For Immediate Release: June 30, 2016

Professional association of Fraser Valley REALTORS® supports moving forward with IAG recommendations

SURREY, BC – The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board (FVREB) strongly supports moving forward with the recommendations brought forward by the Real Estate Council of BC’s Independent Advisory Group (IAG) advocating higher consumer protection and improved processes to regulate the real estate industry.

In response to both the IAG report and Premier Christy Clark’s announcement to end self-regulation of the industry, Charles Wiebe, Board President, says, “Our Board is in full support of initiatives that will promote higher standards of practice for licensees and brokerages in BC, and more importantly, enhance the level of protection for our clients.

“We are disappointed in the government’s decision to remove the privilege of self-regulation, however, we are encouraged that the Premier is still committed to moving forward with the IAG recommendations. That’s good news for consumers, REALTORS® and the entire industry.”

Wiebe adds, “As the Premier pointed out, the vast majority of REALTORS® in BC are honest, hard-working and doing a good job. Any changes that will help us do a better job, are positive.”

Dennis Wilson, FVREB’s Manager of Professional Standards, says, “First and foremost, a REALTOR®’s duty is to look out for the best interests of their clients, not themselves. Clients must feel protected and supported by their REALTOR®, however if necessary, the means to issue a complaint and have that complaint heard should be readily available and effective.”

The FVREB will continue to prioritize consumer protection through the education and enforcement of our Board Rules and those of the Canadian Real Estate Association requiring members to have higher standards of ethics and professionalism.

The final IAG report and Council’s supporting announcement were released jointly on June 28 and can be read in full on Council’s website.

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The Fraser Valley Real Estate Board is an association of 3,089 real estate professionals who live and work in the communities of North Delta, Surrey, White Rock, Langley, Abbotsford, and Mission, British Columbia. The FVREB marked its 90-year anniversary in 2011.