When the 109th Tennessee General Assembly convenes on Jan. 13, 2015, one of the pieces of legislation up for consideration will be a bill designed to enhance realtor education in ways that directly benefit homebuyers and sellers.
The proposed legislation would make possible one-hour continuing education courses for Tennessee realtors on a range of real-estate topics. State law directs that real-estate licensees must take CE courses to maintain their license and to better protect buyers and sellers.
If passed, the legislation would offer the state’s realtors a more varied menu of opportunities to learn from skilled instructors on diverse topics relevant to the buying and selling process. Currently, the minimum CE credit available in a class is two hours. Adding one-hour options would broaden the scope of classes and allow Realtors® to deepen their knowledge in more specific subjects that arise as they represent buyers and sellers.
“We are hopeful that this bill will move through and be enacted,” said Pat Beech, a Memphis realtor and 2015 president of the Tennessee Association of REALTORS.
“Our state legislators are well aware of the association’s longstanding commitment to provide services and resources that support Tennessee realtors in their vital work with homebuyers and sellers,” Ms. Beech said. “One of the most crucial ways we do this is by providing cutting-edge educational opportunities for realtors. Increased knowledge among realtors leads to more informed Tennessee buyers and sellers, which contributes to building great neighborhoods and communities that continue to showcase our state’s high quality of life.”
As part of its mission, the Tennessee Association of REALTORS identifies, analyzes and acts on local, state and national issues that affect the real-estate industry and private property owners. From city halls throughout the state, to the General Assembly, to the U.S. Capitol, elected officials are making decisions that have a huge impact on the realtors and their customers.
“We know that a strong, vibrant real-estate market plays a key role in fostering stability in our communities,” Ms. Beech said, “and we are passionate about speaking with one voice and acting on important issues, like this one, that enhance the process for buyers and sellers.”