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May 14, 2020

In today’s STATUS UPDATE, we unveil our new Residential Market Flash Survey and our next Capitol Conversation. We also provide you with updates on business relief programs.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

Residential Market Flash Survey

Even with the easing of the state’s stay-at-home orders in most communities, we know that the coronavirus crisis is still impacting the real estate industry. As our state begins to slowly re-open, we want to understand how you have weathered the closures which were in place, as well as what you see in the coming weeks.

We want to hear from you, our members, because you are on the ground in communities across the state.

Please TAKE OUR SURVEY

This week’s survey will remain open until midnight on Monday, May 18. It is very brief and should take only 2 minutes to complete. All questions are required to capture a complete picture of the North Carolina real estate market.

Capitol Conversation

Join us for a special Capitol Conversation with your fellow NC REALTORS® members who currently serve in the North Carolina General Assembly. You will receive a behind-the-scenes look into how your elected officials are addressing the challenges facing our state in the wake of the coronavirus crisis.

We are ecstatic to announce that this will be our largest gathering of NC REALTOR® legislators EVER!

The following legislators will join us for this Conversation.

Senator Rick Gunn (invited)
Senator Andy Wells
Representative Julia Howard
Representative Kyle Hall
Representative Jake Johnson
Representative Brian Turner
Representative Terry Garrison
Representative John Faircloth
Representative Kelly Hastings (invited)
Representative Jay Adams (invited)

This Conversation will take place on Friday, May 29, from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. NC REALTORS® Legislative Chair, Leigh Brown, will serve as the moderator for this Conversation.

REGISTER

Have a question that you would like asked during this Conversation? Please provide it in your registration or email it to RSVP@ncrealtors.org.

Another federal relief bill on the horizon?

For those of you who participated in NC REALTORS® Virtual Hill visits over the past week and this week’s NAR REALTORS Legislative Meetings, the question was: on everyone’s’ minds is: will there be another federal relief bill?

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives’ leadership released House Resolution 6800, the Health and Economic Recovery Omnibus Solutions (HEROS) Act. This legislation clocks in at more than 1,800 pages and carries an estimated $3 trillion price tag. This bill is not expected to proceed in its current form due to opposition from the House Republicans, the Senate, and the White House, but was presented as a starting point for the next discussion.

Stay tuned for more information.

More Resources, More Updates

During Wednesday’s Residential Economic Issues and Trends Forum at the virtual REALTORS® Legislative Meetings, NAR Chief Economist Dr. Lawrence Yun presented his current projections for the residential market. Check out the slides from that presentation.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) launches mortgage and housing assistance resource page.

New Guidance on PPP Loan Safe Harbor: The Treasury Department released new guidance on how the government will review PPP loan borrowers’ good-faith certifications of loan necessity.

FHFA Announcement on Forbearance Payment Deferral Option: The new program creates “payment deferral option for borrowers. “Payment deferral takes the missed mortgage payments and puts them into a payment due at the sale, or refinancing of the home, or the end of the loan. The borrower’s monthly mortgage payment will not change. Mortgages that exercise the payment deferral option will remain in Enterprise Mortgage-Backed Securities, subject to the terms of the trust agreements.”

Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina Business Resources Guide

NAIOP Commercial Real Estate Industry Sentiment Index

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline

Homeowners Alliance Provides COVID-19 Resources For Your Clients

Now more than ever homeowners need to be aware of the issues and legislation that affect their most important investment: their home. NC Homeowners Alliance Chair Wendy Harris provides an update on resources available to homeowners impacted by COVID-19.

WATCH THE VIDEO

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed through May.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

May 5, 2020

In today’s STATUS UPDATE, we provide you information about the General Assembly’s relief activities, a reminder of our Capitol Conversation on Friday, and unveil our first Residential Rental Flash Survey.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

General Assembly approves $1.6 billion relief plan

On Saturday, the General Assembly gave final approval for a $1.6 billion relief package to address issues from the coronavirus crisis. This package was approved in two separate bills, House Bill 1043 “2020 COVID-19 Recovery Act”and Senate Bill 704 “COVID-19 Recovery Act.”

Here is a quick breakdown of the important provisions for NC REALTORS®. This was developed by NC REALTORS® Lobbying Team member, Williams Mullen.

House Bill 1043 focused on the appropriations provisions of the relief efforts, while Senate Bill 704 focused on the policy proposals. Both bills passed by overwhelming, bipartisan votes, and were signed by Governor Cooper on Monday.

House Bill 1043

• $9 million for the Growing Rural Economies with Access to Technology (GREAT) program to expand access to broadband internet.
• $65 million for a grant to NC Healthcare Foundation for grants to rural hospitals.
• $125 million for small business loans through the Golden LEAF Foundation. (More information on these loans is available in the next section)
• $150 million for local government grants to support immediate COVID-19 needs.
• $5 million for Visit NC marketing.
• It also allocated certain monies contingent on approval by the federal government including:
  • $300 million for the Department of Transportation.
  • $150 million for the Local Government Coronavirus Relief Reserve.

Senate Bill 704

• Waives the accrual of interest on the nonpayment or underpayment of tax imposed on a franchise, corporate income, or individual income tax return, including a partnership and estate and trust tax return, from April 15, 2020, through July 15, 2020.
• Temporarily authorizes a notary to perform acknowledgments and administer oaths and affirmations using video conference technology.
• Amends the Good Funds Settlement Act to allow a settlement agent in a real estate transaction involving a one to four family residential dwelling or a lot restricted to residential use to disburse closing funds prior to recording if authorized in writing by the parties involved.
• Sets the start date for the 2020-2021 school year as August 17, 2020.

The General Assembly is currently in recess for at least two weeks. The House of Representatives announced that the COVID-19 work groups would continue to meet during this time, but no schedule was released by the Senate. We will provide more information as it becomes available.

New Business Resources

With the authorization of additional funds through House Bill 1034, the North Carolina Rural Center and the Golden LEAF Foundation have been able to expand the NC COVID-19 Rapid Recovery Loan Program. To learn more about this program, visit ncrapidrecovery.org.

Need legal assistance due to issues brought on by the COVID-19 crisis? The North Carolina Pro Bono Resource Center has launched an initiative to provide small businesses and nonprofits with free legal consultation on issues related to their business. Learn more.

Join us for a Capitol Conversation with Senator Thom Tillis

In these uncertain times, NC REALTORS® is committed to providing you with information you can use. Though COVID-19 has shifted the 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings online, we still want to allow everyone to have a Capitol Conversation.

Join us for our first Capitol Conversation with Senator Thom Tillis on Friday, May 8 from 9:00 until 9:30 AM to discuss the federal response to the coronavirus crisis.

REGISTER

Registration is limited to members-only, so you must enter your NRDS number to complete your registration. Registration will remain open until 5:00 PM on May 7.

Property Managers—We need to hear from you!!

Do you manage long-term residential properties or know someone who does? We need your input! Last week, NC REALTORS® launched our first Residential Rental Market Flash Survey to continue our efforts to understand the impact that the coronavirus crisis and the ensuing stay-at-home orders are having on all sectors of our industry.

This survey should take only 2 minutes to complete. All questions are required so that we can capture the most complete picture of the North Carolina long-term residential property management market.

