Hello Members,
I would like to begin by saying it is an honor to be your President again after quite an interesting 2020. I am looking forward to another successful year!
This year is already off to an interesting start. In January, we took part in virtual Legislative Day as part of Washington REALTORS®. There are several smaller bills that Washington REALTORS® is keeping an eye on, but the biggest concern we are focusing on is the capital gains proposal. It is leadership’s main focus, and we will continue to work on your side, as well as your clients, to do everything possible to have this excluded from the real estate discussion. WSCAR has successfully addressed these issues in the past because of support from our members. To learn more about all of the bills that potentially impact the CRE Industry, check out Mary Hull-Drury's detailed Legislative Update below.
In May, we will be attending virtual Federal Legislative Days in Washington D.C., where REALTORS® will have a place to voice any concerns on the Federal level. As we begin a new term with a new President, the main concern will be the discussion surrounding 1031 Exchanges and their future. This topic is going to draw everyone’s attention, and we will make sure our voice is heard as we know these affect investors both large and small throughout the country.
In September, the National Association of REALTORS® will be hosting the first C5 Summit in New York City. This will be the first annual summit put on by NAR for commercial realtors, investors, and industry experts. In conjunction with WR, WSCAR is looking at attending this summit to promote and present Washington State and its projects to the world. We will have more information on this in the coming months. I encourage anyone who is interested in learning more to please reach out to me or a board member.
As mentioned in previous letters, RPAC is paramount in our ability to have a voice on the State and Federal levels to protect our interests in the business of Real Estate. I encourage all members to consider a contribution to RPAC, and I thank you for your past contributions. If you would like to make an online RPAC investment, please visit WR’s RPAC site.
Lastly, 2021 is a Code of Ethics cycle year where all REALTORS® must complete their regular COE training. This is a requirement as a member of the National Association of REALTORS®. To learn more, visit the WSCAR COE page.
Thanks again for the opportunity to serve as your President. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.
Sincerely, Erik Nelson, SIOR Managing Broker Kiemle Hagood Company