Dear Member,

This e-mail is a call-to-action to step up and become involved in the protection and advancement of our BPO industry. While “the sky is not falling”, valid pro-BPO information is lacking. Showing interest, becoming involved and providing information shapes policy. We need you to be a link in that chain to ensure that Broker Price Opinions are defended, protected, and advanced. We need to let the real estate industry’s federal trade association, the National Association of Realtors® (NAR), know how valuable and important BPOs are to you.

As you may already know, the BPO industry is being unfairly targeted by a few “special interests” and those who simply do not know the value of the Broker Price Opinion and its uses. Recurrently we have detected ill-fated attempts to block or restrict the use and practice of BPOs at the state and even at the federal level. NABPOP along with the Real Estate Valuation Advocacy Association (REVAA), a non-profit association comprised of valuation companies, are actively defending and advocating the BPO industry.

Currently, NAR does not have a policy in support of BPOs. Since performing BPOs is a vital aspect of many REALTOR’s® business model, we want to encourage the NAR to stand with us in our efforts to protect, defend, and advance the legitimate generation and use of BPOs. NAR bills itself as “the voice for real estate”, and since BPOs are such a growing method of valuation we would like the NAR to put forth a pro-BPO policy. You, as a REALTOR®, can give voice to this much-needed policy by contacting NAR via e-mail; letting it be known that BPOs are important to REALTORS® and the real estate industry in whole. The objective is a simple one, to have NAR establish a strong affirmative policy regarding the production, payment, and usages of Broker Price Opinions.

We ask that you send an e-mail message, as opposed to writing a letter or calling them, as the most advantageous method to send a message to NAR. Sending an e-mail message is a simple yet effective method that won’t place a strain on NAR’s resources. There are two e-mail options, an automatic e-mail (verbiage, subject, and addresses automatically populate the e-mail) or an e-mail that you can write in your own words. An e-mail in your own words will be more powerful and we encourage you to take the time to write an e-mail.

For automatic e-mail, simply click on the following link Automatic E-Mail to NAR and click send (some e-mail programs will not allow automatic population. If the above link does not pull up a new e-mail, you will have to follow the below link and use the “copy and paste” option). If you would like to write the e-mail in your own words, follow the below link where we have provided some talking points that you can use as reference as well as the e-mail address (bpo@realtors.org) to send the e-mail to. Click on the following link to access either option http://www.nabpop.org/Advocacy-CallToAction.php

The greater the number of requests that NAR receives, the greater the message will be. We encourage you to forward this e-mail to all of your associates that may have an interest in joining this call to action. The above page is accessible to the public and being a NABPOP member is not a requirement to participate in this call to action.

BPOs are a “win” for the mortgage industry, REALTORS®, and consumers. In today’s tight mortgage environment, BPOs are a key tool, which, for example, is reflected within Obama’s Homeowner Stability Plan designed specifically to help troubled borrowers restructure their debt.

In addition, the top mortgage servicers utilize BPO’s when evaluating the best course of action when reviewing short sales, REO strategy, and portfolio reviews. While appraisals are the preferred product for underwriting newly originated loans; for many other purposes, BPO’s are faster, less expensive, and are performed by professionals like you, who have their finger on the pulse of their local market.

The vast, indeed overwhelming majority of NAR’s membership – the agents and brokers, would benefit from a strong proactive “PRO-BPO” policy stance. This call-to-action is to let you know that, as a dues paying REALTOR® member, NAR needs to hear from you. With your help, NAR will realize the importance of BPOs to you and do the right thing, by issuing a pro-BPO statement or policy. Our organizations will then be afforded the powerful opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder, defending and advancing the mutual interests of our groups’ members.

NAR is recognized as the leading housing trade association. Government, the media, and a host of influential folks turn to NAR for real estate information and opinions. To be sure, NAR has tremendous political clout, which is why it’s so important that they adopt a pro-BPO stance and policy. REALTORS® have the chance to urge the Association, to take a stand in support of their business practices. By sending NAR an email we can show the Association how much BPOs are supported by their members.

NABPOP would like to thank you in advance for your efforts and for your support of our political advocacy of BPOs.

If you have questions or comments, please contact NABPOP at 800-767-0743 option 102 or Support@NABPOP.com

we should all send at least one email daily!!!

I responded to the email and noted that from a professional point of view with my expertise and many many years in this industry, these tasks should be performed by Brokers and not realtors.

There is a huge difference in experience, knowledge, expertise, education and liability.

Myself and other brokers in my circle are lobbying for BPO's to be performed by brokers and not agents. We have been going before our local association of realtors and they have leaned towards us and we have also been before members of the government and they are in favor of this criteria as well.

Can't wait to see how this all unravels. I'm have my fingers crossed.

Sue Lean

Nice first post.....nicer trolling attempt. I can only hope that as a broker you communicate and use better grammar than you did with your post.

Fijiman- I received this same email from FARVV and NABPOP...well done.

lol..smg! Gotta love the trolls.

I did, I am in my mid 70's and have a secretary to type all of my thoughts, ideas and documents for me. I can't see as well as I once did and thus, I have someone with an eagle eye to back me up.

Good response...troll on. I doubt anybody will take your bait besides me. Carry on without me....I have BPOs to do.

Just sent my email. Let's stay on it! I just included a paragraph about the majority of realtors concerns about brokers over 70 working on bpo's and the damages it could cause innocent people... :):):)

That's discrmination and it is also illegal according to all federal regulations, guidelines and laws regarding real estate in all 50 united states.

LMAO, Crazy!

Seriously, though, my grandmother is in her 90's and still holds a RE license, but she hasn't been active since her late 80's. She still keeps the books of my mother's business, but everything has had to be double checked for the last few years. Until she was about 91 or 92 she was a pretty sharp cookie and could give you the sales history for many of the properties in town off the top of her head. I have no problem discriminating based on talent, but let's not get to discriminating based on age.

Whats the difference between a broker and myself? A class (that has nothing to do with bpo), state test, and extra money for a license renewal. Wow they are so much more qualified.

well, I had my 70 yr old broker read it and she didn't bat an eye at it but you're probably right

I got the same emails plus one from ET.....EML should be next......I'm having concerns about the mass emails from our clients.....makes me think something is the mix again......possibly Feds (Congress)?

Candy- I got the same letter from FARRV I think.. I don't think the banks are behind this specifically but remember when NAR had such big battles with banks and insurance companies keeping them out of RE? It seems like this will all be in house work given the direction this trains going. Hopefully the train stays in the USA. My concerns are realtors will be employees for banks to service their huge inventories, do bpos, sell, property manage, etc.

Sean- lol.. I have no doubt about your grandmother. I was just busting TX chops

lol...So does that mean you guys won't let me do BPO's then til I go find that little RE license thingy... Shame. I'm pretty good at it by now. I guess we'll just have to continue to pay you guys to do it for us.

J~

MSVJ..lol I bet you are!

i think Tx gal is an appraiser trying to get us to fight within ourselves..brokers doing BPO's?