NC REALTORS Virtual Hill Visits: More events announced

As we unveiled yesterday, in partnership with our state’s Federal Political Coordinators (FPCs), we are scheduling virtual Hill Visits with multiple members of our Congressional delegation. These are a great opportunity to learn more about the federal government response to the coronavirus crisis.

We have included a full list of the confirmed events on our Virtual Hill Visits page.

Below are the events which have just been confirmed. These events are restricted to members only, so you must enter your NRDS number to register.

We will be announcing more events soon. Stay tuned!

Keep Your Mind and Skills Sharp

Learn new skills and enhance your ability to keep your business going in these uncertain times. Take advantage of one of these discounted or free online training opportunities:

Courses

• May 14 & 15 – Technology Tools & Resources (Virtual Course)
• May 19 & 20 – ABC’s of Financing (Virtual Course)

Webinars

• May 7 – How to Navigate Through This New Real Estate Reality with Darryl Davis FREE

To view a full list of current professional development options, visit the Education Roundup resource page >>

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed through May.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

May 1, 2020

In today’s STATUS UPDATE, we provide you with three quick things from 2020 President Maren Brisson-Kuester, our Q&A regarding PUA benefits, and information about our upcoming meetings with the state’s Congressional delegation. We also provide you with important links to help you access the 2020 NAR REALTORS® Legislative Meetings and more details about the 2020 NC REALTORS® Legislative Meetings shifting virtual.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

Three Quick Things

As we kick off May, NC REALTORS® 2020 President Maren Brisson-Kuester would like to pass along three quick things for NC REALTORS®.

Unemployment Benefits Application Now Open to Independent Contractors

Applications for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) are open at des.nc.gov. NC REALTORS® has been in regular communication with staff members from the NC Division of Employment Security and we’ve put together a NC REALTORS® specific Q&A HERE.

We encourage you to read our Q&A carefully before submitting your unemployment application.

You can find additional information about unemployment on the NC Division of Employment Security’s website including their updated information page about PUA applications, payments, and filing tips.Capitol Conversation with Senator Thom Tillis

Capitol Conversation with Senator Thom Tillis

In these uncertain times, NC REALTORS® is committed to providing you with information you can use. Though COVID-19 has shifted the 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings online, we still want to allow everyone to have a Capitol Conversation.

Join us for our first Capitol Conversation with Senator Thom Tillis on Friday, May 8 from 9:00 until 9:30 AM to discuss the federal response to the coronavirus crisis.

REGISTER

Registration is limited to members-only, so you must enter your NRDS number to complete your registration. Registration will remain open until 5:00 PM on May 7.

NC REALTORS Virtual Hill Visits: More events announced

As we unveiled yesterday, in partnership with our state’s Federal Political Coordinators (FPCs), we are scheduling virtual Hill Visits with multiple members of our Congressional delegation. These are a great opportunity to learn more about the federal government response to the coronavirus crisis.

We have included a full list of the confirmed events on our event page (www.ncrealtors.org/virtualhillvisits).

Below are the events which have just been confirmed. These events are restricted to members only, so you must enter your NRDS number to register.

We will be announcing more events soon. Stay tuned!

Legislative Meetings Going Virtual

In light of the current situation and in the interest of the safety of our members, the 2020 NC REALTORS® Legislative Meetings will be shifted to a virtual platform beginning May 27. We will provide a more detailed schedule within the next few weeks.

Committee members will receive an email from your staff liaison regarding your committee meeting date and time, as well as log-in information.

*For those who have confirmed guestroom reservations at the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, the hotel will take automatically cancel and refund all guestroom reservations this week. You do not need to call the hotel.

2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings: Home Front

NAR kicked off the virtual 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings this week with multiple committee meetings. Conference Sessions, including forums featuring guest speakers, will begin on May 12.

If you are serving on a NAR Committee, you should have received information from your committee staff regarding the date and time of your meeting.

While registration is complimentary, they have asked that you sign-up for the streamed sessions. Registration is open and easy to use.

For a complete schedule of events and more information, visit legislative.realtor.

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline​​​​​​​

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed through May.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

April 30, 2020

In today’s STATUS UPDATE, we provide you with updates on the General Assembly’s activities, as well as unveil our new virtual Hill Visits with our Congressional delegation.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

Legislators return to address COVID-19 response

On Tuesday, legislators returned to Raleigh for their previously-scheduled start of the short session. When leaders set this as their date for commencing work, we are confident they didn’t expect the situation that they are currently facing. Legislators are abiding by social distancing guidelines by shifting committee meetings to virtual platforms and limiting the number of members in the chamber during votes. The Legislative Building is closed to the public, including lobbyists. But no fear, the NC REALTORS® Lobbying Team is closely monitoring all of the activities from the safety of their homes.

Legislators feverishly filed numerous bills as soon as they returned, including a couple of specific interest to NC REALTORS®. We expect the General Assembly to remain in session for at least another week, so make sure to follow NC REALTORS® communications for additional updates.

House Bill 1034 “Small Business Emergency Loans”
This bill provides $75 million to the Golden LEAF Foundation for use in grants/emergency loans for small businesses.

House Bill 1035 “Education Omnibus/COVID-19”
This legislation includes multiple education-related changes following the closure of public schools for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. Of particular interest, this legislation requires school systems to open schools for the 2020-2021 school year as early as August 17. If approved, this would be a significant change from the current law and could provide damaging for vacation rentals, which rely on this week for revenue at the end of the summer season.

House Bill 1043 “COVID-19 Time Sensitive Matters”
As we told you last week, this legislation includes two relevant provisions of interest to NC REALTORS. First is the allowance for “emergency video notarization.” The bill outlines the procedure for conducting video notarization through a “real-time” platform, which allows for the notary to verify the individual’s identity. Notaries are still required to comply with the other tenants of the Notary Act regarding document retention and confidentiality. While these provisions will remain in place until March 1, 2021, any document notarized during this time would not need to be reaffirmed.

Second, it includes amendments to the state’s “Good Funds Settlement Act” to allow for the disbursement of funds before the recordation of documents. This is a necessary action because of the issues occurring in multiple counties with the closures or limitations of the Registers of Deeds’ offices. The legislation would allow a waiver of the Good Funds Settlement Act, which would have to be agreed to by the parties in the transaction and would only be permitted under limited circumstances (i.e., Register of Deeds is closed and does not accept electronic recordation). These provisions would remain in place in perpetuity but would only apply under gubernatorial declared emergencies.

Senate Bill 704 “COVID-19 Recovery Act”
The Senate chose to release an omnibus bill, which includes many similar items to that of the House. The bill has substantial bipartisan support, with 46 of the 50 members of the Senate signed on as co-sponsors. These provisions include emergency video notarization, Good Funds Settlement Act changes, and the school calendar changes for the 2020-2021 school year.

Additionally, the Senate included $300 million in emergency funding for NCDOT, $300 million in emergency funding for local governments, and $125 million for the Golden LEAF Foundation to provide small business loan assistance (House included $75 million in House Bill 1034). They also propose an increase in state unemployment weekly amount to $400 maximum, as well as extend liability protection for essential businesses (i.e., all businesses covered in the Governor’s Executive Order).

Meet with your Representative from the comfort of your own home

In these uncertain times, NC REALTORS® is committed to providing you with information you can use. Though COVID-19 has shifted the 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings online, we still want to allow everyone to engage with their Member of Congress. A significant amount of the response efforts is being coordinated at the federal level, so we focus our first one on giving you an inside look at what is being discussed.

