Michael Childress

Childress & Associates Realty LLC
1365 Plainfield Ave
Grand Rapids MI 49505

I have been a licensed REALTOR since 1999 and, over this time, I have earned the right to be called a REALTOR, as I keep the Code of Ethics a primary focus in every aspect of my business.

I am the 2020 President of the Greater Regional Alliance of REALTORS and I have served on its Board of Directors for four years. I have spent countless hours this year in conversation with my fellow REALTORS, offering encouragement and guidance, listening to their concerns, and helping to establish clear rules of engagement for doing business in this world of COVID19.

In my opinion, if you are going to be a NAR Director, it is crucial that you listen to REALTORS. Agents want to be heard. In leadership roles, our instinct can be to quickly provide rationale or answers, but I believe it is important to truly hear the perspectives of others instead of telling others what their perspective should be.

If given the opportunity to serve as a NAR Director, I would embrace the challenge to be a voice for my fellow REALTORS from the great state of Michigan.

Below is a bit more about my involvement and volunteer service at my local Association:

  • I have been a sterling RPAC supporter for many years.
  • MLS Exchange Board of Directors – President (2020), Board of Directors GRAR – President Elect (2019), Candidate Review and Development Committee – Chairperson (2019), Finance Committee – Director Liaison (2019), Regional Forms Committee – Director Liaison (2019), Board of Directors GRAR – Director (2018), DR Development and Training TF – Director Liaison (2018), Groundwater Contamination TF – Committee Member (2018), Regional Forms Committee – Director Liaison (2018), and Board of Directors GRAR – Director (2017).

Endorsement: Julie Rietberg CEO GRAR and Pam VanLuven, Sr Vice President GRAR

This letter serves as our personal endorsement of Mike Childress’ application for an At-Large Director position on the Board of Directors of the National Association of REALTORS representing Michigan. There is much that we can say about Mike, as his resume is lengthy and impressive. Mike is the broker/owner of Childress & Associates Realty, a brokerage of 28 licensees located in Grand Rapids. Mike is a 2nd generation broker and has been a member of the Greater Regional Alliance of REALTORS (GRAR) for 20 years. Mike is generous with his volunteer time, having served on many GRAR committees and task forces over the years. Currently, he is an elected member of the Board of Directors and was elected by his peers to the office of 2020 President. Little did we know that this would make him our “Pandemic President.” Nonetheless, Mike has been tireless in a year that could be described as daunting, at best. The pandemic has brought many challenges, but Mike has tackled them with positivity and a commitment to keeping real estate open for business in Michigan, but always with a focus on safety. He has remained available and approachable and has made every effort to ensure that the GRAR membership has been kept current and informed in this fluid environment. We have no doubt that, should he serve as a NAR Director, he will bring that same enthusiasm, integrity, and commitment to the national level as well.

Endorsement: Carrie Vos Realtor ABR,BA, E-pro, IRep

It is my pleasure to endorse Mr. Michael Childress for NAR Director. I have had the pleasure to serve with Mike Childress on the Greater Regional Alliance of Realtors (GRAR) Board of Directors for the last three years. During this time, my respect for him has grown as well as our friendship. He is an excellent Director, Realtor, Owner/Broker and a good friend. Mike is our 2020 President has led our Association through Covid-19 with patience, extraordinary leadership & wisdom. Times have been challenging and he has helped our Association successfully navigate the new normal for our members. Mike would be an outstanding NAR Director.

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