HELPING YOU STAY INFORMED

When looking back at how much has changed over the last few weeks, one can see how difficult it is to sift through the constant onslaught of new information and laws affecting real estate professionals. We hope this guide will help. Feel free to save this email to refer back to, as it contains links to consistently updated resources from NAR and MR.
REALTOR RESOURCES

Keep checking your email, Paragon messages, and the JAAR Facebook page for local updates!
CHANGES AT JAAR

Due to the Governor's Executive Order 2020-21 the JAAR office building is closed until April 13, 2020. However, staff is still hard at work remotely to keep you informed and able to work. You can reach us at 517-787-6175 extension 1 for Kelly with MLS issues, extension 2 for Kelsey for billing questions and making payments, extension 3 for Melissa for legal, ethical and other questions and issues, and extension 4 for Heather with membership questions .
 
Staff will continue to be available for membership services via phone and email from 9:00 am-5:00 pm Monday through Friday. All in person committee meetings are cancelled, as well as all March and April classes and events. Some committees may begin meeting virtually so watch your email for any meeting notices.
 
Members who need to pay any outstanding dues payments or fees can pay by credit card through over the phone at (517) 787-6175 ext. 2, or can send a check in the mail. The quarterly JMLS payment deadline for 4th quarter invoices has been extended until May 1st.
Q: Are real estate agents, brokers, and real estate service employees considered critical infrastructure workers under 2020-21?

A: These workers do not constitute “critical infrastructure workers” and thus may not leave their homes for work unless, under section 9(d) of the order, they are “provid[ing] food, shelter, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise needy individuals, individuals who need assistance as a result of this emergency, and people with disabilities.” This is a tightly circumscribed category that captures only work that must be carried out in person and is absolutely necessary to assist those with a genuine and emergent need, such as an immediate lack of shelter. All work must be carried out remotely to the greatest extent possible. For further clarification, see this bulletin from Governor Whitmer's office.
ATTENTION:   Due to the Governor’s Executive Order 2020-21 there are not to be any real estate showings, open houses or other real estate related services that are not permitted under the Executive Order, as previously communicated. 

VIOLATIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE ORDER ARE A MISDEMEANOR PUNISHABLE BY UP TO 90 DAYS IN JAIL AND/OR A $500 FINE. AN ADDITIONAL $1000 CIVIL PENALTY AND POTENTIAL BUSINESS LICENSE VIOLATION MAY BE LEVIED AS OF 4/3/20.
 
As a result of the order, Showingtime has been temporarily turned off in Paragon until April 14 th . Appraisers that are allowed under the order to perform appraisals will have to call listing agents to schedule an appraisal, which is in the best interest of all involved.
 
As a reminder, the Association  cannot  legally enforce the law. Compliance falls solely under the jurisdiction of law enforcement. If you are concerned about a violation, it can be reported to local law enforcement by using their non-emergency line (NOT 911).
NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Learn something new while you're staying safe at home!