Pace yourself. That was the advice that 2005 MAR President Doug Whitehouse told the 200-plus REALTORS® who attended MAR’s Achieve. The two-day event, which is the first in a series of events MAR hosts to assist members in networking and professional skills, was packed with speakers, awards and a stunning inauguration.

Whitehouse, ABR, CRB, CRS, GRI, LTG, RAM, Metropolitan Consolidated Association of REALTORS®, told members to pace themselves because there is a lot to take in and you don’t want to miss a thing.

“ We have a lot of great activities and sessions planned for Achieve, and we have an exciting plan for tonight. I want to see you all here tomorrow morning. A good pace is important,” he said. “I stand before you now and ask that you help to move this association forward. I want to further unite our membership, calling all REALTORS® to action.”

Held January 20—21 at the Ritz-Carlton, in Dearborn, Achieve brought more than 200 REALTORS® together. With a lineup that featured nationally known speakers like Richard Flint, National Association of REALTORS® Economist David Lareah, marketing guru Malinda Ball and legal experts Greg McClelland and Gail Anderson, the day was packed with information.

Flint told the audience that leaders have to be ready for change, even though many people don’t like it. Those who embrace change and find a way for success are the best leaders and can take associations to new heights.

“ As a leader, you have to commit yourself,” he said. “We are in a time and world of responsibility and accountability. Behavior never lies.”

Lereah, NAR’s chief economist, forecast a solid housing future for 2005, as long as the economy and jobs continue to grow. He said mortgage rates, while being important, don’t always indicate a housing boom or bust.

“ It all comes down to jobs,” he said. “Households need a financial wherewithal to purchase a home.”

At Whitehouse’s inauguration, which was held later on the evening of Jan. 20 at The Henry Ford, in front of 300 guests, Paul W. Smith, WJR’s Voice of the Great Lakes, emceed the event which featured a solo from REALTOR® Lori Crysler, farewell remarks from 2004 MAR President Gil White and other surprises.

“ I have the honor of leading MAR into its 90th year,” Whitehouse said. “This association is rich in tradition — of past successes, grand ideas and a movement, as well as a strong belief in a Code of Ethics that has helped millions and millions of homeowners with their American dream. Time and time again REALTORS® have separated themselves from other professionals, united by our Code, driven by our ideals and desire to build better communities, and ultimately a better quality of life. I stand before you now and ask that you help to move this association forward.”

Later this year, MAR encourages members to attend the Broker Summit, held April 13 at The Westin Hotel, inside the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. MAR will also conduct its annual convention and expo September 27—29, at the Soaring Eagle Casino, Mt. Pleasant.