RECA releases information to the media and the public when we have announcements, issue a consumer alert, suspend a licensee, or when licensees take a lifetime withdrawal. Media should contact communications@reca.ca for more information.
RECA’s consumer protection mandate means RECA must use every means at its disposal to communicate important information to consumers. Browse the 2016 news releases below or select another year from the archives menu:
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Calgary, Alberta – Multiple consumers have contacted the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) about the activities of a company referring to itself as Mobey (or Moby) Real Estate, in Edmonton.
Mobey Real Estate is not a licensed real estate brokerage in Alberta nor are any of the individuals listed on the Mobey website licensed as real estate professionals.
Mobey has been contacting consumers with offers of work-from-home employment opportunities. These emails frequently indicate that Mobey is recruiting assistant property managers and other similar positions. Emails ask the recipient to complete an employment contract, including providing personal information and bank account information.
RECA and the Better Business Bureau of Central and Northern Alberta are warning consumers about these employment opportunities through Mobey Real Estate, and we encourage you to send any emails you receive from a @mobyestate.com email address to your local authorities.
Consumers can find out if an individual is a licensed real estate professional through RECA’s website at www.www.reca.ca. Use the “Searching for an Industry Professional” tool. If you have concerns about unsolicited employment opportunities, please contact your local Better Business Bureau.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – Ali Ghani is operating as a real estate broker and property manager in Calgary without having the necessary licence. The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) has issued a penalty of $25,000 to Mr. Ghani for trading in real estate without a licence.
Evidence provided to RECA indicates Mr. Ghani has been managing properties in Calgary since 2010. Mr. Ghani and/or his companies have brokered lease agreements and accepted security deposits and rents on behalf of property owners. These activities require a licence in Alberta.
Ali Ghani is associated with companies operating under the names Prism Group of Companies Inc., Prism, Prism Financial, Prism Realty, and Prism Developments Inc. in Calgary. Mr. Ghani and these companies are not licensed real estate brokers or property managers in Alberta, nor have they ever been.
RECA is the licensing and governing body for property management, real estate brokerage, mortgage brokerage, and real estate appraisal professionals in Alberta. Consumers are encouraged to work only with licensed individuals.
Licensed individuals must meet and maintain rigorous licensing requirements, including:
In the event of a licensee’s fraud, breach of trust or failure to account or disburse money in accordance with the terms of trust, a consumer may be eligible for compensation from RECA’s consumer compensation fund. Consumers who work with unlicensed individuals are not eligible for compensation from RECA’s consumer compensation fund.
Consumers can find out if an individual is licensed through the “Find a Professional” tool on reca.ca.
If you have concerns as a result of property management dealings with Ali Ghani, Prism Group of Companies Inc., Prism, Prism Financial, Prism Realty, or Prism Developments Inc., please contact the Real Estate Council of Alberta toll-free at 1-888-425-2754.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA is mandated to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – Prism Developments Inc. is operating as a real estate broker and property manager in Calgary without having the necessary licence. The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) has issued a penalty of $25,000 to Prism Developments Inc. for trading in real estate without a licence.
Evidence provided to RECA indicates Prism Developments Inc. has been managing properties in Calgary since 2010. Prism Developments Inc. has brokered lease agreements and accepted security deposits and rents on behalf of property owners. These activities require a licence in Alberta.
Prism Developments Inc. is not licensed as a real estate brokerage or as a property manager in Alberta, nor has it ever been.
RECA is the licensing and governing body for property management, real estate brokerage, mortgage brokerage, and real estate appraisal professionals in Alberta. Consumers are encouraged to work only with licensed individuals.
Licensed individuals must meet and maintain rigorous licensing requirements, including:
In the event of a licensee’s fraud, breach of trust or failure to account or disburse money in accordance with the terms of trust, a consumer may be eligible for compensation from RECA’s consumer compensation fund. Consumers who work with unlicensed individuals are not eligible for compensation from RECA’s consumer compensation fund.
Consumers can find out if an individual is licensed through RECA’s website, www.www.reca.ca. Use the “Searching for an Industry Professional” tool.
If you have concerns as a result of property management dealings with Prism Developments Inc., please contact the Real Estate Council of Alberta toll-free at 1-888-425-2754.
