A BASIC GUIDE TO IRC 1031 TAX DEFERRED EXCHANGES
This course will cover the basics of 1031 exchanges by giving practical examples and detailed explanations. Learn about contract and closing procedures, how to identify potential 1031 exchange transactions, time deadlines and like-kind property requirements, vesting issues, qualified intermediary due diligence and protection of client funds, and retirement and estate planning issues. Whether you are new to 1031 exchanges or consider yourself well versed this course covers a wide range of 1031 topics in an easy to learn format.

ANNUAL PROPERTY OPERATIONG DATA REPORT (APOD)
This course will help both realtors and investors to understand, analyze, and complete the key elements of the Annual Property Operating Data form.

*APPRAISED PROPERTY VALUE: FACT or FICTION
This course is designed to determine the role of the REALTOR and the appraiser in determining market values. An overview of the various tools and information sources such as Town Hall field cards, deeds, and the MLS in the subject property analysis of single family, condominium, and multi family residences is covered.  FHA Guidelines and other variables are also addressed.

BASIC NEW RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
This course presents the fundamental principles and detailed information that govern how buildings are constructed. The construction process from site plan to completed project is covered with significant details for agents to better assist their clients.

COVER YOUR AGENCY: IT’S UP TO YOU
A risk management overview for licensees which covers: consumers/buyers/ sellers dealing with independent contractors;  proper paper work for all parties;. purchase & sales agreements, escrow, misrepresentation issues, technology & risk and knowing the limitations of your license.

CT BUYER AGENCY
This course will help the real estate practitioner to clarify, communicate, and practice the various Agency roles and relationships to their clients and customers.

CT DISCLOSURE, RESPA & LAW UPDATE
Participants will acquire an understanding of:  the need to disclose material facts, the prohibitions against accepting illegal kickbacks, recent CT law changes.

CT REAL ESTATE AGENT FIDUCIARY REVIEW & LAW UPDATE MANDATORY 2012
Understand the difference between a client and a customer. Identify common law and state licensing law fiduciary duties owed to clients. Review and discuss facts and outcomes of actual cases related to REALTORS fiduciary duties. Talk about current topics in practice and learn about recent legislation related to real estate practice.

CURRENT ALTERNATIVES FOR HOMEOWNERS: MORTGAGE REFINANCE & MODIFICATION OPTIONS
This course provides an overview of the various financial programs currently available to CT home owners. The specific terms and eligibility requirements for Making Home Affordable through Refinance and Mortgage Modification program, determining Freddie Mac and/or Fannie Mae loans, qualifying for Refinancing and/or second mortgages and a variety of Federal incentives are among the topics covered.

CURRENT CHALLENGES IN REAL FORUM
This course is designed to keep real estate professionals informed on the legislative efforts and trends in this ever changing real estate landscape.  A thought provoking, interactive format will address the key issues impacting today’s real estate market. Topics include Mortgage financing, Economic Stimulus plans, Energy Policies, Real Property Rights, Smart Growth and Green Policy.

*DEALING WITH DISTRESSED PROPERTIES
What is a “Distressed Property?” 
This course helps to define the difference between “distressed” and beyond “distressed.” Learn how to recognize "distressed" properties, distinctions for beyond distressed, issues for rehabbing, dealing with present and future owners, adjusting expectations to meet market value, and present and future considerations in investing.

DIARY OF A REAL ESTATE AGENT
What are the characteristics that turn a novice REALTOR into a professional? This course provides an overview of current statistical data profiling the real estate profession, client services,  current challenges in real estate, and task management. Class activities include case studies and discussion.

*DOES GREEN MAKE SENSE IN REAL ESTATE?
“Green” is the marketing catch-phrase of the decade.  The class is not designed as a forum to argue the validity or cause/effect of Global Warming/Climate Change.  It is designed to help the real estate professional start to recognize and analyze the current and changing expectations of the real estate market. How is eco-friendliness being reflected in the design, construction and function of real estate improvements? How these changes are marketed, chosen, measured/certified and, in increasing importance, mandated through legislation and regulations.  How will we start to measure its value in sale prices?

DUAL AGENCY
This course further defines the differences and disclosure requirements for Dual and Designated Agency for brokers, salespeople and their clients. These forms of agency must be practiced with knowledge and skill by licensees when offering client representation options and advice.

