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NAR Looking at Blogs part 2

Back in June I wrote a post about NAR Looking at Blogs the post was featured and had 129 comments.

I knew I hit a hot spot by the comments it generated. At the time I personally was very worried that NAR and or Big Broker would indeed look at blogging and the liability it generated.

I sit on NAR's Professional Standards Committee and I know that this issue is slated to come back up in November. I can't help but wonder in what form.

This week I’ve seen 2 posts referencing concern about big brother (NAR) looking at Blogs. One was Bryant Tutus Ride the Blogging Wave and the other Brain Brady’s Blogger be afraid of Big Bad Broker or (Bank). Both of these posts were featured as they should have been.

This is a pretty important issue for Bloggers and next month I think we’ll see some sort of policy come forth from NAR.

Guidelines, that I think on one hand is much needed. Just take a look around here on AR and out in Blogosphere…plagiarism galore, bad mouthing left and right. I’ve seen fair housing violations, inappropriate commission rate discussions and so forth.

The web and blogoshpere is sort of like the wild wild west…anything goes attitude no matter who or what gets hurt. Problem is we’re hurting ourselves.

What will you say if Your broker tells you to stop blogging? Have you thought about it? Maybe you should.

It’s a matter of time before Big Brother steps in to “protect” us.

I’m not at all happy about that prospect.

In June I summarized the professional standards meeting and what was decided about Article 12. Read for yourself the amount of times the word "Blog" is mentioned.

I think its coming!

"Then we tabled the Internet-related issues...blogs to name a few until November. The subcommittee will be looking at Article 12 to see if we need a broader more encompassing ethical direction guiding all forms of communication. They will also be looking at

1. A clearer definition of communications

2. REALTOR making anonymous comments on other REALTORS Blogs

3. REALTORS responsibility for monitoring/editing their own Blogs

4. REALTORS responsibility for Blogs run by licensees affiliated with them

5. Disclosure of time lag (hours or days) in posting comments to Blogs. Must the fact that a Blog is not run in "live time" be disclosed?

6. Posting unfavorable/unflattering (but truthful) comments to Blogs

I can't wait till November to see what the subcommittee comes back with. It should be very interesting and being a blogger I have very mixed feelings about some of this.

One thing I learned while in DC is that there are many-many people who have no clue what blogging is and surprisingly people in important positions who do not see any merit in blogging and will not encourage their sales associates to blog!"

Monika McGillicuddy,REALTOR

Serving Southern New Hampshire and Rockingham County

Monika McGillicuddy Real Estate Training

http://monikamcgillicuddy.com/wordpress/

Prudential Verani Realty

Hampstead NH Real Estate

603-548-7728

Posted by Monika McGillicuddy~REALTOR®~ N.H. Real Estate Broker & Trainer on 10/15/2007 07:12 PM

Comments (103)

nar, blogging, monika mcgillicuddy, nh real estate blogs

This post has been included in New Hampshire Information

103 Comments on NAR Looking at Blogs part 2

OCT

2007

Thanks God, there is someone on the committee like you that knows the ins and outs of blogging. Sounds like this will definately be an issue. My issue is people giving advice on real estate both here and Trulia when they don't live in that state. I find that hard to believe.

If my brokers said I couldn't blog or comment, I'm sorry Monika I would be out the door. I hope there are other bloggers on your committe, that understand the issues.

Like Missy, I'm thankful you're on the committe. I couldn't imagine people not involved with blogging being "big brother".

Sigh! Sounds like a big mess! I am a Broker so I feel pretty secure about blogging on my own, however, I am also a Realtor and will be watching the guidelines closely.

My feelings: no one tell me to stop doing something thats not a real word!:)

I really cant see how we can be monitored. I "can" see guidelines about how we project ourselves, and I "can" see larger companies caring about what goes on. Blogging on their time, etc...

CONGRATS ON YOUR 100TH POST MONI!!! This is definitely a HOT topic and I have no idea how they would enforce anything! Look at the constant unethical behavior that goes unpunished on a daily basis from Realtors and similar professions. The only thing to be aware though, as many have said......what we write does stay on the Blogosphere. Written proof hangs around.

I'm sure they will have to be very general about it.....we'll have to wait and see, won't we?

Monika,

I'll blog until they pry the keyboard out of my cold, dead fingers. I do not engage in the illegal activities that are going on in the blogosphere... I SEE them, I just don't DO them...

