Illinois REALTORS® Podcast: Recent Episodes

Illinois Realtors®

News and perspectives from the Illinois REALTORS® state association including the Illinois real estate market, legislation, education, ethics and member insights on Illinois real estate issues.

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On the latest episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Podcast David Ferrel guest hosts our interview with Cinny Chui, a Chicago-based REALTOR® who was recently named to NAR's 2026 list of 30 Under 30.

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The 2026 Illinois Primary is over and Illinois REALTORS®-supported candidates had strong showings at the local, state and federal levels. In this new podcast, Gideon Blustein and Tom Benedetto break down the highlights, including wins by REALTORS® Shantel Franklin and La Shawn Ford.

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The Illinois state primaries are next week and there is A LOT to be aware of. To make sure you're fully informed, join Tom Benedetto and Gideon Blustein as they give you all the info you need before you cast those ballots.

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Always one of our most popular sessions, Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson offers key updates from the hotline and how these calls are going to effect your business. Also there's bats & hitmen.... No, really.

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This week on the podcast we're welcoming Moses Hall & Myra Nimchaiyong to recap NAR's C5 Conference which recently took place in Chicago. They break down their favorite moments including how it helps you grow your network and how AI will be used to make your businesses better in the future.

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This week on the podcast we welcome in guest host Illinois REALTORS® Governmental Affairs Director Neeley Erickson and our Director of Local Advocacy Tom Benedetto. These two always have TONS to say and we're cutting them loose on their recent travel to the GAD Institute Conference and what trends they're seeing coming to an Illinois community near you SOON!

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Severe weather events are becoming more common. In times of disaster, the Illinois REALTORS® Relief Foundation (IRRF) steps up. This week on the podcast we welcome Cathy Madaus & Brandi Buchele to talk about the vital work of this foundation.

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On this week's episode of the podcast Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson breaks down the case of 'Pounstone v Cook'. This case involved a basement flooding after sale and how much the seller knew about pre-existing water damage. Vicki gives a detailed breakdown of the case, how the courts decided and what implications it has for the Seller Disclosure Act and your potential clients.

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On this week's episode 2018 Illinois REALTORS® President and 2020 NAR Professional Standards Committee Chair Matt Difanis joins us to break down changes made to NAR's Code of Ethics at the June 5, 2025 Board Meeting. Matt has a long history of expertise in these issues and makes clear what has changed and how it effects your business practices.

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On the latest podcast, listen to REALTORS® Crystal Blanton and Oscar Toledo recount the unusual paths they had to take to help a pair of immigrant first-time homebuyers realize the American Dream of homeownership.

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On the latest podcast, listen to REALTORS® Amy Wu and JJ Devore recount their families histories of homeownership and how taking the first step changed the lives of all that followed.

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In this podcast, Megan Oswald, a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Realty in Chicago, and David Ferrel Jr, a REALTOR® with Su Familia Real Estate in Chicago, talk about the importance of getting involved. Oswald is the 2025 chair of Illinois REALTORS® Public Policy Forum and Ferrel is the 2025 vice chair of the Illinois REALTORS® YPN Advisory Group.

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The Boom Team is LIVE at the Gateway Center for the Illinois Realtors REconnect Conference! Our guests are Jeff Baker (CEO of Illinois Realtors) and Debbie Prodehl (Treasurer of Illinois Realtors). Join us as we discuss the hot issues and market trends for real estate in Illinois in 2025!

What's working in the market? What's the housing outlook over the next year? What are the industry changes we need to know about? The answers to these burning questions, and more!

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Today on the podcast we welcome Illinois REALTORS® Senior Director of Advocacy Programs Gideon Blustein and Director of Local Advocacy Tom Benedetto to talk about the results of the April 1 Consolidated Election. They outline how wins in the local and municipal elections showed the value of our REALTOR® advocacy efforts by electing REALTOR® champion candidates and defeating ballot initiatives aimed at increasing property taxes.

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Today on the podcast we're welcoming the chair and vice chair of the YPN Advisory Group, Ethan Nagar and David Ferrel Jr., to talk about the upcoming YPN Event The Road To Leadership & Advocacy: Empowering Your Voice taking place as a part of Capitol Conference 2025. This session is designed to equip you with essential qualities and practical skills to grow in your career and make a meaningful impact in your community. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, you’ll leave with valuable tools to empower your voice and make a difference.

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This week on the podcast we welcome Jean Lewis, chair of Illinois REALTORS® Spring Conference Working Group, and Young Brockhouse, Illinois REALTORS® vice president of professional development to talk all about the REconnect Conference & Marketplace taking place in Collinsville on May 13 and 14

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This week on the podcast we're bringing back our awesome Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson for the monthly report of what's #HotOnTheHotline! Vicki takes all the calls that comes in to the hotline and as such has a unique read of what's on the minds of you, our members. On this episode we discuss the legality of prospective buyers taking photos and videos in showings, the new Illinois Consumer Guide and updates on the use of Buyer-Broker Agreements. All delivered with that certified Vicki style!

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This week on the podcast, you might have seen Governor Pritzker’s recent State of the State address delivered to the general assembly on February 20th. In this address the governor specifically called out the current need for more housing in the state. Here to talk to us a bit more about what we’re doing to work with lawmakers to make it a reality, we have our old friend the Vice President of State Government Affairs for your Illinois REALTORS Jimmy Clayton. Jimmy brings to light 2 of our 5 bills currently in the legislature that are truly building up steam to help ease the affordability crisis.

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This week on the podcast we're quickly approaching the REengage Winter Conference to help you get you 2025 kicked off with energy! As with our 2024 gatherings we're once again offering Continuing Education courses and we're thrilled to have Lynn Madison once again gracing our stage to teach a 2 hour course on The New Normal: Turning Negotiations Into Transactions on Monday, January 27th from 2:00-4:00pm. To help us break all of this down we welcome back into the studio the VP of Professional Development Young Brockhouse to tell us all about the course. There's still time to register at www.IllinoisRealtors.org!

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This week on the podcast we're welcoming back Illinois REALTORS® General Counsel and VP of Legal Services Betsy Urbance to give some vital and quickly-shifting legal updates that pertain to the Real Estate world. The Supreme Court heard arguments about the upcoming ban on TikTok and on the reporting requirements for LLC's to the FINSEN department of the US Treasury. What do these arguments mean or you? Well Betsy and the entire Legal Team have the answers and you cannot afford to miss them!

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Happy new year everyone! We're kicking off the brand new year by drawing your attention to the quickly approaching REengage Winter Conference taking place January 27-30 in Bloomington-Normal. This conference is a MUST-ATTEND event for realtors, brokers, appraisers, new agents and everyone in between to make sure you start off the year right and hit the ground running. We're welcoming a full house of guests today including Tommy Choi, Jeff Kolbus, Megan Oswald, Nora Gruenberg, Neeley Erickson and Michael Dobrow to give you 5 MORE REASONS to make sure you're there!

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A new year means a slew of new laws that are going into effect and many that pertain to the day-to-day dealings within the Real Estate Industry. It's once again time for our Associate General Counsel Matt Rentschler to give a comprehensive rundown of all of these new laws and what they mean to your businesses. From updates to RELA, new laws about Financial Disclosures and even updates to the Illinois Human Rights Act, Matt has you covered on everything you need to know as we begin 2025.

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Happy holidays Illinois REALTORS®! Today our holiday gift to you focuses on the success of three Illinois recipients of NAR REALTOR® Magazine’s 30 Under 30 class for 2024. Join us as we celebrate Brandon Blankenship of Keller Williams Premiere Properties in Wheaton, Viktoriia Kovel of Keller Williams Pinnacle in O’Fallon and Melanie Miller of Keller Williams ONE Chicago. The guest host for today’s conversation is none other than Illinois REALTORS® Immediate Past President Matt Silver.

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On this week's episode we welcome two guests to talk about an important part of REALTOR® advocacy that could fly under your radar unless the community you live in or work in is directly affected. Of course, we're talking about local advocacy and the critical role it plays in your business, in the real estate market and defending the rights of private property owners. To talk about it we welcome Illinois REALTORS® government affairs Director Neely Erickson and Ashley Heilman, President of the Northwest Illinois Alliance of REALTORS® and Managing Broker for Welcome Home Northwest Illinois.

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On this week's episode of the podcast we’re bringing you a message from Betsy Urbance, the General Counsel and VP of Legal Services for your Illinois REALTORS®. With the NAR Lawsuit settlement getting final approval from the overseeing judge, the practice changes the we have been adhering to since August will now officially be the standard. Still, 48 hours before the final approval the DOJ filed a statement of interest in the case indicating a concern about buyer broker agreements. To make sure you have all the facts about what this means Betsy popped into our studio to give you 5 reason why buyer broker agreements are an important consumer protection.

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This week on the podcast we're bringing you the full audio of our 2025 President Tommy Choi appearing on the HOUSESMARTS Radio Show hosted by Lou Manfredini and carried on WGN Radio. In this conversation Tommy talks about the ramifications of the NAR Lawsuit getting final approval of the settlement agreement from earlier this year, how the practice changes from that suit have already been implemented in the industry, and were we can expect the market to go and how REALTORS® will continue to take a pivotal role in making the housing market thrive for all Americans.

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This week on the podcast we welcome back Jimmy Clayton to give an election recap and preview the Veto Session in November.

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This week on the podcast we welcome guest host Young Brockhouse, Illinois REALTORS® Vice President of Professional Development. Young hosts a special episode with longtime central Illinois REALTOR® Michael D. Oldenettel.

Michael is the designated managing broker of the Real Estate Group in Springfield, but many of you may have met him through his selfless volunteering on the local, state and national REALTOR association levels for many years. He was the 2013 Illinois REALTORS® President and the 2023 NAR Member Engagement Liaison. In addition, for many years he has played an important role in the professional development of colleagues as a classroom and online instructor for the Illinois REALTORS® school and he is here today to tell us more about why it's important to continue your education.