ETHICS & DISPUTE RESOLUTION
**Meets the mandatory CT continuing education course requirement and the National Association of Realtors NAR requirement for the period from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2012.
The course deals with the basic ethics that should be practiced by all licensees. The course covers procedures that can be used to settle disputes, including arbitration. It also covers the ethics included in state regulations.
Case studies are used to reinforce other course materials.
FAIR LENDING FOR REALTORS
This course provides an overview of the current issues and practices impacting “fair” lending. These issues include: Predatory Lending, Equal Credit Opportunity Act, Fair Housing Act, Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, Truth in Lending Act, Higher Priced Mortgage Loans, Home Valuation Code of Conduct, Mortgage Disclosure Improvement Act.

FILLING IN THE FORMS
 Accurate and timely information is a critical discipline in completing a Real Estate transaction.  A disciplined approach to “paperwork” is essential. This course provides a realistic and practical approach to completing a variety of real estate contracts; listing contracts, buyer agency contracts, purchase and sale contracts and the various disclosures required.

FINANCING REVIEW FOR REALTORS
This course provides an overview for realtors in financing sources, terminology, secondary markets, underwriting methods; VHA and FHA insured loans and the qualifying process.

FUNDAMENTALS OF HOME INSPECTION 
Don't lose deals over home inspections! 
This course will provide you with the proper knowledge to ensure that the home inspectors you recommend to your clients are meeting or exceeding the state's requirements.  Your clients will be less likely to back out of a deal, more likely to use your services again in the future and to recommend you to friends and family because they know you were looking out for their best interest by recommending knowledgeable, qualified and  professional home inspectors.

GETTING, KEEPING & FACILITATING PROPERTY CONTROL
This course provides an overview of typical retail real estate control documents: including ground, pad, build-to-suit leases, option, purchase & sale agreements and letters of intents. It also provides an understanding of the corporate retail legal process, confidentiality, negotiation strategies and preparation and planning.

*GREEN BUILDING, GREEN LIVING
This course provides detailed information about what “green building” is. Topics covered range from site plan to energy efficient design, structural systems, renewable energy, materials, water conservation, indoor environments, construction waste and landscaping considerations.
HAFA – HOME AFFORDABLE FORECLOSURE ALTERNATIVE (6 Credits)
Developed in 2009, this NAR course provides in-depth coverage of the U.S. Treasury, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac programs. Learn the similarities and differences among the three HAFA programs and gain the tools to assist your clients in processing short sales more efficiently.

 HOME FINANCING
This course addresses the benefits of purchasing a home as an investment, tax deduction and inflation hedge. It covers and compares types and sources of mortgages; qualifying for a mortgage, refinancing, and the loan approval process.

HOUSEHOLD CONTAMINANTS
How bad is mold, and do you really need to test for it? Are you giving your clients misinformation regarding radon?
You will be able to inform you clients properly about these issues and others such as Formaldehyde, EMF, lead paint, asbestos, water contamination, combustion gasses, dirty ducts and pressure treated lumber.

*KNOW YOUR GOVERMENT LOANS IN A THIGHT MARKET 
This course provides an overview of the various types of mortgage loans currently available. The factors that are used to determine buyer eligibility for these loans are also reviewed. The role of government agencies such as; Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and HUD in the mortgage process are also examined.

*LAND DEVELOPMENT OR OPEN SPACE CONSERVATION
There are many issues that can arise in purchasing and developing land. The realtor’s role is to facilitate the process for their client by providing knowledge and guidance. This session reviews the objectives of land acquisition and the range of uses that may be applicable.  Subdivision procedures, zoning and the impact of hazardous waste sites are also included.

LISTINGS: THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE UGLY
This course addresses the issues that can make or break a listing; including the accuracy of town hall property information, elements of the residential property disclosure report, zoning, PUD, PRD, and the various mechanical and testing issues that impact the listing agreement.

*MANDATORY APPRAISAL LAW UPDATE
This course is a requirement for Appraisal license renewal. The seminar provides an overview of the current complex issues that impact appraisers and the appraisal profession.

MASTERING THE ENTITLEMENT (Permitting) & DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
This course addresses the issues that can make or break the Permitting process for commercial development. The course includes an overview of land use regulations (wetlands, zoning, Army Corp of Engineers) Permitting Due Diligence, formulating & implementing the permitting strategy, the impact of public, private and political issues; and making public presentations.

MINIMIZE TAXES, MAXIMIZE WEALTH: UNDERSTANDING TAX DEFERRAL STRATEGIES WHEN SELLING REAL ESTATE
This course will provide an overview of several important strategies used to minimize, defer or forgive the gain tax which may be due upon the sale of real estate as well as the methods used to compute a capital gain tax and depreciation recapture. Understanding taxes is one of the key methods to maximizing the profitability of real estate transactions.

