304 River Road, Columbia, TN  38401                            
Phone:  931.381.5556    E-Mail:  SMTAR@realtracs.com                
Office Hours: 8:30am - 4:00pm, Monday - Friday                    




Frequently Asked Questions

Here is a list of frequently asked questions.  Can't find your answers here?  Give us a call!


Please click on a question below to view the answer.

  • About REALTORS®
    • Why should I use a REALTOR® ?
      • A REALTOR® is an invaluable asset in the real estate transaction. He/she knows the basics of the real estate transaction, and knows where to find information and additional assistance when the transaction gets tough. He/she has access to resources that will help you buy or sell a property. Most importantly, a REALTOR® will help you keep in compliance with local, state, and federal laws regarding property transfers. REALTORS have elected to "pool" their resources by creating local and regional multiple listing services, creating uniform contracts for property transfer , and combining their voice so that it's heard a little louder in the places where it counts the most. They're looking out for YOU. Click here for 12 REASONS TO USE A REALTOR! 
    • How can I verify whether a person is a REALTOR® or not?
    • How can I get a membership list?
      • Click Here to download a membership list from our website. Members are eligible to obtain a list in an alternate format, such as an Excel file, that also contains e-mail addresses. In an effort to reduce SPAM, the e-mail list is only provided to SMTAR members.
    • How can I get the REALTOR® logo on my ads?
      • First, you must be a REALTOR® member at your local REALTOR® Association to use the logo. If your membership has been established, you can click here to download the logo and review the usage guidelines.
    • Can you recommend a REALTOR® based on my needs?
      • In an effort to ensure continued public and member trust, SMTAR does not recommend any REALTOR® or any Affiliate over another. We will, however, provide you with a list of our members based on type of service needed (i.e. appraiser, real estate agent, etc.) or geographic location.
    • Aren't all real estate agents called REALTORS® ?
      • Nope. Only members of the National Association of REALTORS® can be called REALTORS®, and only REALTOR® members of the National Association of REALTORS® may use the REALTOR® trademark under Federal Trademark Laws.
    • What is an Association of REALTORS® ?
      • The REALTOR® Association, through the services that it offers, is an organization designed to help real estate licensees and others in the real estate industry better their professional abilities as well as to improve their interactions with their clients and peers. The Association is a wealth of knowledge and educational opportunities, and is a powerful representative of individuals in the industry in legislative issues at local, state and national levels. The Association is not just a club - its members and staff work diligently on a daily basis to help ensure EVERYONE's right to home ownership.
    • What are all those letters after an agent's name? (i.e. CRS, GRI, etc.)
  • Association Info
    • Why should I choose SMTAR over another association?
      • A REALTOR® Association is like a perfectly-fitted pair of shoes. Since each REALTOR® requires a different type and level of service, you should choose the best association based on your needs. Some members choose their association based on the location of their home or office - or their market area. We recommend that you visit the Association offices in your area, and that you review the services offered at those associations before you make your decision. Please note:  to obtain membership, your Principle Broker must be a member, or you must be affiliated with a branch office of a member firm.
    • Who needs Code of Ethics training?
      • ALL REALTOR® members of the National Association of REALTORS® are required to take a minimum of 2.5 hours of instruction on the REALTOR® Code of Ethics every 4 year cycle. All REALTOR® members of SMTAR are also members of the National Association.
    • How can I get the REALTOR® logo on my ads?
      • First, you must be a REALTOR® member at your local REALTOR® Association to use the logo. If your membership has been established, you can click here to download the logo and review the usage guidelines.
    • How can I become more active (involved) in SMTAR?
      • Member involvement at SMTAR is crucial to the level of service that we can provide to all members. The easiest way to be involved is to attend Membership Meetings and Events. The BEST way to be involved is to serve on a committee or on the Board of Directors.
    • How often are membership meetings held?
      • Membership meetings are not held on a regular schedule at SMTAR. Meetings are scheduled by the Board of Directors in January of each year based on member participation from the previous year. A General Membership Meeting is always held in August, and this is the time of our Annual Election of Officers and Directors. The Annual RPAC Auction is held in June, and the Annual REALTOR® Celebration is held sometime in the 4th quarter.
    • Does SMTAR publish sales statistics?
      • No. In an effort to promote fairness among its members, SMTAR does not compile individual sales statistics.
    • Can SMTAR revoke someone's real estate license?
      • No. SMTAR does not issue a person's real estate license, and therefore cannot revoke it. It is the responsibility of the state Real Estate Commission to enforce state real estate laws.
    • How can I submit payment to SMTAR?
      • Payments to SMTAR can be submitted in person or by mail, fax or phone. We accept exact change in cash, checks, and VISA, Master Card & Discover credit card payments.
    • How can I obtain free legal advice?
      • REALTOR® members of the Tennessee Association of REALTORS® have access to a free legal hotline. The Legal Hotline is available to answer questions regarding the Code of Ethics, real estate law, etc. They can be reached by e-mail or phone. You can expect a response to your query within 72 hours.  For contact information, please give us a call or log in to your TARNET account.
    • What is RPAC?
      • RPAC is the REALTOR® Political Action Committee (PAC). A PAC is a like-minded group of people who raise money to support political candidates that most-closely represent their views on various political issue. RPAC dollars raised are generally dispersed to candidates whose political opinions are representative of those of the REALTOR® community.
    • What are the regular fees incurred at SMTAR?
      • SMTAR bills the following fees annually:
                    Annual Dues
                    Lockbox Maintenance & Service Fee
                    Lockbox Admin Fee