Are you kidding me? Mine couldnt be bothered....he barely wants his office to have to process by checks

I sent an email off. Hopefully, this gets some attention focused on the national level. After just having gone through a local 18 month moratorium on getting paid for BPOs, I am eager to preempt any national move to stifle our business.

Its the stripping of the Glass-Steagall act by the Financial Services Modernization act that even allowed banks to consider the idea of moving into other businesses. Without the NAR they would have done so already. Keep paying your dues and letting them know what is important to us.

Grandma is that you? ;-)

I have 2 lockboxes on a bank property. One is a four-digit numeric for the bank and the other is a Supra lockbox for the agents. A Broker emailed me today and asked for the lockbox code. I replied: "It's a Supra."

She went to the property, called me and said she didn't see the letters S-U-P-R-A on the numeric lockbox. Duh.

Not sure why anyone would think Brokers are smarter than Realtors.

And, yes, I'm a Broker.

They were humoring you.

BC as we all know, being a broker doesnt make you experienced...it makes you a broker.

I talked to my local board about this, and mentioned that I thought only handsome people such as myself should do BPOs, and they are leaning towards this criteria. However, when I asked them for a date, they all gagged.

Any broker worth their salt doesn't have time to do BPO's. JMO.

There is an endeavor factor that counts for something. People who take the time and money to invest in their education stand apart from the crowd and create more opportunities for themselves. I'm just saying..

But this is not an argument in support of what Tx gal said.

You probably feel that way because you are a good, knowledgeable Broker, but in my area there are a few Brokers who can't sell their way out of a paper bag, and have no clue what is going in the market. You and I both know that if you have a college degree in Texas you can fast track your way to a Broker's license in two years by using your college credits and selling some property, not just by educating yourself about real estate. Do not assume that only Brokers are qualified to do BPOs. I respect your opinion but there are few Brokers who don't come close to me, an agent, when it comes to market knowledge and knowledg of my area.

I beg to differ on your preception of the qualifications of realtors and brokers.
If at 70 you are still out in the "trenches" as a broker you are possibly a candidate for the new "Real Estate Survivor" show. I have seen far too many brokers who haven't sold a stitch of real estate in years,gasp at the situations my colleagues go thru with reos ( hoping it doesn't affect their e and o), haven't talked to a seller who is so upside down they don't know what to do and wouldn't lower themselves to work for 50 bucks an hour but would take 50% of their agents bpo fees. Maybe I'm left on this and in that case apologize to brokers who work side beside their agents in helping them with their business models in times that are tough.

Definitely agree. Most of my clients require 2 or 3 years experience before even hiring new agents. If an agent has 2 or 3 years experience in the market, they are just as qualified to do a BPO as a broker.


Strongly disagree with this. Many REO agents in my area are becoming brokers so they don't have to deal with a commission split. And, yes, I'm a broker.

Come on man. You have to back that up with something. You can't just irk an entire group of people like that with out putting something on the table to back it up. What is your argument?

In an attempt to push this thread back on topic (and away from the "I'm a broker, she's a broker, wouldn't you all like to be a broker too" argument) but if this email is going out from many vendors (I got my from FARVV) you better believe they think the pressure to ban BPO's is a serious threat.

Appraisers are being attacked from all sides, to more work per order for less pay, and fewer orders, to stricter controls, so they are fighting back. Just think if BPO's were banned and the banks had to order appraisals for each BPO we do. Appraisers would just love to do our work, at appraisal fees.

Congre$$ will pa$$ the law that get$ the mo$t notice, and apprai$er$ are making a $tink right now, and we need NAR to throw it$ weight around about the importance of BPO$

Congratulations to all you responded to this person's various posts. I am surprised by some on this board who responded. For those not in the know (and this may include Pine), this is our old friend, Lucy/Roxie who has previously been banned. I'm sure that the powers that be will see to it that this handle is banned as well. Please don't allow this relative new handle to derail this discussion.

To help put this back on track, I believe that FARVV as well as the other mills are FINALLY responding to what appears to be NARs support of Appraisers only performing BPOs/appraisals. There is a previous discussion on this forum referencing an Appraiser's concerns to NAR, which NAR posted to their website. It must have been a good year or so ago (perhaps less than but I don't think so). At best, NAR has not been supportive of this aspect of our business and has seemed tipped to the appraiser-members in NAR.

Make no mistake, this is not an attempt by "banks" to get into real estate (although, given the recent lending fiasco, why wouldn't that have been a good idea????), this is being driven by appraisers and now they have NAR in their sites. You've been warned repeatedly. It has been suggested on this forum that we should "do" something, well FARVV and the others have. All you have to do is click the link. Do it, do it now.

CanDo - Bingo! Lucy/Roxie again. How many times does this make?

I will reiterate an opinion that I offered months ago about NAR and agents doing BPO. And that is, when NAR figures out a way to make some $$ by possibly mandating specific expensive training and a designation for agents to be able to perform BPOs, they will act. They'll let it get to congressional hearings and then they'll tell the members that they had no choice. Either that or no real estate agents would be able to perform BPOs, blah, blah.

I hope that I'm wrong.

I dont know who you are speaking of but I am not roxanne and no one else. I am Sue and I stand alone no matter what or who you think I am. I am just voicing my opinion and standing on all of what is in front of each of us.

Hate me if you choose but this is my voice and I have every right to stand firm and voice my opinion regarding all of what has been presented before each and all of us.

Thank you very much,
Sue Lean

Good for you...

Okay, I just got another email. This time Fiserv sent the same call to action out. I have never done any work for them but they are on the wagon as well.....

I sent my email this morning in responce to FARVV. I just got another email from Fiserv.

No probably, I am correct. This is why I am a Broker with all liabilities. I know my laws regarding real estate!!

Sue Lean.

Guess what Steph??????

I don't have a degree in anything. I did indeed pass my Brokers exam without a glitch. I know my market area and I know real estate. I have the passion for the industry, not the passion to just be licensed as an agent. I worked hard and studied hard for this accreditation and I am grateful for the opportunity to acquire the brokers license. This is by no means a right, it is a privelage. I payed my dues!!!

You don't want to pay yours and you indeed have a problem with authority. No one cuts me a check when I perform BPO's, I am the broker and owner. I have no split or commission to pay for what I perfrom. I also handle many reo listings for the asset management companies and banks so don't get this twisted!

If you know your laws, you must work under a broker for several years before you can even apply for a BROKERS LICENSE EXAM!!!!!!!!!!!!!! APPLY IS THE OPERATIVE WORD just as an inspector or an appraiser!!!! You have a lot to learn if you just open that door to more than what you are comfortable with!!!!

Thank you,
Sue Lean

Sorry, should of clarified, in my area any broker is too busy to do BPO's and take work from their agents. My apologies.

and to get us back on track...I got three e-mails today, something must be brewing.

I sent two e-mails, do your part, agent or broker.

If you are who you say that you are, why in the world are you on here spending so much wasted time??? No company would allow this type of fraternization. This is most definitely a conflict of interest.

Another thing, this is no joking matter!!