NOTE: This consumer alert was originally issued in December 2016, and referred to an individual who was the director and sole shareholder of Prism Developments Inc. In September 2017, RECA removed the individual’s name from this alert in light of the fact RECA’s Administrative Penalty for unlicensed activity has been reissued to Prism Developments Inc. rather than to the individual previously named.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On December 5, 2016, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended the real estate licence of Lorna Macneil. RECA suspended Ms. Macneil for refusing to cooperate with a person conducting an investigation.
As a result of this suspension, Lorna Macneil may not trade in real estate in Alberta. Her suspension will continue until the executive director is satisfied she has cooperated with the investigation.
Ms. Macneil was most recently the real estate broker for Macneil Realty Ltd. o/a Real Canadian Property Management Elite, operating in Fort McMurray and Medicine Hat.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On November 24, 2016, a Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) Hearing Panel suspended Krishan Lal Mall’s real estate licence for two months; ordered him to pay fines and costs totaling $15,500; and, ordered him to complete five units from the Fundamentals of Real Estate course.
Mr. Mall shall not be re-authorized to trade in real estate until he completes all education as required by the Hearing Panel.
The Hearing Panel found Mr. Mall:
During the conduct in question, Mr. Mall was registered as a real estate associate with Twin Oakes Real Estate 1993 Inc. o/a Re/Max House of Real Estate in Calgary.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On November 22, 2016, a Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) Hearing Panel suspended Gordon Pethick’s real estate licence for 1 month; ordered him to pay fines and costs totaling $24,000; and, ordered him to complete two units from the Fundamentals of Real Estate course.
The Hearing Panel found Mr. Pethick:
During the conduct in question, and most recently, Mr. Pethick was registered as a real estate associate with BGB Realty Inc. o/a Re/Max Realty Professionals in Calgary.
To review the Hearing Panel order in its entirety, please click here.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
NOTE: This Hearing Panel decision is currently under appeal.
Calgary, Alberta – Kevin Kumar, wanted for unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokering activity, was arrested on a Canada-wide warrant late last week, and has begun serving his two-month jail sentence.
“Through their unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokering activity, Kevin Kumar and his associates preyed on financially vulnerable Albertans,” says Bob Myroniuk, executive director of the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). “Instead of helping home buyers and sellers, they offered schemes, scams, and financial ruin. The enforcement action RECA took on these files was unprecedented, but it demonstrates RECA’s commitment to consumer protection. When it comes to unlicensed activity, RECA will use all legal means at its disposal to stop the activity and protect consumers.
“We are hopeful that Kevin Kumar’s arrest will end the long chapter of unlicensed activity perpetrated by him, Derek Johnson, and their associates,” adds Myroniuk.
On June 7, 2016, Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench Justice Sheilah Martin sentenced Kevin Kumar and his associate, Derek Johnson, to two months in jail for civil contempt of court for breaching a court-ordered injunction to stop trading in real estate and dealing in mortgages without a licence. In early June, Derek Johnson was arrested and served his jail time.
RECA has issued an Administrative Penalty of $25,000 for unlicensed activity to Kevin Kumar, and previously issued five administrative penalties against Derek Johnson for unlicensed activity, with fines totaling more than $100,000. These penalties remain unpaid.
If someone offers to represent you in a real estate transaction or assist you with securing mortgage financing, ensure that individual holds a licence with RECA. Consumers can search for a licensed industry professional through RECA’s website at www.www.reca.ca. And remember when encountering difficult financial circumstances, if someone offers you a way out that sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Talk to a licensed industry professional.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On November 1, 2016, the executive director of the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended the real estate brokerage licence of Real Canadian Property Management Elite, operating in Fort McMurray and Medicine Hat.
RECA suspended Real Canadian Property Management Elite for failing to immediately fund a trust account shortage.
As a result of this suspension, Real Canadian Property Management Elite, and its broker Lorna MacNeil, may not trade in real estate, including providing property management services, in Alberta. The suspension will remain in effect until the executive director is satisfied all trust shortages have been funded.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
NOTE: Real Canadian Property Management Elite is the trade name of MacNeil Realty Ltd.
Calgary, Alberta –November is Financial Literacy Month, and the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) wants Albertans to look beyond a home’s purchase price to make sure they’re prepared for and understand the financial realities of home ownership.
