Why Philadelphia Real Estate Agents Need to Join GPAR?

Why join GPAR? It’s a common question we receive from agents at Philadelphiahouse.com, and for good reason. GPAR membership has many valuable benefits that can significantly enhance your career as a real estate professional in Philadelphia.

Rather than answering this question case-by-case, we created this article as a comprehensive guide. We aim to share GPAR membership benefits with our agents and anyone wondering how this organization can support growth, networking opportunities, and success in the real estate industry.

By the end of this article, you’ll clearly understand why becoming a GPAR member could be one of the best decisions for your real estate career.

Real Estate Agents Vs. REALTORS®

A real estate agent is not necessarily a REALTOR®!

This is the first thing you need to know before we explain GPAR. Let’s clarify:

Real Estate Agents and REALTORS® are both professionals involved in the buying and selling of real estate. Still, there is a key difference between them.

Real Estate Agents have obtained a real estate license from their state’s licensing authority. This license allows them to facilitate real estate transactions, such as helping buyers find homes or sellers list their properties.

REALTORS® are a specific type of real estate agent who are members of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). NAR is a professional trade association that sets standards for ethical conduct and provides its members with various resources and benefits. “Realtor” is a trademarked designation, so only NAR members can use the title and logo. The NAR trademarked the term in 1950 to protect it from misuse, and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office still upholds the trademark today.

Who is GPAR?

GPAR stands for the Greater Philadelphia Association of REALTORS®. It’s a community of licensed real estate professionals who work in the Philadelphia area. It provides its members with a wide range of resources and support to help them succeed in their businesses. GPAR’s mission is to promote ethical business practices, homeownership, and the right to own property. Their vision is to contribute to Philadelphia’s growth and development as a desirable place to live, work, and enjoy life.

Now, you might be wondering: what exactly does GPAR do?

Is GPAR Membership Considered NAR Membership?

Yes, a membership with the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors (GPAR) typically includes membership in the National Association of Realtors (NAR). Therefore, when you join a local Realtor association like GPAR, you usually gain automatic membership in state-level associations (such as the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors) and national-level associations (NAR).

So, by joining GPAR, you can enjoy the benefits of being a REALTOR®.

GPAR Membership Benefits

Joining the Greater Philadelphia Association of Realtors (GPAR) offers real estate professionals a wide range of benefits. Here’s an overview of what you can gain by becoming a member:

1. Access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)

The primary GPAR membership benefit is access to an extensive database of property listings in the Philadelphia area, providing you with a valuable resource that every real estate professional needs to stay competitive. With this comprehensive tool, you’ll always have the latest information on available properties. Additionally, you can utilize the MLS to market your listings effectively, reaching a broad audience of realtors and potential buyers, which enhances your visibility and increases the likelihood of closing deals swiftly.

2. Professional Development and Education

Stay informed on the latest industry trends and regulations through GPAR’s continuing education courses, designed to keep you at the forefront of the real estate field. In addition to these courses, you can participate in workshops and seminars covering various relevant topics, from legal updates to market analysis, providing you with the knowledge you need to succeed.

3. Advocacy and Legal Support

Benefit from GPAR’s active involvement in advocating for policies that protect and promote the real estate industry at local, state, and national levels, ensuring that your interests are represented and safeguarded. In addition, GPAR offers a legal helpline that provides access to valuable legal resources and support, helping you navigate complex real estate transactions with confidence and clarity.

4. Networking Opportunities

Attend GPAR events, including annual meetings, networking events, and social gatherings, to connect with peers and industry leaders and foster relationships that can enhance your career. Additionally, by joining special interest groups within GPAR, such as committees focused on commercial real estate, property management, or young professionals, you can dive deeper into areas that align with your professional interests and expand your expertise in those fields.

5. Market Data and Research

Receive detailed market reports that provide insights into current conditions, trends, and forecasts, enabling you to offer well-informed advice to your clients. The GPAR membership benefits also include access to these market reports, ensuring you stay informed and equipped with the latest data. Alongside these reports, you can access various research tools and data that are invaluable resources for making sound business decisions and staying ahead in the competitive real estate market.