This is real and it is before each and everyone of us in real estate.

Without the brokers, you would not be in existence. You require E&O, Liability Insurance and a TIN and thus the agents have made it possible for you to strong arm the industry by using their Brokers liabilities but this in time shall pass!!

Brokers are now taking control of this industry. Without a broker, no deal shall ever go through unless it is by a court of law or an attorney. This is fact!!

Also, lets speak on your MSV company sending out BPO solicitaions on day 1 and then on day 2 come back with an email stating that the client will not accpet the BPO without all sale & listing comps mls sheets????

You didn't send this information in the solicitaion nor did the confirmation state this information. You sent this 24 hours later. EXPALIN THIS B.S??????????????? You are good at explantation so please, get cracking with this explanation!!

INCORRECT ANSWER AND ASSUMPTION(S).

It has everything to do with mandated state test(s), license renewal, liabilty, E&O and anything you could ever think of.

Just wait, if you ever obtain a brokers license, you will sing a differnt song because all liability will be on YOU!!! THIS IS THE DIFFERENCE!! AND THERE IS A HUGE DIFFERENCE!!!

Maybe one day you will be there, until then, have your say and your way but always remember, your broker that is holding your license is responsible for each and everything that comes through their name!!! THAT IS THE DIFFERENCE!!!

Sue Lean

for what its worth, Ive searched "Sue Lean" and "Houston" on Google, nothing comes up.

Yes, Im that bored at 144 in the Am.

I'm with you, King. Waiting on some files to download I discovered that there are 4 REALTORs in the US with the last name of Lean. Three in California and one in Massachussetts. None in Texas.

There is a 71 year old Sukayana Lean from Mission, Texas and San Antonio, Texas, but she is obviously not a REALTOR and not doing BPOs in Houston which is on the opposite side of the state.

I went back and searched the previous posts on this sites using the names mentioned earlier and found some remarkable similarities in style.

Of course, I might just be tired and making incorrect, wild assumptions.

On topic- If that many emails are showing up from the companies we work with there is something going on. Get active people. Get the REALTORs you know that do BPOs active, too. Trust me! Being told that you will not be able to do the work that pays a large portion of your bills is not a pleasant experience.

I got the letter from FARVV. I responded to NAR. The Sue/Roxie broker/agent issue is not the real issue here, folks, although the debate is entertaining. The real issue is that we need to respond to help get NAR to work for us to protect our rights to do BPOs. THAT IS THE ISSUE. Let's all do our part.

Why are you attacking me? You skipped the part when I complimented you by saying that you are good, knowledgeable Broker. I sincerely was thinking of Brokers in my area. My point is that you don't know about all of those lousy Brokers that we have in MY area, which is not your area, I don't pressume to know what goes on in Houston. Cool off! I do agree that it is way too easy to get a Brokers license in Texas and you would be shocked at some of idiot Brokers in this area that should not be allowed to go anywhere near a BPO, and others who just have their new agents do them anyway.

Overall I think we are all saying the same thing. To assume that brokers should be the only ones "qualified" to do bpos is absurd. That is not a statement we agree with. We didn't bring it up so now we are telling you what we think brokers should do! lol
Take care of your agents, mentor them and provide exceptional advice when they need it.
We aren't talking about gigantic bpo bucks here unless you have a team supporting you, so
Let your agents learn their trade, help them with bpo's and certainly don't take part of their earnings. ( they may need gas money to haul buyers and pay their real estate fees when they have nothing in escrow.) Train them how to get reo listings.

The broker is supposed to be the guy with "smarts, the experience, and the credentials" to run the business successfully. He/She is someone who commands respect because they give so much back to the industry and their agents. If your agents don't resent your cut of their pay checks and stay with you be loyal to them!

.....

In my opinion, real estate agents (and brokers) are the first link in determining a price at which to market a property at. The value is successfully determined when that price brings a ready, willing and able buyer. When an agent (or broker) has has been experienced in doing BPO's for several years using the correct guidelines, the end result is an accurate product that the banks and mortgage companies are looking for to determine value on a disstressed property.

Without real estate agents being that first link, appraisers would not have a job. Appraisers sometimes are the cause of foreclosed properties being listed at too high of a price. I have am seeing where the fannie mae is calling the original appraiser back to re-appraise a property they did several years ago when the mortgage was originally made. I've had this happen twice (where the appraiser made the statement that he or she originally did the appraisal). I guess the Appraisers are feeling some sort of heat or stress. I think there is a tad bit of "justification" on their part to proof their prior opinion. But it's not about the prior opinion. Its about "Todays market". It's not the appraisers fault that the market has changed. I feel tha the appraisers do not like the agents coming in so low on BPO's making them look bad on their professional appraisals.

Such a good point, agents are a vital link in producing quality bpos and appraisals. We know every time we write an offer, you can pull up all kinds of comps for your buyers and sellers, but the bottom line is what someone is willing to pay in this market. Days on market time here can be well over 100 days. If days on market is added into the mix, ( as some companies are now asking for properties that sold under 90 days) we see even a more dramatic decline in prices.

My broker is not as knowledgable about the industry. Strictly management. I totally disagree with that statement. Realtors are the ones out there selling. We know what is happening in our market area.

My point being is that all of this rival and call to action is most likely spurred by the appraisal industry. I happen to be a broker (not an owning or managing broker, but a broker under a broker)

Just my two cents worth. If a managing broker is doing an effective job of managing his office and agents, how the heck is he going to have time to commit to taking pictures and doing BPO work. It can seem like a waste of time unless you do BPO work in volume.

I think the call to action is not about whether or not a Broker or an Agent should be doing the work. Who knows what its really about, but I think appraisers dont like us agents that do BPO work.

Furthermore, I think that some of it has to do with whether or not agents get paid directly or if the money goes thru the company. Somes brokers dont care. They dont want to bother with the paperwork to take a cut of these small checks. Besides, usually the agents that do this type work are bringing more to the table when they list REOs as well.
If this is a factor, then I don't see what the big deal is, if your broker doesent mind you getting paid directly. Heck! you can give a gift at closing for the same value of a BPO!

About age and real estate.

Older agents sometimes seem to get "defensive" in this business because they have trouble keeping up with technology. Quite frankly, I'm glad to see the rise of technology and changing markets. It weeds out the political crap that keeps some of the long time agents in the business that never knew what it's like to really work hard. From where I come from, that generation of agents cannot handle the change over from the 'Good ole boys town' where clients called on an agent's services because they were the "Good ole boys".

The market has changed. It's not about having the work fall into your lap anymore. Agents have to prove to their clients that they understand their job and they have to be prepared for the technological advances that this job brings.

To agents of all ages, if you can keep up with the pace, more power to ya!

You'd be surprised at how many "old timers" try to rub elbows with the younger agents so that they can try to "use" them for their knowledge of computers, technology and the internet.

Before all of you seniors get defensive again, let me add that I work with some very Sharp agents in the business that are seniors and I respect them for keeping up with technology.