                Occasional Fees:
                    Transfer Fee
                    Application & Processing Fee
                    Sentrilock Setup Fee
                    Fees for Meeting & Events

        Because fee amounts vary based on service needs, and may change without notice, we do not post them online.
    • What types of properties are available at SMTAR?
      • SMTAR is a not-for-profit organization that supports real estate licensees and others in the real estate industry. We do not list, sell, or rent properties. In addition, association staff are not allowed to hold an active real estate license.
    • Who is in charge at SMTAR?
      • SMTAR is governed by a Board of Directors who meet on a monthly basis. The Association Executive is a staff member of the Association and is in charge of compiling the information that needs to be presented to the Board of Directors. The Executive is also in charge of day-to-day business operations at the Association.
    • Can SMTAR help me advertise my products/services or properties?
      • SMTAR's goal is to remain unbiased in its business relations with its members as well as with members of the general public. A member may not directly use the Association as a means of distributing advertisements to other members. We will, however, review other products and services that may benefit our members.
    • How does SMTAR communicate with members?
      • SMTAR's primary means of communication with its members is e-mail. Annual invoices are e-mailed to each individual, as well as mailed to the principle broker of your firm for distribution. We are working to build our online presence, as well. The SMTAR monthly newsletter, Bits & Pieces, is posted online. Click here to view our newsletters.
    • Where can I purchase signs and other items to help my business?
      • SMTAR's REALTOR® Store has many items that can assist you with your business. Visit our online store or stop by our office!
    • What are SMTAR's operating hours?
      • The Association Office is open Monday - Friday from 8:30AM - 4:00PM. The Association Executive is the only full-time employee. When she is observing vacation hours, or is out of the office due to business, the office will be short-staffed, and some services may not be available.
    • What is an Association of REALTORS® ?
      • The REALTOR® Association, through the services that it offers, is an organization designed to help real estate licensees and others in the real estate industry better their professional abilities as well as to improve their interactions with their clients and peers. The Association is a wealth of knowledge and educational opportunities, and is a powerful representative of individuals in the industry in legislative issues at local, state and national levels. The Association is not just a club - its members and staff work diligently on a daily basis to help ensure EVERYONE's right to home ownership.
    • What are all those letters after an agent's name? (i.e. CRS, GRI, etc.)
      • Those are generally REALTOR® designations if they are not a designation available through their particular real estate firm. Most designations that we see are available through the NAR designation program. Click here for more information on these designations.
    • Does SMTAR offer education?
      • Yes! SMTAR is a TREC-approved school. We offer monthly Ethics and RealTracs Training as well as more than enough courses to fulfill the 16-hour requirement for your license renewal. We now have ONLINE Education, as well.
    • How can I update my contact information?
      • You can update your contact information with SMTAR by e-mailing the new information to SMTAR@realtracs.com. If you have changed names or firms, please fax a copy of the TREC 1 form showing the change to 931.388.4957. We will not make changes to a name or firm if this information has not been changed with the Tennessee Real Estate Commission. Since your information is posted in our membership roster, it can be considered advertising, and we must follow the advertising rules of TREC.
  • Complaint Procedures
    • A REALTOR® owes me money, how can SMTAR help?
    • I need to file a complaint against a REALTOR® . What should I do?
      • If you have a complaint against a REALTOR®, it is best to discuss it with that person's principle broker. Many issues can be resolved in this manner, but if you are not able to resolve your issue with the principle broker, your next option could be to contact the REALTOR® Association or the Real Estate Commission.
  • Electronic Lockboxes
    • My Sentricard is broken - how can I get a new one?
      • A replacement for a broken Sentricard must be obtained at the Association Office. You must return the pieces of the card to the Association, and there is a fee for replacement. The replacement fee for a broken card is less than that of a lost card. It takes about 10 minutes to assign a new card depending on staff availability.
    • Which lockbox key should I get?
      • At this time, the Sentrilock system is the only electronic system in use in Middle Tennessee.  The keys are billed by RealTracs and can be obtained at your local association office.

