President's Message
The first few months of the year have been busy and full of excitement for our association. Our Ignite 2025 Conference was a huge success—an action-packed day of learning, networking, and celebrating excellence in real estate.
Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for our Legislative Wrap-Up, where we’ll review the bills that were passed this session and discuss how they impact our industry. This is a key opportunity to stay informed and engaged with the latest changes.
Additionally, we have a full calendar of education events to help you stay ahead in today’s dynamic market.
Thank you for your ongoing involvement. I look forward to working together as we continue to grow and strengthen our profession.
Janice Hariadi, BAAR President
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Ignite 2025 Conference and Awards
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Thank you again to our Ignite 2025 Conference and Awards Sponsors and Affiliates. A great time was had by all! To view all of the photos, visit us on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/BAARrealtors
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REALTOR of the Year
Kevin Waterman
Coldwell Banker Waterman Realty
Kevin Waterman has been named the 2025 Realtor of the Year! Kevin, who currently serves as Vice President of our organization, has been an integral part of our success. His dedication and willingness to help have made a lasting impact, not only within our team but throughout the real estate community.
Kevin’s commitment to keeping us informed on legislative issues and industry changes has been invaluable. We are deeply grateful for his many years of service on our Board, and his unwavering support continues to inspire us all.
Congratulations, Kevin, and thank you for your exceptional contributions!
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Presidents Award
Mary Jameson
Long & Foster
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Affiliate of the Year
Eva Stoops
Chesapeake Environmental Lab
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Community Service Award
and RPAC Award
Linda Austin
Long & Foster
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J. Hurst Purnell Award
of Integrity
Retha Arrabal
Doug Ashley Realtors
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Rookie of the Year
Roxana Tapia
Long & Foster
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Lifetime Achievement Award
Elizabeth Raffetto
Long & Foster
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ONLINE CE CLASS REMINDER!
All online CE classes are recorded and monitored. The following are reminders to ensure you receive your credit for the class:
- You must be signed in at least 5 minutes before class starts.
- Change your Zoom screen name to: "BAAR – [your name]."
- Your camera must remain on at all times (no photos).
- You cannot be distracted with other activities.
- You must be stationary and not driving.
- Do not log out during breaks as it requires re-entry.
Additionally, any cancellations must be received via email 24 hours prior to the start of the class or you will be charged for the class.
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Welcome Our Newest Members!
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Brahim Amenzouy, Blue Heron Real Estate
Rob Gallagher, Prosperity Home Mortgage
David Kolakowski, Real Broker LLC
Karen Luceti, Blue Heron Real Estate
Jeri Montgomery, Curtis Real Estate Company
Erica Nason Stuart, Real Broker LLC
Kierstin Tiernan, Family Heating
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New BAAR Members!
Check out our Membership Directory via our Info-Hub to make sure all of your contact information is up to date. We encourage ALL Members to upload a current picture of themselves. Don't forget to check our Education Calendar and sign up for New Member Orientation & Ethics
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Don't Fall Victim to Scams
Scammers are always on the lookout for opportunities to take advantage of unsuspecting individuals. Wire scams are almost immediate and difficult to reverse, making them a prime target for fraud. Affiliate member, Erich Krach of Shore United Bank, has provided us with a link to an informative blog on their website: What you Need to Know to Protect Yourself.
Also, one of our Kent County members notified us of potential fraud involving someone posing as Sgt. Hudson, a U.S. Air Force member, who contacted local landscapers about a fake landscaping job on one of our listings. He asked for bank details under the pretense of sending prepayments.
This has been reported to the Chestertown Police. If you’ve encountered something similar, please contact them with any details.
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Bright - MLS Research Commentary
“The U.S. Census Bureau reported that February new home sales were up by 5.1% compared to a year ago, but there are signs that the new home market is shifting.
Click here to learn more.
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2025 Realtors Legislative Meetings
Washington, DC - May 31 - June 5, 2025
The REALTORS® Legislative Meetings in Washington, D.C., bring together thousands of members to conduct the business of NAR and unite for a common cause—advancing the real estate profession through powerful, impactful policy advocacy. Click here for more information.
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SAVE THE DATE!
SENIOR SUMMIT
Friday May 16th, 2025 - 9 am - 2 pm
Last year’s event was a huge success. We had over 400 people attend the Summit with 70 vendors onsite.
Bay Area Association of REALTORS will have a booth. If you are interested in manning the table, email us at info@bayarearealtors.com
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NAR Supports New Federal Task Force Aimed to Address Housing Shortage
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) applauds the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Interior (DOI) for establishing a Joint Task Force on Federal Land for Housing which will identify underutilized federal lands suitable for residential development. Click here to read more.
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PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The BAAR Continuing Education Calendar has everything you need to fulfill your biannual renewal needs! We offer in person classes at the BAAR Office, The People's Bank in Chestertown, and The Sheriff's Office in Centreville.
You can also take CE classes on-line thru TheCEShop.com
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Unsure of what classes you've taken? Check the CE Verification page at DLLR.
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Upcoming Classes...
March 27th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM via Zoom
April 9th 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM In-Person Class at BAAR
April 10th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM In-Person Class at MSBR
April 15th 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM In-Person Class at QAC Sheriff's Office
April 17th 9:00 AM - 10:30 PM In-Person Class at BAAR
April 10th 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM In-Person Class at MSBR
April 30th 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM In-Person Class at BAAR
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MLS-Touch puts all the tools you need to run your business in the palm of your hand. It is an advanced mobile app designed to work the way you do and it is now available and included with your Bright MLS subscription.
Read more and find out how to install the app HERE!
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Download the MemberPlus App from your App Store and take advantage of 24/7 access the latest events & class sign-ups! Login in with your Info-Hub information. Spice up your profile with a photo & additional information. Connect with affiliates and other REALTORS®. Take advantage today!
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Get your Local Forms from BAAR!
As a BAAR Member, you have FREE access to ZipForms.
Sign up: www.zipformplus.com
Select REALTOR®
Select Bay Area Association of REALTORS®
Log into the NAR site with your NAR credentials
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Bay Area Association of REALTORS®, Inc.
1712 Main Street, Suite 100, Chester, MD 21619
443-249-3442 | Info@bayarearealtors.com
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