“Making a house your home takes dollars, but it also takes sense,” says Christine Zwozdesky, Chair of the Real Estate Council of Alberta. “Buying a home is the biggest purchase most Albertans will ever make, and it’s important for them to have access to independent, reliable information to make a sound financial decision.”
As the authority for a positive real estate experience, RECA has information and resources to help Albertans learn the financial ins-and-outs of their home purchase, from learning if they’re ready to buy, to obtaining a mortgage, planning for closing costs, and the ongoing financial responsibilities of homeownership.
Access all of RECA’s financial literacy resources. RECA will add more throughout Financial Literacy Month, so stay tuned, and follow along on Twitter with #FLM2016.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta –The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is pleased to announce the selection of Christine Zwozdesky as Chair of Council and Brian Klingspon as Chair-Elect.
Ms. Zwozdesky was appointed to Council in 2013 from nominations received from licensed property managers, and Council recently appointed her to serve a second three-year term beginning November 1, 2016. Ms. Zwozdesky has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry, and is a Past President of both the Building Owners and Managers Association – Edmonton Chapter and Edmonton’s Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) chapter. Christine is currently a Director of the Capital Region Housing Corporation Board and Chair of their Real Property Committee, and has served on multiple RECA Advisory Committees.
Mr. Klingspon has been a member of Council since November 2013, and serves as an appointee of the Alberta Real Estate Association (AREA) from the REALTORS® Association of Edmonton. He has been in the real estate business for more than 25 years, serving as the broker for two brokerages in Edmonton, and working as the regional executive director in Western Canada for a large real estate franchisor. Brian has experience on numerous RECA advisory committees, and recently completed a year as Chair of the RECA Hearings Committee, a committee on which he has served since 2007.
Ms. Zwozdesky and Mr. Klingspon will serve in these positions for a one-year term, ending on October 31, 2017.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On October 3, 2016, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended the real estate licence of Graham Mayne. RECA suspended Mr. Mayne for refusing to cooperate with a person conducting an investigation.
As a result of this suspension, Graham Mayne may not trade in real estate in Alberta. His suspension will continue until the executive director is satisfied he has cooperated with the investigation.
Mr. Mayne was most recently the real estate broker for Discover Real Estate Ltd. in Calgary.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On October 19, 2016, Kalim Khan, previously a mortgage associate in Calgary, applied to the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) to permanently withdraw as an industry member.
At the time of his application, Mr. Khan was the subject of a conduct review under the Real Estate Act. The issues under investigation were:
At the time of Mr. Khan’s application to withdraw from the industry, there had been no disciplinary hearing, admissions, or findings of fact.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta approved Mr. Khan’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is this year’s recipient of two awards from the Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO®). ARELLO® is an international association of real estate regulators. It has 63 jurisdictions, from 11 countries, as members.
RECA won an Education Award for its pre-licensing education course, the Practice of Rural Real Estate, and a Communications Award for the 2016 edition of the Advertising Guidelines.
ARELLO® presents Education and Communication Awards each year in recognition of outstanding systems and programs that contribute to the real estate industry, promote public protection, and might be adapted to benefit licensees and consumers in other ARELLO® member jurisdictions.
ARELLO® recognized that the engaging design and work-ready focus of RECA’s Practice of Rural Real Estate course will lead to professional licensees who are able to practice real estate in compliance with legislation, and competently serve the real estate needs of rural buyers and sellers.
ARELLO® selected the most recent edition of RECA’s Advertising Guidelines as an example of regulatory communication that enhances consumer protection, while improving the industry and helping RECA achieve its mandate. The Advertising Guidelines are a resource for licensees that helps them do their jobs better while increasing their compliance with legislation and raising the professionalism of the industry; that, in turn, protects consumers.
ARELLO® presented RECA with both awards at the Award Winning Ideas session as part of its Annual Conference last week in Vancouver.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is this year’s recipient of the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR) Investigative Excellence Award for its investigation into Derek Johnson’s unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokerage activity.
The CLEAR Investigative Excellence award recognizes an investigative team in occupational or professional regulation. Winners demonstrate exceptional performance in a particular case or a history of excellent performance beyond what is expected or required, which resulted in a direct and significant impact to the protection of the public or consumer interests.