If the shoe fits, wear it (and quit crying). If it doesn't fit, then pat yourself on the back for keeping up.

This is not "NEW" News. Its a fact that the industry is getting "weeded" out. Just look at how many people did not renew their license. In my state, there were so many people that let their license lapse, the state has nothing to do other than look for reasons to fine agents and brokers.

Its been a long time coming. Its about time agents are more respected for the work they do. Buyers and sellers are educating themselves and finally seeing that its not like Mayberry. there's a lot to selling real estate. More than just calling up the company that's been in business for 50 years.

I've always said -- It's not the "Company" that sells real estate. It's the "Agent" that sells real estate.

I just got a similar notice from fiserv. I sent it out again and added some wording this time.

You might want to check your spam folder, I have found a couple emails in there.

Hmm.. I don't really care for your tone. The client requested after the order was placed that they would require the MLS sheets. We notified our agents as soon as we got the requirement from the client.

If you are unhappy working doing BPO's, go back to being a 'Broker' and leave the BPO's to the sales agents.

Have a good day.

J~

I have been responding also on a daily basis...just what we need... more folks out of work...I think that makes perfect sense...

lmao..that was rich! :):):)

Wow - you blink and look what goes on.

On Topic:

1. Of course it is the Appraisal Organizations causing the stink.
2. email NAR and your state AR from as many different email addresses as you can for impact.
3. Be sure to include your credentials and training you have to perform cma/bpo and reo.
4. Include how the appraisals always came in 1-2000 above the contract price and how close to the original sales price had been you associations average over the past 5 years before the recession. This should prove real estate agents have performed well and accordingly.
5. Include your Congressmen and Senators.

Off Topic - Roxie knew more about real estate and was a better dancer. Roxie knew that most 'Brokers are REALTORS' - did no one else even notice this?

I haven't checked the ip or consult with anyone yet - so TX Gal - please PM your license number and state of actual operation so I can verify you licensure, which is a term you agreed when requested by a moderator under the terms of use. I'll keep it private.

You are a hoot though - good timing - Halloween and all

This is on topic and perhaps B. Frank would be a friendly ear on this matter, I'll take a friend where I can find one

http://www.housingwire.com/2009/10/22/house-panel-sunsets-hvcc-in-consumer-finance-bil/

sue as in litigation lean as in lien???

As a principal broker who is sole owner I have a few thoughts on this.

I used to do a lot of bpo's about 3 years ago when I was a one man show. Now I have about 35 agents in my company. Rather than accepting anyone I am picky about who I bring in. I want them to be successful so I don't waste time with mediocre agents unless I see they want to become better.

I don't let my agents do bpo's. It's a lot of time,checks,and paperwork for me for little pay as with my real estate commission I have to watch my agents like a hawk.I will let them do the free ones for REO's or servicing their listings.I also do not let agents do property management except on their own personal investment properties.

It's easier to do data entry than grind it out making sales but I believe it builds character and when the easier market arrives weal agents trying to re-enter will be eaten alive. I am not saying there is not value in property management or doing bpo's but that it does not fit my model. If you are getting enough listing appointments you should get plenty of valuation practice (same with getting assigned reo's in pre-list)


As far as NAR they have many members with different interests. NAR wants MONEY plain and simple. I don't need a bull%^&* class and spending thousands for a crappy cert that means nothing. All that is being done is paying for NAR's cronies retirements.

I stopped doing bpo's full time years ago as the pay went way to low.

If you do them full time great for you but I hope you have a contingency plan as things can change quickly in this business.

NAR should keep their nose out of the BPO business. They will mess it up I guarantee. When someone wants a value on their home, does NAR care? I think not. Why regulate BPOs if they don't regulate CMAs or any other type of valuation? Any competent real estate licensee that can valuate a piece of real estate by using comparables can do a BPO just as well.

Who is NABPOP anyway? And why do we as real estate professionals need them? It seems this company may be creating waves to get people certified for their benefit.

If Tx gal spells as good as she brokers then her office is in big trouble. I'm not even going to comment on her grammar. <shudder>

My office received the email from FA and Equi-T. Each agent emailed NAR today and we are contacting other agents in our area.

Um... The proper sentence structure would read 'If TX gal spells as *well* as she brokers...'

I'm not a fan of hers don't get me wrong but if you're going to say something.. make sure you're not making the same mistake...

I can see that there will come a day when a NAR designation will be required (or highly recommended) to do BPOs. That may be next year, or 10 years down the line. Actually, I would have no problem with that. While you do not need a CCIM to sell or list commercial properties, those that have that designation succeed better than those that do not for FT commercial sales and leasing IMHO.

Does a CRS know more or outperform those without that designation? Probably not, but I think evaluation done properly requires perhaps certain additional education that I have no problem taking and seeing others do the same. Maybe that would reduce the amount of "prior BPO" problems we see in our industry.

Before I started doing BPOs FT, I had an appraisal license that I have now let expire. I felt having that license and getting that education gave me a huge advantage to those that do not. That's just personally how I feel.....

If getting a NAR BPO/evaluation designation helps to "protect" the BPO niche on a permanent basis, then I'm all for it. To make it clear, my thoughts on this are no where in line with NABPOPs bozo designation!

Until such time where there is more certainty in everything, I will just plug along and let the chips fall where they may.

Look who is doing the "call to action""... it is none other than a certification company. Don't be fooled by their money making tactics. Before you know it, agents like me and others who have been turning out BPOs for almost 20 years will be required to a buy cert saying I'm good enough for the job.

Rubbish.

MSVJ you are so correct! Just hit me on the head with a W9. Oh, right. You guys can never locate our W9s. (Sorry. I just couldn't resist.)

NJR-

Maybe you should have had it delivered carrier pigeon instead of by the outdated method of fax and then we would have deffinatly been aware of it's presence.

J~

jgizzi, You are right, it is always about the money.
I remember a few years back paying for a course for a Senior designation. So I become qualified to help seniors buy/sell. What a waste of money. What's next a designation to assist left handed people? OH NO, I hope they don't read this.

MSVJ -

Maybe your tech support folks should have fixed your web site so I wouldn't have had to waste my time uploading to a web site with a glitch. (Per your "tech" person.)

Then I wasted more time dealing with the Dolly Twins who told me to fax it over and over and over because they kept misplacing it. Probably couldn't locate a W9 if it was taped to their respective noses.

If faxing is all that outdated then your company shouldn't use one.

Want to borrow my dictionary for your spelling issues?

Popcorn anyone?

You're a guest here, and although you've been permitted a lot of latitude, please don't insult the licensees.

repeat post, my error, see below

Nice hijack....back to the topic.


This is not something that was initiated by NABPOP. Sure they sent a letter, but so did FISERV and FARVV. I do not believe those two companies are in bed with NABPOP. I do not know who posted that message about this being away for NABPOP to make money. Personally, I would be delighted if this turned out to be that....I do not think it is....My .02.

I think you re joking with this....right?