      I need to return my Supra Key. What is the procedure?
      • SMTAR and RealTracs are no longer accepting the return of SUPRA products. Please contact GE SUPRA at 1-877-699-6787. SUPRA reserves the right to bill you up to $500 if the products are not returned.  All SUPRA products in our region were required to be returned in 2009.
    • My Sentricard doesn't work - what should I do?
      • First, ensure that your card has been updated, and that it has not been Terminated. If your card has been Terminated, you will be notified when you try to update it with a card reader. If your card is updated, please call Sentrilock Technical Support (1.877.736.8745) to see if they can assist you with the problem. If you card is determined to be defective, you will need to bring it to the Association Office for a replacement. There is no fee for replacing a defective card. It takes about 10 minutes to assign a new card depending on staff availability.
    • The DND light comes on, what should I do?
      • If you see the DND light when trying to access a lockbox, it usually means that the lock cannot operate during this time. This may be because the agent has adjusted the time properties on the box so that it cannot be opened at that time, or you may be visiting the box before 8AM or after 10PM, which is the normal operating time of the box. If neither of the above are true, then the clock inside the lockbox may be out of sync with the true time. To reset the lockbox clock, call Sentrilock Technical Support (1.877.736.8745), or take the lock to the nearest card reader and use the "Set Lockbox Clock" feature to reset the clock.
    • Why can't I borrow a lockbox for use outside of SMTAR's service area?
      • It is against the SMTAR Lockbox Policy to use a borrowed lockbox outside of our service area: Giles, Lawrence, Lewis, Lincoln, Maury, Marshall, Perry & Wayne Counties. The programming of the Sentrilock Lockbox is not limited to a specific area (like the Supra locks) due to the availability of 1-day codes. To expand this policy, would mean that SMTAR would need to purchase lockboxes to cover East & West Tennessee as well as areas of Northern Alabama. From a financial standpoint - this is not an affordable option. We must limit the usage area in order to be able to offer this service.
    • I lost my Sentricard - how can I get a new one?
      • Please call 931.381.5556 to report lost or stolen Sentricards. You will need to obtain a replacement card at the Association Office. There is a fee for replacement of lost Sentricards. It takes about 10 minutes to assign a new card depending on staff availability.
    • Where can I purchase lockboxes?
      • Sentrilock Lockboxes are available for purchase at the Association Office. Call us at 931.381.5556 for the current rate.
    • How can I transfer my lockbox to another agent?
      • Sentrilock lockboxes must be reprogrammed in order to transfer them to another agent. Whether or not this can be done in your particular situation must be determined by Association Staff. If we can transfer the lock, it is recommended that the lockbox be brought in to the association office for reprogramming. Contact us by phone or e-mail to discuss your particular needs.
    • What type of lockboxes are used at SMTAR?
      • SMTAR's lockbox of choice is the REALTOR® Lockbox by Sentrilock.
    • Why do I have to pay a Lockbox Administration Fee?
      • The Lockbox Administration Fee is charged to agents who check their lockboxes out at the association office. It covers the additional cost of staff time required to check the locks in/out on an individual basis versus checking them in/out at their office.
    • Why do I have to pay a Lockbox Maintenance & Service Fee?
      • The Lockbox Maintenance & Service Fee is charged to all agents who have confirmed or assumed access to use of the lockboxes borrowed from SMTAR. Confirmed access is considered to be those who hold a Sentrilock Key and either check out locks on their own or check out locks from their firm. Assumed access is considered to be those who work in firms where lockboxes are kept in stock for agents to borrow whether they hold a Sentrilock Key or not.
    • I can't get the key door to close. What should I do?
      • The most common cause of this malfunction is that the latch has gotten pushed back in to the "lock" position. Go through the process to open the key compartment again. You should see the latch release, and should then be able to close the key door. If the key door "bounces" or still does not close, please contact Sentrilock Technical Support (1.877.736.8745) for assistance.
    • The 1-Day Code I was given is not working. Why?
      • There are many reasons why a 1-Day Code may not work. Those most-often reported to SMTAR are:
         
