Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to assist you with some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from GMAR Members.

  • What is GMAR?

    GMAR is your gateway to the Flexmls platform via the GMAR MLS and a professional Association. To call yourself a REALTOR®, you must belong to a local association, as well as the Michigan and National Association of REALTORS®.

  • Where are you located and what are your hours?

    Our office is located at 24725 W Twelve Mile Rd, Suite 100, Southfield, MI 48034.

    We are open Monday - Thursday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm and on Friday, 8:30 am - 4:00 pm. The office is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

  • How long does it take to process an application? When will I be able to get on the MLS?

    MLS Access will be available typically within just a few hours after GMAR receives and processes the completed application. You will receive an onboarding email from the GMAR Membership team with information on how to access the online MLS system. Should you have any questions, please email GMAR Membership at membership@gmaronline.com

  • How do I get my password for the MLS?

    Upon completion of your application to GMAR, you will receive a welcome email that contains your login information for both the GMARonline.com Member Portal, as well as your temporary login information for the GMAR MLS.

  • How do I Log in to GMAR's Flexmls

    Simply visit ric.flexmls.com and login with the credentials provided.

  • Code of Ethics Training Requirements for New and Continuing Members

    These frequently asked questions, related to the Code of Ethics training requirement, have been updated for the 7th training cycle (beginning with the year 2022). The FAQs are grouped into categories and provide guidance to administrators and members on the requirement itself, which training courses count, as well as, recordkeeping and enforcement of the requirement.

  • How Do I Locate LARA Licensing Information, Applications, and FAQs?

    Locate answers from LARA to questions related to real estate licensing, continuing education requirements, MiPlus account information, licensing applications, licensing forms, renewal requirements, licensing guides, and much more by visiting the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs website

  • What are the continuing education requirements?

    Learn about continuing education requirements and more by visiting here.

  • How do I get registered to track my continuing education as a Michigan Real Estate Licensee?

    To get started, you will first need to register your account here. To get registered, you will need your FULL 10-digit Michigan license number. If you are unsure of your license number, you can look up your license information via the LARA lookup tool or contact GMAR at 248-478-1700.

    If you have multiple active individual licenses, you may locate your record with any of the active 10 digit license number you are associated with. Once you have located your information in our system, you can generate a unique registration token to your email address on file to complete the registration process. 

    If you are not receiving the registration email token or notice the email address listed in our records is outdated, please get in touch with us using our Contact Form or by phone at 844-642-6633 to get assistance in registering.

    If you are a new licensee, your information will be available in our system within the month following your license issue date. Please do not create an account until your individual license number has been added to our records.

  • Why am I not seeing all of my continuing education credits? I have taken courses that are not appearing in your system.

    Only courses that have been certified by CE Marketplace will show a completion in your profile. As of 11/1/2018, providers of real estate continuing education Michigan are required to have their courses certified by CE Marketplace in order to count towards renewal requirements.

    Please allow up to 10 business days for the individual provider to report CE completion to your profile.  

  • Who will track continuing education credits in 2018 and beyond?

    CE Marketplace provides an individual profile for all active Michigan real estate licensees to track their certified CE completions. LARA has access to licensee profiles to verify CE compliance.

  • How will I know if I’ve taken the same course twice?

    The CE Marketplace certification process assigns a unique identifier to each course. Licensees will be able to log into the database to view which courses they have taken and how many credit hours.

    If you complete the same course twice during the same three-year licensing cycle, it cannot count this duplicate credit towards your renewal requirements. Please be aware that it is the licensee's responsibility to ensure they have not completed a duplicate course in the same licensing cycle.

  • Will there be a cost to licensees to utilize CE Marketplace?

    For licensees, there will not be a cost to access the CE Marketplace to review their CE Marketplace credit history and maintain their profile. 

  • Will out-of-state courses qualify for CE credit?

    Before taking an out of state course, we encourage all licensees to confirm that it has been submitted and approved for Michigan credit through CEmarketplace.net.

  • Who is protected under the federal fair housing law?

    The federal Fair Housing Act (FHA) prohibits discrimination in housing because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, familial status, or disability. 

  • Are there any additional protected classes?

    Yes, depending on where a community is located. Many states or local governments have expanded fair housing protections to marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, income source, age, ancestry, military status, and other characteristics. 

  • Can someone who isn't a member of a protected class file a fair housing complaint?

    Yes, anyone injured by a violation of fair housing law may file a claim. The law recognizes claims by prospects, applicants, and residents who suffer discrimination because they are members of a protected class - or because their household members, relatives, friends, or guests are members of a protected class.   

  • Who may be held liable for fair housing violations?

    Community owners, property managers, individual employees, and outside contractors, along with real estate professionals and others - may be held liable for housing discrimination under federal fair housing law. 

  • What conduct is banned under fair housing law?

    Among other things, fair housing law bans certain rental practices if based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, and familial status, including refusing to rent or negotiate for housing; Setting different terms, conditions, or privileges for the rental of housing, such as different lease provisions related to rental charges, security deposits, and other lease terms; Threatening, coercing, intimidating, or interfering with anyone exercising a fair housing right or assisting others who exercise that right. 

