"The two groups tried to merge three or four years ago," says current SSAR president Joyce Baker. "But there were two many issues at the time." No such issues exist today, says Baker, who is with CityView Real Estate in Quincy. The organizations--both of which are geared largely to the multifamily market--voted overwhelmingly for the merger earlier this month.

"The benefits of merger spread to all involved," Baker told GlobeSt.com in a recent interview. "The merger gives us much more legislative clout toward the protection of property rights," she says. "We'll also be able to provide more educational opportunities for our members and draw from a longer list of speakers." The educational component is especially vital since the state now mandates continuing-education credits to maintain certification.

Finally, she says, the marriage will decrease expenses--such as the cost of running duplicate staffs--and increase revenues. "And we can decrease dues," she promises. Baker, and her counterpart on the Plymouth group--Donna T. Wood--both hold their titles until the end of the year. They will remain on the board of the new group.