In partnership with our state’s Federal Political Coordinators (FPCs), we are scheduling virtual Hill Visits with multiple members of our Congressional delegation.

Click on the images below to register to attend any of these events. These events are restricted to members only, so you must enter your NRDS number to register.

We will be announcing more events soon. Stay tuned!

2020 REALTORS Legislative Meetings: Home Front

NAR kicked off the virtual 2020 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings this week with the multiple committee meetings. Conference Sessions, including forums featuring guest speakers, will begin on May 12. If you are serving on a NAR Committee, you should have received information from your committee staff regarding the date and time of your meeting.

While registration is complimentary, they have asked that you sign-up for the streamed sessions.

Registration is open and easy to use.

For a complete schedule of events and more information, visit legislative.realtor

Legislative Meetings Going Virtual

Governor Cooper’s plan to ease his Stay At Home order in phases makes it very unlikely that we will be able to hold our Legislative Meetings in person. Instead, we will be moving our events to a virtual platform on May 27 – June 3, 2020. We will provide a more detailed schedule within the next few weeks. Committee members, be on the lookout for an email update regarding your committee meeting time and connection link.

*For those who have confirmed guestroom reservations at the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, the hotel will take automatically cancel and refund all guestroom reservations this week. You do not need to call the hotel.

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed through May.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

April 22, 2020

Welcome to today’s STATUS UPDATE! In this edition, we focus on the U.S. Senate’s most recent relief package, the response efforts being proposed by the NC House of Representatives, and how to connect with many of NC REALTORS®’ resources on social media. .

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

Senate Approves Next Round of Relief Funding
On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate passed legislation authorizing additional funds to support multiple small business relief programs for those affected by the current coronavirus situation. These measures are supported by NAR and will be are available for REALTORS®.

The legislation authorizes an additional $310 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), $60 billion of which is specifically set aside for small and medium-sized community banks. It also allocates an additional $50 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) fund.

As has been reported in the media, the PPP ran out of money a couple of weeks ago and the EIDL is reaching a point where replenishment is needed.

NAR has released additional guidance for REALTORS regarding the PPP and EIDL.

• If you’ve already applied for an EIDL: The SBA is processing applications already in their system on a first-come, first-served basis. You do not need to reapply.
• If you have not already applied for an EIDL: Check back at the SBA application page once the additional funding is signed into law. The SBA will re-open applications shortly afterwards.
• If you’ve already applied for a PPP loan through an SBA lender but have not been approved yet: Check with your lender to see if they are maintaining a queue of applications during the lapse or if you will need to reapply when the renewed funding comes through.
• If you have not applied yet for a PPP loan through an SBA lender:Have the application form filled out and your documentation ready to provide to your lender. (For businesses with employees, have payroll documentation; for independent contractors, have your 2019 Form 1040, Schedule C, and 1099-MISC.) If you have an existing relationship with an SBA lender, you should go to that lender first once the program reopens, but be prepared to try multiple lenders, which you can find on the SBA site.Get the latest news and guidance on COVID-19 and real estate at nar.realtor/coronavirus.

General Assembly Plans COVID-19 Response
As we told you a couple of weeks ago, the General Assembly has been planning response efforts in advance of both chambers returning on April 28. The House of Representatives convened a Select Committee focused on COVD-19 response with four workgroups. Those groups are Continuity of State Operations, Economic Support, Education, and Health Care. Each of them is examining the state’s needs in their respective areas and are working on proposals to present to the full chamber during the session. You can view all of the groups’ work on the General Assembly’s website.

On Tuesday, the Continuity of State Operations group considered draft legislation focused on time-sensitive matters. One important portion of this legislation for REALTORS is the allowance for “emergency video notarization.” As we have heard from members across the state, many transactions are placed into an uncertain state due to the statutory requirement for notarizations to be conducted in person. The proposed legislation outlines the procedure for conducting video notarization through a “real time” platform which allows for the notary to verify the individual’s identity. Notaries are still required to comply with the other tenants of the Notary Act regarding document retention and confidentiality. While these provisions will remain in place until March 1, 2021, any document notarized during this time would not need to be reaffirmed.

The legislation also included amendments to the state’s “Good Funds Settlement Act” to allow for the disbursement of funds prior to the recordation of documents. This is a necessary action because of the issues occurring in multiple counties with the closures or limitations of the Registers of Deeds’ offices. The legislation would allow a waiver of the Good Funds Settlement Act which would have to be agreed to by the parties in the transaction and would only be allowable under limited circumstances (i.e., Register of Deeds is closed and does not accept electronic recordation). These provisions would remain in place in perpetuity but would only apply under gubernatorial declared emergency situations.

The NC REALTORS® Lobbying Team has been working with multiple stakeholders on both provisions and will continue to monitor them in the coming weeks. Our goal is to keep real estate transactions moving during these uncertain times. Keep watching NC REALTORS® communications for more information.

Keep Your Mind & Skills Sharp

NC REALTORS® wants to help you build skills and adapt to changing times. We are regularly adding to this roundup of broadcasts, webinars, courses, tools and programs to help you succeed.

NC REALTORS® COVID-19 Q&A
With so much information being put out by state and local officials, NC REALTORS® wanted to break down some of the most-asked questions that we have received from members. Featuring many familiar faces from across the state, check out our complete library on our YouTube channel.

Tell your Facebook friends “Housing is Essential”
We need your help. We are experiencing unprecedented issues due to COVID-19. America’s health is at risk. America’s economy – including our real estate industry – is at risk, too. Now is the time for all of us to show our support for both. If you haven’t already added a frame from your local board, please consider using our new “Housing Is Essential” frame on your Facebook profile. It says our members – REALTORS® – play an essential role in keeping us safe and our economy going.  Thank you!

To add a frame to your profile picture:
1.    Go to www.facebook.com/profilepicframes
2.    Search “Housing is Essential” and chose the frame

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed for the remainder of April.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

April 17, 2020

Welcome to today’s STATUS UPDATE! In this edition, we have a new message from President Maren Brisson-Kuester and we launch our second Residential Market Flash Survey. Can we hit 4,000 responses this week? Yes, we can! We will also provide you with an update on SBA loans.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.
An Important Message
NC REALTORS® 2020 President Maren Brisson-Kuester would like to pass along the following important message to all NC REALTORS®.

NC REALTORS® Residential Market Flash Survey #2—Please respond!
As we told you last week, we will be conducting these brief weekly surveys to better understand the impact that the current situation is having on local real estate markets. While MLS data is excellent, it only tells part of the story. So, we have turned to you, NC REALTORS® members, for your input.

This week’s survey asks the same questions as last week’s because we want to build a week-over-week picture of market conditions. Have things improved since last week, or have they gotten worse. We want to know.

The survey should take 2 minutes or less to complete! It will remain open until midnight on Monday, April 20.

Tell your Facebook friends “Housing is Essential”

We need your help. We are experiencing unprecedented issues due to COVID-19. America’s health is at risk. America’s economy – including our real estate industry – is at risk, too. Now is the time for all of us to show our support for both. If you haven’t already added a frame from your local board, please consider using our new “Housing Is Essential” frame on your Facebook profile. It says our members – REALTORS® – play an essential role in keeping us safe and our economy going.  Thank you!

