LSTAR e-Bulletin - March 2024

IN THIS ISSUE

• Cutover from ITSO to PropTx to Take Place on April 10, 2024
• PropTx Transition: To-Do Lists for All LSTAR Members
• Loading Your Active Listings on the PropTx Platform
• New Classes Added to Help You Prepare for the Transition to PropTx
• Walk and Talk Sessions with LSTAR's 2024 Chair and the Association's CEO
• Nominate a Colleague for the Ron Richardson Memorial Award!
• ORWP Open Enrollment Deadline Extension and Service Levels
• Applications Are Now Accepted for LSTAR's 2024 Scholarship
• LSTAR Spring Webinar Series
• FINTRAC Webinars for LSTAR Members
• CREA Updated Forms and Fintracker Automation
• LSTAR Class Schedule for March & April 2024
• April's External Learning Opportunities
• PropTx Education Resources
• LSTAR's Latest Micro-Quizzes
• Upcoming Sponsorship Opportunities
• Save the Dates of Our Upcoming Events
• Check out the Presentations from the Recent Housing Economic Summit
• Tell your MPP to Take Bold Action on Housing
• Donate Blood and Bring a Buddy to Win Big!
• Home Sales, Prices Climb in February
• LSTAR Membership Comes with Perks
• Membership Updates
• LSTAR Closed on March 29 for Good Friday

Cutover from ITSO to PropTx to Take Place on April 10, 2024

As LSTAR continues its transition to the PropTx MLS® ecosystem, we have begun the countdown to the final cutover date, by which you will have to move all your active listings to the PropTx MLS® platform. This will take place on April 10, 2024. Learn more below.

What is PropTx?

Along with other cutting-edge tools, the PropTx ecosystem offers tailored technology service solutions to REALTORS® – including the possibility to choose between the Matrix™ and REALM™ MLS® systems.

Please note that if you opt for Matrix™, it will be the PropTx Matrix™, which is distinct from the ITSO Matrix™.

To assist with this transition, LSTAR has developed tutorials accessible through the following links:

• How to Export and Import Clients From ITSO to PropTx
• Micro Learning Videos

It is essential to understand that while PropTx provides these services, LSTAR remains its own association, having contracted MLS® and other related services to PropTx.

Several other real estate associations – including the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB), Barrie & District Association of REALTORS® (BDAR), and Central Lakes Association of REALTORS® (CLAR) – also utilize PropTx services, and it is expected more will announce their intentions to transition in the coming months.

What Does "Cutover" Mean?

The cutover date marks the switchover from the ITSO MLS® System to PropTx MLS®. Here's what you need to know:

• All active listings must be on the PropTx MLS® System by April 10th, 2024, to maintain visibility on REALTOR.ca. You will continue to have access to the ITSO MLS® System until the end of May, but, between April 10th and May 31st, only those listings uploaded on the PropTx platform will appear on REALTOR.ca.
• Any listing changes must be completed in both MLS® systems (ITSO and PropTx) if your listings were loaded on both.
• PropTx MLS® Rules apply to listings loaded on the PropTx MLS® System.
• ITSO MLS® Rules apply to the listings loaded on the ITSO MLS® System.

When Will LSTAR Members No Longer Have Access to ITSO?

Effective May 31st, 2024, LSTAR will no longer have access to the ITSO MLS® System. ITSO will pull all listings with the Source Board of LSTAR and move these to inactive.

Even if you join another Association that is part of ITSO, your listings will not be transferred between boards. They will be cancelled and the listing Brokerage will need to reload these on the ITSO MLS® System with that Association.

LSTAR, Woodstock Ingersoll & Area Association of REALTORS® (WITAAR) and Huron Perth Association of REALTORS® (HPAR) have an agreement to waive interboarding fees for properties listed in their respective jurisdictions.

If you’d like to continue to access ITSO’s MLS® System, you can purchase subscriber access from any of the ITSO Boards for $225 per calendar quarter.

If you’d like to become a dual member of LSTAR and an ITSO Board, WITAAR and HPAR have waived initiation fees for LSTAR Members. 

Selecting Your Preferred MLS® System

Closer to May 15th, PropTx will allow all Members to select their system of choice. Until then, it is highly recommended that you explore both offerings to see what best suits your needs. 

If you don't select your preferred MLS® System (Matrix™ or REALM™) when prompted to do so through “Manage My Profile”, please note that the default choice will be REALM™.

Click here to watch a video on how to manage your profile on the PropTx platform.

Ensure You're Prepared for the Cutover:

• Authenticate your credentials.
• Complete all the steps on the following PropTx checklist.
• Upload all your active listings on the PropTx platform before April 10, 2024. Click here to access our new on-demand course on how to add and edit listings on the PropTx platform.
• Take advantage of our upcoming PropTx complimentary courses.

For more information, please visit LSTAR.ca and select "MLS® System" > "PropTx Transition".

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please reach out to membership [at] lstar.ca (membership[at]lstar[dot]ca) or mls [at] lstar.ca (mls[at]lstar[dot]ca).

