Conference '06

GOOD DAY!

I drove down to Richmond yesterday morning hoping to clarify my understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of licensing. What I did come away with however, was an appreciation for the unique advantages that certification grants us. It was right before our eyes and many of us didn't see it. Those of us who want a credential can have one. And if REALTORS want to use credentialed inspectors, they can.

I think we all came away with a greater appreciation of the advantages and disadvantages of:

• Promoting licensing
• Sitting on our hands
• Making the best of what we have

Thanks and congratulations to those who put this together, specifically (but not only) Fred Simmermon and Kenny Hart. Well done!

I don't think I'd be out of line suggesting that we consider a course of action that includes:

Encouraging our peers to become licensed

Encouraging VAREI membership

Appointing a liaison to each local ASHI, NAHI or NACHI chapter

Creating a REALTOR education campaign

Encouraging REALTORS to ammend the standard contract to include a clause requiring that the inspection be performed by a certified inspector

Fostering greater unity, if not consensus, within our tiny community.

Hollis