Very interesting blog. I really hope we dont have policing like that of blogs. I do think that if offensive or abuse blogs are posted a moderator should remove these blogs but to set NAR rules is too far.

It will be interesting to see the results of those talks and meetings. I have to agree that some accountability is necessary and enforcing of rules, but if they get out of hand things can get ugly. Blogging makes sense and we see it as a "business" action as long as you blog responsibly. I think having brokers deciding whether an agent should or shouldn't blog is a mistake.

Monika,

That was what I was just telling BB on his post...sometimes we do not realize when we blog that we might already be violating the rules because we feel we are free to express everything over the net and not aware it could be a problem. There are no regulators here.

Monika - I do belief guidelines would be good however I hope whatever Nar decides it will be balance. To make such a decision I do hope the decision makers are familiar with blogging and it's benefit.

I asked Jay just now What he would do if he was told no more blogging? We both looked at each other and answered at the same time...We'd be out the door!

Missy...I think this could be a case of some ruining it for others. There are definitely some bad apples out there,

In no way shape or form should NAR tell us what we can or cannot put on our blogs. Granted there should be guidelines and recommendations. I am extremely grateful I work for one of the larger Brokers in Michigan and they fully endorse Blogging.

Ines...I miscalculated...this is only post # 98...I have 2 in draft mode...Sorry but thank you anyway!

Monika - knowing how some of the NAR committees are structured, having sat on some for some time now, and knowing that NAR can, at times, be like a lumbering elephant, I have concerns that many who have no clue what blogging is may end up making decisions for those of us who do know what blogging is. I'm glad you're there and that you'll bring your blogging experience to the table to help them understand what they don't know they don't know.

Thanks for keeping us updated!
Ann

Linda...I'm with you people not involved should not make decisions. Sadly I do think the people who will make the decisions...many of them will not be bloggers.

Karen...The enforcement I think will come down to a brokerage or board level. Not at all easy to do.

Ines... We will have to wait and see but I think it's coming.

Patrick...I agree with you. I also don't engage in questionable blogging so I would fight it if my broker tried to stop me.

Heather... Reporting might work here but out in Blogosphere it is completely different.

Ugh ... Here is my dilemma ... FREE PRESS. That is a constitutional right. Blogging is a forma of self-pressing, right?

How does THAT all fit into this whole mess?

Monika - congrats on your featured post!!!

Ann

Monika, I just read Ride the blogging wave. Be compliant and don't get wiped out! by Bryant Tutas and posted a comment there. If you don't mind I re-post it here.

I've been thinking about how I am re-inventing myself. When I came here (AR) it was as a sole practitioner. I sell business opportunities primarily with some commercial and mortgage work thrown in.

Early in my career I owned an ERA franchise. I've been toying with the idea of being a franchisor.

If I do become a franchisor I will incorporate full-feature and full-service websites into the USP for my brokerage. These websites will include blogs.

There are at least two main issues as I see it: The brokers liability for actions people might take as a result of something written in an agent's weblog and whether or not a weblog is considered "advertising."

Advertising must be pre-approved by the broker under California law and some advertising (mortgage) must be pre-approved by the DRE. All advertising must include the broker's license number. I don't know if AR blogging is advertising or not but my profile includes my CA DRE License number.

Risk Managers will need to address this issue in depth as we go forward. No broker can afford an unlimited liability for "words" expressed by licensees under him. I am sure E&O policies will have to address this as well.

Going forward, blogging is not going to be the wild west like it is now. Order will be necessary for ALL licensees. If they don't like it they either need to open up their own shop or quit real estate all together.

I'm parking here to hear what everybody has to say. Thanks for the opportunity.

Bill Roberts

This will be interesting, maybe distressing.

I'll keep blogging until they tell me to stop, I guess

Monika,

This should be interesting to see what happens, but like others have said its good to know that your on the committee and you know exactly what the issues are with blogging.

Am I reading this correctly? NAR actually has folks involved in the blogging matter that actually understands blogs. Our cups runneth over. I hope.

Bill...You raise some very good points. My brokerage is named on my blog and if I was them...I'd want to know what I was writing. My broker so far has kept a distance.

I do think some order is needed..how much I dunno but some is needed. I have seen many many things that make me cringe...sort of like all these loose canon agents blogging about and their brokers who are liable for them...totally oblivious to it all. scary.

Ann....Thanks so much! We've both seen NAR as lumbering elephant many many times. i was totally surprised as to the lack of Blogging knowledge in the halls last May...