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PropTx Transition: To-Do Lists for All LSTAR Members

As we gear up for the transition to the PropTx MLS® platform, it is crucial to ensure that all LSTAR Members are ready for the official cutover from the ITSO MLS® System to the PropTx Platform, which will take place on April 10, 2024. To streamline this process and make sure that everyone is set for success, we've developed a few comprehensive checklists.

Salespersons

1. Set up Your PropTx Login – Using the instructions sent to you earlier this month by LSTAR, use your new 7-digit User ID to create a new PIN and set up your text or email validation. Then, go to www.LSTAR.ca, click on the "Member's Login" tab. Once you land on the homepage of Member Hub, select the "PropTx Tools" tab at the top of the page to access the PropTx MLS® ecosystem (including all the tools listed below)
2. Manage Your Profile – Navigate to the "PropTx Tools" page on the LSTAR Member Hub and select the ‘Manage My Profile’ icon. Create your profile and ensure your email address and mobile phone number are up-to-date - tutorial available here.
3. Matrix™ – You have the option to use Matrix™ or REALM™ as your MLS® interface, so try out both to see which you prefer.
   • Navigate to the "PropTx Tools" page on the LSTAR Member Hub and select the ‘Matrix™’ icon
   • Update your profile in OneHome™ (go to Settings / Information / OneHome Portal)
   • Import your contacts as a CSV file - tutorial available here.
   • Upload a profile photo (go to settings, and add a photo under "header and footer", email signature, and/or CMA cover.)
4. REALM™ – You have the option to use Matrix™ or REALM™ as your MLS® interface, so try out both to see which you prefer.
   • Navigate to the "PropTx Tools" page on the LSTAR Member Hub and select the ‘REALM™’ icon.
   • Set up your notifications (go to Settings under your profile picture).
   • Import your contacts as a CSV file - tutorial available here.
   • Upload a profile photo (go to "Edit Your Profile" top right under your initials in the right-hand corner, and click on "Upload a Photo").

   • Click on the “Show Me How” tab (right hand side), take the “Guided Tour” and follow the steps in the "Tasks" list
      

     

     
      

     

5. GeoWarehouse® – Access in the REALM™ waffle menu in the upper right-hand corner, or under Tools in Matrix™
   • Update your profile (under Profile, top right)
6. ListTrac – This is a tool that creates reports for your sellers, including all instances of where your listing is on the Internet - all in one place
   • Navigate to the "PropTx Tools" page on the LSTAR Member Hub and select the ‘ListTrac’ icon.
   • Create/Update your profile (under your name, top right)
7. HoodQ – Currently available in GeoWarehouse® for $14.95 each, now free to our Membership through PropTx; it provides reports containing stats on the neighbourhood for a particular address - including school data, and a personalized landing page that you can use in your marketing and/or send to your clients
   • Navigate to the "PropTx Tools" page on the LSTAR Member Hub and select the ‘HoodQ’ icon.
   • Create/Update your profile (in the upper right corner, click on "Edit Profile", update your Homebuyer Hub information, consent to having your email shared, and save)
8. SkySlope Forms – this is an alternative to WEBForms®
   • Navigate to the "PropTx Tools" page on the LSTAR Member Hub and select the ‘Skyslope Forms’ icon.
   • Follow the prompts to set up your SkySlope account (including your profile, email, and phone number)
   • Add the "London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® - LSTAR" forms library
   • Add the "PropTx-OREA (TRREB / CLAR / LSTAR)" forms library
   • Set up personal clauses - tutorial available here
9. Data License Agreements – for information on how to set up data license agreements on the PropTx platform, click here.

Brokers of Record

• Do all tasks in the Salesperson checklist (see above)
• Assign Add/Edit Permissions - tutorial available here.
• SkySlope
  • Contact the SkySlope team via support [at] skyslope.com (support[at]skyslope[dot]com) to setup your SkySlope Basic or Full Suite (if purchased)
    • If you purchased the Full Suite, SkySlope will reach out directly for next steps
    • If you chose SkySlope Basic, to have Broker visibility of SkySlope Forms and DigiSign, please fill out this form and SkySlope will reach out for next steps. If you encounter any difficulties, please email support [at] skyslope.com (support[at]skyslope[dot]com).
      • NOTE: this process will be eliminated in the coming weeks when full automation through TRREB's membership API will be launched
  • Set up Brokerage Forms
    • Please fill out this form and SkySlope will reach out for next steps (this form only needs to be filled out once for all Broker of Record steps)
  • Set up Brokerage Clauses
    • Please fill out this form and SkySlope will reach out for next steps (this form only needs to be filled out once for all Broker of Record steps)
      • NOTE: this process will be eliminated in the coming weeks when full automation through TRREB's membership API is launched – Brokers will then be able to manage their own clauses in SkySlope Forms.
    • If you encounter any difficulties, please contact support [at] skyslope.com (support[at]skyslope[dot]com).

If you encounter any difficulties with any of the steps above, please contact the Help Desk at 416-443-8111.

What You Need to do on BrokerBay

The following instructions are for all categories of PropTx MLS® users.

