RISMEDIA, August 12, 2009-In an ongoing series of articles, I would like to take the opportunity to keep the real estate industry up to date with behind the scene issues regarding operating a national Internet-based real estate brokerage.
Last month we discussed the type of Realtors who are attracted to and are joining the virtual culture. As we shared with readers last month, the type of Realtors who are joining the virtual culture tend to be younger than average with approximately eight years in the real estate industry. They are independent and they also seem to be more detailed and professional.
This month we will discuss compliance. This seems to be the biggest single issue, that we hear whenever we interview new state or regional brokers. They ask, “How do we handle compliance?” We also hear it from the brokers who are still married, even if they are unhappily married, to the brick and mortar business model.
I truly believe that not only can we equal the very best run brick and mortar companies in the nation when it comes to compliance, but my goal is to become the best there is, with regard to compliance.
First, let me say that every week, we address compliance issues with our state and regional brokers as well as all our Realtors. We also require our state and regional brokers to monthly update us on all national, state and local laws, rules and regulations that have an effect on our compliance performance.
We strive everyday to improve our software, so that not only is it easier for our brokers to review and approve and sign off on every contract, but also we are implementing a program that red flags any missing documents prior to closing, and that red flag is sent to the Realtor, broker and the corporate staff. In some states, we have a regional broker and a state broker, plus corporate staff, plus the Realtor reviewing the contracts prior to the commission check being issued. We feel the more eyes the better to make sure our compliance is as close to perfect as possible.
We work very closely with our Realtors to make sure not only do they get their contracts into us, but also all their listings, plus all the contracts that they may write that were rejected. We essentially are, our Realtors transaction coordinator, secretary and compliance officer. By working with our Realtors closely and by being extremely diligent in maintaining their files, we are there for our Realtors should an issue ever arise concerning a contract that they were involved in. Our Realtors can count on us to have everything they need to answer any complaint.
We also make it very easy for our Realtors to get all documentation to us, by just scanning and sending all documentation to the corporate office. Our software allows us to store, categorize, and make available all files to our Realtors and brokers for a period of five years.
We believe that we as a company must put the good of the public before all else.
James A. Crumbaugh III is CEO of Allison James Estates and Homes and may be reached at jcrumbaugh@allisonjames.net or by calling 1-866-463-5780.