            The agent failed to ensure that the box was "awake" before entering the code. To wake the box up, press "ENT" until the box lights up. If this fails, you must insert a card such as a driver's license into the box until the keypad lights. Then, remove the card and enter the code.
         
            The agent failed to completely press each button and hear an audible beep. Take your time and press each button so that it beeps.

            The agent failed to press ""ENT"" after entering the code. Once the keypad lights, you should enter the 1-Day Code and then press the ""ENT"" key.

        If the above options fail, contact the listing agent or Sentrilock Technical Support (1.877.736.8745) for further assistance.
    • How can I update my Sentricard?
      • Your Sentricard needs to be updated regularly using a Card Reader that connects with your computer. An emergency option is available, but should be used only in an emergency to avoid damage to your Sentricard if the memory should get full. The more often you update your card, the more updated the information on the Sentrilock website will be, and your chances of losing crucial information stored on the card will be greatly reduced.
  • Law & Policy
    • What is an agency agreement?
      • An agency agreement between a REALTOR® and their client is a legally-binding contract that establishes the business relationship of the two parties in the real estate transaction. Written disclosure of agency status is NOT the same as an agency agreement and does NOT establish the agency relationship.
    • A REALTOR® owes me money, how can SMTAR help?
  • Member Services
    • I haven't received my REALTOR® magazine - what should I do?
      • Contact SMTAR to verify that your contact information in the National REALTOR® Database is correct. If the information is correct, we will attempt to assist you further based on your unique situation. If data is changed in the National Database, it may be 6 - 10 weeks before the magazine reaches you at the corrected address. (This is based on the current publication schedule listed at NAR). New REALTORS should expect to receive their first magazine within 10 - 12 weeks of their membership approval.
    • How can I obtain copies of the forms with the TAR logo on them?
      • You must be a member of the Tennessee Association of REALTORS® in order to use the copyrighted forms that contain the TAR Logo. Members are able to print copies of the forms via an online forms database. Log in to www.tarnet.com and click on TransactionDesk.
    • What are the benefits of membership in SMTAR?
      • There are several reasons why it is a benefit to join ANY REALTOR® Association.

        A voice - become part of more than 1 million people who make a difference in the real estate industry every day they snap on their REALTOR® pin.

