party, and individual participation in influencing policy discussed in Plainfield's efforts to prevent a problematic bill.
(0:27:37) - Real Estate Real Talk & Insights
Real estate dialogue offers expert advice and insights for professionals and home buyers, navigating market trends and utilizing resources.
 
Sponsored by Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® 2024 Home Expo
Links:
2024 Capitol Conference: Capitol Conference REALTOR® Lobby Day - Illinois REALTORS
TRAR 2024 Home Expo: Home Expo! | Three Rivers (trarealtors.net)
 
PLEASE NOTE: TRAR's bus to the 2024 Capitol Conference is CANCELED!
 

TRAR Home Expo with Eddie Ruettiger

Join Connie Vavra as she interviews Eddie Ruettiger of the Ruettiger Group about the upcoming Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® Home Expo. This consumer-facing event focuses on homeownership and features vendors, classes, and non-profit organizations dedicated to helping individuals become successful homeowners. With the chance for the first 100 attendees each day to win $10,000 and a wide range of resources and information available, this free event is a must-attend for anyone interested in buying, selling, or maintaining a home. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with experts in the field and learn valuable insights about the housing market.
Chapters
Timestamp
Summary
0:00:00
Introduction to the upcoming Three Rivers Association of Realtors Home Expo
0:00:46
Overview of the event and its focus on homeownership
0:05:07
Discussion on the relationship between realtors and affiliate members
0:06:18
Recognition of sponsors and non-profit organizations involved in the event
0:09:48
Mention of the event’s relevance for sellers as well as buyers
0:09:48
The Home Expo offers information for sellers as well as buyers
0:09:52
Buying property requires personalized advice and a tailored approach
0:10:50
The Home Expo provides an opportunity to find the right team for your real estate needs
0:13:15
The first 100 attendees each day have a chance to win $10,000
0:14:48
Various classes will cover topics like applying for a mortgage loan and credit 101
0:15:39
The Home Expo will take place at the Renaissance Center in downtown Joliet
0:16:19
There is no cost to attend the Home Expo
0:17:38
A variety of vendors will be present, offering information and services
0:18:30
Conclusion and invitation to attend the Home Expo
Show Notes
About the Guest(s):
Eddie Ruettiger is a real estate professional and a member of the Ruettiger Group with Baird and Warner Real Estate. With years of experience in the industry, Eddie has a deep understanding of the real estate market and is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their homeownership goals. He is passionate about educating consumers and providing them with the necessary resources to make informed decisions. Eddie’s expertise and commitment to his clients have earned him a reputation as a trusted and reliable real estate agent.
Episode Summary:
In this episode your host, Connie Vavra, interviews Eddie Ruettiger of the Ruettiger Group about the upcoming Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® Home Expo. Eddie provides an overview of the event, highlighting its focus on homeownership and the various vendors and classes that will be available. He emphasizes the importance of having a team of professionals, including real estate agents, lenders, and lawyers, to guide individuals through the home buying process. Eddie also discusses the role of non-profit organizations in assisting individuals with down payment assistance programs and other resources. The episode concludes with a discussion on the benefits of attending the Home Expo, including the chance for the first 100 attendees each day to win $10,000 and access to valuable information and resources.
Key Takeaways:
The Three Rivers Association of Realtors Home Expo is a consumer-facing event focused on homeownership and will feature vendors and classes related to buying, maintaining, and selling homes.
The event provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with professionals in the real estate industry, including real estate agents, lenders, and lawyers, to form a team that can guide them through the home buying process.
Non-profit organizations, such as IDHA, United Way, and Habitat for Humanity, will be present at the Home Expo to provide information on their programs and other resources for successful homeownership.
The Home Expo offers the first 100 attendees each day the chance to win $10,000 and access to valuable information and resources that can help them make informed decisions about homeownership.
Thank you to our Sponsor, Shorewood Hugs.
Shorewood Hugs
 
Resources:
Ruettiger Group with Baird and Warner Real Estate
Three Rivers Association of REALTORS® Home Expo