• Confirm your mobile number and email address
• Merge any duplicate listings that have been inputted on both the PropTx MLS® System and the ITSO MLS® System.

If you are accessing BrokerBay as a REALTOR®, you must click on the "Merge/Combine Listing" button located in the top right corner.

If you have the Admin Tool icon, you can merge listings by clicking the "Merge/Combine Listings" rectangle.

We strongly encourage you to log into the PropTx MLS® platform and take the steps outlined above at your earliest convenience.

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Loading Your Active Listings on the PropTx Platform

LSTAR has collaborated with PropTx to offer alternative methods for uploading active listings onto the MLS® System. 

All of your Active Listings on ITSO as of end-of-day on March 4, 2024, have been imported into PropTx as Draft Listings, providing you a “starting point” for your existing listings should you choose to use them, or you can “start from scratch” within the Add Listing feature. 

Any listings loaded after this time will need to be inputted from scratch into the PropTx MLS® System.

If you choose to work from a draft:

You can locate draft listings under the "Drafts" tab within the Add/Edit section. You can search the property address, select the listing, and review each data field within the draft for additions or corrections. Once everything has been reviewed, the listing can be moved to an active status. 

It's important to note that there are some differences between the ITSO MLS® System and the PropTx MLS® System fields, so the auto-populated data may need adjustments. For example:

• The character limit for "Remarks for Clients" is 2000 characters in the ITSO system, whereas the limit is 1000 characters on the PropTx platform. 
• PropTx has a 40-photo capacity whereas ITSO has 50.
• Direction character count is shorter.
• Remarks – ITSO has specific “Showing Remarks” and “Offer Remarks”.  These remark fields do not exist in PropTx. This information will need to be added to the Remarks for Brokerages. 
• PropTx allows a maximum of 12 rooms measurement input. Washrooms input is in a separate section. You can state the # of rooms, bedrooms and kitchens in the PropTx system.
• PropTx allows for two salespeople to be added to the listings whereas ITSO has three. 

Tips:

• Check your Attachments to ensure they are all there. 
• PropTx has matched data to data if the fields existed in both systems; however, it is highly recommended to review the entire listing for accuracy. 
• If you select “validate” you will be made aware of missing mandatory information or required corrections.
• If you select the information icon, an explanation will be there to explain the purpose of the data field.

If you choose to add your active listings from scratch:

If you choose to NOT work from a draft, please keep in mind that your drafts will expire 45 days after the creation date. To learn how to add your active listings from scratch, you can take this short online course created by LSTAR.

Please note that any NEW listing agreements signed on or after March 8, 2024, will be required to have the PropTx MLS® Data Information Form completed and signed. Any existing listings prior to this date will not require the PropTx information form.

After cutover (parallel period), what is the requirement for loading listings on both systems?

All active listings must be loaded on the PropTx MLS® System before April 10, 2024. If listings are not loaded by April 10, 2024, these listings will not appear on REALTOR.ca. 

After cutover, it is mandatory to load all listings on the PropTx MLS® System and optional to load on the ITSO MLS® System. However, it’s encouraged to take advantage of the exposure offered by both MLS® Systems.

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New Classes Added to Help You Prepare for the Transition to PropTx

To help you prepare for the April 10 cutover from ITSO to PropTx, LSTAR has just added 11 new in-person classes. Some of these classes will be held in the Computer Lab and some in the REALTOR® Hall. 

** Please note that if you register for a class held in the REALTOR® Hall, you will be required to bring your own device (laptop). In addition, we strongly recommend that you set up your PropTx log in BEFORE attending any of our PropTx-related classes. **

To register for any LSTAR courses via the Member Hub (you will need to login), click on the Education tab and scroll down to "Upcoming LSTAR Learning Opportunities". Expand the arrow by clicking on it and a table will appear with courses for the selected month. To register, click on "Link", which will re-direct you to the Member Portal to complete the registration.  A confirmation email will be sent to you upon registration.

To register for any LSTAR courses via ITSO Matrix™, log in and then click on the "Links" tab along the top of the landing page of ITSO Matrix™. On the next page, scroll down to "Member Portal - Profile, Account/Payment, Education Registration", and click the link. This will take you to the LSTAR Member Portal, where you can complete the registration. A confirmation email will be sent to you upon registration.

If you do not receive a confirmation email after you register, you have not completed the registration correctly. Zoom class links are provided in your confirmation email. If you encounter any difficulties and require support, please send an email to learning [at] lstar.ca (learning[at]lstar[dot]ca).