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This week on the podcast we welcome back Senior Director of Advocacy Programs Gideon Blustein to discuss the massive amount of Let's Talk Real Estate events that have brought REALTORS® and legislators together in 2024. Gideon talks about the better understanding REALTORS® gain from these events and they earn the trust and respect of key decision makers – like state and federal legislators. NAR has even been so impressed with LTRE that it refers to the program as a best practice! Join us for a great talk about what this program offers you our members and why it is you that powers it.

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This week on the podcast we welcome back Illinois REALTORS® General Counsel and VP of Legal Services Betsy Urbance to bring you some more updates on the industry-wide practice changes. Specifically, Betsy talks about recent media coverage regarding the standardized forms being offered to help REALTORS® deal with the new changes and why the media spin has been incorrect. She also offers advice on how to navigate these changes to make sure your business is protected.

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This week on the podcast we have two very special guests. We have an in-depth sit-down with 2025 Illinois REALTORS® President Elect Jeff Kolbus and Treasurer Debbie Prodehl. Both of these REALTORS® have been in leadership for a while and have experiences and backgrounds that make them ready to take on the changing landscape of the industry and help lead all REALTORS® into a bright and vibrant future. Get to know their personal stories and how they plan to lead us into the future.

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This week on the podcast we're celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. With a little bit of history at the start we then turn it over to REALTORS® Joe Castillo and Erika Villegas to tell what the month means to them, how they celebrate and why it is important for all to celebrate the month. We also draw attention to NAHREP and the HWP's most recent State of Hispanic Wealth Report and how the information can help all REALTORS® better serve the Hispanic community.

Erika Villegas is a Designated Managing Broker with RE/MAX In The Village and the President of the Chicago Association of REALTORS in addition to being a Director with the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals.

Joe Castillo is also a Designated Managing Broker and Co-Owner of RE/MAX In The Village and RE/MAX MICASA while also being a National Board Director for NAHREP.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast we're bringing you a little taste of the Public Policy Forum from the 2024 Fall Business Meetings which was all about Zoning Reform and featured Angela Brooks, the 2024 President of the American Planning Association. She joined our CEO Jeff Baker on stage to talk about the origins of Zoning, the important role it plays in the future of the housing market and why REALTORS® are uniquely suited to help in that process.

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After a week off we're back on the podcast and bringing you some of the vital info from the 2024 Fall Business Meetings! Today we're bringing you snippets from the Housing Forecast session featuring NAR's Dr. Jessica Lautz. Dr. Lautz goes into the latest economic and housing numbers and gives a forecast on where the market may be heading for the rest of the year and into 2025.

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This week on the podcast, sharpen your skills and reduce your risks when you choose the appropriate NAR safety resources for your business. You can't afford to let your guard down, even when key changes in the real estate market demand your attention. Strike a positive balance and use the NAR safety resources that fit your needs, whether you prefer watching videos, sharing documents or attending a live webinar.

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On this week's episode of the podcast we're welcoming back 2024 President Matt Silver to talk all about the upcoming Fall Business Meetings! We take a look back at his first time attending the Meetings in the early 2000s, why this year's meetings are even more vital in the midst of the NAR Settlement changes and what specific sessions he's looking forward to!

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Get the most out of the Fall Business Meetings by signing up in advance (and paying the fees) to take either of the two optional CE courses. But to get a seat for the latest recap of important legal issues, our free Legal Update, you'd better not be late for this ultra-popular session!

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On this week's episode of the podcast Jeremy and Kelli are back to continue our preview of the absolutely PACKED 2024 Fall Business Meetings in Oak Brook. Registration is open now and today we’re highlighting two standout speakers who are sure to make a big impact: Chris Abazis & Terri Sjodin. Chris will be featured during Wednesday morning’s YPN Forum titled, “Get Niche or Die Tryin’: Branding for the Niche Market.” Terri will deliver Thursday’s keynote address, “The Art of Presenting Persuasively.”

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On this week's episode of the podcast Jeremy and Kelli are back to continue our preview of the absolutely PACKED 2024 Fall Business Meetings in Oak Brook. Registration is open now and today we’re highlighting two standout speakers who are sure to make a big impact. We're highlighting the "Mythbusters" session led by Trista Curzydlo and the "Mastering The Art of Commission Negotiations" session with Mike Walker.

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On this week's episode of the podcast Jeremy and Kelli are back to give you a preview of the absolutely PACKED slate of events going down at the 2024 Fall Business Meetings in Oak Brook. The 2024 Fall Business Meetings are scheduled for September 17th through the 20th at the Hilton Chicago Oak Brook Hills Resort in Oak Brook. They go through the entire slate from guest speakers, CE sessions, the Inaugural Gala and much more! Mark your calendars and get signed up today!

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On this week's episode of the podcast we welcome we welcome in REALTORS® Amanda Albrecht & Alejandro Rivera to give us 11 ways to help first-time homebuyers. In the April edition of Illinois REALTOR® magazine, these two discussed ways to help first-time homebuyers succeed, even when they can’t find many homes to choose from within their price range. And now we bring them to you LIVE on the Weekly Podcast!

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On this week's episode of the podcast we're welcoming back Senior Director State Government Affairs Jimmy Clayton and Senior Director of Advocacy Programs Gideon Blustein to explain how it's never been more important to attend a LTRE event than in 2024!

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On this week's episode of the podcast we’re continuing our series talking about effective strategies you can use to combat negative news headlines and uninformed consumers. We're giving you clips from recent interviews we've conducted with REALTORS® from around the state about why REALTORS® still provide value. We welcome in Shari Hefner of Premiere Commercial Realty in Lake in the Hills, Jean Lewis of Keller Williams Pinacle in Edwardsville and Greg Phillips of Baird & Warner to talk about their experiences.

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On this week's episode of the podcast we’re welcoming back Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson to talk about a renewed push of vacant property scams aimed at REALTORS® at how to spot the red flags when you encounter them. We also take some time to dive into some other topics she's been hearing on the hotline and preview what's coming up for the rest of the year.

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On this week's episode of the podcast we’re continuing our series talking about effective strategies you can use to combat negative news headlines and uninformed consumers. We're giving you clips from recent interviews we've conducted with REALTORS® from around the state about why REALTORS® still provide value. We welcome in Sherri Jordan of 527 Realty Group LLC in Bolingbrook, Paula Arpasi of Homefinders Realty in Benton and Kenya Williams, the owner and designated managing broker of KRGW Realty, LLC, in Brookfield to give their perspectives.

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On this week's episode of the podcast we’re going to talk about an effective strategy you can use to combat negative news headlines and uninformed consumers. We're giving you clips from recent interviews we've conducted with REALTORS® from around the state about why REALTORS® still provide value. We welcome in Amy Wu of Keller Williams Success Realty in Barrington, Elizabeth Goodchild of Berkshire Hathaway HomeService in Palatine and Rob Warmbir of RW Property Services in Clifton to give their perspectives.

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On the podcast this week we're welcoming back REALTORS® Sam Powell and Gianni Nieto to help us kick off Pride Month in Illinois. Despite many advancements, there is still work to be done on the issues of equality and equity. President Matt Silver guides this honest and vital conversation with Sam and Gianni and helps spur all of us to continue to be allies to the LGBTQ+ REALTOR® community.

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On the podcast this week we're taking a more narrative look at REALTOR® committee signups that are now open for application until June 28th. Matt Silver guides us through the stories and testimonies of 4 REALTOR® members across the state who have gained invaluable experience from their time on these committees. Join us as we listen to the stories of Suzanne Miller, Brian Kwilosz, Matt Persicketti & John Grissom.

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On the podcast this week we're looking at the 2024 Global Forum which is just around the corner! Global Forum Chair Jana Herdova and Vice Chair Theresa Mueller join President Matt Silver to help us better understand how a growing number of professionals fuel their passions for travel and adventure with remote work without geographical limitations and offer a preview of the free virtual event on June 4.

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This week on the podcast, Illinois REALTORS® 2024 President Matt Silver is back in the host chair to bring you clips from this past week's Spring Conference and Expo. One of the sessions at the event was Betsy Urbance's That Was Then, This Is Now, Here We Go; a live skit information session detailing how to navigate the new changes after the NAR Settlement. This show will be going on the road this Summer and this podcast offers a look at what you can expect when it travels to your area.

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Get answers to your questions about the Illinois broker's license renewal process now that the April 30th deadline is in your rear-view mirror. In today's podcast, Vice President of Professional Development Young Brockhouse discusses some of the most common questions and offers valuable advice that can save you time, money and worry.

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This week on the podcast, we're welcoming REALTOR and long-time trainer Lynn Madison to talk about the return of the vital CORE IL course to our 2024 Spring Conference. Make sure you take advantage of this great opportunity and earn core continuing education credit while you are networking and learning the latest developments in the ever-changing real estate market. It truly is going to be a Spring Conference to remember!

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This week on the podcast, Illinois REALTORS® 2024 President Matt Silver is continuing his hosting duties for the month and brings you a packed episode with 3 special guests! He is joined today by past Illinois REALTORS® president Sue Miller, president of the Southwestern Board of REALTORS®, Sam Row and Capital Area REALTORS® association executive Kathy Nichelson to share their thoughts and experiences about attending Spring Conference over the years and why it's vital for you to join in this experience!

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This week on the podcast, Illinois REALTORS® 2024 President Matt Silver is continuing his hosting duties for the month and brings you updates and advice from IDFPR Division of Real Estate Chief of Licensing & Education Nate Chandler. They answer all the questions you might have about Illinois broker license renewal, whose applications are due on or by April 30, 2024.

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This week on the podcast, Illinois REALTORS® 2024 President Matt Silver is continuing his hosting duties for the month and bringing us a small taste of what our members experienced at the 2024 Capitol Conference. These days were filled with celebration and renewal for the REALTOR cause as our members once again made a strong showing at the Capitol. In this podcast, you'll hear Senior Director of State Governmental Affairs Jimmy Clayton and his main stage presentation of the Governmental Update. For more from Capitol Conference 2024, visit our website, blog and social media channels.