  • How does fair housing law apply to advertising?

    Under the FHA, it's unlawful to make, print, or publish any notice, statement, or advertisement related to a dwelling's rental that indicates any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on a protected characteristic. 

  • How can communities minimize problems when dealing with troublesome tenants?

    Little can be done to prevent frivolous complaints, but communities have the means to expose the truth and to protect themselves from liability under fair housing law. The key is to document the nature of the resident's misdeeds, including records of late or missing payments, complaints from neighbors, and ensuing investigations and good faith efforts to resolve the problem short of eviction.

  • How do I update my MemberMax™ payment?

    You are able to update your payment information by directly contacting GMAR. 

    Please contact the GMAR office at 248-478-1700.

  • Is a Credit Card Required for MemberMax™ Payment?

    Yes, you must have a credit card or an ACH Account number on record at all times for auto-billing.

  • What happens if I am suspended for my MemberMax™ payment?

    GMAR allows a 10-day grace period for your automatic payment to post. On the 10th day, you are suspended with GMAR and your MLS. There is a $10.00 late fee incurred, and it must be paid to reactivate your membership. 

  • What happens if I am suspended for more than one month?

    If a member is suspended for 1 to 2 month’s they must pay each month of dues and a $10.00 late fee. If a member is suspended for 3 to 11 month’s they must pay 3 months of dues and a $75.00 reinstatement fee. As of the 12th month, a new application has to be completed. 

  • What is the education component of my MemberMax™ membership?

    MemberMax™ includes your EduPass™ which includes 2 Designation/Certification Courses (a total of two for free a year; after six months of membership) plus your ConEd at no additional charge.

  • Can I get an annual breakdown of my MemberMax™ dues paid?

    Please contact GMAR Accounting by emailing info@gmaronline.com for annual statements. Use subject line “Statement Request” 

  • What if my MemberMax™ payment is returned for nonpayment from my Financial Institution?

    You will need to contact the Accounting department, and you will be responsible for paying the amount due and a $30.00 NSF fee. This for any member that has an ACH payment

  • How do I join GMAR?

    Use our simple application to figure out which membership is right for you. We'll quickly get you on board and on your way to Greatness! 

  • What classes do you require me to take?

    GMAR requires new members to take our free orientation class that is offered numerous times throughout the year and can be located by visiting the GMAR online calendar. This course must be completed within your first 90 days at the board.

    The MLS provider also requires members to take a class that needs to be scheduled through them directly.

  • What do I get for my dues?

    Besides being your gateway to multi-listing services (MLS), GMAR offers networking opportunities and impactful tools/benefits to its members, such as our REALTOR® ToolShop™ that carries the essential products and supplies you need for your business. GMAR provides access to grievance and professional standards programs that offer Association members a vehicle to expedite ethics complaints economically and professionally and/or arbitration requests. Also, we offer a monthly payment program that provides members with continuing education, including our Legal Update, Code of Ethics training, and 2 Designation/Certification classes.

  • What are the payment options (MemberMax™ vs. Premier)?

    Premier: Dues for local, state & national paid in one lump sum, an initial amount is prorated, and renewal for this plan is October 1st annually. Premier dues invoices are mailed directly to Agents and are also available in the member portal. 

    MemberMax™ is GMAR’s exclusive monthly payment for dues which includes an education component; it offers monthly payments of $59.16 instead of dues payment in one lump sum.

    Both options include GMAR, MR & NAR membership dues. MemberMax™ includes $500+ worth of educational classes each year, while Premier does not.

    Learn more about payment options & GMAR’s flexible pricing with an education bundle everyone can afford by visiting the Member Benefits page. 

  • What type of payment options does GMAR accept?

    GMAR accepts all the major credit cards for either membership type and checking or savings account (ACH) for MemberMax™ payments. 

  • How can I get copies of receipts for payments to GMAR to use for tax purposes?

    Please contact GMAR by emailing info@gmaronline.com for yearly statements. Use the subject line “Statement Request.”

  • How do I cancel my GMAR membership?

    Notification from your admin/broker to the GMAR Membership department has to be submitted in writing and can be sent via email to membership@gmaronline.com. Cancelation of membership is defined ONLY if you transfer Associations, the license is sent back to the State, or the license is being sent to a holding company. 

  • NAR Realtor® Benefits Program

    To access NAR Realtor®  Benefits, please follow this link: https://www.nar.realtor/realtor-benefits-program

  • Who do I contact regarding forms questions?

    Regarding any GMAR Forms, please email info@gmaronline.com with the subject line “GMAR Forms.” Please also include a screenshot or attachment of the form along with the questions, issues, or concerns.

  • Code of Ethics Violations, Filing a Complaint, and Arbitration

    Despite the high level of professionalism readily apparent among REALTORS®, disputes will occasionally arise. If you need to file an ethics complaint or request for arbitration, please visit the Dispute Resolution page.

    If you have any questions about the process, please call (248) 478-1700

  • Strategic Partner Classes

    These classes are offered on behalf of GMAR Strategic Partners. They can be located on the calendar: Mastering the Transaction from A-Z, From Purchase Agreement to Title Policy: A Legal Perspective, Managing your Business: Dollars & Sense, and Managing your Business: Retirement & Succession Planning.