PropTx Classes Available in March

• ONLINE SkySlope - March 22nd, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
• ONLINE SkySlope - March 25th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - March 25th, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (LAB)
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - March 25th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (LAB)
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - March 26th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - March 26th, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM (LAB)
• ONLINE REALM™ - March 26th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - March 27th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM (LAB)

PropTx Classes Available in April

• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - April 2nd, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (LAB)
• IN-PERSON SkySlope - April 2nd, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM (LAB)
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - April 3rd, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (REALTOR® HALL DOWNSTAIRS)
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - April 3rd, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM (REALTOR® HALL DOWNSTAIRS)
• ONLINE REALM™ - April 4th, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - April 4th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - April 5th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (REALTOR® HALL DOWNSTAIRS)
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - April 5th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM (REALTOR® HALL DOWNSTAIRS)
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - April 8th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (REALTOR® HALL DOWNSTAIRS)
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - April 8th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM (LAB)
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - April 9th, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM (LAB)
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - April 9th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (LAB)
• ONLINE SkySlope - April 10, 2024, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - April 11th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - April 17th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• IN-PERSON SkySlope - April 18, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM (LAB)
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - April 18, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 AM (LAB)
• ONLINE REALM™ - April 19th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - April 23rd, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM (LAB)
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - April 25th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• ONLINE SkySlope - April 25th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

PropTx Classes Available in May

• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - May 7th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• ONLINE SkySlope - May 8th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
• ONLINE REALM™ - May 10th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - May 14th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - May 16th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• IN-PERSON SkySlope - May 16th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM
• ONLINE SkySlope - May 21st, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
• IN-PERSON PropTx Add/Edit - May 22nd, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
• IN-PERSON SkySlope - May 29th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM
• IN-PERSON REALM™ - May 29th, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
• ONLINE PropTx Add/Edit - May 30th, 2024, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM
• ONLINE REALM™ - May 30th, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM

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Walk and Talk Sessions with LSTAR's 2024 Chair and the Association's CEO

Join LSTAR's 2024 Chair Kathy Amess and CEO Bill Madder for an opportunity to ask questions, discuss REALTOR® issues or just to get to know them in one of LSTAR's area parks or walking trails. From industry insights to your most pressing concerns, you will have the chance to delve into a wide array of topics while enjoying the great outdoors.

Please reach out to kbougie [at] lstar.ca (kbougie[at]lstar[dot]ca) to book our spot. You may invite up to five LSTAR Member colleagues to join you in this experience.

Check your calendars, lace up your shoes, bring your ideas, and prepare to walk the talk with LSTAR's top leadership!

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Nominate a Colleague for the Ron Richardson Memorial Award!

Do you know a REALTOR® who is an outstanding leader across the region? Do you know a REALTOR® making a positive impact with a local charity? Do you know a fellow REALTOR® who inspires others? Nominate a colleague for the Ron Richardson Memorial Award! Nominations opened on February 29, 2024.

The Ron Richardson Memorial Award recognizes an LSTAR REALTOR® Member who personifies the spirit and values of LSTAR’s three-time Past President, who championed philanthropy and giving back to the community. The award recipient will be recognized for his/her/their contributions in leadership, mentorship and professionalism* throughout the community and organized real estate.

Nominate a colleague today! The nomination deadline is March 31st, 2024. The recipient will be announced at the LSTAR Annual General Meeting, scheduled to take place on June 25, 2024.

Examples include:

• Service on a real estate board or local charitable organization (e.g., Board of Directors, committee, special campaign, etc.)
• Volunteerism in the community (e.g., charitable groups, schools, post-secondary institutions, sports organizations, etc.)
• Passion for philanthropy (e.g., participation in philanthropy projects and campaigns to support fundraising for local community organizations)

The recipient will receive $1,000 to be donated to a charity of the recipient’s choice within the LSTAR catchment area to benefit local communities. The award is made possible by the incredible generosity of the Richardson family.

Ron Richardson joined LSTAR in 1943, when it was known as the London Real Estate Board. He served as President in 1948, 1949 and 1959, becoming the first Member to serve three terms as President. There are several notable milestones that happened in 1959, Ron’s final term as President. It marked the first time would-be registrants had to pass a short examination on their knowledge of the Real Estate and Business Brokers Act in order to qualify. It was also the year a local committee was struck to deal with business ethics, the first attempt to manage issues related to professional standards. Ron was an LSTAR Member for nearly 60 years. To learn more about him, check out this video.

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ORWP Open Enrollment Deadline Extension and Service Levels

We are happy to share that OREA was able to get an extension on the ORWP Open Enrollment Period from March 15 to March 29, 2024. This means if you have not yet done so, March 29 is your deadline to enhance coverage, add dependents or spouses, and upgrade existing plans.

Please note the next opportunity to enhance your plan will be in the next open enrollment period in January 2025. For more information about the coverage and costs of ORWP’s enhanced and family plans, click here.

To participate in the open enrollment experience, access your ORWP account through the CBS Member Portal link provided in your ‘Welcome Email’. To find your welcome email, we recommend that you check all your inboxes, including your business and personal email inboxes, for an email from “no-reply [at] onvitalobjects.com (no-reply[at]onvitalobjects[dot]com)” with the subject line “Ontario REALTOR® Wellness Program (ORWP) Welcome Email".

If you require registration or enrollment support, contact the ORWP Program Administrator, Comprehensive Benefit Solutions (CBS), by phone at 905-896-2074 or 1-855-335-3070, or by email at ProgramAdministrator [at] orwp.ca (ProgramAdministrator[at]orwp[dot]ca).

For more information about the ORWP, visit www.orea.com/orwp.