Ahhh...Mariana...We're license agents and we don't have the same rights as unlicensed folks. Seems reasonable that it will extend to our blogs eventually. If we're blogging as agents working for brokers who are responsible for our words and actions.

Daniel...Lets hope your broker continues to endorse it.

Jennifer...One can only hope!! I hate to see guideline but agree that some are needed.

Neal...I am with you. I have seen so many violations it's absolutely frightening! Something does seem to need to be done... but I'm afraid of what and how...it will be done.

Hi Moni,

Waiting with bated breath and praying for the best. Let's hope that big brother doesn't clamp down so hard that it stifles all the good that comes from blogging like the positive relevant content we can provide to the public as well as the great camaraderie and relationships that are being forged across state lines!

Good luck to all!

I do think that it's a good idea for a broker to keep tabs on what the agents in the office are blogging about, simply for liability reasons. I personally wouldn't want to get in trouble for things that I write if they are innapropriate and I'd want a heads-up *before* NAR would step in. I don't think NAR needs to regulate blogging though.

Oh man!!!! Then congrats on your 98th post! : )

Chris and Maria...The results will be interesting for sure. When the liability hits a broker in the pocket you'll see things really get ugly.

Jayne...Absolutely Keep on blogging.

Suzanne...Thanks so much BUT I on;y have one small-small vote!

Lenn...LOL I'm not too sure about that...unless you mean me? If so I'm one vote from a small state.

Problem is we're hurting ourselves ......

and this I agree with wholeheartedly. All I can say is "act" as if you were right in front of your broker or a client or a peer. It's one thing to express oneself...another to abuse this priveledge of blogging. Obviously, the guidelines here people are abusing...if someone steps in to monitor all this it may just be because of the blatant abuse instead of respectful writing.

Why people think that rules can be stretched and our ethics abused is beyond me. This blogging platform should be no different than who we are in real life. (okay, granted some are not all that great in real life too)....so where is the line drawn...

NAR doesn't get blogging? They have an arms length relationship with Move, Inc who as we all know sure as heck is interested and is very much in the know about blogging. What I want to know is do we really need another rule that clarifies the clarification of the rule? Perhaps.

I am more shocked by some of the content that gets posted rather than whether or not it was in compliance. I have blogged about blogging and the likelihood of the subpoenas hitting the fan soon. I wish I knew who it was but somebody posted a comment a few days ago that used the term "Posting past last call". I thought it hit the nail on the head.

As far as NAR enforcement is concerned, he-said-she-said is gone--what once went unpunished has now been published!!

Lisa and Bob..Those of us that don't abuse or violate the ethics will be okay. I have to believe that! there are some that should be shut down. plagiarisms and copyright violations are big factors.

David and Lisa...Brokers will probably be the ones that will have to enforce and monitor their agents blogs.

Sorry Ines....My fault! I got excited for nothing!

Sally...Your words are so true and right on.... " All I can say is "act" as if you were right in front of your broker or a client or a peer. It's one thing to express oneself...another to abuse this privilege of blogging".
Something all of us should remember...

Just to continue on what Bill just said - Scoble and Israel in Naked Conversations (man I have been making a lot of reference to them lately) talk about HUGE corporations having a problem with employees blogging because of all the things Bill mentioned.......a lot of those corporations have turned a new leaf because of the transparency of their employee blogs, including those that disagree with their corporate structure.

Bottom line, we need to listen to the consumer and if the big dogs are going to limit us, they will first be making a mistake, and it will hurt the industry.

I agree with some rules.....like they have for advertising, but the whole idea of "BIG BROTHER IS WATCHING YOU" cannot be approached lightly.

Great post - if we all abide by the AR rules (maybe some of us should refresh ourselves) and abide by the Code of Ethics we shouldn't have any problems. Right?

I too have seen and read some blogs that blast certain groups, anti-trust conversations as well as fair housing issues. Each person should look into their own conscience before they hit that "submit" blog.

Monika, as much as I do not like to see more and more regulations, sometimes they can not be avoided, especially when people abuse the system.

Monika- I see that, but if we are not breaking the law/COE/Fair Housing in our posts then how could there be an issue?

Amanda...The people walking the hallways are not necessary the powers to be at NAR. I will tell you that I heard big franchise owners pooh-hoo blogging calling it insignificant...that was back in May of 07. I wonder if they still think it is insignificant??? Your statement "what once went unpunished has now been published" is very telling! Excellent points.

