The Realtors Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) and the Waterloo Region Association of Realtors (WRAR) have taken a decisive step towards amalgamation. Both associations have formalized their intent by signing a letter to explore the merger. 

In a video addressed to members, the two boards share they have each appointed a task force made up of four directors and both CEOs; they held their first meeting on Friday, Sept. 8. If approved, the move is poised to bring together approximately 3,800 RAHB members and 2,600 WRAR members.

Ongoing changes to the structures of organized real estate

The boards say the conversation surrounding amalgamation has been ongoing for “months.” As detailed in their joint website‘s frequently asked questions (FAQ) section, RAHB and WRAR acknowledge their awareness of the “evolving landscape of organized real estate.” 

They highlight the impact of factors such as the consolidation of MLS Systems, the amalgamation of other boards and associations and existing disparities in influence among Ontario boards. Furthermore, the shifting dynamics between provincial and national associations, member boards and realtors “generally are affecting any one Board’s ability to impact positive change” for members. 

MLS access

Also explained in the FAQ, RAHB and WRAR members will continue to utilize their existing MLS platforms while actively working to harmonize their practices during a two-year transition period. This harmonization effort extends to the formulation of standardized MLS rules. While the new association’s membership status with ITSO remains to be determined, the boards say the overarching goal is to enhance data accessibility.

“As province-wide data is essential to every Ontario Realtor, the New Realtor Association will collaborate with all boards towards this goal,” as noted on the website.

RAHB President Nicolas von Bredow shares that the proposed amalgamation also opens communication channels with other real estate boards whose interests may be aligned and who want to strengthen their advocacy. 

Uniting for a shared vision

Carol Ann Burrell, CEO of RAHB, expressed the vision for the partnership in a press release, stating, “We’ve been discussing this kind of amalgamation for some time now and have been looking for the right board to share our vision of a stronger regional voice and improved member service.”

Bill Duce, CEO of WRAR, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the significance of collaboration in the evolving real estate landscape. “When we look at the opportunities to grow and strengthen our members’ voice in Ontario, we believe that combining our services and sharing a bigger vision is key to progress,” he adds.

Advocacy and services

If approved by the respective memberships, WRAR and RAHB say this amalgamation will give realtors a stronger position within local communities, government bodies and other real estate associations, as well as better access to tools and insights.

Duce adds, “Real estate Boards throughout Ontario are looking further out and asking themselves, ‘How might we do this better, together?’ That big question brought the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors and Cambridge Association of Realtors together in 2022 to form WRAR. We’ve seen the positive impact of that move and see this next move with RAHB as an even better opportunity for our members.”

Local offices will be maintained 

RAHB and WRAR say local offices and dedicated staff will continue to be available. The associations say they are in “solid financial positions” and that saving money is not a motivating factor. 

Von Bredow emphasized that this amalgamation is about enhancing service rather than reducing it. “In today’s changing real estate landscape, our members expect us to stay ahead of the issues and protect their interests over the long term,” von Bredow noted.

The announcement marks the beginning of a formal consultation period with members of RAHB and WRAR. Following consultation, the proposal will be presented to the membership of both organizations for a final vote on Nov. 23, 2023.