The Conejo Valley Association of Realtors and the Simi Valley–Moorpark Association of Realtors have voted to merge the two organizations into a single corporation.

A vote on Aug. 27 approved the formation of a new group to be called the Conejo Simi Moorpark Association of Realtors. The marriage was unanimously approved by each board of directors.

“While the Simi ValleyMoorpark Association of Realtors had thrived for many years enjoying its independence, now its members realize that, in this ever-advancing technological marketplace, they are best served by being part of a larger organization with their friends and neighbors in the Conejo Valley and welcome the consolidation,” said Nelson Carrillo, president of the Simi-Moorpark Realtors.

The merger is expected to become effective Jan. 1, 2010 following approval by the National Association of Realtors.

“By forming one stronger entity with significantly greater buying power, the combined Association will be able to provide expanded and improved services to its members and the public with greater economy, efficiency and productivity,” said Connie Reed, president of the Conejo Valley group.

The combined Realtor association will have almost 2,000 members with offices in Simi Valley and a main office in Thousand Oaks.

The Conejo Valley Association of Realtors was founded in 1960 and has approximately 1,370 members.

The Simi Valley-Moorpark association was chartered in 1964 and has 532 members.