To add a frame to your profile picture:
1.    Go to www.facebook.com/profilepicframes
2.    Search “Housing is Essential” and chose the frame

Real Estate Commission Emergency Rules

On Wednesday, the North Carolina Real Estate Commission approved an emergency rule requiring that all in-person education be cancelled or suspended through June 30, 2020. These rules mirror ones approved at the Commission’s March meeting which had originally set the in-person course suspension at April 30. The allowance for courses to be taught through synchronous distance-learning does remain for continuing education, as well as pre- and post-licensing, but this rule does include an additional clarification.

As it is normally for in-person continuing education, there WILL be a blackout period from June 11 through June 30. This blackout period was expanded in the emergency rule to include synchronous distance-learning courses as well and was needed because of the extension of the cancellation of in-person classes. The period has been in place so that all information can be entered for license renewals.

No changes were made to the previously approved allowance for licensees to request an extension on their continuing education requirements if they have been affected by COVID-19.

These new emergency rules have been sent to the state Codifier of Rules and will be posted on the Commission’s website early next week. For more information, visit ncrec.gov/Resources/Covid19.

Additional Business Resources

As new resources are developed, we will continue to share them with you. Our complete list of Business Resources is also found on ncrealtors.org/coronavirusupdate. We are adding new menus with resources specifically for Commercial REALTORS®, as well as Property Managers and Appraisers.

SBA Is Out of Emergency Aid Money
**This information was originally printed in REALTOR® Magazine on April 16, 2020

The two federal emergency aid programs aimed at quickly putting money in the pockets of business owners and independent contractors have run out of money. This leaves many eligible Americans without access to funds that could keep them from going bankrupt, and could forestall an additional wave of unemployed workers from receiving help.

The first-come, first-served $349 billion Paycheck Protection Program had begun to ease some of the financial burden for a wide range of small businesses including real estate brokerages. But with many applicants stuck in limbo waiting for responses to their funding requests, their prospects remained uncertain on Thursday as Congress continues to wrangle over a way to provide additional funding.
Aware of the looming shortfall, the National Association of REALTORS® sent a letter to lawmakers on Monday seeking more funds to keep the programs operating. As of Thursday, the Small Business Administration had stopped accepting applications for both the PPP and the smaller Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.

The EIDL received $10 billion in funds to distribute in the form of up to $10,000 advance grants for businesses to address their working capital needs. Those funds were to be distributed within three days of applying and were intended to serve as a holdover until larger loans could come through.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Democratic leaders in Congress were expected to reconvene Thursday to come up with an agreement on a package to immediately increase SBA funding.

Stay up-to-date with NAR’s latest guidance on navigating the SBA emergency programs.

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed for the remainder of April.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

In today’s STATUS UPDATE, we are launching our first Residential Market Flash Survey! We need everyone to take this very brief survey. Learn more about the survey in the first section and take a couple of minutes to respond. We also provide you with some updated resources from NAR and the recording from yesterday’s NAR Leadership Live.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

NC REALTORS Residential Market Flash Survey

We need to hear from you! Take the Survey!

As we continue to understand the impact that the coronavirus crisis and the ensuing stay-at-home orders, we are gathering data from numerous sources.

Being on the ground in communities across the state, we want to hear from you, our members. We will be conducting these surveys every few weeks while these orders remain in place. We are starting with understanding the residential market, but we will be releasing surveys looking at other sectors of the market soon.

This survey should take only 2 minutes to complete. All questions are required so that we can capture the most complete picture of the North Carolina real estate market.

It will remain open until midnight on Monday, April 13. Take the Survey!

Additional Business Resources

As new resources are developed, we will continue to share them with you. Our complete list of Business Resources is also found on ncrealtors.org/coronavirus.

NAR SBA FAQs

In response to many questions from members, NAR has restructured its SBA FAQ documents to ensure that they are providing the most up-to-date information to members about these important programs. The FAQ can still be found at https://www.nar.realtor/political-advocacy/coronavirus-sba-cares-act-faqs and is now re-ordered as follows.

• What is the SBA 7(a) Paycheck Protection Program? (PPP)
• Who is eligible for the SBA 7(a) Paycheck Protection Program?
• How do I apply for the SBA 7(a) Paycheck Protection Program?
• What is an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Grant?
• Who is eligible for an EIDL Loan and EIDL Grant?
• How do I apply for an EIDL Loan and EIDL Grant?

NEW US Department of Treasury Resources

The US Department of the Treasury has updated their Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document on the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/Paycheck-Protection-Program-Frequenty-Asked-Questions.pdf

They have also launched a one-stop shop of links for assistance to small businesses, nonprofits, veterans organizations, and tribal businesses—as well as to certain self-employed folks and independent contractors: https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/top-priorities/cares-act/assistance-for-small-businesses

NAR Leadership Live—Follow-up

Did you miss yesterday’s NAR Leadership Live event but still want to check out what was discussed? Or were they talking so fast that you didn’t catch what was said? If either describes you, NAR has uploaded the full recording of the event, as well as links to the content referenced on nar.realtor.

Check it out at nar.realtor/leadership-live and stay tuned for future events.

Coronavirus: A Best Practices Guide for NC REALTORS®

Check out this guide for conducting business in areas where real estate activity is considered essential and allowed under strict health and safety guidelines.

ncrealtors.org/coronavirus/bestpractices

IMPORTANT NOTICE: YOU MUST FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL ORDERS. NOTHING IN THIS GUIDANCE ALLOWS YOU TO CONDUCT ANY REAL ESTATE BUSINESS THAT IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE AREA YOU ARE WORKING

We Are Answering Your Questions

We are spreading the word about what Governor Cooper’s Stay At Home Order means for your real estate business and what precautions you should be considering in light of COVID-19. Watch us answer your questions HERE.

https://youtu.be/hSDSUYsV9nM

You can also find text versions of the Q&As HERE.

Still have questions? Contact the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline legalhotline@ncrealtors.org.

Keep Your Mind and Skills Sharp

Learn new skills and enhance your ability to keep your business going in these uncertain times. Take advantage of one of these discounted or free online training opportunities in the next seven days:

April 13 – Mobile Mondays: Fair Housing with Trista Curzydlo, J.D. FREE

On Demand – ALL Center for REALTOR® Development Online Courses 30% OFF

On Demand – 2020 Technology Trends Webinar FREE

On Demand – Photography Webinars from Nikon FREE

On Demand – Calculating Value for Investment and Rental Properties from CCIM FREE

On Demand – Developing Your Commercial Real Estate Business from CCIM FREE

On Demand – Leasing Commercial Real Estate from CCIM FREE

On Demand – The Role of Markets and Market Data in Commercial Real Estate from CCIM FREE

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests and will remain closed for the remainder of April.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

In today’s STATUS UPDATE we provide you with more information about the business resources available to REALTORS® and other small business persons.

We have included a lot of links to resources from NAR, as well as other groups and government entities. New resources are being developed every day so make sure to check ncrealtors.org/coronavirusupdate under the “Business Resources” and “NAR Resources” for the most current information.

NAR was a champion of the federal CARES Act legislation because of the important provisions benefiting REALTORS®. Many of those are discussed further in these resources. The NC REALTORS® Government Affairs team has been working on the state level to better understand the impact of many of these programs and communicating with legislators regarding any needed action, most notable on the unemployment benefit opportunity for independent contractors.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

NAR has launched a hotline for REALTORS® to answer questions that you may have about your business and many of the federal programs which have been activated to help.