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This week on the podcast, your Illinois REALTORS® President Matt Silver again takes over as special guest host. This week, he talks with Lake County REALTOR® Eve B. Lee, 2024 NAR Fair Housing Champion Award winner. Lee reveals how her conviction to do the right thing and commitment to supporting fair housing even in the face of opposition contributed to her recognition as a "Fair Housing Champion".

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This week on the podcast Illinois REALTORS® President Matt Silver takes over as special guest host for the entire month of April. He’s kicking it all off with a conversation with NAR Vice President of Policy Advocacy Bryan Greene about the history of fair housing, the fight to eliminate housing discrimination and the opportunities for our members to be allies for all prospective home buyers.

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On this week's episode of the Weekly podcast, learn how to keep your business operating at peak efficiency in the months ahead by understanding how the NAR settlement of the Sitzer-Burnett case will affect you and your brokerage. Illinois REALTORS® General Counsel and Vice President of Legal Services Betsy Urbance explains what she's learned about the situation in today's podcast.

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On this week's episode of the Weekly podcast, we're welcoming in the Chair and Vice Chair of the Illinois REALTORS® Political Involvement Working Group, Michael Simpson and Matt Persicketti to talk about their experiences at Capitol Conference and why it is so important to attend. Michael is Managing Broker at Baird & Warner Real Estate in Algonquin and a member of the REALTOR® Association of the Fox Valley and they both share great stories of their first trips to Capitol Conference, what it is that keeps them coming back and why this year more than ever it is paramount to have a strong REALTOR contingent at the Capitol.

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On this week's episode of the Weekly podcast, we're welcoming back our old friend and Manager of State Governmental Affairs Jim Clayton. Jim always gives us all the info on what's happening at the Capitol and there are quite a few things for our members to keep track of. We talk about the upcoming session, what bills are on a deadline with primary looming and a new strategy that Illinois REALTORS® will be employing with some forthcoming housing legislation.

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Find out how REALTOR® leaders like Ayn Bartok, Drussy Hernandez, Debbie Prodehl and Ginger Sreenan persevered as attitudes about women in the workplace and as decision-makers evolved to where they are today. Watch a video of this special podcast or listen to discover why they are optimistic about the positive influence women will continue to have in Illinois.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast our Illinois REALTORS® VP of Professional Development Young Brockhouse takes over hosting duties to welcome Celeste Wheeler, Charay Palmer, Erica Kirk and Sam Row. They discuss the upcoming Illinois REALTORS 2024 Spring Conference & Expo in Collinsville and the opportunity for members to get seven hours of continuing education.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast out 2024 President Matt Silver takes over hosting duties to welcome NAREB President Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose and Dearborn REALTIST® Board President Sanina Ellison to provide solutions and takeaways from the latest State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) report. They discuss the obstacles that Black consumers face when they want to buy homes and what can be done to help them.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast we're welcoming in 3 members of our illustrious Government Affairs team to talk about Home Rule measures on the ballot in 3 different Illinois communities in the upcoming March primary elections. Director of Local Advocacy Tom Benedetto and Government Affairs Directors (GADs) Neeley Erickson & Nora Gruenberg lend their expertise as to what's happening on the ground in the communities of Cary, Roselle & Richton Park.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast we're recapping the PACKED sessions from the 2024 Winter Business Meetings. If you were unable to attend or if you did and couldn't make some of the sessions, here is your recap and highlights of the Business Issues Forum, Public Policy Forum, REALTOR® Political Involvement Committee (RPIC) Forum and the Legal Update.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast find out why Michael Mallon of Mallon & Associates, will be the featured speaker during the Commercial Update session at the Winter Business Meetings. He has 40 years of experience, including property development, redevelopment, leasing, property management and consulting.

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Listen to today's podcast for brief descriptions of the daily offerings at our Winter Business Meetings at the Bloomington-Normal Marriott. Plan your days by choosing from entertaining and informative guest speakers, optional live continuing education classes, an assortment of forums and networking.

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This week on the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast we're bringing you a conversation with Illinois YPN leaders J.J. Devore and Ethan Nagar and discover some of their secrets to success, including repeatable best practices, successful industry trends and attendance at our annual Winter Business Meetings. Join them in Normal and bring a colleague!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome back University of Illinois-Chicago's Dr. Daniel McMillen to give his assessment of what lies ahead for the Illinois housing market in 2024. Hint: inventory plays an important role.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we have another packed house in the studio to give you a preview of 3 of the enormous forum offerings you'll find at the 2024 Winter Business Meetings. Jim preview the REALTOR® Political Involvement Commitee (RPIC), Betsy talks the Business Issues Forum and Gideon invites you all to make your voice heard in the Policy & Programs Group. Make sure you register today!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we are joined by Illinois REALTORS® Vice President of Professional Development Young Brockhouse. As you know, registration is open for Illinois REALTORS® Winter Business Meetings, and because we strive to improve and never do the same event twice, this year’s gathering has new components. Young is here to tell us about the professional development options available this year.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're bringing you another session of Legal Update as we welcome back Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson and General Counsel and Vice President of Legal Services Betsy Urbance. They explain how a Jan. 1, 2024 change in the Illinois Radon Awareness Act affects property owners and renters. Stay on top of this subject and be prepared to answer questions from your existing and prospective clients.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're welcoming a FULL HOUSE of in-studio guests to talk about the global day of giving, Giving Tuesday. We're welcoming in Laurie Clayton, Foundation Manager of REEF, Brandi Buchele Asssitnat Operations Manager and Cathy Madaus our Vice President of Operations to talk about the charitable efforts of the Real Estate Education Foundation (REEF) and the Illinois REALTOR® Relief Foundation.

To learn more or donate, visit > www.IllinoisRealtors.org/blog/podcast-please-support-our-foundations-on-giving-tuesday

Donate now to REEF > www.ilreef.org/supporting-the-foundation

Donate now to IRRF > www.illinoisrealtors.org/about/foundations/irrf/#DonateIRRF

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome back Director of State Governmental Affairs Jim Clayton to discuss the big notes from the recently completed Veto Session at the Capitol. Three big topics were moved forward and your Government Affairs team was right there to make sure your voice was heard. Jim breaks it all down and gives us a preview of what's to come in the big Election Year that will be 2024.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're welcoming in Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson to answer your burning questions from the hotline. She discusses unauthorized access, how to avoid complications with it, the latest on buyer brokerage agreements and MUCH MORE!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're talking Designation Awareness Month where you'll eagerly reaffirm your commitment to continuing education. Fellow REALTORS® Sue Miller and Kelly Simpson remind us about the benefits of specialized training for designations and the need to stay abreast of the latest industry developments.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're packing the house with 3 guests joining us to talk about their experiences with the Leadership Development Program. We're talking with Suzanne Miller, Celeste Wheeler and Brandon Schaffer and believe us you'll be signing up by the time you've heard them.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're highlighting the work of our GADs throughout the state. We welcome in Tom Benedetto, Neely Erickson and Ron Deedrick to talk about the big issues facing their parts of the state.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, listen as two Illinois REALTORS®, Luigui Corral and Mabél Guzmán, share their thoughts about serving Hispano consumers in the areas where they live and work as well as challenges faced by Hispanic and Latino REALTORS® in Illinois.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month with Illinois REALTORS® Ruth “Drussy” Hernandez and Erika Villegas. Drussy is the 2024 president of the Chicago Association of REALTORS® and Erika is the president-elect.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're talking all about the upcoming Asian Real Estate Association of America's upcoming National Conference in Chicago. This conference will mark the 20th anniversary of the organization and has plenty to offer its attendees. As such we're welcoming to the show the CEO of AREAA Hope Atuel as well as the National Convention Co-Chair and Illinois REALTOR® Vicky Silvano to give a comprehensive preview of this event.

Episode links:

Register for AREAA's National Conference > https://web.cvent.com/event/84fdc3b1-4531-48f0-9f97-cc37dcc27f69/summary

Learn more on Illinois REALTORS® Blog > https://www.illinoisrealtors.org/blog/podcast-dont-miss-the-20th-areaa-national-convention-in-chicago-oct-12-14/

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome back REALTOR® members Keith McKeever, John Grissom and Meenu Bhaskar to talk about their experiences at the 2023 Fall Business Meetings. We talk about stand-out session, favorite moments, Mike Staver's keynote address of taking action, the vast and impressive AI session with Monica Neubauer, and the overwhelming final session.

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Listen to today's podcast with Highland Park REALTOR® Betsy Brint, and you'll want to cast online votes for her as a finalist in NAR's Good Neighbor Award program.

Brint has served the Highland Park Community Foundation for years but the recognition comes as a result of the role the foundation has played in helping the Highland Park community heal following the mass shooting at its 2022 Independence Day parade. Brint and members of the foundation worked with local leaders to distribute donations to families of those who died, were injured or traumatized by the shooting.

If Brint and the foundation collect one of the three highest online vote totals before the Oct. 1 deadline, she will be named a Web Choice Favorite and the foundation will receive grant money to continue to support the community.

Learn more about Brint and the Good Neighbor Award program.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, Jeremy and Kelli are giving you the final rundown as the Fall Business Meetings quickly approach! Hear all the details of the highly anticipated 2023 Forums including Political Involvement featuring State Senator Christina Castro, Public Policy featuring members Andy Velkme and Tim Ryan, Business Issues featuring Opticos Design, Inc's Jennifer Settle AND MANY MORE. Find all the info and get your registration in for this FREE event at www.IllinoisRealtors.org/fallbusinessmeetings.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome back to the show Becky Carraher, who is Illinois REALTORS’ Director of Ethics and Professional Standards, to talk about a new option being offered when an ethics complaint is filed.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome 3 REALTOR® members to talk all about the annual Fall Business Meetings. We welcome in Keith McKeever, John Grissom and Meenu Bhaskar to talk about their experiences at the Meetings, what some of their favorite parts of the Meetings are and why they believe they are vital to attend for REALTORS® of all ages and experience.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome Senior Director of Advocacy Programs Gideon Blustein to talk about the new REALTOR® Candidate Training Program. This program helps walk prospective government candidates through the process of running for public office. Gideon gives an overview of the program and talks about why it's especially important that REALTORS® get involved in the political process.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, Jeremy & Kelli are back in studio and giving you a comprehensive preview of the upcoming 2023 Fall Business Meetings. Like every year, the Meetings are PACKED with speakers, forums and meetings to help our members get energized and this year promises to be just as vital. You can register for the Meetings NOW at www.illinoisrealtors.org/fallbusinessmeetings.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, Illinois REALTORS® Legal team update you on legal considerations concerning teams and independent contractor status. Learn about requirements you must follow to protect your brokerage.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, Carrie Elliott, Illinois REALTORS® Education Director, joins the conversation about American Warrior Real Estate Classes, co-sponsored by the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®, the Heartland REALTOR® Organization, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and Illinois REALTORS®. Special guests include American Warrior Institute CEO and Branch Manager (for Fairway) Louise Thaxton, who will serve as the course instructor, and former Navy SEAL, retired Lt. Jason Redman, who will be the keynote speaker for both August classes. 

