Association Unification
Hilton Head Area Realtors® (HHAR) and Beaufort Jasper County Realtors® (BJCR) have launched a discovery phase for the potential unification of associations. This page will serve as a resource for members as we navigate the future and chart a course of sustainability, strength and success.
Top Three FAQs
No effort will be made to sunset the HHAR contract.
This is NOT an MLS consolidation. MLS services will remain unaffected. Members can join any MLS where their Broker-in-Charge holds membership.
You will NOT be required to join the Lowcountry Regional MLS. This unification only impacts association services.
Stronger Together: The Case for Association Unification
The real estate industry is rapidly evolving. Just last year, we saw seismic shifts in the industry, including landmark practice changes that resulted from NAR’s Settlement Agreement. As firms grow, markets expand, and technology such as AI influences our businesses, there is increased need for cost-effective solutions and efficiency.
Unification enhances services and efforts, and reinforces advocacy while preserving the shared mission of supporting real estate professionals. By combining forces, we can improve operations, increase influence, and provide greater value to our members. Unification will help us build a stronger, more sustainable future for the industry and those who serve it.
Charting Our Course
Download a PDF of “Charting Our Course” here.
Unification Benefits
Financial
Combined financial resources will maximize impact across all programs and initiatives.
Member Engagement & Experience
Unification allows access to a broader pool of resources, providing members with more tools, programs, and opportunities for growth. A larger, combined membership base facilitates collaboration, networking, and idea exchange across a more diverse group of professionals. Combining resources will result in more efficient delivery of services, streamlined member support support, enhanced benefits, and access to professional growth and leadership opportunities
Education
With access to a larger pool of expertise and learning opportunities, members can enjoy enhanced career development resources and mentoring possibilities
Advocacy
A larger, unified association can have a stronger voice in advocating for policies and resources that benefit members, advance homeownership, and build the Realtor® brand
Community Impact
Unification will provide increased opportunities for members to impact the communities we serve, giving more exposure to the role Realtors® play in helping build vibrant, sustainable communities.
Staffing
Members will benefit from increased efficiency by leveraging the expertise and experience of our combined staff.
Greater Influence
Together, we will have increased representation on the state and national Realtor® association level. Our combined associations would gain one director at the National Association of Realtors®, giving us a seat at the table to influence discussions that have a direct impact on our profession.
Existing Strengths
Highly Experienced Staff
A team of knowledgeable professionals dedicated to serving members effectively
Strategic Office Locations
Two offices located in Beaufort County, ensuring member accessibility and convenience
Strong Financial Stability
Well-managed and financially sound organizations
Power
Largest trade associations in the region, representing 1,495 (HHAR) and 543 (BJCR) primary members across Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Collaboration
HHAR and BJCR currently share government affairs staff and resources for consistent and impactful advocacy and political influence
Unified Mission and Purpose
HHAR and BJCR are aligned in their commitment to advancing the real estate industry and homeownership and to serving members at the highest level
Unification Timeline
Following is a timeline for the HHAR/BJCR unification process. Activities and dates are subject to change.
