Two associations representing nearly 1,500 realtors in Simcoe County and Muskoka District and beyond have announced a merger.
The Lakelands Association of Realtors and the Southern Georgian Bay Association of Realtors have merged with a membership vote that was taken on May 19.
The merger takes effect on Oct. 1, 2021, according to a joint news release issued by the two associations.
Southern Georgian Bay Realtors Association includes members serving Clearview, Springwater, Oro-Medonte, Tiny, Tay, Severn, Georgian Bay, Meaford, Grey Highlands, The Blue Mountains, Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Midland and Penetanguishene.
The association reports a membership of more than 640 realtors.
The Lakelands Association of Realtors represents 850 members serving clients in Parry Sound, Muskoka Haliburton and Northern Simcoe County (including Orillia).
Matthew Lidbetter, president of Southern Georgian Bay Association of Realtors said realtors will see a cost savings with reduced membership fees.
"Our members have put our new association in a stronger position to add depth and strength to our many programs and services," said Lidbetter in the news release.
Chuck Murney, president of the Lakelands Association is looking forward to a larger membership creating stronger representation in real estate.
"It will increase our political clout with the provincial and federal governments since the boundary of our new territory is better aligned with our political boundaries," said Murney in the news release.
The new merged group will be called the Trillium Realtors Association, pending approval from the Ontario Real Estate Association and Canadian Real Estate Association.
