Get ready for a lot of big things in 2005

It’s such a perfect time of the year to look ahead that I find myself planning personal and professional goals throughout the month of January in anticipation of what’s to come. And let me tell you, from my vantage point, and as REALTORS®, we’re going to be busy, busy, busy in 2005.

Coming off one of the most successful public policy, RPAC, convention and education years in the history of MAR, your association leadership and board of directors is going to work overtime this year, and need members more than ever to participate in activates at the local, state and national level, to keep the momentum rolling.

Here are the items that I plan to address as your 2005 MAR president:

RPAC. We must support RPAC. If you don’t want to make a financial contribution to RPAC, then please volunteer your time to serve on a committee. Every little bit helps. New challenges lie in wait and we need to be ever vigilant against such REALTOR®-hurtful legislation, like banks in real estate, a Federally managed insurance industry and a sales tax on services.

The Land Use Academy, founded by my predecessor 2004 MAR President Gil White, Greater Lansing Association of REALTORS®, is set to run again this year. Taking it to the next level, MAR intends to hold two separate academies, by invitation only, that will educate REALTORS® and local officials on smart, strategic growth, high density development that will foster win/win situations for years to come. This academy is getting great recognition on the national level as a pilot program and I believe it should be carried out to the fullest extent.

I’d like to see MAR members become more involved with the state and national level. Pat Vredevoogd, Grand Rapids Association of REALTORS®, is on course to become NAR President in 2007 and she will need our support. Volunteer for local committees and take a trip to Lansing to meet your state association. Attend the NAR and MAR conventions. You won’t be disappointed and I guarantee you that you will pick up valuable tips to improve your business. I know I have.

Continuing education. I believe strongly in continuing education. With a designation, we set ourselves apart from experts for our clients. Designations keep you on top of current issues, allow you to learn evolving technology, keep you informed about the changing legalities and increase your marketability.

With education in mind, I’m also spearheading an effort to revive the Real Estate Alumni of Michigan designation. This comprehensive designation acknowledges those who have sought education in specialized areas of real estate including college level classes in: property law, residential construction, general business, business marketing, taxation and accounting, computer skills, economics, communications, and mathematics.

Last, and certainly not least, is technology. I’m a gadget junkie and marvel at how technology can make our business run more smoothly. Every generation of computer, PDA, or cell phone technology becomes more streamlined and effective than before and its imperative that all REALTORS® make an effort to stay informed. I’d like to see an increased effort at the state level with video conferencing and streaming video to the Internet, for the benefit of all members, that will give access to all for required seminars and meetings.

I’m excited and honored to be your president. This is not a role I take lightly. Your state association is focused to act on your behalf and welcome your input at all times because it is incumbent of all of us to take responsibility for our profession. Make January your time to layout a plan in which you can become involved. Learn about the programs and services that MAR provides and determine how you can leverage your position within the organization to ensure the long-term success of your REALTOR® career.

I know I did. And now it’s my turn to give back. Let’s get to work!