Ines...I agree some rules yes... but I don't like the idea of someone curbing my blogging efforts...especially if I am now starting to generate good leads from it. Do I really need to pay my broker for leads now...does that impact them..will it me? Are the brokers (corporations) really turning over a new leaf...or just pretending. Are they really still in a broker centric mind set and simply acting like they are consumer centric? I dunno...but I wonder.

Karen...If we all obeyed the rules of bloghood... If only...as you said look into our own conscience before we hit submit.

George...I agree sometimes it can not be avoided!

Mariana...problem is there are many-many posts that do violate the code and fair housing and much more. That is why we all suffer...we're sort of all painted by the same paint brush. Bad Blogging becomes an issue for every one of us. Not right I know and I don't like it at all!

Thank you Linda...I love that banner!!!!!!

If NAR or our brokers told us to stop blogging, they would be shooting themselves in the foot. Obviously blogging is good for our business...and what is good for our business is good for their business...

Agreed there are agents and likely brokers who are willy nilly blogging without putting in the "required info" as footers or somewhere on their pages -- and who need a tap on the shoulder to add the appropriate things. But if a broker takes a position that they must read all blog entries before they are posted .... well forget it. We had a broker once who wanted to have us "print" off our website so they could see it.... huh, "print" the website. We are no longer with that firm, need I say more. If a broker needs to "be sure" that their agents are in compliance, then let them subscribe to the agent's blogs with RSS or manually go and read them, or have someone in the brokerage staff do it, but don't stop the flow of agents being able to write and post and get on with the business of business. Just my 2 cents.

What would/should the rule be if it's Members Only and not a blog post directed at the public?

With KW's agent-centric model and the emphasis on blogging at the last MegaAgent Camp, I can't see Keller Williams telling their agents not to blog. If NAR or individual brokerages are thinking about 'regulating' blogging, I hope that they'll take the time to see how other major corporations such as Microsoft, IBM and GM have successfully used blogging, as well as what policies they have in place. Do the subcommittee meetings allow spectators?

I think it would be a terrible PR move for the NAR to crack down on bloggers. Especially those that are critical of them. Coupled with the DoJ lawsuit, and the low esteem of REALTORS(R) in the public eye, it would appear that the NAR was only trying to keep the process mystified, and the public in the dark. It would be seen as serving their own purposes, rather than being transparent and protecting our clients.

Monika - I can't wait to hear what you learn but I'm working on my broker's license in the mean time. All good info.

John...The forum is open for all to contribute but the committee meeting itself is closed but you can sit and watch it. I don't think that NAR is looking to tell agents not to blog but rather implement some guidelines. If anyone tells agents not to blog it will be their brokers.

Amanda...Members only? I don't think there is a difference at all.

Kelly...I won't stop.

Bob and Carolin...I can see it now,,,blogs needing to be approved before posting. That would be an individual office policy I guess.

Lane...NAR will only institute guidelines and maybe additions to Article 12...the rest will be up to the brokers.

Thanks Candee...Good idea to get that brokers license.

The NAR already has rules in place for web site advertising and the COE covers most everything else. Our state organization has additional specific advertising rules for the internet to which we must adhere. Our blogs are merely a form of a web site, so if we follow the current rules, there should be no problem.

As we've found out on AR, there are many in violation of the current rules. Some plagiarize, some present themselves as something they're not, some use language that is inappropriate, and so on. I suspect that if they are violating blogging rules, they probably were violating 'in-person" rules before they started blogging. Only the media has changed for people like that.

It may come down to how much the broker trusts their agents. Do they have high quality agents or not?

Elaine...I agree about the broker trust issue. Too bad that there are so many that break the rules...they really ruin it for the rest of us.

I can't wait to see what happens next month. Hopefully, they will listen to what you have to say as a committe member AND as a blogger. I can only pray that those who know nothing of blogging can comprehend the benefits of this and don't make the wrong decision.

AR is a great site as it gives Realtor's(R) the chance to learn what is happening in other parts of the country from those that do this business as well as share ideas with one another. We also get to meet and network with one another and refer business to each other. After all, isn't that what we strive for? Building relationships with each other in this business in order to help our clients? It would be a crying shame if NAR were to step in and ruin it!

I think a lot of the "laws" "rules" are already in place. I would think that if NAR does develop guidelines, that it not go so far as to trample free speech. I agree, however, that some blogs are not in compliance with current law and current guidelines -- I would hate to see NAR so restrict its members that all non-member be the "voice of real estate". This is a complex issue.

