By Kevin Sears

I believe many of us didn’t choose this profession lightly. We contemplated how we would achieve success in it. We explored whether our personality was right for it. We reflected on how we make a career of it. Then, we educated ourselves and received our license. But even then, we took a step further and joined this organization. We took our profession seriously enough to commit wholeheartedly to it by becoming a Realtor®.

I know I did all of the above and have never been more proud to be a Realtor® than today. Why? Because those of us who have survived and even thrived the past couple of years, have motivated ourselves, educated
ourselves, and embraced the Realtor® Association to help us move and keep moving in a positive, successful direction.

And because of this drive and motivation to move forward your Association has the motivation to move forward with you, to provide you with the tools you need to keep overcoming the roadblocks and hurdles before us. I see opportunities for us into 2010 and together with your Leadership Team I will help bring them before you.

Through the Member Outreach PAG, formed under 2009 President Gary Rogers, characters who resemble (in spirit) a newer Realtor®, a broker,
and a seasoned professional were created to remind you of the services and value items the Association has to offer that are relevant to you and where you are in your career. See what they have to say in this issue’s feature on page 16 and welcome them.

Look to them throughout the year for information on education and member services that you can use to save you money, help you gain new business, and get ahead. They’ll remind you how your membership dues and investment in RPAC brings success to our grassroots lobbying efforts and
legislative efforts for the real estate industry and private property rights. Understanding and using these valuable services and tools can help you work through the current market conditions.

Keep your eyes out for continued classes and webinars on relevant topics such as Loss Mitigation, Homebuyer Tax Credit, and Social Media in 2010 that can boost your professionalism in the industry. Education is an important part of staying successful in this industry and your Association recognizes that fact.

Also, reap the benefits of your Association’s many communications vehicles to stay on top of current trends, legislation and statistics that impact your business. NAR, MAR, and your local association communicate information that will help you be in touch with your industry, speak out when needed on relevant issues, and stay focused on current trends.

This year’s Board of Directors, including the Regional VPs, Focus Area VP, and Leadership Team of Secretary/Treasurer Trisha McCarthy, President-Elect Laurie Cadigan, Past President Gary Rogers, and CEO Robert Authier are dedicated to helping you move in the right direction in 2010 and reaffirming your decision to work in this profession, join the Realtor® Association, and accomplish the goals you set for yourself.