Chairman Doane's Message

Explore the world right here at home. You don't need to be a world traveler, nor speak a foreign language. The Foreign National Customer speaks English, but your obligation in obtaining this life-long customer, is being aware of their way of doing business and educating them on how it is conducted in the U.S. Be aware of their customs and culture differences, which the customer will not mention but could cost you a commission.

What it takes for foreign national's to bond to you as their business partner is what our International Council is about. TBIREC has tremendous resources; specialty education, local International Events, an abundance of contacts specializing in International business from mortgages, attorneys, accountants, that will enable you to do business successfully. The possibilities and opportunities are endless.

In International Business one fact is true, where there is no relationship, there is no business. Remember, real estate is local but business in Tampa Bay is global. Come join us for the education, events, and fun. We meet the second Monday of every month at GTAR at 3:30pm.

Marsha Doane
2009 International Council Chairman


NAR Regional Coordinator North and Central America and Caribbean

The International Council provides an opportunity for not only networking but also for enhancing your overall skills as a REALTOR®. It helps you appreciate the cultural diversity found in our community and how to work with clients from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

We are fortunate to have a diverse membership roster with a wealth of information on many regions around the world, speaking a multitude of languages. In addition, the Council members are always willing to share that knowledge and help out other REALTORS®. I encourage you to participate and take advantage of all the Council offers at its monthly meetings.

Carlos Fuentes, CCIM, CIPS, TRC, EMS
2007 GTAR President
NAR President's Liaison to Panama
NAR Regional Coordinator North and Central America and Caribbean


NAR President's Liaison to Guatemala

The International domain of our Industry has endless opportunities to offer. Focusing on the various unique ethnicity and culture backgrounds that comprise the buying and selling power; as well as working on acquiring the knowledge necessary to handle culture-specific transaction needs, can prove to be of crucial significance in our career.

Indeed, the future is NOW! It is now that we must concentrate on being informed, active, and ready to serve the melting pot of our own back yard. Tampa Bay International Real Estate Council, reaching out to the world!

Selma Santos, TRC
NAR President's Liaison to Guatemala
TBIREC Past Chairman


NAR President's Liaison to El Salvador

Incorporating the international component into my business model has been the best moves for my career. We now have clients in the international and domestic markets and have been able to match the needs of both for successful deals in many markets.

The one constant that holds true anywhere in the world is that developing strong relationships is crucial to be successful. The key is to build a strong network and strengthen relationships at every opportunity.

Luke Romero, ABR, CIPS
NAR President's Liaison to El Salvador
Vice President, Local Councils, FIABCI-USA
Vice President, Marketing and Networking, FIABCI International