*MOST VALUABLE PROPERTIES IN THE U.S.A.
This course is a tour of “valuable” U.S. cities. It analyzes what physical/environmental, economic, governmental and social influences impacted these communities’ development, success. And “value.” By learning about how needs were met and thereby “value” created in the past, helps us to anticipate how value will adjust to needs in the present and future.

ORGANIZING & IMPLEMENTING AN APPROPRIATE SITE SELECTION PROCESS
This course provides a practical overview of site selection methodology: including, trade area delineation, sales forecasting, concept plans, information gathering, concept plans, land use & traffic considerations, competition, organizing and implementing a site “ride”, site ride criteria, how to avoid common mistakes, and getting the decision.

PREPARING THE BUYER & SELLER FOR HOME INSPECTION
The home inspection process has changed dramatically over time.
 For the buyer, this course helps to prepare and define for the buyer the home inspection process; including the range of underlying  issues involved,  ethics, state inspection,  report preparation and the consequences of poor preparation.
For the seller the reasons to prepare, home condition benefits, buyer attributes, pre-sale inspections, check-lists, and the effect of market conditions are included.

PREPARING REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS
The basics of preparing standard real estate contracts including: listing agreements, buyer representation, sales and disclosure forms are covered. A review of the limitations placed on agents preparing standard contract forms is also covered.

RADON, REL ESTATE, & YOU
This course was developed specifically for realtors by the Connecticut Dept. of Public Health. You will be able to better advise you clients concerning radon testing and its health effects. You will reduce the risk of lost time and money due to invalid radon tests because of unintentional protocol violations by your clients.

REAL ESTATE AGENCY
This course covers the various types of agency relationships for brokers, salespeople and their impact on client relationships. An overview of current CT laws impacting agency is also included.

REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS
“A contract is a promise or an agreement between two or more parties that the court will enforce.” The basic elements that make a contract correct and enforceable in CT are covered along with those factors that can lead to “breach of contract” and broker liabilities are covered along with a review of other contingencies.

REAL ESTATE FOR THE 55+ CROWD
The Senior Market (over age 55) is the fastest growing market in America. Seniors represent a growing real estate market that demands new skills, players, and a demand for excellent customer service
Learn how to: Prospect and service this rapidly growing market.
Establish a reputation for professional expertise in dealing with this market.

REAL ESTATE MATH
Many real estate agents have been away from mathematics for many years. This course informs real estate brokers and salespersons about the basic math used in their business. It starts with a review of math fundamentals and proceeds through processes used by real estate agents in their everyday work. It is designed to create the ability to solve problems without reliance on a calculator or computer. It benefits the public by giving the agent the skill to aid customers and clients with facts and figures. It is presented in slide form so that the student can follow the steps used in solving real estate problems.

RENTALS: THE RULES OF THE ROAD
The basics elements of a lease are covered. Topics include oral vs. written leases: the agent’s responsibility in representing the tenant’s interested vs. an agent representing the landlord’s interests. The obligations of the tenant and the obligations of the landlord are reviewed. The eviction process for dealing with problem tenants is also covered.

*RESIDENTIAL NARRATIVE APPRAISAL REPORT WRITING
This course is designed to aid the appraiser in identifying and establishing: client expectations and requirements, the purposes and types of appraisal reports; defining a scope of work; and USPAP review; that will produce a complete, concise, and supportable written valuation.
*RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION DEVELOPMENT
This course provides both Real Estate Appraisers and Sales professionals with a clearer understating of the construction/development process.
This includes identifying:

• Who is the client (individual or lender)?
• Establishing client expectations and what USPAP guidelines apply to the assignment.
• Examining what other conditions or assumptions may be applicable to the assignment completion.

*RETAIL DEVELOPMENT PROCESS FOR APPRAISERS
This course helps the Commercial Property Appraiser to understanding the retail real estate decision making process from site selection, defining the trading area, estimating sales volume, site characteristics and feasibility analysis, competitive influences and impact. This course provides insight into valuation from the retailer’s perspective.

RISK MANAGEMENT
This course explores the types of risks faced in a variety of situations including starting a business and property management. How to using the Code of Ethics in evaluating, managing and protecting oneself from exposure to risk is also covered. A review of the types of insurance coverage needed and lawsuit protection is also discussed.

SHORT SALES PROCESS TRAINING
The objective of this class is to provide practical guidance for agents who are managing short sales.                 The focus of the course is to answer the following basic questions: How does a short sale change the sales process?; What do I need to do differently?; How do I reduce the time to closing?; What does my seller/buyer need to know?; How do I explain this to my seller/buyer?; How do I negotiate with the Servicer?; What relief can my seller expect?
Each participant will come out of this class with an overall understanding of the short sale process, the required disclosures, the short sale addendum, the short sale package, negotiating with the bank, government programs, and potential tax consequences.