800-874-6500
NAR COVID-19 Hotline

Small Business Administration Programs

As part of the CARES Act which was signed by the President last week, multiple programs through the federal Small Business Administration (SBA) were authorized. The legislation provides funding for the Paycheck Protection Program, modifies the existing Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program and provides immediate loan payment relief for current SBA 7(a) borrowers. Below are resources regarding each of these programs.

Monday’s Legal Q&A will also take a deeper dive into the SBA programs which are available to REALTORS®.

Please note: The Paycheck Protection Program is not currently active for independent contractors while additional rules are put in place by the US Department of Labor. Applications for independent contractors are expected to be available on April 10.

• SBA Disaster Loans for Businesses
  • Paycheck Protection Program
  • Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Assistance
  • SBA Express Bridge Loans **these are only available if you have an existing relationship with SBA
  • SBA Debt Relief **these are only available if you have an existing relationship with SBA

• NAR FAQ: SBA CARES Act
• Cornonavirus.gov: Supporting Small Businesses
• NC Small Business Technology and Development Center—SBA Emergency Loans FAQ
• US Senate Committee on Small Business—Paycheck Protection Program FAQ
• Washington Post: Here’s how to get a small business loan under the $349 billion coronavirus aid bill

Unemployment Benefits for REALTORS®

In addition to the resources offered by the Small Business Administration, the CARES Act also authorized additional unemployment benefits that independent contractors MAY be eligible for. NAR championed this component of the legislation because of the unique benefit that it may provide to REALTOR® members. A key provision in the law creates a temporary “Pandemic Unemployment Assistance” program that extends unemployment benefits to those not traditionally eligible, including self-employed individuals.

PLEASE NOTE: At this time, independent contractors are NOT currently able to file for unemployment benefits through the North Carolina Employment Security Commission. They are awaiting further guidance from the US Department of Labor as North Carolina law does not currently allow independent contractors to receive benefits through the system. NC REALTORS® staff is in constant communication with state officials and will provide more information as soon as it is available.

NAR Unemployment Assistance CARES Act FAQs

The North Carolina Employment Security Commission has launched a COVID-19 resource page with information about their programs. It currently includes the following guidance for independent contractors.

Independent contractors and self-employed workers are not typically eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. However, these individuals may qualify for federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance available as a result of COVID-19. The Division of Employment Security is awaiting guidance from the federal government to implement the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program.

Resources for Employers and Associations

NAR continues to gather other resources for brokerages and associations regarding how to address issues facing employees during this time. This guidance is in addition to the other information about federal programs.

NAR Coronavirus Resources and Guidance for Employers

General Business Resources

These sites include a whole host of resources developed by federal and state-focused organizations and government entities. As they are not focused on one specific topic, they are included as general business resources. Check out the following sections for more detailed information about specific programs.

• NC Department of Commerce—Resources for NC Businesses
• NC Small Business and Technology Development Center (SBTDC)—COVID-19 Resource Page
• North Carolina COVID-19 Rapid Recovery for Small Businesses EDPNC—NC Business Relief Resources
• NC Chamber—Coronavirus Resources for Small Business
• Small Business Center Network

Federal Resources

• Coronavirus.gov
• FEMA Extends Grace Period for Flood Insurance Renewal Premiums 

Other Resources

North Carolina COVID-19 Rapid Recovery Lending program: Supports North Carolina small businesses and family farms as they recover from the economic impact of COVID-19. This rapid recovery loan helps small businesses bridge the gap between when crisis strikes and when federal loans, insurance payouts, and other relief funds are approved, or businesses have time to recover.

Hope Inside COVID-19: HOPE Inside Disaster is the only financial emergency preparedness and recovery service in the country, created following the tragic events of 9/11. In partnership with FEMA, Operation HOPE pioneered the new federal policy space of emergency disaster preparedness, response and recovery. Through partnerships with the American Red Cross, FEMA, and industry leaders, our teams deploy in response to federally-declared disasters to serve as a financial advocate for local residents and small business owners.

We Are Answering Your Questions

We are spreading the word about what Governor Cooper’s Stay At Home Order means for your real estate business and what precautions you should be considering in light of COVID-19. Watch us answer your questions HERE.

We will keep adding videos. You can also find text versions of the Q&As HERE.

Still have questions? Contact the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline legalhotline@ncrealtors.org.

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests until at least April 10.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

April 2, 2020

In today’s STATUS UPDATE we provide you with some guidance on best practices for conducting real estate activity during this time. While we know that not all of you are able to conduct business due to local orders, for those of you who are, it is important that you keep in mind that this is not business as usual. Special care needs to be taken to protect you, your clients, and the community.

REMEMBER, YOU MUST FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL ORDERS. NOTHING IN THIS GUIDANCE ALLOWS YOU TO CONDUCT ANY REAL ESTATE BUSINESS THAT IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE AREA YOU ARE WORKING.

Also included in today’s email is information about NAR providing two months of telehealth access to members, as well as some upcoming free continuing education courses.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

Please note that all of this content is available on the STATUS UPDATE page on ncrealtors.org.

Coronavirus: A Best Practices Guide for NC REALTORS®

A copy of this guide is also available at ncrealtors.org/coronavirus/bestpractices.

If you are in an area governed by a local order or the state’s Executive Order 121, most real estate activity is considered essential and allowed under strict health and safety guidelines. The following best practices are for use by NC REALTORS® in those areas ONLY. Please make sure that you are following all direction issued by local, state, and federal authorities for all your activities, real estate or otherwise.

NC REALTORS® should, using available technology, endeavor to do as much of their business remotely as possible to avoid contact. If you can work virtually, you should. NC REALTORS® has compiled numerous resources to assist members in conducting their business through remote means. Visit ncrealtors.org/coronavirus for more information.

If virtual options do not exist, see recommended best practices below.

This guidance has been developed using the guidelines issued by the National Association of REALTORS® and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

For transaction-specific questions, please contact your attorney or the NC REALTORS Legal Hotline (legalhotline@ncrealtors.org). NC REALTORS® has compiled a list of Q&As here: ncrealtors.org/covid-19-qa/.

Here are some general preventative measures that the CDC recommends for individuals to reduce the risk of contracting and spreading coronavirus:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Practice social distancing by staying out of crowded places, avoiding group gatherings, and maintaining distance (approximately 6 feet) from others when possible.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
• Stay home if you have a fever, cough, shortness of breath or any other cold or flu-like symptom.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your sleeve.

If you are allowed to conduct real estate activities in your local area and choose to conduct in-person showings or other activities, here is some important guidance—FOR SELLERS

• For sellers:
  • Make sure to disinfect all commonly touched areas like countertops, doorknobs, light switches, cabinet knobs and faucet handles prior to and after each showing.
  • Open all interior doors and turn on all lights to minimize touching during a showing.

