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Become a Member

New Member Orientation

New Member Orientation is the final step in the Membership process before your application can be approved by the GKAR Board of Directors.

After submitting your application and payment, you will be registered for the required, next available New Member Orientation Course. 


2024 Orientation Location, Dates, and Schedules

New Member Orientation is held at the GKAR Facility, in the classroom (unless otherwise specified).
5830 Venture Park Dr., Kalamazoo, MI 49009

Orientation Date Registration Deadline* Schedule
January 17th and 19th, 2024 January 9th, 2024 Download Schedule
March 13th and 15th, 2024 March 5th, 2024 Download Schedule
May 22nd and 24th, 2024 May 14th, 2024 Download Schedule
July 31st and August 1st, 2024 July 16th, 2024 Download Schedule
September 18th and 20th, 2024 September 10th, 2024 Download Schedule
November 20th and 22nd, 2024 November 12th, 2024 Download Schedule



*Registration Deadline
Eligibility for registration requires a completed application, verification of an active license from the State of Michigan with a Broker who is a Member of GKAR, payment received for any application fee and prorated annual Membership dues, and satisfactory completion of virtual Sessions 1 and 2. Registrations are confirmed on a first come, first served basis until Classroom capacity is reached. Applications received after the deadline will be processed for the next scheduled New Member Orientation dates. 


Sessions & Instructors

Session 1:  Key Box Training (self-directed)

Spend time learning everything lockbox-related. Lockbox Policy and fines are discussed along with how to obtain lockboxes and costs associated with the boxes. Begin to understand the SentriSmart® mobile app and what features can be found at your fingertips. Experience a hands-on lesson with SentriLock lockboxes. This will include how to open a lockbox, assign a box to listings, generate one-day codes, and much more!

Session 2:  NAR REALTOR® Code of Ethics New Member Course (self-directed)

The Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice are the Rules of Engagement for REALTORS®. The enforceable Code of Ethics establishes the ethical duties that all REALTORS® agree to follow as a condition of their Membership. These duties provide a high level of service and professionalism to clients/customers and are the key factor separating REALTORS® from all other real estate practitioners.

All New Members Must Complete the REALTOR® Code of Ethics New Member Course

  • To keep application active, you will need to complete the NAR REALTOR® Code of Ethics New Member Course 14 days from initial review of application or prior to Day 1 of New Member Orientation, whichever is sooner.
  • Access the REALTOR® Code of Ethics New Member Course (Free) by following this link: Code of Ethics
  • You will need your Member ID to register to take this course. If you need assistance to obtain your log-in, please contact Support@nihonnkazamidori.com
  • Once you receive your Code of Ethics completion certificate via email, please forward a copy to Support@nihonnkazamidori.com as proof of completion.
origins_code_of_ethics_video_NAR

Session 3:  Know Your Association

Membership has its rewards! When you join GKAR, you also join the state association Michigan REALTORS®, and the National Association of REALTORS®, which means you now have access to a wealth of tools and resources to help you build your network, market your business, increase your professional knowledge, give back and get involved with the community, and ultimately accelerate your real estate career. When you attend Know Your Association, you gain a comprehensive understanding of your local, state, and national Member Rewards Programs to ensure you maximize your Membership dollars.  

Orientation_NAR

Session 4: Forms Part 1

We will end Day 1 with Forms – Part 1 which is designed to introduce new Members to forms that are made available to them through GKAR. Forms reviewed will include: disclosures, service provision agreements, Buy & Sell Agreement, and other affiliated forms.

Session 5: Finance Introduction

This session is designed to introduce new Members to a local lender and GKAR Business Partner (see schedule below). Enjoy a sponsored breakfast while learning the difference between pre-qualifications and pre-approvals; different types of loans; and why credit history, employment history and funds for closing are critical in a loan application to ensure a successful transaction.

Jan

Honor Credit Union 1

Mar

Mercantile Bank (1)

May

Consumers CU

July

Arbor_Financial_Credit_Union (2)

Sep

First_National_Bank

Nov

Advia_logo (1)

Session 6: MLS Rules, Regulations & Training

Learn the basics of flexmls and all related MLS products offered by the Association. The Association offers a number of resources as Member benefits. New Members will become acquainted with what the products are used for, a basic understanding on how to use the products, and where to find them. Master where to find forms and further MLS training classes offered by GKAR. Then delve into flexmls to learn the basics of the MLS with hands on instruction.

An overview of the GKAR MLS Policy will be given. This includes, but isn't limited to: discussion on frequent Policy violations, fines associated with these violations, and where to find the Policy.

Session 7:  Forms Part 2

We resume Day 2 with Forms - Part 2. This session continues the introduction to forms that are made available to them through GKAR. Forms reviewed will include: disclosures, service provision agreements, Buy & Sell Agreement, and other affiliated forms.

Wrap-Up: Oath and Photo with GKAR President


Make the Most of your Membership!

When you get involved, you open up a world of opportunities to build your network, your resume, and your business. Take advantage of the exciting benefits and opportunities available to you at GKAR.

GKAR Member Tech Helpline

Phone: (866) 619-8099

Email: support@techhelpline.com
Live Chat: chat.techhelpline.com
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Saturday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

GKAR MLS Support

Phone: (269) 382-1985
Email: support@nihonnkazamidori.com
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

MLS Emergency Hotline
Phone: (269) 382-1597
Hours: Monday - Friday,
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Saturday - Sunday,
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
 

flexmls Support

Phone: (888) 525-4747
View all flexmls support options.

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When can I call myself a REALTOR®?

Once licensed, you may call yourself a "licensed real estate salesperson" or "real estate agent." When you are approved by the GKAR Board of Directors and complete your GKAR New Member Orientation, you may call yourself a "REALTOR®." This is a trademark term of the National Association of REALTORS® and is granted upon completion of all steps of membership. Until that time, an agent who has submitted application and payment will have access to the MLS and may work and be referred to as a Real Estate Salesperson. Learn more...