        Information - from your Local Association, all the way up to the National Association of REALTORS, your sources of information that will aid you in the real estate profession are endless. Everything from open house tips to legal issues are covered. SMTAR will help point you in the direction of those resources that you need!

        Professional Standards & Development - The REALTOR® organization is designed to make you better at what you do. The Code of Ethics, state and national conventions, and the special NAR designations put you on the right track to success.

        Education - Most REALTOR® Associations offer the education you need to stay up-to-date in the industry, while helping you earn credit toward your license renewal.

        Arbitration & Mediation Services - We can help you settle disputes.


        At SMTAR, we also offer the following services:

        REALTOR® Library - Believe it or not, we have a bookshelf that has actual books on it that can be checked out to membership.

        Lockbox Services - REALTORS in our region use an electronic lockbox product. As of February 2009, this will be the SentriLock REALTOR® Lockbox. At SMTAR, lockboxes are available on loan, or for purchase, for a fee. This service helps you make your listings available to more buyers through their real estate agents.

        REALTOR® Store - Need a sign? How about a brochure box? We've got 'em. Our REALTOR® Store is located inside the SMTAR office, or it can be accessed online.

        Multiple Listing Service - our MLS, created by RealTracs Solutions, is one of the best in the nation. Its regional coverage (all of Middle Tennessee!) gives REALTORS in our area a wider market area, and more information to suit the needs of their clients.

        Forms - Membership in the Tennessee Association of REALTORS will allow you access to the TAR TransactionDesk service. TransactionDesk is an online forms solution that helps you stay organized during the real estate transaction. TAR's forms have been written and re-written by TAR's attorneys in conjunction with a Forms Committee. Their efforts will provide the tools you need to get your ducks in a row.
  • Membership Info
    • What is a NRDS or "NERDS" number?
      • A NRDS (usually pronounced "nerds") number is used to identify you in the National REALTOR® Database System. This 9-digit number may also be used to identify you at your local Association. This number is assigned by your local Association (SMTAR). Members will receive a membership card from NAR with this number printed on it, and it will also appear on the address label of your REALTOR® magazine. This number may be needed in order to register for Association events and education sessions.
    • Who needs Code of Ethics training?
      • ALL REALTOR® members of the National Association of REALTORS® are required to take a minimum of 2.5 hours of instruction on the REALTOR® Code of Ethics every 4-year cycle. All REALTOR® members of SMTAR are also members of the National Association.
    • When will I have to pay my dues?
      • Annual REALTOR® and Affiliate Dues and NonMember Assessments are due on January 1st of each year. Invoices are e-mailed to each individual and mailed to each office on or about December 1st of each year. New members must submit their dues payment with their application for membership. New member dues are prorated, so those who are new to SMTAR will likely pay dues at application and then again just a few months later.  Current members may prepay their dues for the following year in increments of $50.
    • Can I change my mailing address to my home address?
      • Because members move regularly and do not update their home address with SMTAR, all mail communication must be sent to your office of record. This also helps us to ensure that the office of record is correct.
    • How can I get a membership list?
      • Click Here to download a membership list from our website. Members are eligible to obtain a list in an alternate format, such as an Excel file, that also contains e-mail addresses. In an effort to reduce SPAM, the e-mail list is only provided to SMTAR members.
    • Can I pay my fees monthly?
      • Due to the expense involved with maintaining monthly billing cycles, SMTAR requires that all invoices be paid in full by their due date. In addition, our state association and NAR require full payment for their portion of the annual dues. Therefore, we cannot accept partial payment for any fee past the due date.  However, annual dues for the upcoming year can be prepaid in increments of $50.
    • How much does it cost to join SMTAR?
      • Fees for association membership depend on the type of membership and the date of application. In addition, price-fixing is a very serious violation of Antitrust Law. NAR recommends that Associations avoid discussion about dues and fees because of Antitrust Laws. Therefore, SMTAR chooses not to post this information on the internet.
    • How can I get the REALTOR® logo on my ads?
      • First, you must be a REALTOR® member at your local REALTOR® Association to use the logo. If your membership has been established, you can click here to download the logo and review the usage guidelines.
    • My broker is a REALTOR® member of SMTAR. Do I have to join?
      • If your Principle Broker is a member of SMTAR, we are required to collect dues for you based on NAR policy. However, SMTAR does not require that you pay those dues or that you join as a REALTOR® . If you choose not to join, we will collect your dues from your broker. (In this case, you may not use the REALTOR® trademark.) Be aware, however, that your broker may require that you join the association in order to participate in his/her firm.
    • Why do I need Code of Ethics training?
      • It's simple….how can you be expected to follow the Code of Ethics if you have no idea what the Code actually is? The Code of Ethics is updated on an annual basis, and NAR wants to be sure that you stay abreast of those updates. A better understanding of the Code will help you to avoid potential violations of the Articles of the Code. Violations can result in monetary penalties or loss of membership, so we want to make sure you stay in the clear.
    • How can I join SMTAR?
      • Joining SMTAR is easy! Just call, e-mail, or stop by our office to get the process started. You will need to complete an application for membership and pay your dues (based on your current status with NAR and the type of membership you need). We love to meet all of our prospective members in person, but your membership can be completed without ever having to come to our office if that is more suitable to your needs.
    • Can I pay my dues online?
      • No. At this time, SMTAR does not accept online dues payment. Payments can be made by mail or in person to SMTAR, 304 River Road, Columbia, TN 38401, or by phone 931.381.5556 or fax 931.388.4957 with a credit card. We do not recommend that cash be mailed or that any payment be left on the SMTAR premises after hours. Cash payments should be made with exact change.
    • Where can I obtain the REALTOR® logo?
    • I just got my REALTOR® license. What's next?
      • This is a trick question designed to illustrate the widespread and unauthorized use of the term "REALTOR®". The REALTOR® Association does not issue your real estate license, and the term REALTOR® should NOT be used for all real estate licensees. You become a REALTOR® when you join your local REALTOR® Association and complete their membership requirements. If you need to know what to do now that you've obtained your REAL ESTATE license, click here.
    • What are the benefits of membership in SMTAR?
      • There are several reasons why it is a benefit to join ANY REALTOR® Association.