If you are allowed to conduct real estate activities in your local area and choose to conduct in-person showings or other activities, here is some important guidance:

• If you can show the property remotely, please do. Use existing virtual tours or walk-through the property on a video call.
• If an in-person showing is necessary,
  • You must travel in two cars. You cannot practice social distancing in one car.
  • Limit showings to the smallest group possible.
  • Only allow one buyer group to tour the home at a time. Wait outside if another showing is going on.
  • Use gloves or use a disinfectant wipe to open the lockbox and all doors.
  • You must practice social distancing by maintaining a 6-foot distance when in the property.
  • Don’t allow potential buyers to touch anything in the house when showing a property. Wipe down any surface that must be touched with a disinfectant wipe.
  • Make sure that anyone who leaves the home washes their hands or uses an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Inspections and property appraisals necessary for the closing of transactions, purchase, refinance, etc., will be allowed. If possible, inspections and appraisals should be conducted alone. If accompanied, social distancing and the above guidelines must be exercised. Results should be discussed by phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

With the Governor’s new Stay at Home Order, should NC REALTORS® continue to conduct open houses on their listed properties?
It is recommended to avoid open houses at this time. Before scheduling an open house, agents should first consult with their BIC, and consider how federal, state and local authorities’ recommendations, actions, and mandates, along with local MLS rules, impact the advisability, and even permissibility of open houses. Many local stay-at-home/shelter-in-place orders and some local MLS rules prohibit open houses during this time.

What should I do if I live in one area but need to work in another area?
You must follow the order of the area you are working in, not the area you are from. Additionally, some local orders prohibit travel to another area to work. You must follow your local order in that case and not drive to work in another area.

May I ask clients or others I interact with in my real estate business if they have traveled recently, or have any signs of respiratory illness?
Yes, you may ask clients or others about their recent travel, particularly to areas identified as having an increased risk of coronavirus. To avoid potential fair housing issues, be sure to ask all clients the same screening questions based on current, factual information from public health authorities.

May I limit in-person showings to pre-qualified buyers?
Yes. Both listing and buyer’s agents may ask if a buyer is pre-qualified to purchase and limit showings to qualified buyers. Be sure to ask all buyers for a pre-qualification letter to avoid a potential Fair Housing violation. Keep in mind that it may be difficult for buyers just entering the market to obtain a pre-qualification letter given the current circumstances, as many mortgage companies have been impacted by the pandemic with high volumes of refinancing applications and other operational issues.

REMEMBER, YOU MUST FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL ORDERS. NOTHING IN THIS GUIDANCE ALLOWS YOU TO CONDUCT ANY REAL ESTATE BUSINESS THAT IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE AREA YOU ARE WORKING.

NAR Announces Two Months of TeleHealth Access for Members

This week, NAR announced it would provide two months of access to Members TeleHealth at no cost to members, via the Right Tools, Right Now program. Members TeleHealth is a network of more than 2,300 board-certified physicians, who can address non-emergency medical issues via smartphone, tablet or computer.

Learn more about the program and find out how to enroll on the NAR website. Enrollment is limited and you must sign up by April 15.

Keep Your Mind and Skills Sharp Next Week

Learn new skills and enhance your ability to keep your business going in these uncertain times. Take advantage of one of these discounted or free online training opportunities in the next seven days:

April 6 – Mobile Mondays: Working Remotely: Developing a Plan of Action for the Next Few Months with Mark Saunders FREE

April 7 – Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) Certification Course FREE

April 9 – Property Management Tech Talk: Tech Tools & Tips to Run Your Property Management Business Remotely with Mark Saunders FREE

On Demand – How to Navigate and Maximize Facebook to Bring You More Business with Katie Lance FREE

On Demand – At Home With Diversity Course 50% OFF

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests until at least April 10.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

Overnight we have received a significant amount of questions from members about the specific application of the Governor’s order and how it applies in local communities. Your NC REALTORS® team has been pouring over each of the local orders and the statewide order to be able to provide you additional clarification. PLEASE READ THIS VERY CAREFULLY.

LOCAL ORDERS:

The order issued by the Governor yesterday DOES NOT preempt or supersede any local order which includes more restrictive guidelines. This means that if you are operating in a local area (county or municipality) with a more restrictive order on real estate activity, YOU MUST COMPLY WITH IT.

Here is a list of Local Governments with MORE restrictions than what is included in the state order.

• Town of Beaufort
• Buncombe
• Cabarrus
• Dare
• City of Durham
• Guilford/Greensboro/High Point
• Mecklenburg/Charlotte

Please note: Many of these orders prohibit non-residents from entering the county to perform a non-essential business activity. If you live in another county but do business in a more restrictive county, you MUST follow the local order in the county where you are working, even if it is more restrictive than your home county or the state order.

Here is also a list of Local Governments with SIMILAR provisions to the state order.

If you live or work in one of the following counties or municipalities, your county has issued an order WITH SIMILAR PROVISIONS to the state order. WHILE YOU MUST FOLLOW YOUR LOCAL ORDER you will be allowed to conduct most real estate activities so long as you adhere to the strict health guidelines issued by the CDC and NC DHHS.

Clemmons (Village)
Gaston
Haywood
Orange
Pitt/Greenville
Wake
Winston-Salem

For all other counties, while to our knowledge you are not currently governed by any stay at home or shelter in place orders, YOU MUST follow all health and safety guidelines. You will be allowed to conduct most real estate activities once the Governor’s order takes effect under the state health and safety guidelines. We will provide additional guidance in the form of a Legal Q&A on Monday regarding the Governor’s order.

STATE ORDER:

The Governor’s order does include real estate as an essential service. With that said, please understand the seriousness of the situation that we are dealing with and recognize that health and safety restrictions may still impact your business activities. Regardless of what allowances you have in your local community or through the state order, this is not the time for business as usual. It is possible to LOSE OUR DESIGNATION AS AN ESSENTIAL BUSINESS if members violate these orders, particularly as to the health and safety guidelines.

The Governor’s order does not take effect until 5:00 PM on Monday (3/30) so the guidance offered in it is NOT YET ACTIVE. Once active, it will remain in effect for thirty (30) days. However, many of the local orders are already in effect. All orders (state and local) may be rescinded or modified at any time so please make sure you comply with all current guidelines.

Also, for individuals, violation of any order can be punishable by up to a Class 2 Misdemeanor. Any REALTOR® convicted of that charge will have to report the conviction to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission and may be subject to disciplinary action.

Once again, ANY allowed real estate activity should follow the strict health guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NC DHHS). This includes limiting gatherings to no more than 10 people, social distancing of 6 feet between persons, and regular sanitation/hygiene procedures.

IMPORTANT NOTE: None of the information provided above constitutes legal advice. Please consult with your attorney with any specific questions regarding pending contracts. You may also contact the NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline which is open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org.

The Legal Hotline attorneys are busy writing additional Q&A formatted advice. This additional guidance should be available by the time the Governor’s order takes effect. Please check our website at https://www.ncrealtors.org/coronavirus/ for additional information which is being added daily.

In today’s STATUS UPDATE we provide you with more information about the local stay-at-home orders in areas across the state. We will also give you additional insight into the relief legislation passed by the Congress earlier today.

Stay safe and continue to monitor all of the information which is being distributed by health officials.

Governor Cooper Issues Statewide Order

Today, Governor Roy Cooper issued Executive Order 121 which implements a statewide “shelter in place” directive, effective Monday, March 30 at 5:00 PM. This order will remain in effect for thirty (30) days unless otherwise repealed. While this is a significant measure, it is a vital step in the effort to assist in controlling the spread of COVID-19. The full list of measures implemented in Executive Order 121 are found here.

Included in section 25 of the order, real estate services, including brokerage, appraisal and title services, ARE included under essential business operations. This is a HUGE win for our industry, our clients, and the state economy. We sincerely appreciate the support shown by Governor Cooper through this order!

