The Board of Directors of the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton-Burlington (RAHB) and the Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® (WRAR) have signed a letter of intent to pursue amalgamating the two organizations.
This proposed amalgamation will combine approximately 3800 RAHB Members and 2600 WRAR Members into one organization that can better serve and represent REALTORS®. The proposed amalgamation also opens communication channels with other real estate boards whose interests may be aligned and want to strengthen their advocacy.
“Weʼve been discussing this kind of amalgamation for some time now and have been looking for the right Board to share our vision of a stronger regional voice and improved member service,” said RAHB CEO Carol Ann Burrell. “Waterloo Region Association of REALTORS® shares our member-centric values and desire to bring Members the best possible tools and services. We feel they will make a great partner in this important step forward.”
“When we look at the opportunities to grow and strengthen our Members’ voice in Ontario, we believe that combining our services and sharing a bigger vision is key to progress,” said WRAR CEO Bill Duce. “Real estate Boards throughout Ontario are looking further out and asking themselves, ʻHow might we do this better, together?ʼ That big question brought the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of REALTORS® and Cambridge Association of REALTORS® together in 2022 to form WRAR. Weʼve seen the positive impact of that move and see this next move with RAHB as an even better opportunity for our Members.”
If RAHB and WRAR Members approve, the amalgamation will empower the new organization to focus on giving REALTORS® a stronger position with local consumers, government and other real estate Associations. By combining the strengths of both organizations, REALTOR® Members can expect better access to even more quality tools and expertise to thrive in the market.
This amalgamation will maintain RAHBʼs and WRARʼs local offices and dedicated staff, ensuring that Members continue to benefit from local professional support. “This amalgamation is about better and more service to our Members, not less,” said RAHB Board President Nicolas von Bredow. “In todayʼs changing real estate landscape, our Members expect us to keep in front of the issues and to protect their interests over the long term. This amalgamation illustrates both Boardsʼ laser focus on their Membersʼ future success,” said WRAR Board President Megan Bell.
Todayʼs announcement begins a formal consultation period with Members of RAHB and WRAR. Throughout this process, Members will have the opportunity to learn the details and benefits of the plan. Once the consultation process is complete, the proposal will be put to both organizationsʼ membership for a final vote on November 23, 2023.
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