The complex world of real estate can be challenging for home buyers or sellers, but the Hernando County Association of Realtors® (HCAR), a membership trade organization for real estate professionals, helps promote and protect our local real estate industry. The association fosters professional behavior in its members, promotes homeownership and gives back to the communities it serves.
HCAR is part of the larger National Association of Realtors® (NAR), the largest association in the US representing the real estate industry.
Since 1958, HCAR has represented thousands of local real estate professionals and business partners and continues to deliver a whole range of member services such as advocacy efforts, education, leadership, networking and MLS resources.
“Number wise, we have 784 total realtor members, 1,085 total MLS users, and 147 active business partners,” said Steve Van Gorden of HCAR. Steve Van Gorden is the current president of the association and Broker/Owner of SVG Realty LLC. He has been in the real estate industry since 2013.
“The association helps shape the county’s real estate landscape by setting ethical standards,” he said. “We regularly go to Tallahassee to build meaningful relationships with policymakers and advocate for policies that support our local real estate industry and property ownership.”
“We were really big advocates for the Hometown Heroes loan program, which makes housing affordable for eligible first-time buyers. The program offers a competitive first mortgage rate and additional special benefits to those who currently serve their communities, like first responders, teachers, nurses and law enforcement officers,” he added.
Membership in the association provides avenues for self-improvement through continuing education, networking, and career development resources, helping members stay competitive and advance in their fields.
“The association organizes frequent meetings and conferences, workshops, seminars, and webinars to keep our members updated on housing market trends, economic shifts, regulatory changes, new community ventures and advocacy opportunities,” said Van Gorden.
“For example, at the last meeting of the association, a representative from the Florida Realtors Association came to talk about the current market,” he said. “Right now, we have a buyer’s market and lots of inventory, giving buyers more options and potentially leading to more favorable terms and prices.”
“Then at another gathering, our guest speaker told us about a local program where veterans can explore scuba diving and certification options through organizations like the Hernando Beach Diving with Heroes, and aims to support veterans’ mental and physical health,” he said.
Coming soon, association members will be organizing an event to celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd. Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection.
“Our association is very community-focused and so we’re giving back to the communities we serve by organizing a cleanup day at Delta Woods Park,” said Van Gorden. “I’m very proud of the work that our members get involved in because we do get out in the community and participate and give back.”
Since its founding in 1958, the Hernando County Association of Realtors® has continued to grow in size and diversity and is the voice for real estate in Hernando County. To enquire about membership, networking or resources, visit hernandorealtors.com.
The Hernando County Association of REALTORS® Inc. is located at 7321 Sunshine Grove Road, Brooksville, FL 34613. Phone: 352-799-1971: Fax: 352-799-4350.