Listen to today’s podcast and you’ll want to be the first in your office to register for one of the American Warrior Real Estate Professional courses scheduled for August in the Chicago area.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome two Illinois winners of the NAR 30 Under 30 honor for 2023; Caira Button and Kelly Carlson. We dive deep in this episode talking about how they found their way to the real estate profession, how they have achieved success early, what it was like to apply for and be selected for the 30 Under 30 and what advice they would give to other REALTORS® starting. This is a great episode with two dynamic guests that is sure to energize you. Enjoy!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're talking about the Illinois REALTORS® Relief Foundation with Illinois REALTORS® Vice President of Operations Cathy Madaus and Assistant Operations Manager Brandi Buchele. On June 29, severe storms swept through several Illinois communities, causing extensive damage to homes, trees and power lines. The storm left tens of thousands of residents without power for a number of days. With extreme weather events taking place throughout the state, the work of the Illinois REALTORS® Relief Foundation has never been more needed. We discuss the foundation and how homeowners can apply for assistance.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're bringing you a portion of the latest recording of Legal Update with Illinois REALTORS® VP of Legal Services Betsy Urbance and Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson. In this section Betsy and Vicki discuss a new scam making it's way across the country involving vacant property. They discuss what to look for to make sure your business is protected from these scams.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome back Manager of State Government Affairs Jim Clayton. Jim brings you up to date on our efforts to increase housing supply in every Illinois community. The fight continues in Springfield and beyond!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're welcoming 3 association presidents from the North, Central and Southern parts of the state to talk about the challenges their members are seeing in the current housing market. Jean Lewis (Keller Williams Pinacle), Ginger Sreenan (Pioneer Real Estate Services), PJ Trautman (Trautman Real Estate Agency & Appraisal) give specific examples of what issues are arising in the market and give advice on how they're dealing with those issues. They also talk about the Illinois REALTORS® Your American Dream campaign and how the campaign assets for our members are helping them deal with the market.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're bringing back our guests from last week, Global Forum Committee Chair Ahmed Badat and Vice Chair Jana Herdova, to give us 6 Reasons to attend the June 20th Illinois REALTORS Global Forum: “The Important Role of U.S. Economic Aid Abroad.”

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're focusing on the June 20th Illinois REALTORS Global Forum: “The Important Role of U.S. Economic Aid Abroad.” To tell us a little more about this FREE virtual event, we’ve invited Global Forum Committee Chair Ahmed Badat and Vice Chair Jana Herdova as well as the featured speaker of the event, Joe Williams, the Managing Director for Global Programs at Financial Services Volunteer Corps.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we are talking about AI, a topic that is quickly dominating the pubic sphere of discussion and how it pertains to the real estate profession. To help us along we are joined by REALTORS® Carrie Little and Marki Lemons Ryhal as well as Legal Hotline Attorney Vicki Munson for an exploration of the ways this quick-developing, far-reaching technology could affect your bottom line, the rights of private property owners and our industry. You don't want to miss this discussion!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we are happy to welcome back to the show, Dr. Daniel McMillen, head of the Stuart Handler Department of Real Estate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Business Administration.

You may have seen Dr. McMillen at some Illinois REALTORS® events where he shared his insights into the economic trends affecting the housing market. He and his team at the University of Illinois also provide Illinois REALTORS® with monthly, quarterly and annual housing forecasts.

Today we are sitting down to talk with him about what is happening in the market, what REALTORS® might expect this summer and some of the larger economic factors that could come into play over the next few months. 

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we welcome back to the podcast Illinois REALTORS® Manager of State Government Affairs Jim Clayton, to talk about the latest news from Illinois’ 103rd General Assembly with only four days left in the Spring Session. We're talking about the twists and turns of the Radon Bill and the surprise full court press that all of you members helped pull off. We're also giving a preview of what we're keeping our eyes on as the session comes to a close. You won't want to miss these stories of just how vital our Government Affairs team is.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're focusing on the upcoming 2023 Spring Conference & Expo, and the obvious – and maybe not-so-obvious – reasons why hundreds of REALTORS® attend this annual event in Collinsville. To help us reveal the details of this two-day, can’t-miss event, we welcome the chair of the Spring Conference & Expo Working Group Kris Rosser Schmitt, the Egyptian Board of REALTORS® CEO, Charay Palmer and the Illinois REALTORS® Vice President of Professional Development Young Brockhouse.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're bringing you a very special episode recorded during our Capitol Conference 2023. During CapCon YPN held a special event all about mentoring. We snagged their special guest NAR YPN Advisory Board Member Yared Rivera and we're also joined by Illinois YPN Advisory Group Chair Ryan Elwell to talk about the variety of ways you can learn AND help others through mentoring by keeping your mind open to the possibilities.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're welcoming Illinois REALTORS® Senior Advisor of Governmental Affairs Betsy Mitchell to give you a feel for the anticipation that participating REALTORS® will experience today in Springfield. Whether it's the excitement of meeting state legislators in person or listening to national political strategist David Axelrod, Capitol Conference is THE place to be!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, Capitol Conference is only a week away and we're highlighting a fantastic opportunity for our members as part of the conference. The Young Professionals Network (YPN) will be bringing in National Association of REALTORS® YPN Advisory Board member and Nevada Association of REALTORS® member Yared Rivera to talk about mentorship. To give a preview we're talking to Illinois YPN Advisory Group Chair Ryan Elwell and Vice Chair JJ Devore about what to expect from this vital presentation.

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Listen as President Michael Gobber answers questions about the kickoff of "Your American Dream," the first statewide consumer ad campaign by Illinois REALTORS®. It focuses on the expertise you provide to consumers who want to buy a home or a commercial property. 

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're talking all about the quickly approaching Capitol Conference. There are so many amazing things in store for the conference and to give you a sense of what to expect we are welcoming REALTORS® Alice Weinert, who attended for the first time last year, and Julie Roth, who has been attending for over 20 years. Both of them have some great stories and advice to give about their experiences at CapCon and why it's important for all REALTORS® to attend.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, join Dr. Daniel McMillen, head of the Stuart Handler Department of Real Estate (SHDRE) at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Business Administration, for a look at Illinois' spring housing market and his thoughts about a rebound from the winter downturn. In today's podcast, he discusses factors that encourage him, and he compares the current market to the pre-COVID market. Tune in and learn more about his assessment of mortgage interest rate fluctuations, recent bank failures, low inventory, inflation and consumer confidence, among other things.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're joined by RPAC Fundraising Specialist Vanessa Wiseman. It's March so that means it's time for the Mega Raffle! We talk all about what the Mega Raffle is and how it works. We also dive into why RPAC continues to be such a vital part of Illinois REALTORS® and why it's important to support. Join us for a fun conversation!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're joined by Illinois REEF Foundation Manager Laurie Clayton talks about eight scholarship programs that have April 1 application deadlines. We discuss the various scholarships and opportunities REEF provides and what it's meant to Laurie to see so many people further their education through REEF.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're joined by Illinois REALTORS® Senior Director of Advocacy Programs Gideon Blustein. The Chicago primaries were held last Tuesday and led to some very interesting results from the Mayoral race to the ward aldermen. When it comes to Chicago elections there's no better authority than Gideon and he's here to give us a recap of the results, which candidates we supported and what comes next to those candidates that are heading for the run-off elections.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, Education Director Carrie Elliott and Education Specialist Aniya Lathan discuss all Managing Brokers need to know about renewing their real estate licenses. We talk about completing your required CE courses, the different categories of brokers and the requirements for each, and some advice about how to complete the process smoothly.

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're welcoming back Manager of State Government Affairs Jim Clayton to talk about the upcoming Capitol Conference. Jim reveals preliminary details about the 2023 Capitol Conference in Springfield including the return of the Lobby Day at the State Capitol. You won't want to miss the speakers, a visit to the Capitol or the camaraderie of Capitol Conference!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're introducing you to the newest member of the Illinois REALTORS® Staff: Director of Local Advocacy Tom Benedetto. Tom comes to us by way of Chicago and brings a wealth of experience in governmental affairs and we cannot wait to see what he has in store! In this conversation we learn all about his upbringing, some hobbies and family stories and what he hopes to accomplish with Illinois REALTORS®. Join us for this fun conversation!

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On this week's episode of the Illinois REALTORS® Weekly Podcast, we're talking to the Immediate Past President Ezekiel "Zeke" Morris as he discusses the importance of Black History Month and celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion successes - but says there is still more work to be done.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

We recently returned from the 2023 Winter Business Meetings in Bloomington. The week was PACKED with some incredible sessions and some amazing speakers who came to inspire and inform our members about creativity, emerging technology trends, business expansion in Illinois and so much more! In this clip, 2023 President Michael Gobber opens the Meetings and talks about what he's hoping to accomplish for not only the Winter Business Meetings, but how those sessions will help to spur on our work throughout all of 2023.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Experience has taught Herrin-area REALTOR® Teresa Camarato, Illinois REALTORS® 2011 President Sheryl Grider Whitehurst of Peoria, Belleville-area REALTOR® Tricia Tialdo and Chicago Association of REALTORS® President Sarah Ware about the practical ways Winter Business Meetings have helped their businesses. Will you be joining them in Bloomington-Normal this week?

