200 Years Strong.
200 Years Strong. One Vision. One Future. One Voice.
Welcome to the official information hub for the proposed merger between the Osceola County Association of REALTORS® (OSCAR) and the East Polk County Association of REALTORS® (EPCAR).
This is a historic moment for both of our organizations. With more than two centuries of combined service to our members and communities, we stand at the threshold of building something even greater together. By uniting our strengths, resources, and voices, we can create an association that is stronger, more efficient, and better positioned to serve REALTORS® across the region.
This site is designed to keep you informed and engaged throughout the merger process. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions, details about what the merger means for your business, and updates on important dates—including the upcoming membership vote in early November 2025.
Our promise is simple:
- No loss of benefits—only gains.
- No dues increases—EPCAR members will actually see a slight reduction.
- Stronger advocacy, broader education, and enhanced services.
This is more than a merger—it’s a bold step toward shaping the future of real estate in Central Florida. Together, we are 200 Years Strong, and together, we will move forward with One Vision. One Future. One Voice.
Merger Q & A for Members
01.
Are our associations merging?
Both associations’ Boards of Directors have approved moving forward with a proposed merger. Task forces from each side are working together to develop a plan that ensures a stronger, more unified organization that benefits all members. Final approval will require a vote from both boards and both (voting) memberships in early November.
02.
Why are the associations considering a merger?
The goal is to combine resources to offer:
- Great member value
- Enhanced services and support
- Stronger local advocacy
- Broader networking and education opportunities
- Operational and financial efficiency
03.
Why choose to merge with OSCAR?
EPCAR’s leadership recognized an opportunity to partner with a larger, well-established association that could offer expanded member benefits, stronger advocacy, financial stability, and operational support. OSCAR already has robust staffing, resources, and systems in place, which means EPCAR members will gain access to more tools and services—without losing their voice or identity. The decision was made with long-term sustainability and member value in mind.
04.
Why would OSCAR choose to merge with EPCAR?
Many of our members already live, work, or do business in Polk County, and this merger allows us to better serve them by expanding OSCAR’s official territory and presence. EPCAR brings a dedicated membership base and local presence that complements OSCAR’s existing operations. By joining forces, we can create a more unified voice across Central Florida, strengthen our advocacy efforts, and deliver expanded services and support where our members need it most. This strategic move isn’t just about growth—it’s about aligning with our members’ activity, providing more localized value, and building on the success of two strong associations.
05.
Will I lose any of my current benefits?
No. In fact, members will gain access to expanded programs, professional development options, advocacy resources, and support staff across a larger footprint. The goal is to retain the best of both associations while growing stronger together.
06.
Will membership dues increase?
No, association membership dues will not increase as a result of the merger. In fact, EPCAR members will see a slight reduction in association dues to align with OSCAR’s current pricing structure. The merger is designed to enhance value without adding financial burden to members.
07.
What happens since our associations are on different fiscal years?
While the two associations currently operate on different fiscal calendars, the merged association will transition to a unified fiscal year of January through December—which is already the fiscal year followed by OSCAR. That said, this will not affect the current dues renewal cycle. Members of both associations will pay their membership dues this fall just as they normally do, based on their existing timelines and systems. Since the merger is still pending a membership vote in November, all processes remain the same for this renewal period. If the merger is approved, the fiscal alignment will be part of the transition planning and implemented for the 2026 budget year.
08.
What will happen to the offices?
The OSCAR office will serve as the primary location, and the EPCAR office will remain open as a satellite office of the merged entity.
09.
What will the new association be called?
The proposed name is Osceola Polk REALTORS®, as it reflects the geographic service areas and unites both memberships under one identity. It’s important to note that this name is only a proposal at this stage. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has an official process for approving any association name changes. If the merger is approved by both associations’ voting members, we will follow NAR’s guidelines to finalize and register the new name. Following the merger, a branding review will also take place, which may include a new logo and refreshed marketing to represent our combined identity.
10.
Who will lead the new association?
There is a proposed governance transition plan that ensures representation from both associations. The current CEO of OSCAR will continue to lead management and operations, with leadership from both boards involved in guiding the transition.
11.
How will this affect the lockbox or MLS system?
There will be no change to the lockbox system, as both associations currently utilize Supra. In fact, EPCAR members will receive the enhanced Professional level key, which is the standard for OSCAR members.
12.
When will the merger be finalized?
The goal is to bring the proposed merger to a membership vote in early November 2025. If approved, legal filings and operational integration would occur in the weeks and months that follow.
13.
Will I get to vote?
Yes. All REALTOR® members in good standing will have the opportunity to vote on the merger. Details about the vote will be provided in advance, along with information sessions and Q&As.
14.
What if I have questions?
For any questions about the merger or what it means for you, please email us directly at [email protected].
You’re also encouraged to attend any of the upcoming Broker Roundtables or Member Town Halls listed below. Members are welcome to attend either location, regardless of which association they currently belong to:
Broker Roundtables
- October 15 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
OSCAR Office – 1105 Cross Prairie Parkway, Kissimmee - October 16 | 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
EPCAR Office – 1062 U.S. 92, Auburndale
Member Town Halls
- October 20 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
OSCAR Office – 1105 Cross Prairie Parkway, Kissimmee - October 21 | 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. EPCAR Office – 1062 U.S. 92, Auburndale
15.
What educational benefits will I have access to?
Members will enjoy access to a full calendar of free classes, including CE courses, designations and certifications. As part of the merger, in-person classes will be held at the main (OSCAR) and satellite (EPCAR) office, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all members across the region.
16.
Will there be more advocacy support in Polk County?