Some other companies have sent it out too. I think we have to lobby. It is our only way of standing up for our industry. If the result is have to be certified, then you say yes or no to that certification. If you fail to lobby on your own behalf and the bpo is sidelined to open the door to appraisers then you have no choice (or less choice).

I think this might be about short sales. Has anyone ever been through a HUD short sale. They use an appraisal and a set percentage of that value to determine if a deal works, 82% of appraised value I think. Not 82% of bpo value. This might be about increasing the use of this system to include conventional products. Hypothesis only.

I don't think that it is out of line to notice that if the link provided didn't work, there was another link in the e-mail to NABPOP. So the question that is begging, is, who had this original thought and what precisely does it mean? Do you think that Equi-Trax or FARVV thought of this on their own or do you think that perhaps this is a well-orchestrated move on NABPOPs part? I see NABPOPs hand in this. I'd be willing to place money that these companies will go the way of EML. In other words, you want to keep working, get certified with NABPOP so as to overcome NARs reluctance to step up to the plate.

Do we need a certification??? No.

I agree with cando. It is hard to beleve that all of these companies had this idea at the same time independant of one another. And they all sent out the email at the same time. I smell collusion. But maybe they have information that we dont have. I have been fearing something like this every since countrywide stopped doing bpos in Michigan and some other states. My thought then was what if more companies follow. I do bpos almost exclusively along with some reos. I need to be prepared for what ever is coming so i am looking at the appraiasal side of things.
Brad, you said you had an appraisal liscence, I would be interested to know why you quit and went to the bpo side.

I got my appraisal license in 2004, and let it expire in 2006. Here in Florida a "trainee" has to work under a certified appraiser until a certain number of appraisal hours have been completed. Please forgive me, but I can't remember that number. In addition a certified appraiser can only have four trainees under him/her at any given time. Thus it’s hard to "break in" at first as the number of trainees far outweighs the number of certified appraisers in the state.

I quickly found out that the going rate for a trainee is 35% to 40% of the appraisal fee. So if you collect $275 at the door, you will be hard pressed to get more than $110 out of it. I started at 35% with company "A", then went to company "B" and went to 40% where I topped out.

For me personally, appraisals are much more time consuming with obvious liability issues. You have to personally photograph all comps, measure each home, sketch said property (two story homes being the royal PITA), yada yada yada. In addition the continuing education and required courses to maintain your license is roughly $2,000 per two years. Lastly as a trainee you cannot do drive-bys, only full appraisals. Therefore you could not "cherry pick" the easier drive-bys that don't require measuring and sketching.

So it was a decision of mine to do the "Wal-Mart" version of appraising meaning BPOs. I can turn them out quicker, at the end of the day/week/month make more money, and have significantly much less liability. For me it’s a perfect fit after being on both sides of the fence.

Anyway I hope that answers your question and helps you (and others) understand my reasoning. From what I understand from appraisers that I know, there is far much more work available for BPOs vs. full appraisals in my area so I feel I got lucky and made the correct choice for me when I did in 2006.

Has anyone noticed that Tx gals alleged real name of Sue Lean is not on NAR's or HAR's (Houston Association of Realtors) roster?
Hmmm.

Popcorn anyone??

Popcorn?? You people are so cheap! I want my steak!

Yeah, I indirectly said as much about NAR last night/this morning.



I didn't check the HAR, though.

Oh OK. Great minds...

I think there are a lot of Owner Brokers out there that just want a piece of the pie without having to do the work. I think they are beginning to see that there are a few smart agents/brokers that decided to BPO's and be part of a niche market to list REO's and now that the market is flooded with REO's, they want in.

In doing so, they want us out. See! See what I mean about the owner / broker getting defensive.

It's a bunch of crap. Why fix it - if its not broke

Somebody out there just wants to make life difficult for all of us that have worked hard for the past few years (I've been doing it for 7 years) because they were too busy taking the easy smeazy cream that came thru the office (call ins for listings)

Now they are realizing that those people who call in and need their home listed are upside down and the house can't sell with all the REO competition.

And wha! la! Those brokers are realizing that they have to work harder to get things done.

So now they have to figure out a way to say that we are not competent enough to do our jobs. Perhaps they can do it better.

They just need work. Everyone needs work. Owner / brokers will be the last ones to admit that times are tough. These "Old timers" can't handle it when times are tough. They are missing the days back when the sales just fell into their laps.

When I'm out there taking pics of peoples homes and doing re/keys on new assignments and seeing where homeowners up and left, yeah! I see that times are tough.

Times are tough for everyone. But Geeeze! Leave us alone. We've been doing this for a long time. We are experienced.
While we were bustin our tails and moving into a different niche market, they were still selling houses to people who couldnt afford them.

Agreed.

We have an efax number due to agents that have still not climbed out of the 1990's with their brick cell phones, poloriod cameras, handwritten BPO's and faxed w-9's.

Junior Mint?

J~

I suppose I am guilty of being "outdated" as well. I do not have a document scanner, and always fax my W9s without any issues. I think a properly run buisness always accomidates those that have various means of communications to achieve the utmost proficenty.

No wonder doing bpo's are taking me so long to complete...polaroid photos have to be a heck of a lot faster than me sketching each one by hand.

Crazy 2,

Maybe instead of uploading the MLS as a PDF you can just take a poloriod photo of the computer monitor with the MLS listing pulled up. Then scan the Poloriod photo and fax it to me.

(This actually was done today by an agent...was it you as revenge for some slight I have delivered recently?)

J~

MSVJ. When an agent does that do you instantly ban them from doing bpos for your company?

lolol....msvj..that is rich! I was too busy on my etch a sketch working on comps..If you slighted me I wasn't smart enough to catch it and I'm too lazy to go back and look for it..omg, the polaroid of the mls on the monitor faxed is classic...love it.lol

So perhaps the agent was technology challenged and was trying to comply with the requirements of the order. Instead of belittling the effort, a better alternative would be to suggest that they use CutePDF, a free download that will "print" to PDF for them. Not all MLSs offer a PDF alternative.

P. S. I notice in this thread that you have in general belittled a number of agents? What's with the hostility? Someone says they have a problem uploading their W-9, outlines the steps they have taken to correct the problem, per your company's instructions. Are they a happy camper at this point? No. Are they taking it out on you? Maybe. It's called frustration and you do nothing to diffuse that frustration and in fact, go out of your way to add to it. Just an observation.

Ditto. Well put. I avoid the office for this reason. Meetings began to get very uncomfortable about 15 months to 18 months ago as I was getting requests to share client info. from agents and even asked by the broker to assist other agents document sharing, resource sharing. NO!

Rumor has it you're offered a job at MSV as a QC manager.....lol

Not at all in the same way you vent your frustration regarding the companies, the other agents and the QC'rs you have issues with right?

Stones and glass houses hon.

J~

Doin'

I love going to office meetings and sharing. I feel so much better when I share, especially the agents that said I was stupid for doing BPO's, when I first started completing orders. I usually will refer companies that I work with that only take one agent per office......that way I kind of look sincere......then if they continue to persist I'll point them towards EVAL....if they haven't gotten the hint by then, I will check with our forum and see who the lastest "no pay' companies are and refer those. As I complete more BPO's and bring in more REO's than our combined office, I assume I have some credibilty. I'm also keen on sharing my buyer and seller leads .......lol

Candyman...I liked your last posting...I cant remember when I read a post I so enjoyed....well put!