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome back Illinois REALTORS® RPAC Fundraising Manager Kim House for a preview of the biggest state RPAC fundraising event of 2023, the Rockin' With RPAC Auction, scheduled for 5-8 p.m., Tues., Jan. 24. It's one of numerous attractions at the Illinois REALTORS® Winter Business Meetings at the Bloomington-Normal Hotel and Conference Center, Jan. 23-26. During her discussion, House reveals the Illinois REALTORS®' 2022 President's Cup status and more.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome back Illinois REALTORS® Senior Advisor Governmental Affairs Betsy Mitchell for a summary of the lame duck session and the issues that loom for legislators in the Spring session that starts Wednesday.

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Our members are always looking for opportunities to connect with clients. Today we are talking with a few members who are successfully growing their business with social media to share their strategies: Carrie Little of CarMarc Realty Group in Chicago and Brandon Blankenship with Keller Williams Premier Properties in Glen Ellen. We discuss how they found success using social media in their businesses and the advice they have for REALTORS® who want to better leverage their own social media for success!

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we’re talking with Yvette Jones-Swanson, an Illinois REALTOR® who was just named one of five 2022 NAR Volunteering Works Grant and Mentoring Recipients. We speak with Yvette about her incredible story, her time in the armed forces, her journey to being a REALTOR® and how all of this led to the formation of her charity 100 Pretty Purses For Female Veterans. This is an amazingly inspiring story that is perfect for the Christmas season and to close out our 2022 here on Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. We'll see you in 2023!

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome back Illinois REALTORS® Manager of State Governmental Affairs Jim Clayton to talk about the 2022 Veto Session, gives a preview of the upcoming new class of lawmakers making their way to Springfield and details the issues the Government Affairs Team is looking at in the next legislative year.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome back Illinois REALTORS® Senior Advisor of Governmental Affairs Betsy Mitchell to discuss the new Smoke Alarm Law that will be taking effect in Illinois right as the calendar turns to 2023. This law has been in the works for many years and does hold some need-to-know implications for home-owners and housing providers alike. Along every step of the process your Illinois REALTORS® Government Affairs Team as been there to advocate for you and now that the law is set to finally take effect, Betsy is in the studio to give you the final version and rundown to make sure you are in compliance!

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome the brand new President of the REALTORS® Land Institute Luke Worrell. Luke has been in land brokerage nearly his entire life first as a part of his Father's company but now as the owner and operator of Worrell Land Services based in Jacksonville. In this conversation Luke tells us about those humble beginnings and walks us through the incredibly diverse and never-the-same-day-twice atmosphere of dealing in land brokerage. He also talks about his recent trip to the NAR conference in Orlando where he was officially made President of RLI. It's a conversation you don't want to miss!

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome Tracey Royal to talk about her recent experience at the NAR Conference in Orlando as part of the NAR Leadership Academy class of 2022. Tracey is the Assistant Branch Vice President with Coldwell Banker in Oak Park as well as serving as 2022 president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, is a member of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®, and currently serves on the Illinois REALTORS® Board of Directors and the National Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors. Join us for a fantastic conversation about improving yourself through the call of leadership.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we're diving into the results of the highly competitive mid-term elections. We're joined by Illinois REALTORS® Manager of State Governmental Affairs Jim Clayton to talk about how the races shook out, what ballot measures won and lost and how your Government Affairs Team continues to work with all leaders to advocate for your rights regardless of party.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we have a packed house in the studio and online to talk about the vital work of the Illinois REALTORS® Relief Foundation. The foundation helps those living in the state’s communities which have been affected by natural disasters. To give us updates on some of the recent work of the Foundation we welcome Vice President of Operations Cathy Madaus, Assistant Operations Manager Brandi Moore and Governmental Affairs Director Katherine Bezares.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we welcome two of your local GADs: Joe Roth & Ron Deedrick to talk about why the question of Home Rule status is appearing on ballots this fall in Barrington, Carbondale, Collinsville and Freeport. We discuss the arguments for and against and the intricacies of how it effects the communities where it is on the ballot this November. 

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we’re welcoming a very special guest to the podcast for the first time! Victoria "Vicki" Munson is the new Legal Hotline Attorney for Illinois REALTORS® and we could not be more excited to welcome her to our family. Betsy Urbance also joins us on this introductory interview where we talk about Vicki's impressive professional background, what drew her to Illinois REALTORS® and what you can expect when you get her on the phone. Don't miss this fantastic conversation and WELCOME VICKI!

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we’re getting back into the studio for some genuine new content! The Leadership Development Program's applications are being accepted and about to accept a new class. As such, we thought it would be great to chat with Brian Kwilosz and Suzanne Miller, the Chair and Vice Chair of the Leadership Development Working Group for 2023, about their experiences with the program and why it is so vital for REALTORS® wanting to take the next step in their careers.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we’re bringing you excerpts form the presentation by Dr. Daniel McMillen: Winterizing: Analysis and Outlook on Illinois Residential Real Estate. Dr. McMillen is a Professor and Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs at the Stuart Handler Department of Real Estate at the University of Illinois Chicago. Dr. McMillen provides monthly housing stats and quarterly forecasts for Illinois REALTORS® and this session was filled with great information that is vital to your business including the state of the economy, pricing trends and much much more.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we’re bringing you the presentation by IDFPR’s Division of Real Estate Director Laurie Murphy that was a part of our PACKED Broker Engagement Forum at the 2022 Fall Business Meetings. In this session Laurie gives us an update on licenses in the state, how crypto currency is becoming more commonplace in real estate transactions and the emergences of VERY LONG listing agreements throughout the country.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're giving you a little bit of what our members experienced at last week's Fall Business Meetings. We're bringing you the full session delivered by Intersect Illinois CEO Dan Seals as he gave our attendees a great discussion on why Illinois is the perfect place for anybody looking to create their American Dream. Enjoy this full session from one of the leaders in knowing how to sell Illinois.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're welcoming the Chair and Vice Chair of the Illinois REALTORS® Business Issues Forum Brian Kwilosz and Jayme Ahlden to preview their upcoming section of the massive Broker Engagement Forum at the 2022 Fall Business Meetings in Oak Brook September 19-22.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're welcoming Gideon Blustein back to the pod to talk about the upcoming Midwest U.S.-Japan Association Conference which he will be attending and why REALTORS® in all facets of the business should pay attention.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're welcoming Young Brockhouse and Jim Clayton to give a preview of some of the voluminous forum options awaiting all of the attendees of our annual Fall Business Meetings; coming up September 19-22 in Oak Brook, Illinois. Young gives us a quick rundown of the MLS Summit happening Wednesday the 21st and Jim gives us a preview of the Legislative Update happening on Tuesday the 20th, which is a part of the massive Broker Engagement Forum that will kick off the open sessions that day.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Last week, Illinois REALTORS® attended the C5 Conference in New York City. This conference is presented by NAR and is a big part of effort to continue drawing attention to the commercial side of the real estate profession. Commercial REALTOR® Alex Ruggieri was at C5 and conducted some fantastic interviews straight from the expo floor. So for this week’s episode we’re bringing you those interviews to give you a sense of what it was like and why it is so important. First you’ll hear from Andy Velkme, the current president of the Northern Illinois Commercial Association of REALTORS®, followed by conversation with commercial realtors Bill Caton, Bruce Heller, Theresa Mueller and Jeff Bennett. Alex then concludes with a chat with Main Street Organization of REALTORS® John LeTourneau.

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As was first seen in the inaugural issue of the new digital magazine, we have updated our invaluable 21 Things To Do and Not Do List When Marketing Your Business. This list has always proved as a vital resource to our members and this update comes at a great time for the market itself. To help break it all down we welcome Illinois REALTORS®' Director of Ethics & Professional Standards Becky Carraher, and Ethics & Legal Services Manager Mindie Nesch.

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Welcome to Illinois REALTORS® Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode of the podcast Jeremy & Kelli are giving you a comprehensive breakdown of the PACKED slate of content coming to the annual Fall Business Meetings in Oak Brook September 19-22. Highlights include a STACKED Broker Engagement Forum featuring Illinois US Senator Tammy Duckworth, the typical and vital Legal Update with our very own Legal Team and must-see session with the Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi. Give it a listen to see all the amazing things to look forward to at the 2022 Fall Business Meetings.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode of the podcast we welcome the CEO of Quad City Area REALTORS® Sharon Smith. Sharon gives us a great rundown on the Quad Cities area of the state and the unique knowledge base the association's members must have to work in both Illinois and Iowa. And she gives us some background on some amazing new initiatives including a video project to educate about the history of Fair Housing and a new app that helps bridge language barriers and transactions.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode of the podcast we welcome a mother-son duo in Jessica and Gavin Devore. Gavin is truly a unique and incredible individual as he is one of the first teenagers to take advantage of the age drop in getting a real estate license, doing so at the age of 19. We talk about how Jessica's career influenced her son, Gavin's advice to other teens who might be thinking of getting their license and much more!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode of the podcast we welcome Angela Rather, who is a realtor with Keller Williams Pinnacle Group in O'Fallon. Angela is currently spearheading efforts to educate and provide resources to real estate agents so that they can be in compliance with ADA requirements and the state of Illinois and Missouri requirements to become competent at working with deaf and heart of hearing clients. This is truly great and vital conversation for realtors and brokers to listen to.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode of the podcast we're throwing an interview party as we're joined by 4, count 'em, 4! guests today to talk about one of the most unique, unsung and vital programs Illinois REALTORS® offers: The Ombudsman Program. Join us as program founder Becky Caraher discusses it's origins and active Ombudsmen Rick Hunt, Chris Read and Tracey Royal tell of how they came to the program and why they think it is so important.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this very special episode of the podcast we are joined by two amazing individuals to talk about the historic Dearborn Realtist Board and their current new member drive. First is Illinois REALTORS® 2022 President and DRB member Zeke Morris and second is current DRB President Gwen Newton. This is a conversation you do not want to miss!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