“While the primary purpose of RECA’s professional standards unit is consumer protection, having CLEAR recognize us in this way is an extremely rewarding recognition of the work RECA’s team put in on this file,” says Charles Stevenson, Director of Professional Standards at RECA.
RECA first began investigating Derek Johnson in early 2013. Since that time, RECA has issued five administrative penalties against him for unlicensed activity, with fines totaling more than $100,000. In 2014, the Court of Queen’s Bench granted RECA an injunction against Derek Johnson and his associates, ordering them to cease and desist trading in real estate and dealing in mortgages without a licence. In April 2016, the Court found Derek Johnson and a number of his associates in civil contempt of Court for breaching that Court-ordered injunction, and sentenced Johnson to two months in jail.
“While the Derek Johnson matter is likely one of the most high-profile investigations the RECA team has tackled, it is just one example of the work RECA’s team does to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to consumer protection, and investigative and regulatory excellence,” adds Stevenson.
CLEAR is an international resource for stakeholders in professional regulation. It serves and supports the international regulatory community and its vital contribution to public protection.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On August 11, 2016, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended the real estate licence of John Boguslav Nowak. RECA suspended Mr. Nowak for refusing to cooperate with a person conducting an investigation.
As a result of this suspension, John Boguslav Nowak may not trade in real estate in Alberta. His suspension will continue until the executive director is satisfied he has cooperated with the investigation.
Mr. Nowak was most recently registered as a real estate associate with Discover Real Estate Ltd. in Calgary.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On July 13, 2016, Victor Eghujovbo, previously a real estate associate in Calgary, applied to permanently withdraw from industry membership.
At the time of his application, Mr. Eghujovbo was the subject of conduct proceedings under the Real Estate Act related to whether he had misappropriated deposit monies, which were held in trust, for his own personal use. In September 2015, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended Mr. Eghujovbo’s real estate licence for not cooperating with the investigation. At the time of Mr. Eghujovbo’s withdrawal from industry, there had been no disciplinary hearing, admissions or findings of fact.
RECA approved Mr. Eghujovbo’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – Derek Johnson, sanctioned to jail time for unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokering activity, is in police custody. Kevin Kumar, who was also sanctioned to jail time for the same activities, remains at large and a Canada-wide warrant has been issued for his arrest.
“We’re hopeful Mr. Johnson’s arrest sends a strong message to other individuals who engage in unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokering activity that RECA will protect consumers.” says Natalie Scollard, communications manager at the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA). “Since 2013, RECA has taken enforcement action to stop Derek Johnson, Kevin Kumar, and their associates from preying on financially vulnerable Albertans. When it comes to unlicensed activity, RECA will use all legal means to stop it.”
On June 7, 2016, Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench Justice Sheilah Martin sanctioned Derek Johnson and Kevin Kumar, to two months in jail for civil contempt of court for breaching an injunction to stop trading in real estate and dealing in mortgages without a licence.
RECA has issued five administrative penalties against Derek Johnson for unlicensed activity in the past, with fines totaling more than $100,000. RECA has also issued an Administrative Penalty of $25,000 for unlicensed activity to Kevin Kumar. These penalties remain unpaid. To read more about the Derek Johnson matter, please click here.
“With the recent issuing of the Canada-wide warrant for Kevin Kumar, RECA is confident he, too, will be brought to justice,” says Scollard.
If someone offers to represent you in a real estate transaction or assist you with securing mortgage financing, ensure that individual is licensed by RECA. Consumers can search for a licensed industry professional through RECA’s website at www.www.reca.ca.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – Commercial real estate education in Alberta will take an enormous step forward with a new partnership between the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) and the University of Alberta.
RECA and the Alberta School of Business at the University of Alberta have entered into an agreement that will see the University’s business school develop a completely new Practice of Commercial Real Estate course. RECA will offer the course to individuals entering Alberta’s commercial real estate sector.
“RECA is extremely excited about this new partnership,” says Council Chair, Krista Bolton. “This is the first time RECA has partnered with a university for course development. Commercial practitioners have told us the current commercial real estate education in Alberta doesn’t go far enough; the new commercial course will be a game-changer.”