ORWP Service Levels

Thousands of Members are benefitting from the ORWP: 50,000 health claims and 46 travel claims have been processed, and 25 families have had the support of life insurance coverage in their hour of need. Over 285 General Practitioner consultations, have taken place (with only an 8-minute wait time), and over 680 mental health consultations have been conducted for Members.

In addition, we have seen significant improvements to Program Administrator Comprehensive Benefit Solutions’ (CBS) services levels – with Members experiencing wait times as short as two minutes when they call, and five minutes when they request a call back. OREA will continue to monitor service levels to ensure all Members are supported in a timely manner.

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Applications Are Now Accepted for LSTAR's 2024 Scholarship

Attention parents and grandparents! We are excited to announce that applications for the 2024 LSTAR Scholarship are now being accepted. If you have children or grandchildren who will be attending university or college, we encourage you to share this amazing opportunity with them.

LSTAR is offering four (4) scholarships in amount of $2,500 each to help support their academic dreams, and the application process is a breeze with our fillable Application Form. Don't miss out on this chance to help make their educational aspirations a reality.

So, spread the word and get those applications in. Who knows, your loved one could be the next lucky recipient of the LSTAR Scholarship!

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LSTAR Spring Webinar Series

The 2024 LSTAR Spring Webinar Series features nine educational sessions on timely topics such as the impact of AI and VR on real estate, CASL Compliance for REALTORS®, and Mastering Canva for Social Media Impact. All our educational webinars are intended to give you the tools and the knowledge necessary to better help your clients and conduct your business.

Registration information for all the Spring 2024 Webinars can be found on your MLS® System News & Alerts and on LSTAR’s website under Education – Webinar Registration.  

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FINTRAC Webinars for LSTAR Members

The real estate industry’s obligations under the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) continue to evolve and LSTAR is dedicated to providing Brokers, Compliance Officers, and REALTORS® with the necessary tools and training to help them comply with these regulations.

Our Association currently offers two complimentary tools that simplify FINTRAC compliance: Fintracker and ReallyTrusted.

Brokerages can select which tool they prefer to use and roll it out to their salespeople and staff. Each tool comes with a mobile app that allows REALTORS® to fill out FINTRAC paperwork and ID clients from their smartphones (including remotely!). The mobile apps also include add-ons that can streamline a range of other compliance regime requirements, as well as workflows that ensure the required information is passed through to brokerage compliance officers, and admins.

This April, we will be diving deep into FINTRAC through a series of webinars on the latest FINTRAC news offered by our two tech providers: Fintracker and ReallyTrusted.

Attend one or all these webinars to see how these tools work and how they can help you and your brokerage stay on the right side of FINTRAC compliance.

• April 5 @ 10:00 am to 11:00 am – Fintracker Webinar for Brokers of Record/Admin/Compliance Officers - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUoduGhqzkqEtd-PXd1quRj7R1iZrMzIIYD
  Join us to find out more about your new member benefit! Fintracker is an end-to-end FINTRAC digital solution, available on mobile and desktop. Using this tool, agents can scan client IDs in-person or remotely, authenticating and auto-populating the recommended forms.  Fintracker also offers an admin portal with AML and sanction screening, ongoing monitoring, and consultations with experts to assist you with your training manuals and office policies.
• April 9 @ 11:00 am to 12:00 pm – ReallyTrusted Webinar for Brokers of Record/Compliance Officers - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZElduyhrjspGNLoXNLI_V4-feg4OK0I-OFQ
  Greg Dent, REALTOR® and co-founder of ReallyTrusted, will be discussing the components of a complete FINTRAC compliance program and will delve into some of the deficiencies they’ve observed in Real Estate brokerages policies and practices. From his conversations with over 500 brokerages using the system, Greg will bring in real-life examples of brokerages from across the country and will highlight areas where your compliance program might be deficient.  
  This webinar is primarily designed for compliance officers/brokers and is intended to delve into the bigger picture of FINTRAC compliance.While there might be some conversation about the new forms, the bulk of the webinar will be more policy-driven.
• April 11 @ 10:00 am to 11:00 am – Fintracker Webinar for Agents - https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkdeGpqjgvG9ykl1VY3uN8g3GpJvGhJnyK
  Join us to find out more about your new member benefit! Fintracker is an end-to-end FINTRAC digital solution, available on mobile and desktop. Scan government issued IDs, auto-populate forms or send out remote links for identifying non-physically present clients. When it comes to FINTRAC, Fintracker got you covered!

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CREA Updated Forms and Fintracker Automation

Earlier this month, Fintracker hosted a webinar with CREA’s Simon Parham, Adam Feldman from the AML Shop along with Fintracker’s Simon Fiore to discuss CREA Updated Forms and Fintracker Automation.

If you missed this Webinar – find the recording here.

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LSTAR Class Schedule for March & April 2024

To help Members get prepared for the opportunities unlocked by LSTAR’s transition to the PropTx MLS® ecosystem, LSTAR will continue to offer our regular suite of technology classes: Matrix™, BrokerBay, WEBForms®, GeoWarehouse® and Listing Load, along with some training on REALM™, PropTx Add/Edit, SkySlope and new GeoWarehouse® features, including HoodQ. Check out the classes for the remainder of March & for April below.