In case you missed the live broadcast on June 29, listen now to an analysis of the historic June primary elections by the Illinois REALTORS® Governmental Affairs Team including Greg St. Aubin, Senior VP for Governmental Affairs, Jim Clayton, Manager, State Government Affairs, Gideon Blustein, Senior Director of Local Governmental and External Affairs & Betsy Mitchell, Senior Advisor on the Govt Affairs team.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Today we have a fantastic episode that truly shows the impact our GADs have. We have two interviews that we recorded over the last few weeks with Neeley Erickson and Kristie Engerman about specific ways they've made their community and their housing markets stronger. With Neeley we'll discuss the formation of a template for communities on how to get rid of restrictive covenants that many towns don't even know still exist in their charters. And with Kristie we'll also welcome PAAR representatives Jennifer Hamm and Becky Peterson to talk about an innovative and vital new downpayment assistance program developed in conjunction with the city of Peoria.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Today on the podcast Kelli and Jeremy welcome back Dr. Dan McMillen to talk about the Summer housing market and where the market may go for the rest of the year. Dr. McMillen is the head of the Stuart Handler Department of Real Estate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Business Administration. Dr. McMillen and his team provide Illinois REALTORS® with monthly, quarterly and annual housing forecasts.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Today on the podcast Kelli and Jeremy will be talking about how REALTORS® can hone their leadership and collaboration skills. And the best part about it; they also get to protect the future of the real estate industry and their brokerages while doing so! That’s right we’re talking about serving on a 2023 Illinois REALTORS® committee. But you need to hurry and sign up because the deadline is June 24! Sign up at at www.illinoisrealtors.org/committees.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

As it does every year, June marks the beginning of LGBTQ+ Pride Month in the United States and around the world. Unlike other national observance months, Pride month is a relatively new celebration of our collective heritage, but also a vital one none-the-less. In this special podcast, we examine the history of this celebration and hear from some of our LGBTQ+ members about what this month means to them.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

June is National Homeownership Month and we're once again bringing focus to our ongoing American Dream campaign. The American Dream of homeownership is only made possible by YOU. So on this episode we're bringing you audio from the 2022 Winter Business Meetings when 2022 President Zeke Morris and CEO Jeff Baker outline the importance of this campaign and why it matters to you.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

It's been a while since the Illinois Residential Real Property Disclosure Act has been updated but that is what happened mere weeks ago. But have no fear! Returning podcast champion and IR Legal Counsel Betsy Urbance is back to walk you through any questions you might have and what you need to know with this updated law.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this special episode of the podcast, we give a brief history of Asian American & Pacific Islander Month. We're also giving you a preview of the 2022-2023 State of Asia America Report from the Asian Real Estate Association of America which will be released in the coming days.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

It's time for a good old fashioned episode on location! This week Jeremy and Kelli are bringing you this episode from Collinsville as we're getting set up for our first Spring Conference and Expo since 2019! They go through all of the amazing things that will be on the Expo floor and preview the incredible slate of speakers that are set to take the stage. Make sure you get yourself to Collinsville!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

The broker renewal deadline has officially passed. So what now if you still haven't renewed? Jeremy and Kelli are here to answer all of your questions and give you a road-map for what to do now. Then they preview the upcoming Spring Conference and Expo where you can get a head start on the next renewal CE credits.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

The broker renewal deadline is quickly approaching on April 30th! SERIOUSLY! The time is now to get your renewals done so as not to interrupt your business. For one last push, we welcome back Jeremy Reed from IDFPR's Division of Real Estate and Illinois REALTORS® Vice President of Professional Development Young Brockhouse to answer any last minute questions you might have!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

The broker renewal deadline is quickly approaching on April 30th! We're continuing our informational push by welcoming Christi Walden, Education Manager & Aniya Lathan, Education Specialist from Illinois REALTORS® to talk about the educational requirements of broker renewal and some tips to help you get your renewal completed on time!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

April once again welcomes Fair Housing Month to the United States. Join us for this special episode as we hear from Nathan K. Johnson of Redkey Realty Leaders and learn about the history of the fight for fair housing in America.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Many people already struggle with finding the right work-life balance. Throw in a pandemic, which forced everyone to work from home and go to school from home, and the lines separating work and home life blurred even closer together. As things get more back to normal, there are things REALTORS® and everyone can do to promote a little more balance in their lives. Amanda Lott shares a few tips for balancing work duties with family, friends and more. Lott is the 2022 Chair of the National Association of REALTORS® YPN Advisory Board.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

The 2022 Illinois REALTORS® Capitol Conference begins today in Springfield. Betsy Mitchell, Senior Advisor of Governmental Affairs talks about the significance of the day and some of the bills members will hear about.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Illinois REALTORS® 2022 Capitol Conference is right around the corner! Manager of State Government Affairs Jim Clayton joins us to give us a preview of what the day will bring.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Capitol Conference is JUST AROUND THE CORNER and it's time to start getting excited! One of the more anticipated parts of CapCon 2022 is the YPN Session taking place at the IR Headquarters on March 28. We recently spoke with YPN Chair Connie Vavra to talk about the upcoming session focusing on achieving the mythical work-life balance.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

If you’ll remember we did talk about this upcoming lifting of the mandate when it was announced a few weeks ago but since then we’ve gotten even more information and a few new developments. Hence, we thought it was time to once again clarify some facts and really get into what it means for specific real estate actions as well. As such we're once again welcoming regular guest Betsy Urbance, the General Counsel and Vice President of Legal Services for Illinois REALTORS® 

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we have another very special offering for you. Today marks the beginning of Women's History Month in the United States and around the world. To mark this occasion, we recently spoke with some prominent Women REALTORS® about their thoughts on Women's History Month and how to move the cause forward. Enjoy this special conversation with Tracey Royal, Natasha Murphy, Sue Miller and Gwen Newton.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On today's episode we're talking all about NAR's Commitment to Excellence or C2EX program. This program has so much to offer REALTORS® and brokerages. We talked with two Sue Millers to help illuminate this program. First you'll hear from 2021 Illinois REALTORS® President Sue Miller and then we speak with Suzanne Miller, one of only 2 C2EX Ambassadors in the entire state.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

Federal and local mandates for COVID-19 safety and the preferences of seller clients are just a few reasons why REALTORS® should not completely let their guards down if the state of Illinois lifts its indoor mask mandate as planned on Feb. 28. Illinois REALTORS® General Counsel and Vice President of Legal Services Betsy Urbance discusses the changes. 

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we are honored and excited to welcome 2022 Illinois REALTORS® President Zeke Morris to the podcast. It's been a bit of whirlwind for Zeke since his inauguration at the Fall Business Meetings. We talk about the launch of the American Dream campaign, Black History Month and his advice to all that might be the "first" in their given positions. This is a conversation you won't want to miss.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode we have a very special and very different offering for you. Today marks the beginning of Black History Month in the United States and around the world. To mark this occasion, we recently spoke with some prominent African American REALTORS® about their thoughts on Black History Month and what the American Dream truly means. Enjoy this special conversation with Crystal Blanton, Courtney Jones, Darell Powell-Lee and Celeste Wheeler.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're recapping the official launch of the American Dream campaign at the 2022 Winter Business Meetings which took place in Bloomington-Normal. We hear from NAR 2022 First Vice President Tracy Kasper as she spoke at the launch event and comments from Northern Illinois Commercial REALTOR Andy Velkme about why commercial real estate is also a key part of the American Dream.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, Becky Carraher, Director of Ethics and Professional Standards, talks about the Illinois REALTORS® Ethics Citation Program, including how and why complaints may be filed, and how the Ethics Citation Panel, composed of Illinois REALTORS® members, helps to resolve disputes and uphold ethical standards.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're giving you a good old fashioned run-down of what you can expect from the upcoming Winter Business Meetings in Bloomington January 18-20. From the launch of the American Dream Initiative to the 2022 REALTOR® of the Year to the incredible public forums from our teams, the Winter Business Meetings has something that everyone needs to hear. Be sure to register before it's too late!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're welcoming REALTOR® and elected official Natalie Mulhall. Natalie is an Illinois REALTORS® member and a Broker Associate at Maurer Real Estate Group located in Loves Park, Illinois. Natalie and her husband Tim have lived in Belvidere Illinois for 23 years with their 5 sons. In 2021, Natalie was elected to represent Ward 2 as Alderman on the Belvidere City Council. We talk about her beginnings in Real Estate, how she got the political bug, and why being of service matters most.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're welcoming Vice President Operations Cathy Madaus and Assistant Operations Manager Brandi Moore to speak about the Illinois REALTOR® Relief Foundation. The recent string of tornadoes have left an incredible amount of damage in their wake. It is at thees times that things like IRRF are needed most. Cathy and Brandi explain the origins of the IRRF and how your donations help victims of future natural catastrophes.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're so excited to welcome back IR Legislative Attorney Betsy Urbance to the studio! At the recent NAR Meetings in San Diego, 6 Guidelines for MLS were either updated or adopted. Betsy is here to walk us through each of the 6 new guidelines and what they mean to your business.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we've got an absolutely packed house joining us in our virtual studio. Fresh off of their successful forum at the Fall Business Meetings, 2021 Global Chair Moses Hall, 2022 Chair Andris Velkme, and Jakeeva Lee are all here to discuss all things GLOBAL! They share some of the trends they're currently seeing in the global market, share a mountain of resources for those that want to get involved and make the case for why that should be YOU!

