SUBGROUP GUIDELINES

GaREIA Subgroups are networking groups for current regular members of the GaREIA. Subgroup members share their experiences, support one another, learn from each other, and have fun! Although members increase their knowledge by attending subgroups, subgroups are not intended to serve as substitutes for seminars that provide detailed information on specific facets of real estate investing.

Geographical Subgroups meet in the area of the investor’s residence and do not focus on any particular real estate topic.

• Members may join only ONE geographical subgroup.
• A Subgroup Application is required in order to get on the waiting list.
• Members are invited when there is room for additional members.
• New geographic groups are formed when there is enough interest.

Special Interest Subgroups relate to specific topics or types of real estate investing.

• Members may join as many Special Interest subgroups as they have time for.
• Some Special Interest Subgroups require that the member submit an application, while others are “Walk-In” subgroups which do not require an application or advance notice of attendance.

New members must attend walk-in subgroups for three months prior to submitting an application to those subgroups that require an application. There are many walk-in subgroups that allow the new member to increase their knowledge about Georgia real estate investment.

New Member Subgroup Applications (which contain signature lines for verification of subgroup attendance) are provided at GaREIA New Member Orientation. Established members may submit a regular application that does not require the three-month certification.

Subgroup members attend regular monthly meetings at the designated meeting day, time, and place. Each member is expected to actively participate in activities of the group by:

• Attending meetings on a regular basis
• Acting as Host at least once in a calendar year (if applicable)
• Contributing to the Vendor List (if applicable)
• Sharing knowledge and expertise, and helping to plan meetings
• Networking (not selling of services)

Attendance Guidelines. For all non-Walk-In subgroups, members are expected to attend all meetings in a calendar year. A member who misses three (3) meetings total for the entire calendar year will be dropped from the subgroup membership. Board members are exempt from the attendance requirement (See Section 1-3). Only one member per each married couple has to attend to count as present. (Only Emergencies and uncontrollable circumstances are overlooked!) In addition to members, only family members and out-of-town guests of members are allowed to attend as guests at subgroup meetings—and then the Host and Leader should be notified in advance.

Acting As Host. Each member is encouraged to host at least one meeting within the year. Members may double-up on hosting as long as there is enough members to cover the entire year. Members serving as HOST for the monthly meeting should follow the guidelines below:

• For non-Walk-in meeting, notice of the next month’s meeting (date, time, location, and topic) should be sent in a timely manner to all members. If available, provide info on the hosts for the next three future meetings. The Subgroup Leader can provide the updated roster and may assist with the notice if needed.
  
• The Host may also coordinate the program by picking an appropriate topic or arranging for a speaker. If light refreshments are served (as is the case with some Geographical Subgroup meetings), these are typically coordinated by the host, but costs should be shared by those in attendance.

Contributing To the Vendor List. Every member has a need for a service on a property they own. Therefore, subgroups are encouraged to start a Vendor list. Members should contribute to this list if they have used a vendor (painter, roofer, handyman, etc.) they feel is reasonable, honest, and provides good service. The list should be reviewed several times a year to ensure that feedback from those who have used the vendors warrants that they remain on the list.

Sharing Knowledge And Expertise. Sharing is an important aspect of subgroups. This sharing saves time, money, and headaches for our fellow investors. Anything you have experience with and can contribute to the group will be a great help. Remember, there will be a time that you will be in need of help. TEAM WORK is the way to show others you care.

Networking and Selling. Subgroups are for networking, not selling of services. Selling of services by members or speakers at any subgroup meeting is prohibited. Exchanging business cards is acceptable, as is sharing information that is of mutual benefit. Subgroups may use a portion of their meetings for mini-marketing sessions for members, but actual business transactions and detailed discussions should take place outside the official meeting. When inviting a vendor to speak at a subgroup meeting, ensure that the vendor is aware that the primary purpose should be to educate the group. Any “product promotion” should consume no more than 15% of the speaker’s allotted time. Members who wish to purchase a product from the vendor can do so AFTER the meeting has adjourned.