JoAnn Wesley Hassler

The IAR Convention stepped off yesterday at 1:30 p.m. for REALTOR® participants at Pheasant Run Resort. A new form for each continuing education (CE) participant featured a QR code and e-mail address that promises to have the exam results back via e-mail in short order. Sign in for the test was a little complicated as REALTORS® checking into the convention were vying for space with the CE folks.

In the end, however, all 500+ CE participants found seating in the ballroom. It was pretty tight, but REALTORS® like people, right?

Betsy Urbance, IAR Legal Hotline Attorney, was our formidable guide through “Agency, License Law and Escrow 2.0.” This is not one of the most entertaining classes one might teach or take, but when I walked around checking and talking to participants at the break, most were having a good time, felt Betsy was providing information, making it fun and was available to answer specific questions. They appreciated meeting her in person and enjoyed her sense of humor and accessibility.

The best part of the class, I feel, was that many who had not previously met Betsy had the opportunity to do so in this large classroom. We are very fortunate to have her as a resource. As a trainer and broker manager, I have called her for clarification and information on any number of topics. She is always responsive, direct and knowledgeable. Now that so many have met Betsy, I have a sense they will feel comfortable calling her directly if they need a second opinion or want to check out the legal side of an issue. What we can count on with Betsy is the facts and most up-to-date legal information.

REALTOR® JoAnn Wesley Hassler is broker with RE/MAX Professionals Select in Naperville. She writes a blog on market trends in Chicago’s far west suburbs and is a guest blogger for the 2011 IAR Convention. Learn more about the IAR Legal Hotline member service and the latest legal resources at www.illinoisrealtor.org/legal and see www.IARlicenselaw.org for the latest of the license law transition.