The Alberta School of Business already offers real estate courses as part of its Bachelor of Commerce and MBA programs. Its experience in these areas makes it the perfect partner to develop RECA’s new leading-edge, university-level commercial real estate course.
Edmonton commercial real estate professional Chad Griffiths, who was Council Chair when RECA and the University of Alberta signed a Memorandum of Agreement, strongly supports the partnership and the new course. “From what I have seen of the planned course content, this truly is going to be the pre-eminent commercial real estate course in Canada.”
The new Practice of Commercial Real Estate course offered by RECA will launch in phases, beginning in Fall 2016. As each phases launches, RECA will incorporate it into the current Practice of Commercial Real Estate course.
The Alberta Real Estate Foundation, a funder and supporter of the Real Estate Program, has provided the Alberta School of Business with a $150,000 grant to partially fund the development of the new course.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) applauds the recent sanctioning of Derek Johnson and Kevin Kumar, and again reminds consumers of the importance of working with licensed real estate and mortgage brokerage professionals.
This reminder follows Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench Justice Sheilah Martin’s sanctioning of Derek Johnson and Kevin Kumar to two months in jail for civil contempt of court for breaching a court-ordered injunction to stop trading in real estate and dealing in mortgages without a licence.
“Derek Johnson, Kevin Kumar and their associates have preyed on innocent Albertans for far too long,” says Bob Myroniuk, executive director of RECA. “They are unlicensed individuals who prey on financially vulnerable Albertans, and RECA remains committed to seeing them brought to justice.
“We are pleased that Justice Martin saw the serious nature of Mr. Johnson and Mr. Kumar’s unlicensed activity,” adds Myroniuk. “RECA has actively pursued these individuals since 2013. Having this sanction imposed by the Court shows that the persistent and public nature of their unlicensed activities cannot – and will not – be tolerated. RECA takes its consumer protection mandate seriously and, when it comes to unlicensed activity, will do everything in its power to stop it.”
Justice Martin also ordered arrest warrants for both Johnson and Kumar. “RECA will coordinate with authorities to ensure all necessary steps are taken to execute the arrest warrants,” says Myroniuk.
RECA has issued five administrative penalties against Derek Johnson for unlicensed activity in the past, with fines totaling more than $100,000. RECA has also issued an Administrative Penalty of $25,000 for unlicensed activity to Kevin Kumar. These penalties remain unpaid.
Consumers who believe they have had dealings with Derek Johnson and/or Kevin Kumar, or other unlicensed individuals are encouraged to contact RECA at 1-888-425-2754 or via email at info@www.reca.ca.
If someone offers to represent you in a real estate transaction or assist you with securing mortgage financing, ensure that individual is licensed by RECA. Consumers can search for a licensed industry professional through RECA’s website at www.www.reca.ca.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is pleased to announce the approval of a Residential Measurement Standard (RMS) in Alberta. The Residential Measurement Standard benefits all consumers that rely on the accuracy of residential property measurement. All real estate professionals must use the RMS when measuring residential property in Alberta.
“The Residential Measurement Standard gives consumers and real estate professionals accurate and consistent property measurements,” says Council Chair Krista Bolton. “Consumers can be confident in the measurements stated within residential real estate listings, and they can use those measurements to compare different properties to determine if they suit their needs.”
The RMS is the result of RECA’s extensive consultation with stakeholders, including real estate and appraisal professionals, industry associations, and property measurement companies.
“The establishment of the Residential Measurement Standard puts in place a consistent method of measuring properties, and benefits any person or organization who relies on the accuracy of property size such as real estate appraisers, mortgage brokers, financial institutions, and mortgage insurers,” says Bolton.
When advertising a residential property’s size, Alberta real estate professionals must communicate that size according to the RMS. They can also communicate additional information beyond the RMS, as long as they disclose what the additional measurement is, and how they arrived at it.
RECA is the first Canadian real estate regulator to introduce a residential measurement standard for real estate professionals.
The Principles of the Residential Measurement Standard and the Guide to the Residential Measurement Standard in Alberta are available on RECA’s website, www.www.reca.ca.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) continues to take decisive action against unlicensed individuals who prey on Alberta consumers.
On April 20, 2016, RECA successfully applied to the Court of Queen’s Bench to have Kevin Kumar, Derek Ryan Johnson, Allyson Johnson, Kevin Manji, Laurel Cinnamon, 1827148 Alberta Ltd. and New Century Real Estate Inc. found in civil contempt of Court.
