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David Vijan from Outlier Compliance Group joins Greg and Shawn to discuss the current state and future of compliance, particularly in the anti-money laundering (AML) sector. David emphasizes the critical need for real estate brokerages to implement robust compliance programs, highlighting frequent shortcomings in fundamental compliance practices such as the reporting of suspicious transactions (STRs). Recent findings from FINTRAC have shown significant compliance failures in this sector, reinforcing the urgency for enhanced understanding and enforcement of regulatory requirements.

Greg praises Outlier's leadership in the compliance industry, countering the general skepticism surrounding consultancy motives by highlighting their ethical approach and genuine commitment to bettering the industry. The conversation also delves into the specifics of regulatory challenges facing mortgage brokers, stressing the importance of proper risk assessments, policy development, and the necessity of conducting effectiveness reviews as per regulatory expectations.

Towards the end, David discusses the potential impacts of upcoming regulatory changes, including the expansion of AML requirements to include other sectors like armored car services and mortgage lending. They conclude by discussing the role of compliance in fostering a safer business environment, asserting that stringent compliance measures not only mitigate risks but also enhance overall business efficiency and reputation.

Alphabetical glossary of acronyms, terms and links

• AML: Anti-Money Laundering
• BCFSA: British Columbia Financial Services Authority
• BCREA: British Columbia Real Estate Association
• CTF: Counter Terrorist Financing
• CREA: Canadian Real Estate Association
• FINTRAC: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, under the Canadian government's Department of Finance
• KYC: Know Your Client
• PCMLTFA: Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act
• Radar Hill Website Design and Marketing
• ReallyTrusted
• REALTYnuance
• REEOIC: Real Estate Errors & Omissions Insurance Corporation
• REIC: Real Estate Institute of Canada
• STR: Suspicious Transaction Report

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Cory Raven joins the True North Compliance Podcast with special guest co-host Greg Dent to discuss the evolving landscape of real estate compliance and regulation. Having begun his career in 1998, Cory has witnessed significant changes in the industry, especially in terms of regulatory oversight transitioning from industry-run bodies to governmental agencies like the BCFSA. He highlighted the introduction and growing importance of FINTRAC in ensuring compliance, noting its increasing impact on brokerage operations.

Throughout the podcast the challenges that brokers face today were emphasized, balancing compliance duties with business development and agent training. He shared insights on the necessity of higher educational standards within the industry to improve professional conduct and reduce compliance violations. Cory also speculated on future changes in regulatory frameworks and their implications for real estate practices, suggesting proactive adaptation to these evolving requirements.

Alphabetical glossary of acronyms, terms and links

• AML: Anti-Money Laundering
• BCFSA: British Columbia Financial Services Authority
• BCREA: British Columbia Real Estate Association
• CTF: Counter Terrorist Financing
• CREA: Canadian Real Estate Association
• FINTRAC: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, under the Canadian government's Department of Finance
• KYC: Know Your Client
• PCMLTFA: Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act
• Radar Hill Website Design and Marketing
• ReallyTrusted
• REALTYnuance
• REEOIC: Real Estate Errors & Omissions Insurance Corporation
• REIC: Real Estate Institute of Canada
• STR: Suspicious Transaction Report

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Shawn interviews Helen Jones, a seasoned real estate professional of JONESco Real Estate Inc., who shares her journey from teaching to becoming a landlord and eventually a real estate agent in Victoria. Helen recounts the skepticism she faced early in her career regarding the compatibility of honesty with success in real estate, a notion she challenged based on her own beliefs and the example set by her son and business partner, Roger. She discusses the significant changes in the real estate industry, including regulatory increases and shifts towards team-based operations. Helen emphasizes the importance of ethics and accountability in her profession, reflecting on her experiences and the evolution of the industry. Her commitment to integrity is evident as she navigates through the challenges and adaptations required by an increasingly regulated and changing market. Helen's narrative highlights her dedication to her career, her innovative approach to real estate education, and her perspectives on the future of the industry, all while maintaining a focus on ethical practices.

Alphabetical glossary of acronyms, terms and links

• AML: Anti-Money Laundering
• BCFSA: British Columbia Financial Services Authority
• BCREA: British Columbia Real Estate Association
• CTF: Counter Terrorist Financing
• CREA: Canadian Real Estate Association
• FINTRAC: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, under the Canadian government's Department of Finance
• KYC: Know Your Client
• PCMLTFA: Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act
• Radar Hill Website Design and Marketing
• ReallyTrusted
• REALTYnuance
• REEOIC: Real Estate Errors & Omissions Insurance Corporation
• REIC: Real Estate Institute of Canada
• STR: Suspicious Transaction Report

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Dan Bennett shares his long journey in real estate, emphasizing the importance of service and putting people first. He highlights how starting in a challenging market taught him valuable skills and how adapting technology, like introducing a paperless office, revolutionized the industry. Dan observes regulatory shifts, emphasizing more bureaucracy but acknowledging the underlying goal of consumer protection. He suggests a future where technology supports efficient compliance, balancing serving clients well and meeting regulatory demands.

Alphabetical glossary of acronyms, terms and links

• AML: Anti-Money Laundering
• BCFSA: British Columbia Financial Services Authority
• BCREA: British Columbia Real Estate Association
• CTF: Counter Terrorist Financing
• CREA: Canadian Real Estate Association
• FINTRAC: Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, under the Canadian government's Department of Finance
• KYC: Know Your Client
• PCMLTFA: Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act
• Radar Hill Website Design and Marketing
• ReallyTrusted
• REALTYnuance
• REEOIC: Real Estate Errors & Omissions Insurance Corporation
• REIC: Real Estate Institute of Canada
• STR: Suspicious Transaction Report