Sarasota and Manatee Realtor groups ponder merger

The boards that oversee real estate agent organizations in Sarasota and Manatee counties voted to merge into one group — a decision that now goes to members.

Members of the Sarasota Association of Realtors and the Manatee Association of Realtors are scheduled to vote on the proposed merger Sept. 16, according to a release. If approved, the merger will be effective Jan. 1. Both groups will retain their respective facilities, the release adds, and the new association will be called the Suncoast Realtor Association, pending approval from the National Association of Realtors. A combined group would have more than 5,000 members, which officials say would give it more clout in the region and state.

“The reality today is that the perceived barrier between Sarasota and Manatee counties has eroded and we are now one regional marketplace,” Manatee Association of Realtors President Sherry Grooms says in the release. “Merging the two associations allows us to eliminate duplication and operate more efficiently and cost-effectively.”

The votes from both boards came after two months of discussions and due diligence. Benefits of a potential merger, according to the boards, include a stronger voice with My Florida Regional MLS, Florida Realtors and the National Association of Realtors; financial strength by combining memberships and assets; more services and support to members; and better geographic accessibility for members.

“We are stronger together,” Sarasota Association of Realtors President Peter Crowley says in the statement. “This merger has been contemplated in the past because of its obvious advantages. Finally, we have been able to make it happen and bring it to the membership for a vote because of the hard work and foresight of the members of both boards. What they have accomplished in just two months is phenomenal.”