I'm just curious to know if MSVJ is an RE agent/broker, or just a rep of a mill?? If MSVJ is the ladder then I question MSVJs ability to post on this forum as per the Terms of Service policy found at this link below. See paragraph 6 which states.........

If you want to participate in the Agents and Brokers and the Real Estate Brokers forums on the site - it is your responsibility to prove that you are actually an agent or broker to the satisfaction of the AgentsOnline.net community.It is recommended that you place your office and contact information in your Profile where members can view it but is not available to casual visitors and non-members.


http://www.agentsonline.net/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/newuser

(Now if MSVJ has proven that he/she is a Realtor, then a pass should be given)

'Also, if you dispense information in any of the forums at AgentsOnline.net under the guise of a professional - you may be required to identify yourself to the community to prove that you are indeed who you project yourself to be. An email or Private Message from an Admin or Moderator requesting such proof is deemed to be an official request for that information and failure to provide the information will result in your access to the forums being blocked. '

Pine and I discussed my joining this board when I began posting. I was cleared at that time with my qualifications.

Str8bro, AVMVal, and I post on this board. I've also seen other posters (non RE agents) that have been invited to post regarding topics of interest. I limit myself to the BPO/REO forums and do not venture out of here as that is where my experience is.

Either you're up for a free exchange of ideas or your not.

It all goes back to the throwing stones in glass houses. If you want to be able to say your opinion you got to remember there will always be the other side to consider.

J~

For what its worth, I gain a lot from MSVJ posting on this forum. I think she is a strong asset to this forum and I would be bummed if she wasn't here. I do benefit from hearing input from the other side. As far as her busting chops...give me a break. I read many a post on here from people that are rude, condescending and much more to an extreme than anything she has said. If the things she has said have bothered people, that would really surprise me.

Nah. You take a lot guff and stick around. if you leave, we would have to find another person to stick it to!

I have no problem with exchanging ideas, but I prefer to do it with my peers. You do not fall into the classification as you are not one who earns their living doing what we do. If a mill changes a policy whether it is fees, length of form, more requirements, etc that has no effect on you. All that being said, I have to agree with Due Diligence in that you should take it easy with the agents on this board. The intention of this MB is for us, not for the PR motives of a mill.

Really? I thought I earned my living with BPOs same as you all. Just on the other side of the process. If a mill changes policy, fees, length of forms, more requirements ect it has a huge impact on me because this is my living as well. BPO's is how I pay my bills, feed my kids and support my lifestyle. I keep track of the companies agents have issues with because those are companies I make sure I never work for. It also helps me keep my company in good standing with agents and still try to give my clients what they want.

The same things that cause havoc in your life can cause havoc in mine. Shortages of REO's mean that I have less clients placing orders for them. Chinese Drywall means that I now have to check all my FL orders that are done on new properties of a certain age range and double check with agents if there is known issues with that community. You tell me where I would possibly get as much insight into my business than I do on this forum.

And yes, I will have an opinion here or there that you might not agree with. That doesn't give you any right to say I don't have as much invested in this industry as you do.

J~

I'm not going back and forth on this, as I am sure you agree that we both have more productive things to do. Just one remaining question........

Remember when MSV USED to pay $65 for a two buisness day exterior BPO, and reduced that to $45? How did that effect you? Just to refresh your memory, MSV used to pay $40 for the three buisness day drive-by, and increased the pay $5 but shorted the time frame by one day.

Saying that we both are in the BPO buiz, is like the office secretary saying she is in the R.E. buiz. That's NOT a knock on you nor the office secretary. I'm just saying that our respective job duties differ to much to be compared to each other equally.

End of topic as far as I am concerned........

Brad, I don't remember that because I wasn't with MSV back then. I was with FARVV when they paid 65.00 for an exterior and dropped it down to 45.00.

And how did it affect me, you guys lost 20.00 on your orders which you can choose to do or not to do. We lost half our staff to layoffs at that time. 34 people didn't end up with a reduced income. They ended up with no income at all. I lost people I'd worked with for years because the company reduced the contract fees to keep clients on board.

And if your office secretary is pulling your comps, running by your subject houses to take missed photos and pulling your tax data, then she's probably more involved than you would like to believe.

But you're right about our job duties. You're only responsible to keep up with your small coverage area. I have to work on a nationwide scale and keep up with the trends in all 50 states. I have to try to remember which counties and states have redemption periods, which developments have failed or declared bankruptcy lately. What difference the intercostal waterway has on a comp vs something more land locked. And then I have to take all of that information and condense it into a report for my client to defend the value of your BPO against an o/a that was done at the height of the market and explain the market decline that’s caused them to lose money. So for your sakes, I really hope I'm a little more qualified at BPO's then your 'office secretary'.

J~

This is the wrong topic for this discussion...but since it's already jumped the rails here goes.

I enjoy having J on here and wish there were more like her. I've gained some insights into several different areas from topics she has shared her opinions on.
I'm thinking a lot of you guys have lost your sense of humor, too. I thought the exchanges you guys are complaining about were more in the context of good natured ribbing among people that respect each other. Of course, I have a dry sense of humor.
In regards to whether or not she's a peer, we are in the same industry, communicate with her or people like her on a daily basis and, generally, are working towards a common goal that requires us to work together. That sounds a heck of a lot like a peer to me. Her qualifications certainly seem superior to most REALTORs I know and far superior to many of the brokers and other agents that have been described by members of this board.

Maybe everyone should just lighten up a little.

The difference being is that you're a representative of a particular company, you have decided to be here and act as a representative of the company. That's great. What isn't great is the sarcasm, hon! I'm not your hon. I merely made an observation, you have turned rather testy lately. Shooting the messenger isn't helpful. We do come here to express our frustrations peer to peer. In other words to vent. We don't generally call a particular VM or AM out. We do express frustration with some companies. Think of this way, this is our water cooler. You being here, in some ways, is like management hanging out at our water cooler. Not cool. When someone so clearly details the steps they took to get MSV the requested W-9 and their check is on the line, it's not generally wise to pour oil on the fire. When I point out there was another way to respond to an agent, I was actually being helpful. Not everyone on the planet knows about CutePDF. You know that I have bone to pick about information you do provide as if it were gospel as to how every AMC/Mill/other views the same information, I have asked that you clearly state that that is how MSV would like the information presented and what they mean on their forms. You don't agree with my viewpoint. I'm good with that.

What I am not good with hon, is the tone you have adopted lately. You want to vent about stupid agents, we can relate, we see them every single day. Day in and day out. Like I said before, if we're here, we ahead of the curve. We're a pretty dedicated group. Get it now hon?

Cando:

Thanks for better articulating a point I was trying to make previously but probably did so miserably. I could not say it better myself!

