August, 2008, Editorial, Mortgage Press
E. Robert Levy
Why be a member of the NJAMB or the MBA-NJ? I have heard from some in our industry who are not members who have no idea why it is beneficial to be a member of our Associations. I recognize that from an informational standpoint, mortgage bankers and brokers are inundated via the internet with the kind of information only available through their trade association’s years ago. However, Association membership provides a lot more to its members that can be very valuable in business planning and profitability. And for those who become Committee Chairs, Board Members or Officers, there is the added satisfaction of giving something back to the industry.
As a member of the NJAMB or MBA-NJ, you have the right to attend any of our Committee meetings. There is no additional charge for attending these meetings where you will hear from top quality speakers and exchange views with others in the industry who are interested in the same business related issues and ideas as you are. That kind of networking is simply not available elsewhere and the added value it provides for your company is itself worth the annual dues you pay for membership! For example, our FHA Committee will keep you on top of all of the key changes occurring at HUD and offers the opportunity to discuss them with experts attending the meeting. Our Commercial Division provides a chance to learn about brokering commercial loans and what requirements are involved. These and the many other Committees may very well change the way you do business!
Our Bulletins and Committee Reports that go to members and the daily Newslink, provide sources of information not readily available to nonmembers. Our members are kept up to date on all significant legislative and regulatory changes and developments that they need to know about in their planning. Members also have the opportunity to comment on proposals and to keep our Boards informed of issues and concerns they may have so that action can be taken where appropriate. In this regard, our lobbying capability is significant: We maintain an office in Trenton, our State Capitol, and we also utilize one of the major lobbying firms in Trenton (Princeton Public Affairs). This has proven to be an excellent working relationship in achieving our legislative/regulatory goals.
Our work in Trenton also enables us to keep our members informed of trends and potential legislative/regulatory actions when they are at a stage where they are more likely to become law. This advance, early warning system, so to speak can be invaluable in preparing your company to meet future challenges.
Paying membership rates at all conferences, seminars and free admission at Town Meetings, does add up at the end of the year. And their will be some events that we will hold for members only, making your membership even more worthwhile.
These and many other factors (copies of our membership information and benefits are available) should give you the motivation to join one or both of the NJAMB or MBA-NJ. One important additional benefit is that when you join NJAMB, you automatically become a member of NAMB and we pay your dues!
For more membership information, contact Monica Cedeño at mcedeno@mbanj.com or mcedeno@njamb.org or call 973-379-7447. Check out our websites as well: njamb.org or mbanj.com.