Here is the specific language of Section 25 on page 8 of the order:

Professional services. Professional services, such as legal services, accounting services, insurance services, professional engineering and architectural services, land surveying services, real estate services (including brokerage, appraisal and title services) and tax preparation services.

We also thank the Governor for his statement encouraging local governments who have or will implement their own orders to conform with the state standards. As we have seen over the past few days, local governments have issued a variety of different orders which have led to a lot of confusion for our members and citizens alike.

“In these difficult times, we are extremely appreciative of Governor Cooper’s efforts to allow our industry to continue serving our clients,” said Maren Brisson-Kuester, 2020 NC REALTORS® President. “As our economy is experiencing such significant turmoil, it is great that providing people with shelter has been given this level of priority. But remember, while we have been granted these abilities, it does not mean that you don’t have to abide by the health and safety guidelines. If you can work remotely, do it! Above all else, stay safe!”

For the past ten days, the NC REALTORS® Government Affairs team, in partnership with local associations across the state, has been working diligently to demonstrate the importance of the real estate industry. We have engaged with the Governor’s office and local government officials to develop and clarify orders issues to ensure that real estate services are included in their orders.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: Even though this order allows your business activities to continue, YOU MUST abide by ALL CDC and NCDHHS health and safety guidelines! Make sure to maintain social distancing and proper hygiene practices in all of your interactions. If you can do your work remotely, DO IT!

NC REALTORS® has put together multiple resource guides which are available at ncrealtors.org/coronavirusupdate.

More Stay-at-Home Orders Issued

In yesterday’s Update, we provide you with a list of the orders which had been released to-date. Following distribution, two other orders, in Wake and Gaston counties, were released. Below you will find links to these new orders.

Gaston County (March 26)
Wake County (March 26)

Both of these orders do allow real estate services to continue during this time. As more information and additional orders are released, we will provide them to you.

Congress Passes Important Relief Legislation

Earlier today, the United States House of Representatives approved the “Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act,” also known as the CARES Act. A $2 trillion economic relief package, it includes multiple important provisions for the housing industry, and specifically, REALTORS. The bill now moves to President Trump who is expected to sign it.

NAR has put together a complete explanation of all of the provisions of the more than 900-page bill.

**Please note that NAR and NC REALTORS staff are still reviewing the approved grants and loans authorized under this legislation. Additional guidance will be provided to members as soon as it becomes available.

Here are a couple of quick highlights:

• $350 billion for the Small Business Administration 7(a) loan program—These loans will allow businesses with less than 500 employees access to up to $10 million for use towards mortgage interest, rent, utilities, and payroll costs. A portion of these loans will also be forgivable. REALTORS, independent contractors, and those living on commission-based income WILL be eligible for these loans.
• One-time payments to individuals and married couples—The legislation approved a one-time payment of $1,200 to most individuals, $2,400 to married couples, and $500 per child. There are some income caps which may limit the amount an individual will receive.
• Affordable Housing Support—Included in the bill are billions of dollars to support affordable housing programs like Section 8 rental assistance ($1.2 billion), project-based rental assistance ($1 billion), and a foreclosure moratorium on all federally-backed mortgage loans for 60 days (until May 18, 2020). There is also a moratorium on eviction filings for nonpayment of rent for 120 days on properties covered under federal programs.
• Dramatic expansion of unemployment insurance—The legislation expands the unemployment insurance benefit period to up to 39 weeks (known as Pandemic Unemployment Assistance), extending it to independent contractors for the first time. NAR is still reviewing the specifics under this proposal and will be providing more information soon.
• Mortgage Forbearance—Borrowers of government-backed mortgages can request up to a 360-day payment forbearance without any proof of hardship.
• Broadband Pilot Program—The legislation provides $100 million for a grant program to fund construction and upgrade costs for broadband networks in rural areas.

Keep Your Mind and Skills Sharp Next Week

Learn new skills and enhance your ability to keep your business going in these uncertain times. Take advantage of one of these discounted or free online training opportunities:

• Financial Tips During Challenging Times: A Business Survival GuideTune in March 30 at 2PM to learn about steps you can take to build an emergency savings fund to protect your business and stay ahead of market trends. Register now>>
• Helping Your Agent Through an Economic Market Downturn: Survival Guide for Brokers Tune in April 2 at 2PM. This webinar will address ways you can help your agents get financially prepared for challenging times, while uncovering new ways to protect your business. Register now>>
• How To Be a Virtual Agent Tune in April 3 at 3PM. Jeremias “JMan” Maneiro of JMan Seminars will discuss the how to’s of virtual open houses and virtual buyer consultations. Register now>>
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NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests until at least April 10.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

March 24, 2020

Welcome to our third NC REALTORS® STATUS UPDATE email. We have sincerely appreciated all of the feedback that we have received from members across the following our two previous emails. We continue to monitor multiple different issues facing our industry and members. As more information becomes available, we will share it with you.

In this edition, we focus on Mecklenburg County’s stay at home order and guidance issued by Governor Cooper in Executive Order 120 about additional business closures.

MECKLENBURG COUNTY ISSUES STAY AT HOME ORDER

**ALL REALTORS RESIDING IN OR WHO HAVE BUSINESS IN MECKLENBURG COUNTY, PLEASE READ.

IMPORTANT NOTE: While this order applies only to those within Mecklenburg County, there are reports of other counties considering similar actions. NC REALTORS® staff continues to monitor the developments and will provide information as soon as it becomes available.

Earlier today, Mecklenburg County and all municipalities therein, issued a “stay-at-home” order beginning Thursday, March 26 at 8:00 AM. This order will remain in effect for three weeks but can be revised or repealed at any time.

Staff is continuing to review the order and seek clarification on many of the outlined directives, but here is the current assessment.

Some real estate-related businesses were designated as “essential services.” Included in this list are banks, lenders, appraisers, attorneys and title companies.

Yesterday, the Governor’s Executive Order also required Registers of Deeds to continue operating. While this means that closing activities may be able to continue, it is still unclear as to the manner in which they will be accomplished (remote or in-person submission).

Additionally, many critical trades are allowed to continue to work, including building and construction, plumbers, electricians, exterminators, cleaning and janitorial staff, HVAC, painting, moving and relocation services and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences, essential activities and essential businesses and operations. These activities should help property managers continue operations.

Beginning Thursday morning, travel is restricted for all non-essential activities. If you are not working in an essential business or conducting an approved activity, you must stay at home. Real estate brokerage is NOT included as an essential business or activity. That means starting Thursday, REALTORS® will not be allowed to conduct most business activity outside of their homes within Mecklenburg County. That does not mean that business must stop; however, your normal business activities (including showings and open houses) must now cease or be conducted remotely from your homes.

The order does not include any explicit references to multiple items included in the closing process, including but not limited to inspections, walk-through inspections and in-person closings. Staff is continuing to gather clarifications on these and other points.

EXECUTIVE ORDER 120

On March 23, Governor Cooper issued Executive Order 120. Titled “Additional Limitations on Mass Gatherings, Restrictions on Venues and Long Term Care Facilities, and Extension of School Closure Date” this Order outlines additional restrictions and closures, as well as further guidance related to the evolving situation.