CanDo and Brad-- I respect you both very much and learn a lot from your posts...For the record, I hope you do not think that you are speaking on behalf of all of us. Personally, I disagree. I hear a lot more condescending, rude behavior from our peers on this board and it gets overlooked.
All of this is a moot point. I do not think you will be seeing MSVJ on here for awhile. That bums me out as I bnefit from her slant on things just as I benefit from yours. Sorry to see her go.

I'm with smg! (I almost wrote msg, which I'm also with) And besides, other Companies have lurkers here anyway . . . . I've even directed a few to come here. Plus it's good for some of them to periodically make their presence known. Kinda' keeps things civil.

Besides that, MSVJ knows how to spell (most of the time) and can even use paragraphs. I'll read what she writes anytime because she always shows respect for the people who might take the time to read it.

So she can use my scuttlebutt . . . . even though I don't do work for MSV.

Unless you know something that the rest of us don't know because it hasn't been posted, there is nothing to indicate that MSVJ~ has the left the building so to speak.

I haven't bashed her nor do I think I speak for anyone other than myself. I am talking about a specific incident in this thread that could have been handled differently or better. What is the benefit of telling someone to use a carrier pigeon, did I miss something? That's pretty demeaning, just like calling me "hon". What is the educational benefit in that??? She's having a tough time, that's okay, we all do. She doesn't have to "demean" someone to make her point. Carrier pigeons and hon fall into the "demean" category in my book, not anyone elses.

She is gone, told me as much via PM. We agree to disagree on this one. Frankly, I am done with this topic.
Want to discuss on PM, fine...

Has been slow for bpo orders this week?

Just so everyone knows, it was never my intention to "run her off", but toward the end she did not appear to me as being respectful to us agents. I still think that her motive was as a PR ambassador for MSV, and again calling her job duties as a QCer being equally comparable to what we do is just not accurate. I just simply think that an hourly employee with or without incentives cannot 100% relate to people who have their fees frequently reduced, work load increased, all with occurring their own expenses not to mention their own health care. I guess it all boils down to her being on this MB with an agenda, with us being on here for completly different reasons.

Candyman....you have a really good perspective and attitude. I think they call it making lemonade (or lemondrops) from lemons. I will give it a try. thanks.

That is a shame. We were better off with her input, whether it was liked by all or not. If anyone knows a way to get to her, she should be invited to come back.

I respect our members on the other side of the issue but disagree with their posts.

As for "management at the water cooler", I'd much prefer seeing them there, rather than lurking in the back round. At least, at the cooler, we have a chance to talk. I've read most of MSVJ's posts....some I agree with and some I don't. It's a learning process for both sides. I was hoping that more companies would join our mix.......the more, the merrier.....nothin' better than hearing the "rest of the story". Most of us can sort out fact from bull, in a heartbeat.

As for negative comments, I've seen much worse, in my time with the forum. We all have "bad hair days".....some more and some less.....just kind of roll with it, until it hits a nerve, which apparently has happened here.....just my two cents

Doin'

Perspective and attitude...AKA: Altitude

"The higher you fly, the thinner the air"

I think we can all remember from school when oxygen content reachs below 16%.....

agreed. this board just took a dunk in the lame tank.

What a shame. One thing I'm noticing lately is alot of pissing and moaning and whining lately. Especially since TB and Pine have had less of a presence here. What a shame.

If you have been here awhile you have seen this cycle many,many times.

People get upset and some come to an understanding,some leave permanently,and new blood comes in again. I am convinced most don't leave but just change to lurkers.

If you think this is bad this is NOTHING. You ought to have seen the wars that went on 4 to 5 years ago. This is mere child's play.

I guess once you have seen those extremes this isn't so bad.

Everyone on here can just call me a MALE GOD from now on. You won't hurt my feelings I promise!

Super realtor is so right!! 5 years ago the debates were not just debates it was downright rude and fighting. This is nothing compared to what it used to be. I was involved in many of these fights because if someone did not like what I said there was not just a mere comment made it would be a rude just outrageous comments and it turned into insults and fighting which was total non-sense. It has gotten better..this is child's play compared to what it used to be like on here!!
This is a forum where people speak their mind but in our line of work with the BPO's and REO's we need to tend to stick together instead of trying to bash every comment made. You can speak your mind and if people don't like it that's fine but when it comes to the fighting and insults like it used to be it got rough.

Angie

Brad--I usually agree with your posts, but I have to disagree with this one. Of course she was here as a PR ambassador. As others have mentioned, I would welcome other companies to participate on the forum. They just have to understand that they are entering our world on our terms--which I think MSVJ typically did.

As far as a QCer's job being similar to ours--it is. They have to understand what makes a good comp, what issues are in our areas, what areas are hard to comp, etc. Do they have as much specific knowledge as we do in our areas? No, but they do have a general knowledge, which is comparable, of how to complete BPOs. Or, at least they should.

As far as the pay issues, we have the possibility of accepting reduced pay. Hourly employees go to no pay when there are cuts. I would rather be in our shoes--at least we have the choice.

And, let's not kid ourselves about the agenda. We ALL have an agenda here. Whether it is PR or wanting to improve our business, get new clients, etc., we are all here with an agenda.

My only agenda is waiting for Real Estate Punk to come back.

MSVJ doesnt need to be here. Its not important to her income for her to be here. Basically, shes come here to get info, talk with agents, etc. To say that since she doesnt DO BPOs she shouldnt be here is just dumb. I guarantee that if the head of the 5 Star conference showed up here, we would have a bunch of butt kissing going on, even tho he/she doesnt do BPOs. Just bc Mainstreet is a BPO Mill with fairly low pay to some of your standards doesnt mean shes not wanted here. Im not a heavy MSV worker, but I appreciate when anyone who doesnt HAVE to be here comes here to chat it up.

LOL! I just checked in on him, he's still active in our MLS. He's hanging in there.

I thought MSVJ's contributions were valuable, even though I do very little work for them and I don't like some....okay most of their policies. We have to communicate with MSVJ or people like here on an almost daily basis. Any insight I can get it valuable, even if she doesn't work for the same company. As she has stated, she worked for another company prior to MSV and could be working for another later. If it happens to be your big provider, wouldn't that be valuable information?



Agreed. Other representatives have been on this board and I recall seeing some major bk going on. I wasn't very active when she stopped posting, but as I recall there was Val from AVM who at any given time was being pestered for work from agents.

This is a great board. I've been helped so much by others sharing experiences and knowledge. We're bigger than this and I think it's just a thread gone bad. Let's show a little love guys

I totally agree.

Hug...Hug...kiss...kiss...wink,wink

I have always liked that hat in your avatar Grampa, but never taken the time to say so.

Nice hat.

And Ditty..How do you do? Hope you have a good weekend? And give the dog a scratch behind the ear for all of us.

Did anyone else get a Single Source request similar to those discussed earlier in this thread. I sent mine in, added some new info.-that makes 4.

I wonder if it is having an impact?

I received several of the letters and sent an email each time.

