Question 1

Is this a merger of the MLS?

Accepted Answer

This is NOT a MLS consolidation. MLS services will remain unaffected. Members can join any MLS where their Broker-in-Charge holds membership.

Question 2

Will I be required to join Lowcountry Regional MLS?

Accepted Answer

Lowcountry Regional MLS will continue to operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of the unified association with its own distinct governance structure.Members will continue to have MLS choice, just as they do today. There will be NO requirement to join Lowcountry Regional MLS as part of association membership.This merger of associations does not force any member or broker into a different MLS.

Question 3

How much will the dues cost?

Accepted Answer

For current members of BJCR local dues will remain at $200.  For current HHAR members your local dues will decrease by 20% from $250 to $200.

Question 4

How has the HHAR contract been secured in the merger?

Accepted Answer

The HHAR contracts and the SCR Forms library matter and the future will remain- Business as Usual.The HHAR Residential Purchase and Sale Agreement and Residential Lot Agreement are familiar, trusted, and valuable tools for many members. A Forms Committee has been established in the Bylaws as a Standing Committee, recognizing its ongoing responsibility for overseeing the association's contract forms.A Standing Committee is a permanent committee created to provide continuous oversight of an essential area of the association's work. In this case, the committeeis responsible for reviewing, maintaining, and recommending updates to theassociation's contract forms as needed.  See Article XIII – Section 4 of the Bylaws.  For more information on how the forms are secured in the merger, Preserving these forms reflects a clear commitment to protecting the resources members value most not replacing them.

Question 5

How will this affect Affiliate members?

Accepted Answer

Affiliate members will benefit from greater exposure, expanded networking opportunities, 
and access to a larger REALTOR® audience through one unified organization. For those who currently belong to both associations, unification creates a more efficient andcost-effective way to build relationships, increase visibility, and engage with more than 2,000 real estate professionals across the Southern Lowcountry.For BJCR affiliates, dues will remain at $200 per person.  For HHAR affiliates, the dues structure will change from $375/$100 per associate, to  a flat $200 per person.

Question 6

How will local issues continue to be represented in a regional organization?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining strong local representation is a priority of the unified organization. During thefirst year following unification, Local Market Councils will be established throughout the region to ensure members continue to have a direct voice in the organization.Each council will include members from its local market area and will meet regularly witha staff representative and Board liaison to discuss member feedback, identify emerging issues, and share opportunities unique to their community. These councils will serve as an important connection between members and leadership, helping ensure that localconcerns are heard and considered.Real estate is regional, but many issues remain local. Whether it is a municipal ordinance, development proposal, short-term rental regulation, infrastructure project, or another community-specific concern, the Local Market Councils will provide a forum for identifying issues that may require attention from the Board of Directors or association leadership.At the end of the first year, the Board will evaluate the effectiveness of the Local Market Councils and determine how they can best continue to support member engagement and local representation as the organization evolves.

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