To register for any LSTAR courses via the Member Hub (you will need to login), click on the Education tab and scroll down to “Upcoming LSTAR Learning Opportunities”.  Expand the arrow by clicking on it and a table will appear with courses for the selected month. To register, click on the “Link”, which will re-direct you to your Matrix™ Portal to complete the registration.  A confirmation email will be sent to you upon registration.

To register for any LSTAR courses, log in to Matrix™, then click on the “Links” tab along the top of the main page of ITSO Matrix™. On the next page, scroll down to “Member Portal - Profile, Account/Payment, Education Registration”, and click the link. A confirmation email will be sent to you upon registration.

If you do not receive a confirmation email after you register, you have not completed the registration correctly. Zoom class links are provided in your confirmation email. If you require support, please send an email to Learning [at] LSTAR.ca (Learning[at]LSTAR[dot]ca).
 

MARCH 2024

APRIL 2024

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April's External Learning Opportunities

Looking for other learning opportunities? Check out this list of courses and webinars being offered by our provincial and national associations, technology providers and other third parties.

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PropTx Education Resources

With the onset of the PropTx transitions, the education department has developed some new micro-learning videos to help you with the changeover along with developing an On-Demand/Asynchronous course which covers all aspects on how to load a listing onto the PropTx MLS®.  

Please make sure to visit the LSTAR Member Hub to view our ever-growing library to help you stay up to date on the latest changes.

Click here for the list of all permissions levels available within the PropTx MLS® System.

This course will provide an overview of the PropTx MLS® System. It will help you log in, add or edit a listing, and report a transaction in the PropTx MLS® System. Click here to open this course full-screen in a new window.

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LSTAR's Latest Micro-Quizzes

Are you up-to-date on the REALTOR® tools of the trade? Check out our latest micro-quizzes designed to test your knowledge in two-minutes or less! (click on each image to see each of these quizzes).

Stay tuned for our next weekly micro-quiz!

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Upcoming Sponsorship Opportunities

The London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® would like to take this opportunity to recognize our 2023 generous sponsors and their support for our various events. We are extremely grateful for their generous contributions.

If you'd like to become a Sponsor this year, check out the list of our upcoming sponsorship opportunities, and contact LSTAR's Senior Manager of Events & Community Engagement, Claire Dawson, via claire [at] lstar.ca (Claire[at]LSTAR[dot]ca).

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Save the Dates of Our Upcoming Events

Mark the dates of our upcoming events in your calendar!

LSTAR's Annual Slo-Pitch Tournament

Our annual Slo-Pitch Tournament is coming in hot and it's going to be one of the hottest events of the year. On June 14th, 2024, head to Slo-Pitch City in Dorchester to show off your skills on the field, while building relationships and team spirit. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this tournament is the perfect way to kick off the summer.

LSTAR's Annual General Meeting and Trade Show

Then, on June 25th, 2024, you're invited to attend our Annual General Meeting & Trade Show taking place at the Best Western Lamplighter Inn and Conference Centre. During the AGM you'll be given an update on the work of the LSTAR Building Task Force and be asked to provide input on the future of the LSTAR building, so make sure you don't miss it. Also, the Trade Show promises to be a great opportunity to network, learn from local industry experts, and discover new products and services. We hope to see you there!

LSTAR's Annual Golf Tournament

On September 19th, come join us at the Highland Golf and Country Club in London, to tee off for a good cause. With beautiful scenery, challenging holes, and plenty of opportunities to network with other real estate professionals, our Annual Charity Golf Tournament is a must-attend event. Put it in your calendar now!

LSTAR's 2024 Christmas Gala

On November 22nd, 2024, you're invited to RBC Place to show off your most stylish outfit at our most glamorous event of the year, the 2024 LSTAR Christmas Gala. Come to celebrate the holidays with us and your peers and be prepared for yet another elegant and enchanting soiree!

LSTAR's 2024 Children's Christmas Party

Lastly, be sure to mark Saturday, November 30th, 2024, on your calendar as the date of our 2024 LSTAR Children's Christmas Party. The event will be hosted by the London Centennial Hall. All our Members' children and those of their support staff are welcome to attend this event. Stay tuned for more details!

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Check out the Presentations from the Recent Housing Economic Summit

Many thanks to everyone who attended last month’s 2024 Western Ontario Housing Economic Summit, a REALTOR® event that highlighted the trends, data and top issues from leaders in real estate, government, and the private sector.

The event was proudly presented in collaboration with Chatham-Kent Association of REALTORS®; Huron Perth Association of REALTORS®; London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®; and Woodstock Ingersoll Tillsonburg and Area Association of REALTORS®.

The day started with Eddie Sheppard from Abacus Data, who offered insights into the current housing situation, affordability concerns, and future housing aspirations.

Here is Eddie’s Sheppard's presentation. 

For further details on the region, check out the full Abacus Data Report. 

Anthony Passarelli from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation spoke about the emerging market trends in Western Ontario and the factors behind them.