The Court of Queen’s Bench previously granted RECA an injunction against Derek Johnson and his associates, ordering them to cease and desist trading in real estate and dealing in mortgages without a licence. Today’s application was the result of their continued blatant disregard for the injunction.
The Court order for contempt requires those named in the order to appear in person on June 7, 2016 in a Calgary courtroom for the penalty phase of this proceeding. RECA has instructed its legal counsel to pursue the maximum penalty allowed by the Courts.
“We are taking extraordinary and unprecedented measures to help prevent harm to consumers,” says Bob Myroniuk, executive director of RECA. “Today’s court proceeding is testament to how seriously RECA takes its regulatory responsibilities. We hope the Court shares our view of how important it is to protect consumers from unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokerage activity.”
RECA has issued five administrative penalties against Derek Johnson for unlicensed activity in the past, with fines totaling more than $100,000. These penalties remain unpaid.
Consumers are encouraged to always ensure they are working with licensed real estate and mortgage brokerage professionals. To search for a licensed industry professional, visit RECA’s website at www.www.reca.ca.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – The results are in. An independent, third-party review of the Real Estate Council of Alberta’s (RECA) regulatory performance found that RECA is a high-performing regulator.
In November 2015, RECA engaged Field Law to conduct a third-party review of its regulatory performance as part of its commitment to ongoing performance improvement, and to help ensure continued fulfillment of its consumer protection mandate. A third-party review is a rigorous, in-depth assessment by an outside body, and Field Law is a leader in professional regulation and administrative law.
“Self-regulation is a privilege, not a right,” says Bob Myroniuk, executive director of RECA. “If we don’t maintain the trust and confidence of consumers, licensed real estate professionals, other stakeholders, and the Government of Alberta, as an effective regulatory body, we run the risk of losing that privilege. The results of this third-party review of our performance as a regulator are good news for consumers, for the industry, and for RECA itself.”
The report’s findings include that:
RECA is a high performing regulator meeting or exceeding almost all the Assessment Criteria in the five program areas that were the subject of the independent review
RECA has a serious commitment to best practices in self-regulation; it has actively embraced the concept of “right-touch regulation,” and is committed to continuous development and improvement
RECA is active in ensuring that standards of conduct are up to date, and that the standards prioritize the interests of the public and consumers
RECA provides significant guidance to help licensees apply RECA’s standards of competence and conduct
RECA’s licensing and registration processes protect the public interest while also being fair and impartial to applicants
RECA’s complaint handling processes protect the public interest but are also fair to industry professionals
RECA’s hearing process is transparent, timely, fair, proportionate, and focused on public protection
RECA’s Trust Assurance and Practice Review process is consistent with Regulatory Principles and meets or exceeds the Standards of Good Regulation
RECA is transparent, communicates effectively, and appropriately involves public appointees and other public stakeholders in its work
The review also resulted in more than 30 recommendations. Council reviewed the report in its entirety at its April meeting, and has accepted all of the recommendations in principle, some of which are already underway.
“Council was extremely pleased at the results of this third-party performance review,” says Krista Bolton, Council Chair. “That being said, we remain committed to ongoing performance improvement and we’ve directed RECA administration to begin implementing the majority of the recommendations immediately. The remaining recommendations will be incorporated as action items within Council’s 2016-2020 Business Plan.
“We’ve also directed Administration to share the report in its entirety with all stakeholders,” adds Bolton. “This is part of our commitment to being a transparent and accountable regulator.”
Read the complete Regulatory Performance Review of the Real Estate Council of Alberta report.
Read the Regulatory Performance Review Assessment Criteria document related to this report.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On April 13, 2016, Sharon Parenteau, previously a real estate broker in Lethbridge, applied to permanently withdraw from industry membership.
At the time of her application, Ms. Parenteau was the subject of conduct proceedings under the Real Estate Act related to an unfunded liability in her brokerage trust accounts. RECA had previously suspended Ms. Parenteau’s real estate broker licence for not cooperating with the investigation. At the time of Ms. Parenteau’s withdrawal from industry, there had been no disciplinary hearing, admissions or findings of fact.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta approved Ms. Parenteau’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On March 29, 2016 the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended the mortgage associate licence of Bryan Orson Jones. RECA suspended Mr. Jones for refusing to cooperate with a person conducting an investigation.