I suppose we are the pioneers in a new frontier

NAR is only a trade organization. They don't make laws and they cant enforce laws. They can't regulate free speech. This is a lose-lose proposition for them.

Monika, I'm anxious to see how these things turn out. I too have mixed feelings about it and I'm sure there needs to be a standard. I just don't want to see "big brother" limit things too much due to a lack of understanding what blogging is really about and lack of seeing a benefit in it. Thanks for the post!

BTW, what the heck is a 'sheepberry?' I'm not sure I want to know!

For many years now our website providers, SEO types and such have all told us if you want to move up in the engines add fresh content often. Those of us that did, over time grew successful websites. Real Estate blogs made an entrance onto the 'scene' roughly about 2 years ago. While they are structured very differently and a web-blog site is much easier for the engines to travel they are no longer very different from each other from the perspective of the information offered, it is just offered differently with a personal touch and the ability to comment.

Let's just say this went to the worst case scenario and your broker banned you from having a blog. You really would not have to get rid of your blog. Ha, leave it to me to figure this one out. You remove the comment section from your posts, you don't need the comments as nice as they are, and you add a static page in front of the blog that is RESPA/Broker/NAR compliant. You link to your 'articles' from the static page (no different than a website) just like you link to the custom pages on your website.

What I find curious is that blogs have captured NAR's attention in a way that websites never have. Do I smell censorship in the air?

They will never quiet our voices, try as they might, we will rise up as one voice and fight. They are technologically bereft, there are many tools available to us, we will never be quieted.

OCT

2007

Here's a very, very bad thought - NAR protests a bit, then "reluctantly" decides blogging is OK, but only if all blogs emanate from a single source (Move.com), where they can be "sufficiently monitored for compliance" (I said it was a bad thought, but I wouldn't put it past NAR & M.c either!)

Like I said, they are addressing blogs not websites. A blog can be dressed up as a website in about an hour or less. Websites do not seem to be an issue and have been acceptable for many years.

Excuse me, but don't our anti-monopoly laws cover this? How about our Fair Trade laws? They would effectively put a number of providers out of business as well as potential other contributory businesses.

I remember reading your previous Post on this.....and some of the out of compliance issues can be solved on the Profile.....a little fair housing logo, license number, and brokerage logo and of course address and phone number. Poof in compliance....now, I would also add a disclaimer that the blog is the "opinion" of the writer, and commenter's opinions are their own.....that should help some...

but I still say I hope it doesn't come to the point where a Broker has to monitor everything their agents are writing ....... I can barely keep up with my own and work :) :)

Laurie - Not to mention possible 1^st Amendment and anti-trust issues as well.

I wasn't disagreeing with your post - as the old saying goes, "There's more than one way to skin a cat".

I'm just saying I wouldn't put it past the rascals to try and strong-arm the more meek sheep into thinking the only options are "Play on our court (M.c), or don't play".

So, Jeff in San Diego (not an AR member yet) Why are you not an AR member yet? Huh?

I like skinning cats. Meeeyowch!

I remember when I was a kid and things like this would happen my Dad would walk away whispering 'Damned Commies'.

www.NARWisdom.com

Laurie - After reading a number of your posts and comments over the past few months, I'm not at all surprised to hear that your dad had things in the proper perspective.

As for why not a member yet, my websites aren't quite ready yet, and I'm waiting for DRE to issue my new license - I was "in the game" from the early ‘80's to the early ‘90's (Mortgage Banker/Broker), then left to pursue other interests. But now, it's time to get "back in the game", thanks to Web 2.0 - I can't elaborate on this right now, but soon - it's going to be good, for a lot of agents.

Recently I logged on to realtor.com and noticed their "featured blog" button on the top right hand of the screen. Being the curious sort myself, I tried to sign up. I stopped when I read the TOS.

I wonder...does the NAR want new guidelines in place so that agents and brokers will use the realtor.com blog service? Oh yes, it's free. For now. But I can see it going the way of "enhanced" listings very quickly.

This is some scary stuff Monika. I can't tell you how happy I am that you are on the professional standards committee.

Laurie - you are SO smart!! Thanks for laying it out there for us, just in case..........

Isn't a blog really a website, albeit one that is living and breathing and (in theory) constantly changing with new fresh posts?

Ann

Monika, you made Inman News http://blog.inman.com/inmanblog/2007/10/nar-caught-in-b.html

I just came from Brian Brady's blog. I second Missy, thank gawsh you're on the committee. I was with a brokerage that was owned by a publicly traded community once. What a micromanaging nightmare. Leave my blogs alone!