        A voice - become part of more than 1 million people who make a difference in the real estate industry every day they snap on their REALTOR® pin.

        Information - from your Local Association, all the way up to the National Association of REALTORS, your sources of information that will aid you in the real estate profession are endless. Everything from open house tips to legal issues are covered. SMTAR will help point you in the direction of those resources that you need!

        Professional Standards & Development - The REALTOR® organization is designed to make you better at what you do. The Code of Ethics, state and national conventions, and the special NAR designations put you on the right track to success.

        Education - Most REALTOR® Associations offer the education you need to stay up-to-date in the industry, while helping you earn credit toward your license renewal.

        Arbitration & Mediation Services - We can help you settle disputes.


        At SMTAR, we also offer the following services:

        REALTOR® Library - Believe it or not, we have a bookshelf that has actual books on it that can be checked out to membership.

        Lockbox Services - REALTORS in our region use an electronic lockbox product. As of February 2009, this will be the SentriLock REALTOR® Lockbox. At SMTAR, lockboxes are available on loan, or for purchase, for a fee. This service helps you make your listings available to more buyers through their real estate agents.

        REALTOR® Store - Need a sign? How about a brochure box? We've got 'em. Our REALTOR® Store is located inside the SMTAR office, or it can be accessed online.

        Multiple Listing Service - our MLS, created by RealTracs Solutions, is one of the best in the nation. Its regional coverage (all of Middle Tennessee!) gives REALTORS in our area a wider market area, and more information to suit the needs of their clients.