As a result of this suspension, Bryan Orson Jones may not deal in mortgages in Alberta. His suspension will continue until the executive director is satisfied he has cooperated with the investigation.
Mr. Jones was most recently registered as a mortgage associate with Enrich Mortgage Group Ltd. o/a Mortgage Alliance – Enrich Mortgage Group in Calgary. Mr. Jones’s suspension does not affect the activities of Enrich Mortgage Group.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – As Alberta’s economic situation remains uncertain, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) urges consumers facing foreclosure or who have a mortgage in arrears to be wary of individuals offering solutions that seem too good to be true.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is the licensing and regulatory body for Alberta’s 15,000 real estate, mortgage brokerage, property management, and real estate appraisal professionals. Consumers are at significant risk when working with an unlicensed individual in a real estate or mortgage transaction. Often times it is unlicensed individuals operating foreclosure scams.
“Our concern is that consumers facing foreclosure will look for any help they can get,” says Charles Stevenson, Director of Professional Standards at RECA. “Fraudsters will promise to stop the foreclosure and keep you in your home. Unfortunately, instead of being rescued, fraudsters take your money, and you end up further in debt and possibly homeless.
“As a first step, consumers should always check if the person approaching them with an offer of help is a licensed real estate or mortgage professional,” Stevenson adds.
At the same time as RECA is reminding consumers to be vigilant, it is continuing its battle against unlicensed fraudsters who prey on Albertans.
In recent years, RECA has taken significant action against unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokerage activity. One such example is RECA’s enforcement action against Derek Johnson. Derek Johnson says he is helping people. He is not. He preys on homeowners who are in a vulnerable financial position and facing foreclosure.
RECA fined Derek Johnson a total of $65,000 for unlicensed real estate and mortgage brokerage activity. When Mr. Johnson did not stop his unlicensed activities, in December 2014, RECA obtained a Court of Queen’s Bench injunction against him, ordering him to cease and desist trading in real estate and dealing in mortgages without a licence.
RECA continues to receive reports from consumers who believe Mr. Johnson’s unlicensed activities are continuing. As a result of those reports and its own investigation work, RECA has applied to the Court to have Mr. Johnson and his associates found in contempt of the December 2014 court order. That application is scheduled to be heard on April 20, 2016.
RECA sets and enforces high standards of ethical, professional behaviour for licensed real estate and mortgage professionals, and takes enforcement action against unlicensed individuals acting as real estate and mortgage professionals. Particularly in this economic climate, make sure individuals helping you with your housing needs are licensed by RECA by using the Search for an Industry Professional function on RECA’s website at reca.ca.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On March 30, 2016, a Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) Hearing Panel suspended Aliya Lalji’s real estate licence for 18 months; ordered her to pay fines and costs totaling $52,000; and, ordered her to complete the Fundamentals of Real Estate course. Ms. Lalji’s suspension began on March 26, 2015, when RECA originally suspended her pending the conclusion of disciplinary proceedings.
Ms. Lalji shall not be re-authorized to trade in real estate until she has paid all fines and costs, and completed all education courses as required by the Hearing Panel.
The Hearing Panel found Ms. Lalji:
During the conduct in question, Ms. Lalji was registered as a real estate associate with Discover Real Estate Ltd. or Century 21 Bravo Realty, both in Calgary.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – As this year’s Fraud Prevention Month ends, the Real Estate Council of Alberta is reminding Albertans that fraud prevention and awareness is not simply a month-long undertaking.
“We want to take this opportunity to remind Albertans that RECA and its licensed professionals are a resource for consumers all year round, not just in March’s Fraud Prevention Month,” says Krista Bolton, Chair of the Real Estate Council of Alberta.
As the licensing and regulatory body for Alberta’s 15,000 real estate, mortgage brokerage, property management, and real estate appraisal professionals, RECA is uniquely positioned to serve as an independent resource for consumers who are buying or selling property in Alberta. RECA’s mortgage fraud prevention and awareness resources ensure that consumers have the information they need all year long so they don’t become unwilling or unwitting victims.
