Your local, state, and national associations remain open for business through this crisis and we’re on the front lines fighting to protect your business.
As Coronavirus issues arise, SCR has been communicating with brokers to find out what your main concerns are and how we can help. We know you have closings in the works and that real estate needs to be considered an essential service. We are fighting to make that happen. SCR staff have been in constant communications with the real estate commission, local and federal government agencies to ensure we are involved in decision making as it happens.
On a national level, NAR has worked closely to ensure that real estate was considered in the $2 trillion COVID-19 economic relief package that passed the Senate Wednesday night with overwhelming bipartisan support.
The bill now goes to the U.S. House, where it is expected to pass, and President Trump has said he will sign it into law.
Provisions within the bill that are aimed to help you include:
  • $350 billion for the Small Business Administration 7(a) loan program. Under the terms, eligible businesses (500 employees or fewer) can get up to $10 million toward mortgage interest, rents, utilities, and payroll costs. A portion of these loans will be forgivable.
  • Self-employed and independent contractors are also included in a dramatic expansion of unemployment insurance that could provide benefits for up to 39 weeks. These workers are not usually covered under traditional state unemployment benefit programs.
  • Independent contractors and those living on a commission-based income will be eligible for the loans as well as the forgiveness provision.
  • A delay in payment of employer payroll taxes, with half due by the end of 2021 and the other half due by the end of 2020.
  • $500 billion to support large businesses like airlines affected by the virus.
  • A one-time payment of $1,200 to most adult Americans and $500 per child.
The Coronavirus is changing the way we do business, and these changes are happening by the minute. Here are a few ways you can stay on top of the changes:
We’re here for you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. (803)772-5206.
Online Mediation Now Available
Now more than ever, it’s important to try and work through differences. SCR is here for you, and so are your fellow Realtor® mediators. The following volunteers are currently offering FREE socially-distanced video conference mediation as an alternative dispute resolution.
SCR sends a special thank you to these Realtor® members who are using their own equipment and time to offer this FREE assistance during these difficult times. Click here to view the list.
Daily Updates From SCR
Stay up-to-date with CEO Nick Kremydas’ daily real estate videos via facebook.com/screaltors or facebook.com/kremydas. These timely updates will keep you in the know on the most vital issues affecting your business during the pandemic.
Coronavirus Update: Broker Webinar
SCR hosted a live webinar this week to address the concerns of more than 700 brokers statewide. Brokers were able to ask questions to SCR’s leadership, legal, and legislative staff. Click here to watch the recording, and stay-tuned for the next update.
Video Conferencing Best Practices
As we work to find our footing throughout these unprecedented times, we find that it is no surprise that Realtors® lead the way when it comes to innovation and creativity. We’re also seeing that as social distancing continues, video remains the primary platform for communications. Click here to see a list of video conferencing best practices to stay professional while working from home.
Coming Soon
Your SCR legal staff are going to go live on Facebook to answer the hottest legal hotline questions regarding the legalities of doing real estate during the pandemic crisis. Stay-tuned!