REBarGR
Thursday, September 19 @ The Knickerbocker
Event 11:00am-4:00pm | After Party 4:00-6:00pm
REBar is a Real Estate learning event, typically held at a bar – get it?
The event will begin with a strolling lunch and registration, followed by three learning sessions, with prizes and drinks in-between. It will conclude with an after party solely for networking.
Registration options
All tiers include a strolling lunch, full access to the event activities, networking, and one drink ticket. The real difference in the tiers are the number of raffle tickets you would like, for a chance to win fantastic prizes!
EMBER TIER:
Those who want to enjoy the event and have a chance to win a prize. $20, includes 1 raffle ticket- FLAME TIER:
Attendees looking for more chances to win. $40, includes 10 raffle tickets ($25 savings!*) - INFERNO TIER:
Those who want the ultimate experience and the highest chance of winning big prizes. $60, includes 25 raffle tickets ($80 savings!*)
All event proceeds are going to the Schoolhouse program, which you can learn more about here. After learning more, we are sure you will see why you can be generous in your efforts to win the raffle prizes, without the guilt – it all goes toward a great cause!
* Raffle tickets will be available for sale at the event for $5.00 each through Venmo or cash.
Location: The Knickerbocker, 417 Bridge St NW, 49504
Staff contact: Brittany Smith
This event is open only to the members of GRAR.
Platinum Sponsors: Fresh Start Studios and Fresh Start Property Management Group
After Party Sponsor: Lake Michigan Credit Union
Room Sponsors: Consumers Credit Union, Dart Bank, Denali Title
Event Sponsors: Choice One Bank, Independent Bank, Nederveld, Ruoff Mortgage, Sun Title
Food Sponsors: ATA National Title Group, Bell Title, Benchmark Mortgage, Candudo, Grand Home Inspection, Guild Mortgage, Mortgage 1, Inc., Preferred Rate, Riverbank Finance, Team Mortgage Company
Words That Work: Mastering Verbal De-Escalation Skills
Tuesday, September 24 | 9:30-11:30am
In the high-stress environment of real estate, conflicts can arise due to variety of factors, such as:
- Disputes between Buyers and Sellers
- Disputes between a Client and their Agent/Broker
- Agent to Agent Disagreements
- Tension Between Neighbors
- Disgruntled Tenants or Squatters
- Emotional Transactions Involving Divorce or Estate Properties
This is why it is important that real estate professionals are able to identify the changes in body language indicating that a situation is escalating, and also possess the skills and techniques to diffuse agitation and stress.
The instructor, former Kent County Sheriff Deputy Rebecca McGinnis, will help you recognize body language, engage in effective communication, manage aggressive behavior, and implement de-escalation strategies.
This class is brought to you by GRAR’s Safety Task Force.
Class size is limited to the first 35 registrants.
This class filled quickly! Please email Krissie to be placed on the waitlist.
Encore Offering: REALTOR® Safety Class
Tuesday, October 8 | 9:00am-12:00pm
Topics include: Situational Awareness, Identification of High-Risk Areas, How to Safely Show a Home, Weapons of Opportunity, Cell Phone Safety Features, Forewarn, Local Safety Incidents & Other Safety Resources.
Instructed by: Chase Coughlin, Chairperson of the Safety Task Force, Former Ionia County Sheriff Deputy, Former Member of the FBI’s Violent Crimes Team
Cost: $20 – includes light refreshments, a personal safety alarm, and 3 hours of standard CE credit
Location: GRAR
Sponsor: CutCo Closing Gifts
Intro to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Tuesday, October 8 | 1:00-2:30pm
Regardless of your age, fitness level, goals, or experience, this course will provide practical self-defense skills, increased confidence in handling challenging situations, and a deeper understanding of personal safety strategies — all tailored to the unique needs of real estate professionals!
Participants are encouraged to engage in the training to the extent that they feel comfortable, at their own pace, with respect for personal boundaries.
1 hour of hands-on training + 30 minutes of Q&A
Cost: $20.00 (includes 1-month membership to the Deep Blue Brazilian Jiu Jitsu School)
Attire: Wear athletic clothing
Class size: Limited to 20 participants
Location:
Deep Blue Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
9175 Cherry Valley Ave SE, Ste. K
Caledonia, MI 49316
Staff contact: Krissie Entsminger
2024 Annual Meeting & Economic Forecast
Thursday, October 3
Dr. Alan Beaulieu returns for his FINAL in-person presentation!