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're talking with Dr. Daniel McMillen, head of the Stuart Handler Department of Real Estate at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Business Administration. Dr. McMillen and his team provide Illinois REALTORS® with monthly, quarterly and annual housing forecasts and he is here today to give us an early look at the 2022 forecast and tell us what we can expect in the housing market next year.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're talking with Illinois REALTOR® Jane Hay, with the Jane Hay Sales and Staging Team at The Real Estate Group in Springfield. With Thanksgiving this week and the rest of the holiday season right around the corner, Jane is going to share some tips for staging homes for the holidays, what to avoid, and why staging can help make or break a listing.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're talking with Illinois REALTORS® Legislative Attorney Matt Rentschler. Matt is returning to the podcast to talk about the latest round of the Illinois Rental Assistance Program. The program has already dispersed millions of dollars in rental assistance and a new round of applications is approaching in December. Matt is here to give you all the answers to what the program is, who it can help and what you can do to prepare.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're talking with former Illinois REALTORS® President and code of ethics know-all Mike Oldenettel. When you hear the term "code of ethics" it brings up thoughts of stuffy rules that are required to be reviewed. But as Mike tells us, the NAR Code of Ethics is a living, breathing document that set you apart and a level above other professions. Join us for a fascinating conversation and don't forget to make sure you have met your requirements. Click here for more information.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're talking about a program we are very proud of at Illinois REALTORS®; the Leadership Development Program. The deadline to apply and be considered for the 2022 Leadership Development program is quickly approaching. Applications are due Nov. 19.  We have with us today the Chair and Vice Chair of the Leadership Development Working Group, John LeTourneau and Carrie Little to tell us more about the program.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week's episode, we're welcoming Gideon Blustein, Illinois REALTORS'® Senior Director of Local Government and External Affairs to talk about a recent study Illinois REALTORS® contracted with University of Chicago Social Sciences Professor Dr. Marshall Jean. The study examined the relationship between the race of borrowers and their homes' appraised values.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

It was an incredibly busy and exciting week at the Illinois REALTORS® Fall Business Meetings. We have so much great content to bring you but we're starting with a great discussion from the YPN Forum on Networking in the Time of COVID. Kelli is joined by guest hosts Kim House & Megan Beechen and our joined by special guests Heather Haase, Miguel Fernandez and Margaret Hicks.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week’s episode we are coming to you LIVE from our studio at the 2021 Fall Business Meetings in Naperville. We're joined by our own Young Brockhouse to give you a preview of what's to come on Tuesday-Thursday of the Meetings including a truly epic Inaugural Gala that will install Zeke Morris as the 2022 Illinois REALTORS® president.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this week’s episode we have a very special treat for all of you. NAR recently held the first ever C5 Commercial Real Estate Summit in New York City. Illinois REALTORS® were represented by Gideon Blustein and Alex Ruggierri, with Alex conducting a few fantastic interviews from the floor. You’ll be hearing some snippets from these interviews in this episode that include Bill Caton, Andy Velmke, Deena Zimmerman & Moses Hall.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode, we’re giving our loyal podcast listeners a very special treat today. We’ve got a sneak preview of the new Legislative Scorecard that we will be releasing in full at the upcoming Fall Business Meetings. To help us along we have Senior Advisor of Governmental Affairs Betsy Mitchell and Manager of State Government Affairs Jim Clayton joining the podcast today.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this episode, we're discussing Illinois governor JB Pritzker's recently extended eviction moratorium in the state to October 3rd. We'll also be speaking with Illinois REALTORS® Legislative Attorney Matt Rentschler about where the order currently stands, new programs for landlords to get relief and where we might be headed after October 3rd.

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Welcome to IR Weekly. This podcast will be in your feeds every Tuesday to keep you up to date on all the latest news in the REALTOR® world.

On this first episode, we're discussing Illinois governor JB Pritzker's intent to extend the eviction moratorium in the state to October 3rd. We'll also be speaking with Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline Attorney Anneliese Fierstos about what landlords can do in the midst of these executive orders. 

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Illinois REALTORS® sat down with University of Illinois economists to talk about what is happening in the housing market and what to expect through the end of the year.

Get full transcript.

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Krista Becker, Moses Hall and Erika Villegas share their stories of moving from YPN up the ladder to state and national leadership roles, challenges they’ve faced along the way and strategies for developing your own leadership skills.

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What happened? Legislators flew into Springfield for a brief lame-duck session and…Well, Illinois REALTORS® Senior Vice President for Governmental Affairs Greg St. Aubin will provide members a recap of the lame-duck session and a glimpse of the legislative initiatives Illinois REALTORS® will discuss with lawmakers in 2021 to help your business and your clients. Plus, exclusive interviews with the new Speaker of the Illinois House and Senate President.

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Get to know what you don’t know: What obstacles and opportunities await you in 2021? REALTORS® Sarah Ware, Brian Kwilosz and Megan Oswald will engage in a lively and informative discussion about the business issues REALTORS® should be aware of and prepared to manage in 2021. Learn how to reduce risk, grow your business, and sharpen your skills; all through a lens that focuses on diversity, inclusion and equality​. Expand your customer base and save time and money by navigating the obstacles that lie ahead.

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Tommy Choi, Dionne Clifton, Tracey Royal, Rachel Sheid and Athena Williams discuss factors affecting homeownership access and affordability, and how to serve home buyers more efficiently through available housing resources and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved programs. Together, we can do R part to promote housing access for all Americans

Note: The participants in this podcast are experts in their field, but are not lawyers. If you have a question about legal requirements or regulations, consult your personal or company attorney. For general legal information, members may contact the Illinois REALTORS® Legal Hotline.   Get full transcript.

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Illinois REALTORS® who tuned in to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Forum Tuesday afternoon heard a panel discussion and two presentations.

The following are five takeaways from the forum:

  • The increase in people working from home since the COVID-19 pandemic struck makes it important for Multiple Listing Service organizations to capture data so consumers looking for properties know what can accommodate their lifestyle, such as home offices, home gyms and home classrooms;
  • Consumers are more interested in the best solutions for faster and more reliable internet access to meet their new needs;
  • An increasing number of consumers are more interested in buying homes sight unseen, instead using virtual tours and virtual floor plans;
  • MLS organizations are striving for “interoperability” in electronic services, so that programs like DocuSign and Dotloop can communicate easily with each other, just like gmail and yahoo users can exchange email messages;
  • Members can use data available in their MLSs to assist in making decisions in their marketing and in their overall business strategy.

Expert speakers at the forum included: President and CEO of Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) Rebecca Jensen, CEO of Council of MLS Denee Evans Hofer, RESO CEO Sam DeBord, MRED Chief Technology Officer Chris Haran and NAR Senior Economist and Director of Housing & Commercial Research Scholastica (Gay) Cororaton.

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Illinois REALTORS® talked to U of I economist and housing forecaster Geoffrey Hewings about what unemployment levels, lower housing inventory, Illinois’ evolving population trends and foreclosures could mean for the state’s housing market in the months ahead.

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Preparation. Follow-through. Communication. NAR General Counsel Katie Johnson and Illinois REALTORS® General Counsel Betsy Urbance talk about ways for association and brokerage offices to reopen and pivot to a “new normal.” Learn more and get tools with Illinois REALTORS® ROI series.

Get full transcript.

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Rebecca Donatelli, Mabél Guzmán and Sam Powell joined Illinois YPN to share their best success tips for building your brand. Hear how they expanded their network through social media, within the industry and through personal interactions in everyday life.

Note: All advertising requirements of Illinois Real Estate License Act and REALTOR® Code of Ethics apply to REALTOR® advertising through any medium, whether physical or electronic, including social media platforms. 

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Teams and Advertising. Licensing and Education. Going Paperless. The Rules are Changing. Let us help you protect your business. The new RELA Legal Update Web Series will cover the most critical changes to the Real Estate License Act (RELA), related requirements and rules. Join Illinois REALTORS® Chief Legal Counsel Betsy Urbance and Legal Hotline Attorney Anneliese Fierstos as they walk you through the changes to the Illinois Real Estate License Act in our new, must-see six-episode web series: RELA Legal Update. And just like Netflix, you can binge the full series or pick which episodes to watch first! Members, log in at www.IllinoisRealtors.org/RELA_Rewrite

Get full transcript.

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Illinois YPN members Eddie Ruettiger, Megan Beechen and Rachel Scheid share some of their best tips and simple basics of professionalism essential to a smooth transaction and to building strong relationships with clients and fellow REALTORS®.

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Illinois REALTORS® talks with Mike Scobey, director of local advocacy, who explains the background to a lawsuit filed by a property owner in Sauk Village.

The suburban Cook County municipality has outsourced inspections, creating a process that the plaintiffs in the lawsuit says is unfair and not legal.

Learn why Sauk Village's actions infringe on private property rights, and what residents there are facing when it comes to pre-sale inspections. 

Get full transcript. 

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Property owners in Cook County need to be aware of significant changes to the county's Human Rights and Fair Housing Ordinance with the passage of an amendment which sets guidelines for handling rental applicants.

Called the Just Housing Amendment, the new policy requires owners to carefully consider an applicant's criminal background, and it sets limits on how far back an applicant's criminal background can be reviewed. Illinois REALTORS® Director of Local Advocacy Mike Scobey discusses the steps property owners must now take and how they can make sure they are following the law.

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Take 1 day out of 365 to make a difference on potential laws that can impact real estate. Illinois REALTORS® Brian Kwilosz, Gibby Kirby and Niko Apostal of our YPN Advisory Board give you the inside scoop and tips on how to navigate one of the biggest and most important events of the year—Illinois REALTORS® Capitol Conference. 

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2020 NAR President Vince Malta visited Illinois to take part in the Illinois REALTORS® Public Policy Meetings in East Peoria. Malta, who is from San Francisco, joined the podcast to talk about topics including how the national association is revamping how it works on Capitol Hill, a new effort to elevate Fair Housing training and awareness and the dangers of rent control. Malta is also one the nation's leading experts on authenticating baseball bats, and he discusses a hobby that has evolved to be a major part of his life.

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For more than 20 years, Dr. Geoffrey Hewings has monitored the housing market in Illinois.

This year, the director emeritus of the Regional Economic Applications Laboratory at the University of Illinois, Champaign, says mixed economic signals are playing a role in the state's economy. He sat down with the Illinois REALTORS® Podcast in the final weeks of the year to talk about what's ahead for the housing market. Hewings says overall home sales in the state may see a slight dip, but median prices are projected to increase. Housing inventories will continue to pose a challenge for consumers, he says. Interested in learning more? You can also read Hewings' annual forecast for 2020. 