Yes. With a dedicated Government Affairs Coordinator already on the OSCAR staff, we will begin actively monitoring local government in Polk County, just as it currently does in Osceola. This means stronger advocacy on issues that impact REALTORS®, private property rights, and homeownership—giving members a louder voice at the local level and better protection for their business interests.
17.
Will I have access to market statistics and data?
Yes! The association already provides monthly, hyper-local market statistics, including data for Polk County—thanks to a dedicated data analyst on staff at OSCAR. With the merger, EPCAR members will now have full access to these professionally produced reports to use in listing presentations, client meetings, and marketing efforts, helping you stand out as the local expert.
18.
Will there be a transitional board representing both OSCAR and EPCAR members, and what does leadership look like moving forward?
Yes. As part of the transition, leadership from EPCAR will join the existing OSCAR Board of Directors to ensure representation and a smooth integration. This transitional structure allows for collaboration and shared decision-making during the merger process. Moving forward, leadership opportunities—including committee service and board positions—will be open to all members of the newly combined association, ensuring that everyone has a voice and a path to serve.
19.
What will happen to the committees after the merger and will members still have opportunities to volunteer?
Following the merger, the association will evaluate all existing committees from both organizations. Since there are many similar or overlapping committees, some consolidation will occur to streamline efforts and reduce duplication. However, we remain committed to offering the same—if not more—opportunities for members to engage, lead, and volunteer. Members from all areas will be encouraged to get involved and help shape the future of the unified association.
20.
What will happen to community outreach efforts in both areas?
Community outreach has always been a core value of both associations, and that commitment will continue—and grow—across both Osceola and Polk counties.
Each association has a proud history of supporting local initiatives, charitable causes, and service projects. After the merger, we will continue to honor those local connections by maintaining active outreach in both communities, ensuring members have opportunities to give back where they live and work. Together, we’ll have even greater capacity to make a positive impact—amplifying our charitable efforts, strengthening local partnerships, and uniting as REALTORS® who care.
21.
How will the merger affect OSCAR’s Vital Industry Partners and EPCAR’s Business Partners?
The merger presents a great opportunity to expand exposure, streamline benefits, and reduce costs for all affiliate partners. Here’s what to expect:
- Both partner programs will be unified, combining the best features of OSCAR’s Vital Industry Partner (VIP) program and EPCAR’s Business Partner program into one enhanced offering.
- Partners will gain access to a broader REALTOR® audience across Osceola and Polk counties, with increased opportunities for event sponsorships, marketing visibility, and direct engagement.
- For those who currently hold memberships with both associations, the merger will eliminate the need for dual memberships—resulting in a direct cost savings.
- We’ll continue to recognize partners in both offices, across digital platforms, events, and member communications.
Ultimately, this merger creates more value and greater reach for all our industry partners—supporting their business goals while helping them connect more meaningfully with the REALTOR® community.
22.
How does this merger help me as a broker?
This merger simplifies operations and adds value for your office and agents. Whether you operate in one county or both, this merger gives you a larger, unified platform to support, recruit, and retain agents more effectively.
You’ll benefit from:
- Stronger advocacy in both counties
- Consolidated membership dues and services, reducing administrative work and cost
- Expanded staff support and two office locations
- Free CE and training to keep your agents sharp
- Broader marketing and networking opportunities to promote your office
23.
What’s in it for me?
This merger is designed to give you more tools to grow your business—without paying more. You’ll gain access to:
- Free CE courses, designations, and certifications
- Expanded advocacy in both Osceola and Polk counties
- Professional tools like the Supra Professional Key
- Exclusive, hyper-local market statistics
- Two office locations for greater convenience
- More networking and exposure through events and partnerships
For members who currently belong to both associations, there will be a direct cost savings by combining into one streamlined membership. With more services, more support, and a broader reach across Central Florida, this merger helps you do more, connect more, and achieve more—all while preserving what makes your local connection meaningful.
24.
Why does the Plan of Merger say that one association “survives” — does that mean the other one goes away?
No — that’s just legal language required in every merger document.
Under Florida law, one entity must be designated as the “surviving corporation” purely for filing and tax purposes. It doesn’t mean the other association disappears or is being absorbed. Both associations’ members, assets, history, and legacy become part of the new, unified organization.
The “surviving” designation is simply an administrative step — it doesn’t reflect importance, control, or identity.
25.
Why should EPCAR members support merging with Osceola REALTORS®?
Osceola REALTORS® offers a partnership built on growth, stability, and opportunity. This merger expands education, technology tools, and professional resources while ensuring local representation and preserving EPCAR’s legacy.
As opposed to joining another smaller local association, partnering with Osceola REALTORS® provides greater regional influence, more member services, and a stronger collective voice to advocate for our industry and community.
In Summary: What Members Need to Know
The Boards of Directors for both the Osceola County Association of REALTORS® and the East Polk County Association of REALTORS® have approved moving forward with a proposed merger to create a stronger, more unified organization. The goal is simple: deliver greater value, expanded services, and stronger advocacy—without increasing costs to members (and actually reducing costs).
There will be no loss of benefits, and in fact, EPCAR members will see more benefits, lower membership dues, and access to upgraded tools like the Supra Professional eKEY at a reduced rate. Both offices will remain open, with OSCAR as the main hub and EPCAR as a satellite. The proposed name, Osceola Polk REALTORS®, reflects our combined strength, with a full branding review to follow.
A membership vote is planned for early November, and there will be several opportunities to learn more through broker roundtables, membership meetings, and town halls.
This is more than a merger—it’s a bold step forward to serve you better.
200 Years Strong. One Vision. One Future. One Voice.
Contact us
If you have any questions about the proposed merger or the process, feel free to reach out to us.