7th February 2006

ARLA members are being pressed to attend regional meetings this year so as to keep up to date with all developments in the talks between ARLA and the NAEA. It is also believed to be the best way to ensure a continuing dialogue between members and the Association. Relaxed regional meetings will provide well-considered input to the talks between the two professional bodies and feedback to the Association and help to bring about the right result for everyone, whatever that may be.

This was the message from ARLA President Robert Jordan at the Association's Annual Conference in London today (February 7th).

An initial report prepared by the Chief Executives of both ARLA and the NAEA will go to the next council meetings of the respective bodies. These are due within the next six weeks.

Opening ARLA's Annual Conference today, Robert Jordan explained that during 2005, the ARLA National Council decided to look at opportunities to form a closer bond with the NAEA. This would allow both organisations to carry more weight than they do individually in the spread of membership, experience and expertise right across the residential property market.

"This will be especially useful in discussions within the industry, with national and local government and all the related regulatory agencies. That will also be a significant help to the consumer, our landlords and tenants," Robert Jordan said.

"I hope that after the report has gone to the respective councils, if the recommendation is then to go forward with talks, ARLA members will make special efforts to discuss the possibilities, opportunities and any drawbacks with fellow members in their own areas. They should then ask their regional officers to pass on all their contributions to the regional and national councils."

"Informal talking will make for much more informed debate among colleagues, than any grandstanding at specially convened meetings or conferences," suggested Robert Jordan.

He reminded delegates that if it should prove necessary because feelings are too close to call, then the entire corporate membership of ARLA can be canvassed directly before any decisions are made.

Mr. Jordan also reminded delegates that ARLA has asked government for a Christmas present: the licensing of all agents.

"The legitimate agent continues to be penalised by the activities of the unprofessional agent who ignores government imposed safeguards. As a result they can undercut fees, run off with clients' money and put the lives of tenants in danger."

"So, government, please wake up. Licensing letting agents is the only way forward," he added.

 

Home | Agent Search | Information | Buy To Let | Contact | News & Press
Training | Members Area | Privacy Statement and T&C