Dear NVBR Members,

We are all aware of the devastation that so many Vermonters are facing as a result of Tropical Storm Irene over the weekend. Although most of northern Vermont escaped serious damage, devastating damage occurred in many parts of the state, with many communities facing loss of roads and bridges.  Homeowners are stranded on their properties or unable to leave their towns until road repairs are completed. The pictures, videos, and stories tell of the impacts.

The clean-up and repairs will take a lot of time, money, and cooperation. While many things can be replaced, people’s homes and property define so much of who they are. We know as REALTORS® what is involved in the ownership of property, and much of that is intangible. Whether it is a first home, a farm, an old home, a generational family property, a business, or a vacation home, these are people’s dreams and their security.  

Your REALTOR® leadership and association wanted to get word out to you on our efforts to provide help.  Through the efforts of our Vermont Association of REALTORS®, there may be funds available from the National Association’s REALTOR® Relief Fund. These funds can be used by REALTORS® and accessed by the public, through our efforts.

VAR will be taking requests for financial assistance needed by our members who were badly affected by this storm. More information will be forthcoming from VAR, so please stay tuned and make sure that your fellow REALTORS® who need help know there may be some available funds.

I hope you, your families and friends are safe and that our communities repair quickly.   

All my best,

David Raphael
NVBR President