Monika, thanks for the post and like many others I am glad you are at the table. In an age where there has been so much legislation hindering our ability to prospect for business (Do Not Call Lists), to have our own governing body consider taking away "electronic cold calling" is concerning. The approach to blogging "regulation" should be similar to the approach to advertising.

Blogs serve a dual purpose, both very important. The first is idea sharing and encouragement, most of us are out there on our own and it is nice to be able to reach across the country to get ideas that are working to serve our clients better. Secondly and very important is it is a means we have of reaching customers who are interested in finding a local resource that is knowlegeable, professional and personable.

There are so many people in leadership positions in this industry that do not understant the interconnections of the various forms of electronic promotion, and wiht statistics published by NAR that over 80% of customers using the internet as one of their primary search assistants it is amazing that they do not have this down pat. At the end of the day while the connections and execution are complex the whole concept is pretty simple, when it gets boiled down to "bunny rabbit english."

Regulation of blogs is the same as all other advertising we do and it shouldn't take a rocket scientist to include blogs in the forms of mediums. Unfortunately there needs to be education for a number of Realtors that do not behave ethically or care what posts are associated with their name and how that comes across.

At least with Active Rain we are notified of a posting and have a means to remove an offending post. Maybe we should petition AR to enable others to flag a post for removal if the post is offensive or against NAR ethics policies.

Blogging may be the wild west, but it is one of the last forms of cold calling left to us that are truely effective.

Monika:

It seems to me the best course of action for the NAR is to butt out. I don't see them paying any portion of realtor's advertising or marketing budgets. When they do, they should have the say.

Good morning...wow this post traveled a bit!

Laurie and Kathy are right it would be very easy to make blogs compliant to a degree but I think the issues go further. Some of what I've read on blogs are just plain out there and if we're wearing our REALTOR hat we have to abide by the rules and regs and ethics.

Bob NAR does not make "laws" but rather rules and regulations for members of the trade organization.

Ryan...I am personally more worried about my brokers reaction to what comes out of NAR. Didn't broker Brynat say a firm already demanded their agent not blog?

OMG...Jeff a single source so they can be monitored...that is a very bad thought!

I like Julies thought...we're pioneers.

Joan...I agree NAR is not looking trample free speech. From what I've seen...guidelines and additions to Article 12 are what if anything will come out of it. Like I've said in my post....we've done it to ourselves.

Chris B...Blogging this past year has given me an education.

Kris..I sure hope not. To be forced to use R.com for a blogging platform would be unacceptable and I really don't think that is where this is heading.

Ann...To the public a blog is a website. I can't tell you how often I've been told I like your website when they are talking about my blog.

Missy..Thanks for the link and to who ever linked the NARwisdom site. Wow!

Chris Elizabeth... Micromanage hell...I work for a large franchise and can see it coming.

Tom...So many agents blog unethically, leave comments that are inappropriate, violate fair housing and anti trust rules. If that wasn't so I'd like to think that NAR wouldn't be looking at Blogs. Your right it isn't rocket science to add blogging to Article 12 and make them comply.

Bill...Butting out won't happen in my opinion. Once the door opens....

Kris..I sure hope not. To be forced to use R.com for a blogging platform would be unacceptable and I really don't think that is where this is heading.

Ann...To the public a blog is a website. I can't tell you how often I've been told I like your website when they are talking about my blog.

Missy..Thanks for the link and to who ever linked the NARwisdom site. Wow!

Chris Elizabeth... Micromanage hell...I work for a large franchise and can see it coming.

Bill...Butting out won't happen in my opinion. Once the door opens....

Whatever they come up with I don't think they want blogging to stop. It's not in their interest.

Good post. Thanks for sharing it.

Take care and good luck to you.

Hi Monika, Now it sounds like we are all counting on you at NAR! No pressure though. This is an excellent topic thanks for expanding on it.

Keep in mind that websites are supposed to be compliant also. Neither NAR nor the Brokers have the manpower or resources to police these can you even imagine adding the existing and future web-blogs into the mix? I really don't think we have much more than each other to worry about. The only way this will work for them is if we go Big Brother on us. It really is quite funny if you think about it.

Your awareness of the issue and the role you play can be extremely paramount! Fight for us Moni!

As I said in Mr Brady's blog this am, NAR is going to be hurting because of declining memberships, large franchises and companies with extreme overhead are hurting because of declining profits. Complete greed will try to force us to be whipped into shape.

