I’m so proud to be a REALTOR®. Like many of you, I was in another
profession before becoming a REALTOR®, but I chose the profession with
open arms and embraced the association with the same passion. And now, I embrace the position as president, as a representative of those with whom I work every day in the field. I work on behalf of the association and the industry, serving as your eyes and ears, and as your conduit for moving the association and the industry in a positive direction.

Like you, I have helped the young couple buy their first home, assisted those single moms in securing rentals, and counseled seniors on downsizing. This is a people-oriented business; we work daily with not only our clients and customers but also our fellow members in the association. Our friendships, referrals, challenges, and collaborative work have made us stronger Realtors® and better human beings, and will continue to do so.

The association’s strength has been visible in the past year, as we helped to defeat the repeal of Chapter 40B, voiced our support for enhanced education requirements for real estate sales licensees, and launched free online continuing education. And there’s more on the horizon in the coming year. The education, resources, and support we receive from our local, state, and national associations will continue to keep us focused, profitable, and motivated.

There’s great value in your membership, and we will continue member outreach efforts to communicate the many benefits available to dues-paying members. The association’s valuable communication vehicles, including e-mail newsletters, this magazine, and social mediums, keep us abreast of industry news and current market trends. The lobbying efforts keep us informed and incite us to action when private property rights are threatened.

And don’t forget the Benefits and Member Discounts Program. Newly launched is a Job Loss Mortgage Protection Program, available as a great listing tool and as an aid to help buyers get off the proverbial fence, as well as a service through the Vann Group to help business owners with succession planning and company acquisitions. In addition, there are many more discounts on services and products which you can tap into.

This year’s Board of Directors, including the Regional VPs, the Focus Area VPs, and the Leadership Team, understands the association’s priorities, which will continue to be a focus in 2011. In short, it’s all about the members.