Here is Anthony Passarelli's presentation.

Huge thanks to the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), who made this event possible through OREA's Enhanced Member Board Service Program (EMBERS)!

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Tell Your MPP to Take Bold Action on Housing

The housing supply and affordability crisis are pushing the dream of homeownership further out of reach for many Ontario families.

Last month, OREA released their latest policy report, "Analysis of Ontario’s Efforts to Boost Housing Supply". Based on the recommendations of Ontario's Housing Affordability Task Force, the report outlines 10 action items that will increase the housing supply and address the housing affordability crisis.

These actions include:

• Allowing water and wastewater services to be provided through a municipal services corporation, lowering the upfront costs of purchasing a new home by up to $50,000;
• Supporting commercial-to-residential conversions with greater density along transit corridors; and
• Ending exclusionary zoning to unlock more housing supply in existing communities.

Together, all 10 action items would improve affordability and create future generations of homeowners. Read more in last week's Toronto Star op-ed by OREA CEO Tim Hudak.

Join OREA and encourage your MPP to take bold action to build more homes.

Click on the image below to contact your MPP.

Thank you for joining thousands of REALTORS® across Ontario advocating for increased supply and better affordability!

If you are sharing OREA's recommendations and your support on social media, please use #BoldActionBuildsHomes while posting.

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Donate Blood and Bring a Buddy to Win Big!

In less than three months, LSTAR's Team of Blood Donors, which is now 77 members strong, rolled up their sleeves for a total of 42 donations. This year, our goal is 200 donations, so we're well on our way to get there!

Please remember: if you're a blood donor and bring a friend or a family member with you to donate blood, your buddy will receive one entry and your name will be entered TWICE into a quarterly draw for a chance to win a $100 gift card to a local restaurant!

Each time you donate, be sure to email claire [at] lstar.ca (Claire[at]LSTAR[dot]ca), so that you (and your buddy) can be entered into the quarterly draw.

How to Join the LSTAR Team of Blood Donors:

1. Set up an account on blood.ca or the "GiveBlood app" for Apple and Android.
2. Select "Partners" from the Menu.
3. Select "Join a team" and search for "LSTAR". A dropdown list will appear.
4. Select the team you wish to join, LSTAR.
5. Book your next appointment, either through your team bookings (visible under your team) or as an individual.

Partner ID: LSTA013463 (four letters and six numbers)
Organization: LSTAR

For your convenience, a Blood Donor Clinic is ongoing in London, located at 820 Wharncliffe Road South.

In St. Thomas, you can donate blood at the Joe Thornton Community Centre at 75 Caso Crossing. An upcoming clinic is scheduled for Wednesday, April 10, from 1:00 to 7:00 pm.

If you're in Aylmer, you can head over to the East Elgin Community Complex at 531 Talbot Street to donate blood. The next clinic is coming up on Thursday, March 28 from 1:30 to 7:30 pm.

We look forward to having more people join our team of blood donors soon.

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Home Sales, Prices Climb in February

594 homes exchanged hands last month via the MLS® System of the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS® (LSTAR), marking a 33.2% increase in sales activity over February 2023. The number of newly listed properties rose from 873 in January to 1,024 in February, showing a 31.8% increase over a year ago.

“While the number of home sales remained on par with LSTAR’s 10-year-average for February, the number of newly listed properties soared to new heights, reaching its second highest value for that month," said 2024 LSTAR Chair Kathy Amess. “Many of the Sellers who chose to adopt a ‘wait-and-see’ approach in the last months of 2023 were encouraged by the fact that the Bank of Canada decided once again not to increase its benchmark rates,” she explained.

Out of the 594 residential properties sold in February in LSTAR’s jurisdiction, 417 were single-family homes, 104 were townhouses, and 54 – apartments. The average price for a single-family home in LSTAR’s jurisdiction surged from $605,785 in the first month of the year to $682,780 last month, while that of a townhouse climbed only slightly - from $504,304 in January to $507,229 in February. The average price of an apartment from the London-St. Thomas region increased from $319,210 in January to $382,496 last month. “In addition, the average prices for single-family homes and apartments saw slight year-over-year increases, rising by 1.7% and 3.9% respectively,” Amess emphasized.  “However, when compared to February 2023, the average price of a townhouse remained virtually unchanged,” she added.

Housing supply plummeted from 3.3 months of inventory in January to 2.7 months in February.

"LSTAR’s sales-to-new listings ratio settled at 58% last month. This is something that we like to see because indicates a fairly balanced real estate market, which benefits all the parties involved," Amess said.  

The overall average home price of LSTAR saw a month-over-month uptick – from $605,785 in January to $617,790 last month – but was 0.2% lower than in February 2023. However, the Composite MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) Benchmark Price posted month-over-month and year-over-year gains – of 2.5%, and 1.7% respectively - climbing to $587,400.

The table below displays an analysis of February's average and MLS® HPI Benchmark Prices in LSTAR's main regions.

