NAR convention beckons

 The Institute of Estate Agents (IEASA) has announced a preferential travel package for South African estate agents wishing to attend the prestigious National Association of Realtors (NAR) Convention to be held in San Diego later this year.

 The convention is the world’s biggest real estate gathering and affords agents from around the world the opportunity to get to grips with the latest trends and to network with their international peers. IEASA says  this year’s convention will offer local agents a unique opportunity to forge ties ahead of next year’s Soccer World Cup, when South African property will be in the limelight.

 IEASA has had a bilateral co-operation agreement with NAR for over 30 years which, among other benefits, allows institute members considerably discounted access to NAR. IEASA is also a member of the International Consortium of Estate Agents and as such has access to the decision makers in the industry on a global platform.  This affiliation also includes the heads of many similar real estate associations around the world and by extension their membership base.

 The institute has a strong supporter in the NAR presidential liaison for South Africa, Nancy Macaluso of the Florida Association of REALTORS – the state with the highest percentage of South African home owners. Its ambassador association is the Michigan Association of REALTORS, the members of which want to make contact with South African estate agents, IEASA says.

 The convention will run from 11 to 19 November and IEASA is offering its members a special travel package, which includes airline tickets and accommodation, for a total of R16 000. It is still trying to obtain sponsorship for the conference fee of US$300.

 Among the highlights of the conference is a meet-and-greet session under the South African flag in the International Business Centre and a general session with the former United States Secretary of State, Condoleezza Rice.

 Agents wishing to reserve bookings may contact Ronel Heyns on 082 898 5378 or the IEASA office at 044 382 0990, or email admin@ieasagardenroute.co.za