Do you know the difference between a Realtor and a real estate agent? Most people use the terms interchangeably, but in terms of ethical, efficient and reliable service there can be a very big difference.

Realtors are members of the National Association of Realtors and have agreed to act under, and adhere to, a strict Code of Ethics in all their business practices. This membership obligates them to be honest with all parties involved in a transaction, be it buyer, seller or cooperating agent. They are held accountable for their professional behavior and sanctions can, and will, be imposed if Realtors do not live up to these high professional standards.

Using a Realtor is also a sound business decision. If you are buying a home, a Realtor can help you determine how much home you can afford and what financing options might be available to you. If you are selling a home, a Realtor can help by marketing your property to the maximum number of serious, qualified buyers. Networking within the Realtors organization ensures that other real estate professionals are aware of new properties that are on the market a real plus for buyers and sellers alike.

Serving Our Community

Mark your calendars for Nov. 14. That's the date of the fourth annual "Noel November A Celebration of Trees and Wreaths," one of the Fayette County Board of Realtors' major community service projects.

Featuring a public showing of the trees and wreaths that afternoon, followed by an auction that night, the event will take place at the Kiwanis Field Fairgrounds on Redwine Road in Fayetteville.

Other activities during the day will include special Christmas music, holiday children's activities, and photos with Santa.

The "Noel November" event is held each year to raise funds for a worthwhile local non-profit organization. This year, our goal is to bring in $10,000 to provide play equipment for the Asden Johnson Youth Protection Home in Brooks.

If you want more information about "Noel November," please call our association office at 770-461-2401.

Protecting Private Property Rights

You need to be aware of a proposed amendment on the ballot for November's general election which, if passed would result in a 100 percent increase in the real estate transfer tax in Georgia.

We believe passage of this amendment would adversely affect buyers and sellers of real estate all across the state.

While the goals of the proposal conserving, managing, and preserving the state's natural and historic areas, water resources and wildlife habitats are things which should be done, we don't feel the mechanism for funding the program is a fair one.

The cost of funding the Land, Water, and Wildlife Heritage Fund is something which should be shared equally by all Georgians. Unfortunately, the amendment places the entire financial burden on the owners of real property, and this is something which should be corrected. For that reason, this association opposes passage of this amendment, and we urge you to join us in our effort to protect private property rights in Georgia.