  • Legal Hotline

    For legal questions regarding Michigan Law, please contact the legal hotline at 800-522-2820.  Michigan Realtors provide this service to all members.  

  • Do you have a listing of Communities that require a Certificate of Occupancy?

    Please visit our Resources page to access the latest information regarding the Certificate of Occupancy.

  • How do I get an Electronic Lockbox?

    Members of GMAR who participate are eligible to receive a SentriLock Electronic Lockbox for each listing in the system at no cost. 

    For quick answers to Electronic Lockbox questions, please click here.

  • How can I tell which GMAR District I am in?

    Per the GMAR Bylaws, members districts are assigned based on the address of your office. You can view a full list of districts by visiting our Resources page.

  • What are the Advertising Guidelines for licensees in Michigan?

    Visit the Advertising Guidelines, which includes examples for reference.

  • Do you have housing statistics available I could use in my marketing?

    Locate Tri-County housing statistics via the Resource Library. 

  • How do I file a complaint regarding a licensee who I believe has violated license law?
  • Are there any discounts available for insurance to members?

    Yes, learn more about discounts by visiting our Member Benefits Page!

  • Are there rules with the Realtor® Trademark?

    It is important to use NAR's membership trademarks—including the REALTOR® logo and the terms REALTOR®, REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®, REALTORS®—correctly and according to the rules outlined in the Membership Marks Manual.

  • How can I join a Committee at GMAR?

    Fill out the committee application before the deadline of September 29th each year. The leadership team will review all requests and will make official appointments around the first week of December.

  • What is a NRDS ID and where can I find it?

    What is an NRDS ID?

    Your NRDS ID is an eight or nine-digit number used to identify you as a member of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

    Locate Your NRDS Number

    Visit this website and follow the prompts to locate your NRDS number: login.connect.realtor/#!/forgotmember

    All you need is your real estate license number or email address.

    Your NRDS ID can also be found on your NAR membership card, or if you receive a printed copy of NAR's monthly REALTOR® magazine, your NRDS ID is printed on the address label.

  • How RPAC Works for You?

    The REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC) is the best way a REALTOR® can protect his or her business. RPAC is the only grassroots and issues mobilizing force to protect and promote the tradition of homeownership and real estate investment in Michigan.

  • What is RPAC?

    By contributing to RPAC, you can support REALTOR®-friendly legislators who believe in our industry and believe in protecting private property rights, preserving the American dream of homeownership, fighting for tax reforms, and reducing burdensome regulations on our business.

    By becoming part of RPAC, you'll not only have the power to make a change in the way you do business, but you'll also become part of a statewide network – more than 23,000 members strong – sharing in the success on issues and concerns important to you!

  • Why Investing in RPAC is Investing in your Business?

    Your REALTORS® Political Action Committee (RPAC) raises funds voluntarily from members of the Michigan Association of REALTORS®. RPAC recognition programs are designed to recognize key contributors for their leadership.

    RPAC works with REALTOR® Champions in government that defend you and your clients from bad policy and helps you and your business.  

    • RPAC saved the 30-year mortgage and defeated sales tax on your services as a Realtor®
    • GMAR worked with Realtor endorsed legislators to prevent a harmful sign ordinance in the city of Troy that would prohibit real estate signs from being placed in yards.
    • We have helped to prevent rental bans in numerous communities with the help of RPAC.
    • RPAC has also helped to ensure we have a voice in numerous communities so you can continue to do business and your client's private property rights are protected.
  • How to Invest?

    Make a one-time investment today to support your business and protect your clients.

  • Where can I find the GMAR Special Events Calendar?

    Visit the GMAR calendar to see what special events (highlighted in black) we have scheduled and register for our upcoming events!

  • What kind of special events does GMAR offer?

    GMAR produces about 20 special events each year, including several fundraisers, family fun events, and networking events of all kinds. Some events are only open to our members, while others are open to non-members and the community at large. 

  • Are special events included in my membership cost?

    No, special events costs are not included in the membership fees. Our events typically require registration. Ticket prices vary depending on the type of event. Some are free or as low as $10. 

  • Why should I participate in GMAR special events?

    Attending special events gives members a chance to network and connect, and it offers additional learning opportunities outside of the educational classes. Plus, we love to have fun together! To become a bigger part of the Realtor®  community, attend special events.

  • What is the process for transferring an agent?

    All requests must be written from the office admin/broker and emailed directly to us at Membership@GMARonline.com

    Otherwise, the admin/broker/office may complete the Transfer / Office & Personnel Change Form. 

  • How does a member reinstate membership?

    If it has been under one year of lapsed board membership, the agent should call our office at 248-478-1700 and ask to speak with Membership. There will be a $75.00 reinstatement fee, and any unpaid dues are owed before services are restored. Furthermore, written confirmation from the office that the agent is still active in their office is required and can be emailed to membership@gmaronline.com.

    Lapsed membership of one year or longer must complete a NEW application on our website.