SIX DANGEROUS TRENDS FACING COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNERS TODAY
The tumultuous real estate market over the last several years has created a dangerous impact on real estate fundamentals. Six disturbing trends that need to be strategically addressed will be covered:

1. Pending Government Regulations
2. Shifts in Consumer Buying Habits
3. Recessionary Impact on Corporate Downsizing & Employment
4. Federal, State & Local Budget Deficits
5. Financial Underwriting Guidelines & Requirements
6. Pending Accounting Rule Changes

TAKE THE CHALLENGE OUT OF LOW DOWN PAYMENT mortgage FINANCING
This course provides an overview of the programs available to assist individuals with low down-payments in acquiring a mortgage. Topics covered include: Fannie Mae’s Flex 97 and My Community Mortgage, FHA, VA, CHFA, FHA 203K Renovation Loan, Housing Development Fund,  and the Guaranteed Rural Housing Loan,.

THE UNCONVENTIONAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION: SHORT SALES & FORECLOSURE
This course provides definition s and practical guidance for handling the six categories of unconventional transactions from representing the Buyer or the Seller, commissions, and traits for success in achieving a successful outcome in the “unconventional” transaction.

THIS OLD CT HOUSE – SELLING ANTIQUE HOMES IN TODAY’S REAL ESTATE MARKET
Topics include:  Historical architectural influence on current construction; Understanding the construction process to determine age; The top ten deterioration issues and solutions; Inspection standards and practices for antique homes vs. modern buildings; Restrictions/Historical Districts; Research Resources.

TOP SECRET: THE QUICKEST WAY TO LOSE YOUR LICENSE
The goal of this course is to heighten awareness of the various ways CT agents can lose their license to practice real estate whether by intent or by ignorance of the law. Real CT cases will be cited from CT Real Estate Commission DCP minutes. Class discussion will include penalties: i.e. suspension, revocation and fines imposed on violators. Additional discussion will cover agents recommending home improvement contractors and the consequences of those recommendations.

*UNIFORM APPRAISAL DATA SET
UAD is best described as the "new language" that appraisal reports must be submitted in. Many of the fields used in the previous report format had "flexibility" in the data entry that often led to misinterpreted meanings. The UAD standard that was put into effect on September 1, 2011 will institute specific values that must be entered in the data fields for this report to be valid.  Appraisers are now required to complete this form in compliance with the new UAD Uniform Appraisal Dataset for ALL Fannie, Freddie, FHA and VA transactions.

*UNDERSTANDING FANNIE MAE GUIDELINES
This course provides appraisers and realtors with the necessary tools to comprehend Fannie Mae requirements for clients and other end users of Appraisal Reports. The differences between actual Fannie Mae requirements vs. USPAP requirements will also be covered.

UNDERSTANDING THE RETAILER & THEIR DECISION MAKING PROCESS
This course provides REALTORS with the necessary tools to comprehend the retail corporate decision making process from strategic planning, target and competitive market and site analysis, the economy and its impact on sales.

UNLOCKING THE VALUE IN RAW LAND
How to profit, market, and educate the buyer/seller.  This course is intended for REALTORS without extensive knowledge of land investment and/or development. It is designed to provide the basic concepts of identifying suitable parcels to either buy or sell and how to advise your clients in the process.

USING PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE AND BUYDOWNS IN A TOUGH MARKET
This course defines what PMI is, when it is needed, who provides it and the various types and benefits of Private Mortgage Insurance. The course also addresses how Mortgage Insurers work with Mortgage Lenders in the current economic environment.

*WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE
Owning, developing and utilizing the portions of real estate which contact water have special attributes and specific government regulations. While real estate agents and appraisers are not land use or enforcement experts, they should be knowledgeable about issues, regulations, public policy and social costs/expectations. Water has always been an essential element of human survival, transportation, and community location. This course examines the balancing of the private use/ development of this asset with the government’s assertion of police power to control that use and implement programs for the health, safety, and welfare of the community.

*WATER, WATER IN MY BACKYARD
Owning, developing and utilizing real estate for residential uses is impacted by water. That includes the water we need to drink, cook and wash with; the waste water we create; the water and wetlands in our yards, the water that borders our property or that we can see from our property. Its presence on site and/or a view of it changes the value of property. Real estate agents and Appraisers should be knowledgeable about how systems interact with water and what regulations can be expected.

WHAT YOUR BROKER SHOULD HAVE TOLD YOU
This course compares the broker’s role in the past to the demands on brokers and agents today. Topics include running effective sales meetings, technology review, press releases, marketing and work life balance. Course includes role playing case studies and interactive discussion.