Reading-Berks Association of Realtors® members now have 24-hour access to unique municipal facts through the new online Municipal Ordinance Database.
“The database provides Realtors® with real estate-related information like tax records, residential/rental resale, property maintenance, zoning and sign requirements,” said Merlin Weaver, president of the Reading-Berks Association of Realtors®. “It puts everything at our fingertips and makes it so easy to do some background research on properties we’re dealing with.”
The Reading-Berks Association is one of several associations in the state to have the database available to its members. Members of the Suburban Realtors® Alliance have been using a similar database for several years, and can’t imagine doing business without it.
“I use the Municipal Ordinance Database for every listing and sale,” said past PAR President Kathy McQuilkin, a member of the Suburban West Realtors® Association. “It’s really an invaluable tool for Realtors®.”
McQuilkin has used the ordinance database available through her local association for many years. It provides information on restrictions on signs, such as whether the local municipality requires sign permits or fees, and if there are specific hours for open house signs.
She said the database helps her prepare both her buyers and sellers. “The database lets me know if there are inspections that my buyers need to be aware of,” she explained. “Or if I’m representing the sellers, I can let them know that the sidewalks may be an issue at closing. The database is all-encompassing.”
McQuilkin said in working with investors and rental properties, the database can provide helpful information regarding rental ordinances and issues they need to be aware of when they’re writing leases.
“The Municipal Ordinance Database is really something you rely on to give you additional insight for the transaction,” she said. “It doesn’t take away the need for due diligence on the part of the landlord, buyer and seller, and you should still ask to see things in writing from the municipality, but it does help in preparing for the transaction.”
To access the Reading-Berks Association’s Municipal Ordinance Database, simply visit www.RealEstateInBerks.com and sign in as a member.