CEO's message: Don't let BMAR's name mislead you

Membership of the Bronx-Manhattan North Association of Realtors (BMAR) includes all companies directly or indirectly servicing the business community and real estate industry wherever their office is located. Companies do not have to have an office in Manhattan or the Bronx to be active members of the association. Real estate licensees can also join regardless of the location of their office address. Realtor associate dues are the lowest in the metropolitan region. Even seasoned real estate professionals can benefit. Real estate professionals and companies servicing the industry can benefit by taking advantage of the valuable programs services and networking opportunities available through this association as "Your Board of Choice." Remember; do not let the organization's name mislead you. BMAR membership is composed of a broad base of companies and professionals including licensed real estate brokers and agents; multi-dwelling property owners; building service vendors and suppliers; unlicensed property managers; attorneys; appraisers; banks; mortgage companies; fuel service and energy companies; title and abstract companies; insurance companies and insurance brokers; contractors and other companies servicing the real estate industry. The policy of the National Association of Realtors enables real estate licensees to choose a Realtor Board of their choice regardless of the location of their office location. Active membership is an important competitive business advantage. During "hot" markets, generating business and closing more deals is easy. Professionals that have survived the highs and lows of the real estate industry are those that keep a competitive edge by being active in professional associations such as the BMAR. For more information on membership, contact Isabel Gastaliturris (212) 242-4343; (718) 892-3000 or email [email protected]. I also recommend attending and or sponsoring any one of four major networking events such as the upcoming 24th Annual Holiday Party on Thursday, December 4th, 2008 at the Marina del Rey Caterers on the water's edge with a view of both the Whitestone and Throgs Neck Bridges in the Bronx. This is an excellent opportunity to save money by hosting your company office party in conjunction with this event. The Annual Holiday Party features 4 ½ hours of superb buffet selections; drinks; non-stop music and entertainment; networking; recognition awards and fun. It is the perfect setting for you to be a host of one or more tables for your staff, business contacts and customers to celebrate the holiday season. Each reserved table of ten or more will have your company name on a table sign. Last year, 28 companies purchased one or more tables confirming that this format makes business sense and is a great way to save money. Treat your staff, customers and be a super star. For more information on the next networking event or advertising contact Janine Schall at (212) 242-4343, (718) 892-3000 or email: [email protected]. Keeping your company product or service highly visible is easy with five annual publications including the Realtor Professional Edge Monthly Newsletter. Circulation of the newsletter via email is now over 10,000 companies and professionals throughout the New York City area. Advertising is an excellent means of promoting your products or services directly to your target market. BMAR has a rich history of helping members become more successful and enhancing business relationships. This fact is very evident since many of our members are 3rd or 4th generation of active companies in the organization. As they know, cultivating long term business is a worthwhile goal that keeps paying off. I look forward to meeting you at our next networking event! Nunzio Del Greco, RCE, is the CEO of the Bronx-Manhattan North Association of Realtors, Bronx, N.Y.