RECA believes educated consumers are protected consumers, and encourages Albertans to visit RECA’s Mortgage Fraud Awareness and Prevention website, which includes:
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, property management, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On March 29, 2016, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended Geoff Richard Pallett, a real estate associate previously registered with Re/Max Elite in Edmonton. RECA determined it is in the public interest to temporarily suspend Mr. Pallett. The suspension will continue until the conclusion of RECA disciplinary proceedings against him.
Allegations against Mr. Pallett include that he engaged in conduct that undermines public confidence in the industry, harms the integrity of the industry, or brings the industry into disrepute.
As a result of this suspension, Geoff Richard Pallett may not trade in real estate in Alberta.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – As this year’s Fraud Prevention Month begins, the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is strengthening its commitment to mortgage fraud prevention and awareness in Alberta with the launch of new consumer resources.
As the licensing and regulatory body for Alberta’s 15,000 real estate, mortgage brokerage and real estate appraisal professionals, RECA’s purpose includes protecting against, investigating, detecting and suppressing mortgage fraud. The launch of new resources ensures consumers have the information they need to protect themselves from becoming the unwilling or unwitting victims of mortgage fraud scams.
“Knowledge is power,” says Krista Bolton, current RECA Chair. “Informed consumers are better protected consumers. While ensuring competent and ethical licensees is fundamental to RECA’s role, providing consumers with factual, independent information about mortgage fraud prevention and awareness is also an important component of our consumer protection mandate.”
RECA’s role in mortgage fraud prevention and awareness across Alberta has included mandatory fraud awareness courses for all licensees; the publication of red flag tip sheets to help licensees detect mortgage fraud; and, serving on a Government of Alberta advisory committee on mortgage fraud.
The new mortgage fraud awareness and prevention resources for consumers are available now on RECA’s website. RECA will be participating in Fraud Prevention Month activities throughout March.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On February 16, 2016 the Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) suspended the real estate licence of Sharon Parenteau. RECA suspended Ms. Parenteau for refusing to cooperate with a person conducting an investigation.
As a result of this suspension, Sharon Parenteau may not trade in real estate in Alberta. Her suspension will continue until the executive director is satisfied she has cooperated with the investigation.
Ms. Parenteau was previously the real estate broker with Blue Diamond Property Management Ltd. in Lethbridge.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, and real estate appraisal industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On January 20, 2016, Curtis Bebek, previously a real estate associate in Calgary, applied to permanently withdraw from industry membership.
At the time of his application, Mr. Bebek was the subject of conduct proceedings under the Real Estate Act related to his involvement in transactions where there were allegations of mortgage fraud. There has been no disciplinary hearing, admissions or findings of fact.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta approved Mr. Bebek’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On January 20, 2016, Mireille Lapalme (formerly McGowan), previously a real estate associate in Calgary, applied to permanently withdraw from industry membership.
At the time of her application, Ms. Lapalme was the subject of conduct proceedings under the Real Estate Act related to her involvement surrounding allegations of mortgage fraud. There has been no disciplinary hearing, admissions or findings of fact.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta approved Ms. Lapalme’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On January 20, 2016, Don Nielsen, previously a real estate associate in Calgary, applied to permanently withdraw from industry membership.
At the time of his application, Mr. Nielsen was the subject of conduct proceedings under the Real Estate Act related to his involvement surrounding allegations of mortgage fraud. There has been no disciplinary hearing, admissions or findings of fact.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta approved Mr. Nielsen’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
Calgary, Alberta – On January 20, 2016, Stuart Pocock, previously a mortgage associate in Calgary, applied to permanently withdraw from industry membership.
At the time of his application, Mr. Pocock was the subject of conduct proceedings under the Real Estate Act related to funds given to him for alleged private mortgage financing. There has been no disciplinary hearing, admissions or findings of fact.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta approved Mr. Pocock’s application to withdraw and this results in a voluntary lifetime prohibition from industry membership; conduct proceedings are now discontinued.
The Real Estate Council of Alberta (RECA) is an independent, non-government agency, responsible for governing real estate, mortgage broker, real estate appraisal and property management industry professionals under Alberta’s Real Estate Act. RECA’s mandate is to protect consumers and to provide services that enhance and improve the industry and the business of industry professionals.