I am thrilled to know that you are on this committee and will be able to provide us with accurate direction after your November meeting! Good for you to be a part of NAR. I worked with Dick Gaylord at CAR...he is going to be a dynamic leader! I look forward to your future posts as a subscriber!

I'm opposed to censorship. I take the 1st ammendment very seriously. I can follow advertising guidelines and COE but my blog will continue with or without NAR or any brokerage that doesn't like it. It is a part of me now.

On my blog I have a disclaimer that says:

This site and its feeds are owned operated and published by Mitchell Hall, a NY State licensed real estate associate broker associated with Coldwell Banker Hunt Kennedy. The opinions expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or policies of Coldwell Banker Hunt Kennedy. Information from this site is not intended as legal or financial advice. We recommend advice from an attorney. All information is subject to errors, omissions and changes.

Mitchell..I like that disclaimer...I think I'll add something similar. My blog as you say is part of me...I'll not be giving it up.

Thanks Bryant...LOL no pressure<ggg>...being one vote from one small state really does not give me any clout.

Laurie...I can see it now...we'll all be turned into snitches...yikes!

Renee...LOL fight I will. I'm not gonna stop blogging!!! Will it have an impact...I doubt it.

Thanks Diane...Dick is a very nice guy!

Orlando...Thank you.

Monika...

Sorry. I shut down early last night and never made it over here.

I can't wait to see how NAR intends to handle all of this.

I have five bucks on "They will raise our dues and hire the manpower to police us" :)

TLW...ROAR!

Moni,

Great blog and such a topic of interest. I for one am glad to hear you are in on the discussions. As a new member of AR, I am going to keep my blogging to the real estate realm and try my best not to cross the line of ethical correctness and of course stay within real estate law guidelines. We do need to be vigilant as licensed professionals and in the few days I have been looking at blogs in this forum I have already picked up on some bad conduct. We all need to remember that we are not our own, we are under contract with a broker who is liable for what we do and say as their agents.

Perhaps you, Moni, could give an on line class for professional conduct???

Judy T.

Hi Monika, I am anxious to see how this all turns out. I too am glad that you sit on this particular committee.

I forgot how much I love the Laurie Manny's mind and way with words! You go girl!

Monika, I think it is time for NAR to take 3 steps back and decide to butt out, as they have shown time and again they do not understand technology. They in many respects do not even understand the consumer, the perpetually sunny outlook they have on the markets makes us all look like idiots. At times I am embarrassed by their actions.

When you are with them please pass these thoughts on to them, as from the view I have they seem to be oblivious to the disent among their own membership.

TLW...Thanks for stopping by. Dues increase to help pay for policing us???

What ever comes out of the Pro-Stands committee will have to be voted on by the entire broad of directors. Ultimately the BOD decides via a up or down vote on what ever the Pro-Stands committee recommends...they would also decide on dues...so maybe you're not far off. Ouch.

Thanks Judy and welcome blogosphere...some interesting stuff happening. An on-line professionalism class...LOL I have bene "approached" so you might see it someday.

Lysa...Thanks and you bet.... Laurie Manny is AWESOME!

James...I will do my best to pass on OUR feelings!!

Monika - If the NAR issued guidelines and altered the CoE, it would be cracking down on bloggers. Regardless of whom they wanted to police it, the action would reflect on the NAR.

Monika...I think Mitchell is on the right track with his disclaimer. Lord knows the real world surely relies on them. Perhaps the Legal resourcer of NAR could come up with one.

I really don't see how they could tell us to stop...talk about over-regulation and I really can't picture my Broker proof reading what I write...the very thought!!

Moni,

I can see it already, you in front of a camera giving your class. Only I think you would need live participants since you are so interactive in your classes. How would that work if you were to do a virtual class??? I know they happen but have not participated in one yet. I'll sign up for your first one though.

Judy T

"I'll blog until they pry the keyboard out of my cold, dead fingers." ~ Patrick Harfst.

I don't know Patrick, but I just had to stop reading and add him as an associate. OK, now I can go back and finish reading.

One more quote. "Damned Commies" ~ Laurie's Dad.

There, those two said everything I would need to say.

Although I understand your concerns, I don't like the smell of NAR or any other entity even thinking about controlling my right to express myself.

If specific speach causes damage to a specific party, let those parties address those specific issues between the affected parties themselves. In the same light, if perhaps, for example, an ethical violation of the NAR code has occurred via inappropriate expression, let that specific occurrence and/or those specific parties address each other appropriately.