6. Reputation and Branding

As a member of GPAR, you earn the prestigious Realtor® designation, which reflects your commitment to a strict code of ethics and professionalism and distinguishes you in the industry. Additionally, you can benefit from marketing support resources that help elevate your branding and enhance your marketing efforts, making it easier to stand out and succeed in the competitive real estate market.

7. Support and Resources

Get the support you need with the Member Helpline, where assistance is available for any issues related to your membership, MLS access, or other GPAR services. Additionally, you can streamline your real estate transactions by accessing a comprehensive resource library filled with guides tailored to your needs.

By joining GPAR, you will boost your professional capabilities and align yourself with a respected organization that provides the tools, resources, and advocacy essential for success in the real estate industry.

8. PAR and NAR Member Benefits

GPAR membership also automatically includes membership in the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS® (PAR), which means access to benefits, tools, data, and everything else that these associations provide to their members.

GPAR Membership Programs

There are three types of REALTOR® membership offered by GPAR:

Here’s a simple explanation of the different types of memberships:

1. Primary Membership

For any licensed real estate agents (licensees) in a firm to be eligible for Primary membership with the Greater Philadelphia Association of REALTORS® (GPAR), the main REALTOR® in the firm, known as the Designated REALTOR®, must already be a member of GPAR. The Designated REALTOR® can hold either a Primary or Secondary membership.

If they hold a Primary membership, GPAR is their main association. The dues for this membership cover not only the Greater Philadelphia Association of REALTORS® (GPAR) but also the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS® (PAR).

2. Secondary Membership

Suppose you already have a Primary membership with another REALTOR® Association and pay your NAR dues through that membership. In that case, you can also join GPAR as a Secondary member. To do this, you must provide a letter confirming your good standing from your Primary Association and pay only the local GPAR dues.

3. Affiliate Membership

This membership is for individuals or businesses related to the real estate industry but not REALTORS®. The annual dues for Affiliate members are $250, and if you’re joining for the first time, the dues will be adjusted based on the quarter in which you apply.

Steps to Join GPAR

So, GPAR membership benefits sound interesting, right?

To join the Greater Philadelphia Association of REALTORS® (GPAR) as a REALTOR®, take the following steps:

1. Obtain a Pennsylvania Real Estate License

To become a licensed real estate agent in Philadelphia, you must complete 75 hours of pre-licensing education in Real Estate Fundamentals and Practice through a Commission-approved provider. Also, you must be 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED. After finishing your coursework, schedule and pass the Pennsylvania Real Estate Salesperson Exam at a PearsonVUE Testing Center. Additionally, you’ll need to obtain a criminal record check through the state police PATCH website, ensuring it’s no older than 90 days when you submit your application.

2. Locate a Sponsoring Broker

Next, you need to secure a sponsoring broker and submit your Salesperson License Application online through the PALS website, where your broker will also complete their portion of the application.

3. Complete the Application

Submit the GPAR REALTOR® Membership Application Form electronically to donna@gpar.org. Your application should include your home address, office location, email address, license number, signature, and all required fees and dues. GPAR does not accept applications by mail or fax.

4. Complete the Orientation Course

The New Member Orientation Program is the final step in the application process for joining the Greater Philadelphia Association of REALTORS®. The National Association of REALTORS® requires all new members to attend this orientation, which includes a 2 ½ hour Code of Ethics course. After processing your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email with links to register for the available classes.

REALTORS® must complete at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of ethics training during each three-year cycle. Suppose you have already completed the New Member Code of Ethics Orientation. In that case, you won’t need additional ethics training until the next cycle begins.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the GPAR membership benefits provide invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development, having the right brokerage is equally important for success in the Philadelphia real estate market.

At Philadelphiahouse.com, our 100% commission structure, coupled with the support and tools we offer, complements the advantages of GPAR membership. Together, we can help you reach new heights in your real estate career, offering the perfect blend of independence and professional growth. Contact us today!