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Recreational marijuana becomes legal in Illinois on Jan. 1, 2020. For REALTORS®, this means having an awareness of how the new law would impact real estate transactions. Illinois REALTORS®' Chief Legal Counsel Betsy Urbance talks with the Illinois REALTORS® Podcast about the rules, and answers some questions members may have about legalized marijuana. Urbance discusses issues of interest to residential and commercial property owners, as well as managing brokers who are setting office policies. 

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In part two of getting to know our Industry Partners, Courtney Jones, President of Dearborn REALTIST® Board, Chicago chapter of National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB), shares the story of his organization and how getting involved has helped shape leadership and business skills for a successful career in real estate.

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Illinois REALTOR® and trainer Chris Read recently conducted a webinar for the National Association of REALTORS® Center for REALTOR® Financial Wellness on how to approach winding down a business.

The topic is one that many REALTORS® don’t pay enough attention to, particularly because of the nature of a business where many are independent contractors.  

Read talks with the Illinois REALTORS® Podcast about the need to start early about thinking about an exit strategy for your business and the steps you can take to set yourself up for success in retirement.

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Dale Taylor of New Lenox, Ill., has been serving the homeless as a shelter manager and fundraiser for South Suburban PADS for more than a decade. His service was recognized in November with a Good Neighbor Award from the National Association of REALTORS®. The award honors a select handful of REALTORS® who make differences in the communities in which they work. Taylor is a REALTOR® with RE/MAX 10 in New Lenox, and has long been involved with his state association.

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Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has proposed a real estate Transfer Tax which will hit many commercial and residential investment properties hard.  

The proposal, as outlined in a speech several weeks ago, would decrease Transfer Taxes paid at closing on properties valued at less than $500,000, but it would significantly boost the taxes on properties valued at more than $1 million.

Greg St. Aubin, senior vice president for governmental affairs for Illinois REALTORS® discusses the tax proposal which is expected to come up in the Illinois General Assembly’s veto session which is back in session the week of Nov. 11.  

St. Aubin, a longtime lobbyist for the association, said the Transfer Tax places an unfair burden on property owners who are already saddled with high property taxes. He notes that if a burdensome Transfer Tax passes and is signed into law, the ripple effects could be felt throughout the state, not just in Chicago.  

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Eddie Garcia, NAHREP [6:50], Curtis Hunt, NAGLREP [17:12], Nykea Pippion McGriff, WCR [27:56], and Peter De Jong, AREAA [40:04] share their story of their organizations and how getting involved has helped shape leadership and business skills for a successful career in real estate. 

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Illinois farmland forms an important, but sometimes overlooked part of the real estate economy. Illinois REALTOR® Luke Worrell of Worrell Land Services in Jacksonville discusses what he's seeing with farmland prices, and where the market could be headed in a year where wet weather wreaked havoc with planting schedules. Worrell is president of the Illinois chapter of the REALTORS® Land Institute. 

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Ed Neaves has worked in many roles over the years. He's built homes, co-owned radio stations, run restaurants and now oversees a real estate business. The 2020 Illinois REALTORS® president talks about his vision to promote the value of the trade association he leads in the year ahead. 

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Illinois REALTORS® has a program which seeks to build and support new leaders. Called the Leadership Development Program, this series of courses provides insight into association management, advocacy an communication skills necessary for volunteers. Illinois REALTORS® Bob Eby and Debbie Pawlowicz talk about what they got out of the program, and why Illinois REALTORS® should consider applying.

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Illinois YPN: Brian Kwilosz on being deliberate in your networking [1:27]; Connie Vavra on building your referral network at REALTOR® events [4:43]; Rasheed Shofidiya on networking is your net worth [12:13]; Christine Coleman says don’t be a secret agent [19:20]. 

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Caton Commercial CEO Bill Caton discusses Expo REAL, which is a massive European real estate trade show and conference held in Munich, Oct. 7-9. Caton says that the visit to Munich would benefit a commercial practitioner, no matter what stage of their career they are in. Illinois REALTORS and NICAR are offering stipends to cover the cost of registering for the event. Illinois REALTORS® can register here. 

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The Illinois REALTORS®' advocacy team is working with the Cook County Human Relations Committee on a new Just Housing ordinance which was passed by the Cook County Board earlier this year.  

In the August edition of the Illinois REALTORS Podcast, Mike Scobey, Illinois REALTORS senior director of local advocacy and global programs explains the ordinance, and why members engaged in property management and leasing should pay close attention to the ordinance.  

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Jeffrey T. Baker will be only the fourth leader in Illinois REALTORS® history when he takes over as CEO in 2021. Baker shares with us his professional journey from working in public policy, to a legal career and now preparing to lead a 50,000-member association. 

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The Real Estate License Act went through its once-a-decade rewrite in the spring session of the Illinois General Assembly. Illinois REALTORS® Chief Legal Counsel Betsy Urbance discusses what changes are in store in this latest version of the Act, from education requirements to the age at which someone in the state can obtain a real estate license.

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Illinois REALTORS® has appointed Jeffrey T. Baker as deputy CEO. Learn more about Baker's passion for politics and his journey to a role that puts him in line to be Illinois REALTORS® CEO. Also, Chief Legal Counsel Betsy Urbance walks members through the changes in the recently passed License Law. 

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Illinois REALTORS® has members assigned to work with the state's lawmakers to help them better understand the impact of housing policy changes. These volunteers met with each of the state's congressional delegation in May as part of annual NAR meetings. FPCs Nykea Pippion-McGriff and Max Mitchell share why they are FPCs and why the role the program plays is so important.  

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Southern Illinois is home to Scott Air Force Base. The military presence means there is a constant influx of families transferred to the base, and that means REALTORS® have to make sure they know how to meet the special needs of this group of homebuyers and sellers. Illinois REALTORS® talks with two REALTORS® who hold the Military Relocation Professional designation through NAR about what they do to make these moves successful. 

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Illinois managing brokers had to renew their licenses by April 30, 2019. Most made the deadline, but if you were one of the few who did not, there are several immediate steps you need to take to comply with the state's license law. Illinois REALTORS® Director of Professional Development Young Brockhouse discusses the deadline and what can be done to address a missed deadline. 

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Many Illinois communities have turned to crime-free ordinances in an effort to cut down on violations in and near rental properties. But these ordinances have to be carefully drafted to make sure that there is due process and transparency for private property owners. 

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Illinois REALTORS® chats with the association;s Springfield-based lobbying team about four notable victories for the real estate industry in the 2019 Spring legislative session. Listen to Greg St. Aubin, Julie Sullivan and Neil Malone break down the results. 

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Illinois REALTORS® has a delegation at SelectUSA in Washington, D.C. Listen to Alex Ruggieri and Sharon Gorrell discuss the importance of helping market real estate at a large economic development conference. 

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In a special Conference & Expo edition of the Illinois REALTORS® podcast, REALTORS® Angie Zahn and Steve Ellerbrake discuss how they help military families move and why the Military Relocation Professional designation has been helpful in their work near Scott Air Force Base. Later (14:50), REALTOR® Doug Hartman Jr. and Illinois REALTORS® Local Government Affairs Director Ron Deedrick talk about the pitfalls of so-called crime-free ordinances. 

(Total runtime: 26:27)

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Illinois REALTORS® chats with the association's Vice President for Professional Development Young Brockhouse about what managing brokers can do if they missed the license renewal deadline on April 30. And (11:13) Illinois REALTORS® Nykea Pippion-McGriff and Max Mitchell talk about the Federal Political Coordinator program and upcoming legislative visits in Washington, D.C.

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Illinois REALTORS® wrapped up its visit to Cannes, France, on Friday where members were taking part in the international MIPIM real estate conference.

Getting to France may seem daunting, but Marsha Collins-Mroz and Moses Hall said with advance planning it's possible to feel a lot more comfortable about making the cross-Atlantic journey. They shared tips on everything from booking flights early to what to do in case of a medical emergency.

This is the fourth in a series of podcasts produced by Illinois REALTORS® where members discuss the value of attending a conference that annually attracts more than 26,000 people.

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Illinois REALTOR® Maurice Hampton has attended all five years of the conference with the association, and he admits that it was overwhelming at first.

"People always say the first time they attend that it is so overwhelming," Hampton said. "That is the truth to the truth to the truth. ... When you get inside the Palais you realize just how important this conference is toi a lot of the real estate world."

Hampton discusses his tips for making the most of the experience, and how to get the most networking possible done during the four-day event.

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Illinois REALTORS® Alex Ruggieri and Andy Velkme said repeat visits and attention to networking are keys to making the MIPIM experience work. The pair have been attending the conference held annually in Cannes, France for several years.

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From Cannes, France, Illinois REALTORS® Vice President of Communications Jon Broadbooks talks with President-elect Ed Neaves and association CEO Gary Clayton about Illinois REALTORS® participation in the MIPIM Conference, what the association gets out of the experience and how the program has evolved over the years.

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Take 1 day out of 365 to make a difference on potential laws that can impact real estate. Illinois REALTORS® Brian Kwilosz, Gibby Kirby and Niko Apostal of our YPN Advisory Board give you the inside scoop and tips on how to navigate one of the biggest and most important events of the year—Illinois REALTORS® Capitol Conference. 

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As of the Friday, Feb. 15 deadline for bill introductions in the Illinois General Assembly, there are 5,600 bills and counting. Among them is House Bill 255, which would repeal the Rent Control Preemption Act and allow ALL home rule units in the state to impose Rent Control. Illinois REALTORS® Senior Vice President Greg St. Aubin shares the negative impact of rent control on affordable housing including affordable housing shortages and property tax increases. 

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Illinois YPN: Tommy Choi on time blocking [2:25]; Jayme Ahlden Fay on the transactional mindset mistake [12:20]; Brian Kwilosz on spending money you don’t have [21:15]; Victor Tellez on building a team and networking [29:33]; Eddie Ruettiger on finding a mentor [35:02]