I wonder if it is too. Very possible after receiving about 1000 of these duplicat letters that they set up a filter and have them rolling to junk mail.
MAn, I hope not.

Doin'bpose,
Thank You, my grandchildren got me the same hat and it seems to suit me. I wear it when I am doing REO market analysis work. (and obviously when they are visiting)

I do not have paid BPOs as part of our business plan. Just the ones needed to get REO listings. I admire those who have made BPOs their livelyhood as I know it is a LOT of work.

With that in mind I have always appreciated ~J's posts as they help me on the REO BPO side. Just the little things mentioned by her have made me better at doing my job. I hope she continues to post.

Even though I do not do the mass BPO thing I did click the link and send the message as I feel that it is of great value as all of our REOs get a second BPO and I would rather have an agent who understands what is going on today to back up my valuation than an appraiser who does not show property and is tied to info that could be as much as 9 month old (list to Pending to Sold that closed 6 months ago).

Good luck to you all.

The "hat", should anyone care is from Dr. Seuss - Cat in the Hat!!! Something that most children universally love!

Of Course!!! Thing one and Thing two are my favorites!

I responded to several of the letter links and composed my own e-mail as well. I hope all this has some impact.

Am I the only one thinking that this was way overblown and that much of the comments made were tongue-in-cheek? I thought it was good natured ribbing?

Pro tk sent out the email about it today (letter to NAR)

I just saw mine and sent the email. I changed the subject line some and added some fresh comments about me, as suggested by Pinehurst. I think it is my 5th.

I am adding the words, Please act on my behalf.

I just think some nerves were hit......Showing concern is not a bad thing..I mean, we do take care of our own, in this forum. Could it have been handled differently?...maybe....I do my best not to judge. Some members had some concerns and voiced that....Their points were valid...."Good natured ribbing", or just having a "bad hair day"...I believe it's all and how you look at it. As stated in a earlier post, I just roll with it.......

Back on topic............

The emails I've received from various BPO companies appear to be a cookie cutter version of NABPOP's. No big deal.......As NAR hasn't addressed this issue, it apppears NABPOP is the alternative......There may be some movement by Congress or the appaisal group to eliminate us from doing BPO's....that was the case a while back. It's obvious that something is stirring the pot.......

....or they are getting out in front of it before it has too much momentum.

I did not get a letter from Protek...I am kind of surprised that these providers have all sent the same letter. I would have thought it more effective if they varied their piece from "the other guy"..

In terms of the issues here. I said I was done with it, so I should be biting my tongue. But, we can't unscramble eggs. At some point, hopefully she will come back. It is apparent that many folks, myself included, benefitted from the interactions. The barbs did not bother me, MSVJ received plenty of them from day one and I would bet she received a lot more grief than she doled out. I did learn from this that I had best be careful with my words and actually, I have been a bit loose in the past. So, I am making some changes to my "verbiage". But, isn't there a way to block somebodys posts if they really bother you that much? I know some forums you can do that if you have no interest in what somebody is saying...you can "kill file" them. I am not certain if we can do that here or not. but, it may be better than losing somebody that others have interst in...

Yes, I got that one as well, but Single Source did not fill out the mail merge correctly. It was titled "Example of email blast" and had many merge fields in it such as [Option Company]. It was the same email sent out by other providers. However, the one thing that was hard-coded into the mail merge was NABPOP and their contact info.....

Mine was funny too now that you mention it. Earlier ones picked up my aol email, but this one went to outlook I think, which I do not use. So I ended up copying and pasting everything in to an aol message. I think since the 3rd one I have been trying to mix it up a little, especially in the subject line, and add some unique info.

Yes, I have a VERY well worn copy that I have read many times to them over the years. Of the 15 Grandchildren the youngest is just about to turn 1 and the oldest is getting her drivers license this month.

That is why they bought the hat for me, because of the many readings and the fact that I have always encouraged them to question all of the norms and expectations of modern society.

Sent in an email asking them to support BPOs. I hope NAR goes to bat for us.

I hope a lot of people emailed them. Unfortunately this is how the process works, and if appraisers make enough noise, and we make too little, we might see an end to BPOs.

I sensed many of us did respond more than one time. It would be nice if NAR would take a stand and let us know where they stand. As far as an end to BPOs, hope not. I think they serve too many functions to go away anytime soon. This is covered in many other areas on the forum, but non origination orders are not relevant to this discussion and how many bpos have you ever done that are tied to loan origination?

I see email coming around again. Just got one from LSI.

I don't agree that NAR should lobby to defend BPO's. NAR should not touch BPO's with a 10 foot pole.

Ask a simple question. Who benefits from the current system of dirt cheap BPO's?

Ask another simple question. What industry has the most significant political power in this country? (hint: it is not the real estate brokerage industry)

Ask a third simple question. What industry is constantly trying to undermine the real estate brokerage industry so that they can put real estate sales people on salary and fatten their profits at our expense?

WAKE UP FOLKS! This NAR/BPO thing is a RED HERRING designed to divide and conquer.

I want NAR defending the right of real estate brokerage to exist, from the greatest existential threat that we face, from our clients, the banks. I do NOT want the NAR defending the right of banks to get dirt cheap valuations. The banks have plenty of money and political power to defend that turf all by themselves. And they will, successfully, too.

But the banks want more. They want the whole enchilada, and that's where I want NAR concentrating their efforts. Defending our commissions and our right to commissions. That's already under assault too, from referral fees and other junk fees. If we dissipate energy on a peripheral matter like BPO's we will lose our meal ticket, the commission.

OK, so I am opinionated. But that is my opinion and I am sticking to it.

hear, hear Rocky..we HAVE to pay dues too to do business with the banks, anybody thought of THAT?

Just another side to look at since we're taking a peek into pocket books here...

BPO's are used for quite a few purposes. Banks use them for note trades to open up more cash to lend on properties. Without more cash to lend, you wouldn't be able to sell a house because no one could afford it.

Banks use them to help people with loan modifications. Someone already in financial trouble should have to also have the weight of a full appraisal added to their loan.

BPO's are used to release PMI's as well as to help determine if a bank should continue lending in areas. They are used as a secondary check to ensure the appraisal they got was not fraudulent.

They are also used by the government when there is a natural disaster (Katrina anyone? Or The California Wildfires?). These are paid by your tax dollars. Do you want your taxes to pay 400+ per appraisal on all the properties that are destroyed and given government subsidies because of it?

I think it's silly more people are not involved in backing this up.

J~

Since all roads seem to lead to NABPOP, I find it suspicious. While I am in favor of letting NAR know of our opposition to meddle into our abilty to do BPOs (pressure from the Appraiser contingent), I did and do find it odd, that all links contain a link back to NABPOP and that the emails are cookie cutter. Folks, I'd think about this. It's no different than anyone else putting their hands on your wallet. My original email from FARVV with the link to NAR worked. That's who I'd direct my reply to, not NABPOP. Let NAR figure it out from there.

I emailed Nar a couple of times. Bpos were a big chunk of my income last year so I want them to protect it.