        Forms - Membership in the Tennessee Association of REALTORS will allow you access to the TAR TransactionDesk service. TransactionDesk is an online forms solution that helps you stay organized during the real estate transaction. TAR's forms have been written and re-written by TAR's attorneys in conjunction with a Forms Committee. Their efforts will provide the tools you need to get your ducks in a row.
  • Multiple Listing Service
    • What is an MLS?
      • A multiple listing service is a compilation of properties for sale in your area. The service often contains information on properties sold, tax information, and other tools that prove useful in the sale of real property.
    • How can I update my contact information that appears on MLS?
      • Log in to RealTracs.net. Click on "My Page", then "My Page", then "Edit Your Roster Entry". Make the appropriate changes and click "Save".
    • I need help with RealTracs. Is training available?
      • Monthly RealTracs Training is available to all who hold a RealTracs User ID. This training is free, and the schedule is posted online at RealTracs.net. Just log in, click on "Member Info" and then "Training Classes" to view the schedule and available locations for training. If you'd like to register for a course, just click on the "Register" link beside the date and location of the course you would like to attend. Remember, you must have your own User ID to attend this course. There is a monetary penalty for loaning your User ID to another person.
    • I need to withdraw my listing from the MLS - what is the process?
      • Only Principle Brokers or (office staff with this permission) may withdraw a listing from the MLS. If you have these permissions, please contact the RealTracs Helpdesk for assistance with withdrawing a listing.
    • What is the MLS coverage area?
    • How can I contact the MLS?
      • The MLS (RealTracs) can be reached by phone at 615.385.0777.

        For technical assistance, ask for the HELPDESK
        For user/password assistance, ask for MARGARET JOHNSON
        For training assistance, ask for DONNA CHRIST
    • Who should I call with questions about support for information in the MLS (RealTracs)?
      • The staff at SMTAR is always happy to assist you with questions regarding the MLS(RealTracs), however, the best and quickest approach to MLS issues is to get your information straight ""from the horse's mouth""! The MLS (RealTracs) can be reached by phone at 615.385.0777.

        For technical assistance, ask for the HELPDESK
        For user/password assistance, ask for MARGARET JOHNSON
        For training assistance, ask for DONNA CHRIST
  • Technical Support
    • I forgot my password - can you help?
      • SMTAR can assist you with your password for the Sentrilock system only. Please click the forgotten password link or contact the service provider for all other services.
  • Real Estate Commission
    • What states have reciprocity with Tennessee?
      • · Alabama · Arkansas · Florida · Georgia · Indiana · Illinois · Kentucky · Louisiana · Mississippi · North Carolina · Ohio
        · Pennsylvania · South Carolina · Texas · Virginia
        · West Virginia · Wisconsin
    • How can I get a real estate license?
    • What is reciprocity?
      • In the terms of a Real Estate Commission, reciprocity is an agreement between two states that allows real estate licensees in one state to obtain a license in another using their already-established education and credentials. A reciprocity agreement often eliminates prelicensing education in the second state. The requirements for licensure in the second state for each licensee, however, is evaluated on an individual basis.
    • How can I verify that a person actually has a license?
      • Most state real estate commissions have a website that will allow you to search a person's name to determine if they hold an active real estate license. Links to the two commissions common to our area are below. To find the commission for another state, type "STATE Real Estate Commission" into the search bar of your favorite search engine (Yahoo!, Google, etc.) Replace the word "STATE" with the appropriate state name.

        Tennessee Real Estate Commission License Search

        Alabama Real Estate Commission License Search
    • Who should I call with questions about my license?
      • Questions about your real estate license should be directed to the entity that issued your license. In our area, the two licensing board most commonly used are:

        The Tennessee Real Estate Commission

        The Alabama Real Estate Commission

        If you are unable to reach the appropriate commission, Association staff may be able to assist you with some of your questions. Just give us a call or e-mail.
    • What education do I need to renew my license?
      • The education required for your license renewal depends on the type of license that you hold. In most cases, the requirement is the 4-hour CORE course plus 12 elective hours (16 total). Affiliate brokers are required to take this 16-hour course load. Those who hold a broker's license may NOT be required to complete education hours and should contact TREC (1.800.342.4031) to determine their individual education requirements if they are unsure.
    • How can I be sure that a course is approved at TREC?