Blanket regulation and/or monitoring of speach could be dangerous.

Moni - They are talking about this post of yours, here at this blog: http://www.narwisdom.com/2007/10/16/nar-and-blogging-via-active-rain-and-more/

Just FYI ...

Thanks Mariana...I was just there and posted a correction. I am not a representative of NAR but a rep for my state. Big difference I think.

Fred...I understand your point but I do think something will be coming forth.

Sarah...You are so cute :)...I can see you blogging away even after your fingers are cold!

Judy...It would be filming a "live" class....YIKES!!!

Christiane...Yup we need to bang the drums!!!

Joan...I love Mitchell's disclosure. Even AR has one at the bottom of the page!

That is what I wondered ... After blerping around, I actually see this post mentioned in several other locations as well.

Mariana... Let me know where, if you see it again. I know I saw it on Bloodhound Blog...Brian Brady referenced it.

The committee meeting is on the 14th and I'm flying in for 3 days. Should be fun!!!

Psssssst, do what I did. Invite your broker to AR and get him/her addicted - problem gone, lol.

OCT

2007

Laurie...Now that is an idea. Wonder if they would come?

I guess the question is: Is blogging protected under the first amendment of free speech?

Hi Monika,
It is going to be interesting, I'll stay tuned.

You know, I'd be VERY surprised if NAR does anything other than lay out some compliance rules. That's all they've done with regards to websites, if they've done that much, and a blog really is a website, just not a static one. But it shall be interesting for sure!

Ann

Ann...I think the guys out in Blogosphere all have their panties in a bunch. I don't think NAR has any intention in trying shut down or force bloggers to use one platform...Will they try and lay out some compliance rules? I think so. I'm more worried about the principal Brokers than NAR. Broker Bryant said one already made an agent delete comments and stop blogging.

Allison...I guess it may depend on what hat you're wearing. First amendment rights...yeah but as REALTOR you also have obligations to be Ethical and comply with Fair Housing and stuff like that. Remove your REALTOR hat..have no broker to answer to? Who knows.

Cynthia...I'll be curious as well. The whole thing could get tabled again.

"I think the guys out in Blogosphere all have their panties in a bunch."...

Monika...

I think it's jock straps :)

Sensationalism sure does drive traffic to a blog site. Yes? :)

The whole thing kinda reminds me of the news :)

Get yourself a little truth...Add some speculation...And 'voila' the evening news :)

P.S. Do you have a dictionary I could borrow? I don't know what "fallacious" means. You probably know what I am thinking right now in relation to that word :)

TLW...ROAR!

TLW....ROTFLMAO!!!!!! Jock straps is right. LOL

Monika ~ Your last comment "One thing I learned while in DC is that there are many-many people who have no clue what blogging is and surprisingly people in important positions who do not see any merit in blogging and will not encourage their sales associates to blog!" so bothers me.

For many years now the folks at NAR have been totally out of touch as far as technology is concerned. Standards of Practice regarding the internet were NEVER established. Right now in my area there is a Board president-elect who is known to have plagiarized an entire website and actually refused to remove it. Nowhere in the Code was there a remedy. Chuckling here, how can anyone respect someone in that position knowing this?

The Code of Ethics is only good for those who follow it. The others fail to give a damn and will continue to do as they please whether they have paid their dues or not. Paying dues no more makes us more ethical than sleeping in a garage makes us a Chevrolet.

NAR needs to get in touch with reality. Stop recruiting every person who can fog a mirror. Set some STANDARDS, serious STANDARDS to be a REALTOR and serious consequences for not adhering to the Code.

We don't need more Realtors, we just need ones that are well trained and take their job seriously.

If you need real bloggers at NAR why not put in a call, I know quite a few that will be in Las Vegas. Perhaps we can educate the masses of volunteers so they shall not remain clueless...

KK...I'll tell you one of them was the CEO of a large franchise and he saw no merit in blogging. Maybe he's changed his mind these last 5 months!

I agree with all your points...wearing a blue R does not make us good or ethical. The Pro-stands Forum is open for all registered REALTOR members. You'll need a badge to get in. I wonder how many AR members will be attending the convention?

I'll keep you posted on what develops.

OCT

2007

Freedom of speech and that's all I have to say about that...

NAR is a "johnny-come-lately" when it comes to blogging, and to Web technology in general. I believe they're trying to figure out how to jump onto a rapidly-moving escalator, and do it gracefully.

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