In analyzing February’s figures, it is necessary to make a clear distinction between average prices and MLS® benchmark prices. The latter shows us what a 'typical home' from a specific area looks like for the local buyers and what housing attributes these buyers value the most. In contrast, the average sales price is calculated by summing all home sale prices and dividing that total by the number of homes sold.

Because average prices can experience high fluctuations from one month to the next, due to only a few outliers from the sales activity mix, the HPI benchmark price is a more reliable tool for tracking trends over time,” Amess stated.

The following table displays February’s benchmark prices for all housing types within LSTAR's jurisdiction and shows how they compare with those recorded in the previous month and three months ago.

"When compared to the prices recorded in other provincial and national centres, homes within the LSTAR jurisdiction appear relatively affordable, positioning our region as an attractive housing market," Amess said. The chart below shows the most recent HPI benchmark prices, as provided by CREA.

According to a recent study¹ by Altus Group, an average housing transaction in Ontario generates approximately $77,420 in spin-off spending within three years from the date of purchase. These expenses include legal fees, moving costs, furniture acquisitions, and home improvement expenses, as well as some other charges.

“Only through the secondary spending they are prompting, LSTAR’s February home sales could potentially bring almost $46 million to the region’s budget. This demonstrates the importance of our real estate market’s contribution to the local economy," Amess concluded.

Download in PDF format.

¹Economic Impacts of MLS® Systems Home Sales and Purchases in Canada and the Provinces, Altus Group, 2019.

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LSTAR Membership Comes with Perks

As a Member of the London and St. Thomas Association of REALTORS®, you are entitled to a range of deals and discounts through the LSTAR Member Perks Program.

To take advantage of the discounts outlined in this program, just present your Business Card or RECO Number to any of the participating discount providers. Please read the information related to each discount provider carefully to make sure that the deal is current.

For any inquiries, please contact Claire Dawson at Claire [at] LSTAR.ca (Claire[at]LSTAR[dot]ca).

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Membership Updates

Membership Count

As of March 18, 2024, LSTAR has 2,309 Members.

Welcome to our Newest Members!

• June Lam – Royal LePage Triland
• Maria Ramos-Hernandez – StreetCity Realty
• Michelle Carmona – Initia Real Estate
• Lori Goldhawk – Royal LePage Triland Ingersoll
• Harjinder Singh – Century 21 First Canadian Corp
• Navi Sharma – Gold Empire Realty Inc.
• Andres Usma – Blue Forest Realty Inc.
• Vigil Vincent – Century 21 First Canadian Corp
• Anu Bhatnagar – Royal LePage Triland Realty
• Aju Paul – The Canadian Home Realty Inc.
• Alana Pawlaszyk – Prime Real Estate Brokerage
• Julien Polidoro – Coldwell Banker Homefield Legacy Realty
• Jasmine Bath – Shrine Realty Brokerage LTD.
• Umesh Kumar – Gold Empire Realty Inc.
• JP Lachmaniucu – EXP Realty
• Syed Hassan – Century 21 First Canadian Corp
• Jayden Levac – Keller Williams Lifestyles
• Bonnie Walter – The Realty Firm Inc.
• Nidhi Pandey – Davenport Realty Brokerage
• Julie Rice – StreetCity Realty
• Danielle Naudi – HouseSigma Inc.
• Ben Saji Thomas – StreetCity Realty
• Sonia Grewal – The Agency Real Estate 

New Transfers

• Christy Ruth – Now with Century 21 First Canadian Corp
• Paisley Smith – Now with EXP Realty
• Garry Singh – Now with Gold Empire Realty Inc.
• Vicky Somerset – Now with Thrive Realty Group
• Linda Wilson – Now with Sutton Group Pawlowski & Company Real Estate Brokerage
• Rajinder Amar – Now with Gold Empire Realty Inc.
• Kuldip Kahlon – Now with Gold Empire Realty Inc.
• Ted Dalal – Now with Initia Real Estate
• Adam Paolini – Now with Century 21 First Canadian Corp
• Angee George – Now with The Realty Firm Inc.
• Tyson George – Now with The Realty Firm Inc.
• Jennifer Hatch – Now with PC275 Realty
• Stephanie Jasin – Now with Blue Forest Realty Inc.
• Dawn Kenny – Now with The Realty Firm Inc.
• Moyra Fenn – Now with HouseSigma Inc.
• Yang Gao – Now with Initia Real Estate
• Jack Nakhle – Now with The Realty Firm Inc.

New Offices

• Glenda James Real Estate
  PB: Glenda James

Office Closures

• Unreserved Brokerage  
  PB: Sameer Amini

Retired Members

• Joe Pereira – Sutton Group Select Realty
• Nancy McCann – Sutton Group Select Realty
• Pattie Pearn – Royal LePage Triland
• Susan Bork – Royal LePage Triland

For any and all questions regarding your LSTAR Membership, please contact our Membership department at Membership [at] LSTAR.ca (Membership[at]LSTAR[dot]ca).

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LSTAR Closed on March 29 for Good Friday

The offices of LSTAR will be closed on Friday, March 29, in observance of Good Friday.  To all those who celebrate it LSTAR wishes a safe and happy Easter! 

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