Staying Ahead of the Curve in 2025–2026
2024 has included a tapestry of conflicting economic trends, with some industries enjoying ongoing growth and others in overt recession. Manufacturing and much of the industrial portion of the economy experienced a mild recession, but that decline will soon give way to rise and additional opportunities in 2025 and 2026 for well-prepared businesses.
Join us as we discuss consumer spending, inflation, interest rates, the labor market, and key leading indicators. This presentation will provide information on necessary tactics and strategies that will prepare you for an upswing in the business cycle post 2024. Knowledge gained from the presentation, in conjunction with ITR Economics’ time-tested analytical tools, will provide you the means to maximize profit in the years ahead.
Agenda
- 10:30am Registration
- 11:00am Business Meeting
- 12:00-2:00pm Lunch & Speaker
This event is open only to members of GRAR.
Cost: $15.00
Location: The Pinnacle Center, 3330 Highland Dr, Hudsonville, 49426
Staff contact: Sue Jenkins
New Member Orientation
Thursday, October 10 | 8:15am-2:30pm
Thursday, November 14 | 8:15am-2:30pm
The new REALTOR® Member Orientation Program is comprised of three segments: classroom session (offered once per month – dates are subject to change), GRAR online comprehension exam, and online Code of Ethics training. Registrations are required to reserve seating. Lunch is provided.
Location: 660 Kenmoor Ave SE, 49546
Staff contact: Dana Tosh or 616-940-8218
DEFI Advocate Workshop
Tuesday, October 15 | 9:00am-4:00pm
Become a DEFI (Diversity, Equity, Fair housing, Inclusion) Advocate! To earn this certification you will attend training on October 15 at GRAR and complete Fairhaven independently. Instructors include Doretha Ardoin, Brian Westrin and James Cristbrook.
Includes lunch and 6 hours of CE (including legal and fair housing!)
A special thank you to Mercantile Bank, who has sponsored this certification since its inception!
Wake Up with YPN
Wednesday, October 16 | 9:00-10:00am
‘From Values to Vision: Creating a Roadmap for YourFutureU’ with panelists Michael Courtright, Lisa Novosad and Megan Tefft. Moderated by Josh May.
No registration required. Feel free to bring a colleague!
Coffee & pastries are being provided, courtesy of JW Home Inspections.
Location: Egypt Valley Country Club
Staff contact: Krissie Entsminger
Emerge: The Basics & Beyond
Save the date | Wednesday, October 23
Stay tuned for details- but for now, save the date.
Forewarn Training
On-demand training
Get to know your prospects in a matter of seconds! By entering a name or a telephone number, members will be able to obtain information such as: addresses, vehicle registrations, phone numbers, property records, criminal background, bankruptcies, judgments, liens, foreclosures, and evictions.
In order to take advantage of this service, members are required to watch and complete a short online training. The session will focus on the dos and don’ts of usage to avoid liability.
Following the training, you will be asked to complete a quiz and submit a Use Agreement.
Please note: If you are already registered for New Member Orientation, you do not need to complete the online Forewarn training. This training will be included in New Member Orientation.
YPN Euchre Tournament
Wednesday, November 20 | 2:00pm-4:00pm
This will be a fundraiser benefiting the REALTORS® Property Crisis Fund.
Stay tuned for details- but for now, save the date.
New Designated REALTOR® (DR) Orientation
Thursday, November 21 | 1:00-3:00pm
A review of important issues to be covered: Office Policy Manuals, Broker Supervisory Responsibilities, Procedures for New, Inactive & Transferring Agents, Permitted Unlicensed Support Staff Activities, Benefits (including but not limited to, MLS Shareholder eligibility) and more.
YPN Ugly Sweater Bowling
Thursday, December 12 | 12:00pm-2:30pm
Stay tuned for details- but for now, save the date.
Upcoming Flexmls Trainings
There are no trainings scheduled at the current time.
Join this Q&A session with Rick Baumann and Kristy Lubbers to get all of your questions answered about Flexmls.
Location: GRAR Meeting Room (660 Kenmoor Ave, 49546)
Staff contact: Rick Baumann
Flexmls offers an extensive library of recorded trainings to assist you with questions you may have through their Flexmls Academy.
REALTORS® Property Resource (RPR) Webinars
RPR is the nation’s largest property database, exclusively for REALTORS®. RPR puts data, tools, and reports at your fingertips so you can respond to questions and requests instantly, and position yourself as an essential part of every transaction. RPR offers everything you need to “wow” your clients and close more deals.
Important dates for 2024
Thursday, Oct 3 | Annual Meeting & Economic Update
Friday, Dec 6 | Installation & Awards Celebration