Two more Ontario regional real estate associations are exploring integration with the Durham Region Association of Realtors (DRAR).
The Kawartha Lakes Real Estate Association (KLREA) and the Peterborough and the Kawarthas District Association of Realtors (PKAR) are considering proposals that could bring over 3,300 real estate professionals under the umbrella of DRAR. According to news releases, these integrations aim to provide members with improved data access, technology, and support.
KLREA’s board of directors is recommending an integration with DRAR, which would merge the memberships of both associations.
PKAR’s board of directors is also considering integrating with DRAR, which would involve combining their memberships to create a unified platform.
On Jul. 1, DRAR’s integration with the Quinte & District Association of Realtors and Northumberland Hills Association of Realtors was completed to create a unified regional board that now shares resources and access to MLS data.
Maintaining local focus
While the integrations seek to create larger regional entities, both KLREA and PKAR emphasize their dedication to community-focused initiatives in their respective news releases. The associations’ commitment to local advocacy efforts remains a priority, ensuring that members continue to support housing initiatives in the areas where they live and work.
Member’s decision
The proposed integrations will be put to a vote by the members. KLREA members will participate in a special membership meeting on Aug. 30, while PKAR members will have their say at their meeting on Aug. 9. The outcome of these votes will determine whether the integrations proceed.
Giving a single board more voting power in OREA could be bad of individual members when the board votes and you don’t get a say as just happened in the Wellness Plan ORWP
Given the groundswell and disgust now occurring in our industry re OREA and the ORWP I would strongly suggest this be put on a back burner. One more amalgamated board does NOT represent the best interests of members on many issues this being the one at present causing agents much distress around transparency, legality and over reach.
You can’t suck and blow at the same time. Wider MLS access with amalgamation is the price to pay for less local autonomy. Certainly Board self-serving parochialism and geographic designated jurisdictions has hindered progress within the resale real estate marketplace in Ontario for many years.