The Boards of Directors of the Barrie & District Association of REALTORS® (BDAR) and the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) are pleased to announce BDAR’s recommendation to its Members that they integrate with TRREB. 

This proposed integration will combine more than 1,500 BDAR Members within the existing TRREB membership, empowering Members and increasing their reach and advocacy strength. 

“We’ve been aspiring towards this partnership for quite some time, with the objective of bringing a proposal to Members that ensures they benefit from the best possible service and access to comprehensive information,” said Julia Price-Greig, BDAR CEO. “This integration would allow us to give Members the best tools to do their job while maintaining a strong and important regional presence.”

If approved by BDAR Members, the integration would provide Members unfettered access to a single MLS® database, which means improved access to data and listings for Members and their clients. There is a significant overlap in the MLS® data provided by TRREB and BDAR in the Barrie and Simcoe area marketplace, as well as a large number of dual Members from the Barrie area currently leading to unnecessary redundancies and confusion in data access.

Crucially, this integration will maintain BDAR’s existing regional office and dedicated local employees. All Members will benefit from access to leading, local professional support services, ongoing professional development opportunities, high impact government advocacy, and public policy offerings.

“I truly believe the proposal we are bringing forward to BDAR Members will provide them with the best tools to serve clients, while reducing burdens and unlocking more opportunities,” said Luc Woolsey, BDAR President. “Our ability as Members to contribute to and guide the direction of the regional board is guaranteed through representation for regional Members at TRREB on the Board of Directors and within committees and task forces.”

Today’s announcement begins a formal consultation period with Members of BDAR and information sharing with TRREB Members. Throughout this process, Members of BDAR and TRREB will have the opportunity to learn the details and benefits of the plan. Once the BDAR consultation process is complete, the proposal will be put to the BDAR membership for a final vote.

“This proposal is the result of much work and collaboration by the Boards of Directors and management of BDAR and TRREB. We are pleased that both boards support this amalgamation unreservedly,” said Paul Baron, TRREB President. “Through this integration we will empower Members with the best access to information, innovation and technology, best infrastructure and best professional development opportunities.”