Here are the highlights from the Order:

• Clarifies a previous order designating mass gatherings as no more than fifty (50) persons. These gatherings do not encompass activities or locations like grocery stores.
• Orders the closure of entertainment facilities without a retail or dining effective at 5:00 pm on Wednesday, March 25, 2020. This includes bingo parlors, gyms, movie theaters, and many others. There is an allowance for any retail or dining component located within that location to continue to operate under the previously established guidelines for take-out dining (Executive Order 118).
• The Order also directs the closure of close-contact businesses like barbers, beauty salons, tattoo parlors, and nail salons.
• Direct local government agencies and officials to continue to exercise their responsibilities, including but not limited to local county Department of Social Services (“DSS”) offices, Health Departments, Registers of Deeds, and other local government functions that are required to protect lives and property.
• Restricts visitors and non-essential health care personnel Long term care facilities shall restrict visitation of all, except for certain compassionate care situations, for example, an end­of-life situation.
• Directs that all public schools remain closed for students through Friday, May 15, 2020.

Executive Order 120 provides no direction regarding any other business operations outside of those listen within it or in any previous Executive Order. Notwithstanding the Mecklenburg County order detailed above, no other businesses, including real estate, have been ordered to close.

NC REALTORS® Offices

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests until at least April 10.

You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information. The NC REALTORS® Legal Hotline will remain open during our regular business hours of Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm. To contact the Legal Hotline, email legalhotline@ncrealtors.org. The NC REALTORS® Tech Helpline is also Monday – Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. EST by calling the dedicated NC REALTORS® phone number (877-573-5612) or visiting TechHelpLine.com.

In this STATUS UPDATE we focus on the emergency rules passed by the NC Real Estate Commission, communications with the Governor regarding real estate services, the passage of a federal relief package, federal rental relief proposals, understanding evictions during this time, and other resources available on the NC REALTORS® website.

NC Real Estate Commission Approves Emergency Rules in Response to COVID-19

On Wednesday, the North Carolina Real Estate Commission passed an emergency rule package in response to the current COVID-19 situation. These rules primarily address education requirements for licensees due to the guidance offered by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding prohibitions on mass gatherings and social distancing.

The rules are available on the NC Real Estate Commission’s website and are pending final approval by the state Codifier of Rules. They are expected to go into effect in the next few days. As soon as they are, you will receive email communications from the Commission.

Here are the highlights:

• The Commission shall grant all brokers an extension of time to complete postlicensing and continuing education courses, as well as the 12-hour Broker-In-Charge course.
• All schools and course sponsors will cease (cancel or suspend) all in-person courses until April 30
• Schools have been given the approval to hold synchronous distance learning (i.e., live webinars or web-based conference platforms) under the following deadlines:
  • Until June 10, 2020, schools and course sponsors may offer synchronous distance-learning for continuing education courses
  • Until June 30, 2020, schools and course sponsors may offer synchronous distance-learning for prelicensing and postlicensing courses.
• Schools shall allow students to make-up courses through taking another course offered by the school
• The Commission has also granted educators an extension on their instructor renewals.

Want to take some online CE courses during this time? Check out this growing list.

NC REALTORS® Asks Governor Cooper to Designate Real Estate Services as Essential

On Wednesday, NC REALTORS® sent a letter to Governor Roy Cooper to ask that he designate real estate services as essential under his current disaster declarations. Over the past few days, we have begun to hear of REALTORS® facing challenges in completing closings due to the changes being made by Registers of Deeds across the state. To help mitigate the potential economic harm, we have made this important step.

These steps have been taken by other states and even county governments in North Carolina, like Buncombe County, to recognize and include essential operations vital to a real estate transaction. These services include, but are not limited to, title searches, permitting, inspections, construction, and especially the transfer and recordation of ownership.

NC REALTORS® is also working with our local associations to closely monitor and assist local governments in their efforts to keep these functions proceeding.

If you have had transactions impacted by the current situation due to changes in government processes, we want to hear from you. Email us.

Second Relief Bill Signed by President

Congress has passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (H.R. 6201) providing support to American workers, families, and businesses, including the expansion of paid sick leave and family medical leave. It also includes refundable tax credits for small businesses and self-employed individuals to cover the cost of the leave. Learn more.

NAR’s advocacy team continues to urge Congressional leaders to include support for self-employed professionals and other small business owners.

Federal Rental Relief Proposals

NAR has joined other real estate and finance industry groups in sending a letter to the US House of Representatives and Senate leadership as well as the White House, urging them to include measures to address landlord/property management concerns in relief efforts.

It includes:

• Supporting an emergency rental assistance fund, to help tenants meet housing-related financial obligation if they lose income during the crisis;
• Pointing out that evictions are the only mechanism for removing tenants who pose safety or security risks to other residents/the community, and cautioning against blanket eviction moratoriums that may include situations not related to COVID-19;
• Urging them to provide financial relief to rental property owners, specifically asking that any measure providing assistance to renters also provide support to rental property owners to mitigate the loss of rental income.

The Eviction Process

As you may have seen, the North Carolina Courts system has made multiple shifts in response to the coronavirus outbreak. The most notable of these shifts is a significant reduction in operations to limit the amount of social contact. With these changes has come a lot of questions, including what impact this will have on eviction and foreclosure proceedings.

NC REALTORS® has been closely monitoring the issues being faced by property managers in response to a memo which outlined an overarching delay in these court proceedings. Following conversations with representatives from the Administrative Office of the Courts, here is what we know.

The NC Court decision to stop all eviction and foreclosure court proceedings does not prevent the filing of eviction or foreclosure paperwork, nor does it relieve the tenant or obligated property owner from any obligations under their lease or mortgage. Thus, landlords can proceed with the eviction and banks can proceed with foreclosure protocols. Once the pandemic has passed and court processes return to normal operations, these can proceed immediately.

Representatives of the Administrative Office of the Courts have relayed that their directive does not prohibit emergency evictions from operating as normal. These are situations where criminal activity is occurring which puts the health, safety, and welfare of others in danger. These proceedings can go before the magistrates rather than through the typical district court. At this time, magistrates are operating a normal.

We recognize that this guidance may still result in landlords potentially losing rent payments during this time. Tenants should be reminded that they are still required to comply with the terms of their lease unless granted an explicit waiver by you. NC REALTORS® Government Affairs staff continues to encourage the NAR lobbying team to ensure that landlords are allowed to receive assistance through proposed Small Business Administration (SBA) loans or debt forgiveness programs.

If you are having issues with getting an emergency eviction heard or are having any other issues with these new processes, please email us. We have been asked by the NCAOC to provide feedback regarding any issues so they can be resolved.

NC REALTORS® has published Form 790-COVID-19 Addendum to the 2T-Offer to Purchase and Contract. This Addendum allows the parties to agree to an extension of the Contract (time period to be negotiated by the parties) if circumstances arise related to the world-wide Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that could make it unduly burdensome or impossible for Buyer or Seller to exercise their rights and/or perform their obligations under the Contract. This form is not required, however, it is being made available to all REALTORS® to use if appropriate in their transaction.

A Q&A related to the 790-COVID-19 Addendum will be published on Monday, March 23, 2020. In the meantime, if you have questions regarding the Addendum, please contact the Legal Hotline by emailing legalhotline@ncrealtors.org during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5:00pm.

The 790-COVID-19 Addendum should be available electronically with vendors soon. NC REALTORS® members who are unable to access forms through a vendor can log in and download a PDF through the NC REALTORS® website

As a reminder, NC REALTORS® is continuing its operations with staff working remotely to ensure that we maintain the same level of service to our members. Our offices are currently closed to members and guests until at least the end of March. You can access our staff directory at ncrealtors.org for contact information.