If you have taken the plunge and gotten into real estate (either recently or long ago), you more than likely have a lot going on. We are finding clients, showing houses to those clients, working on each transaction, budgeting our commissions to get to the next closing, etc. The list can go on and on! If you are not already doing so, I highly encourage adding "getting involved with my association" to that list.
I can remember those first few YPN events (YPN is Young Professionals Network- young in the business that has nothing to do with age) I attended after getting my license in 2015. I certainly felt "in over my head" and was self-conscious about not knowing anyone and honestly, not having closed on a deal yet. But I went anyway. The connections I made years ago, still impact my business today.
One of the main reasons I got involved with my local association is to get to know my fellow Realtors. I cannot stress this enough; the transactions can run so much smoother if you know the agent on the other end. Communication flows freely which means there should be fewer speed bumps in the deal. Also, one can lean on Realtors that may be experts in other fields. If I met a Realtor at a coffee event through Greater Nashville REALTORS® and realized his specialty is land, there is a good chance I could call him for advice on my next land deal.
Staying educated on current Realtor events is also essential and may be the most important time in our careers to stay up to date. Local associations can keep you "in the know" with what is happening at NAR, down to what is happening in Downtown Nashville. Whether it's about commission lawsuits, transit plans for our city, or what the new Nashville mayor has planned for his time in office, the staff at our local associations are aware and are sharing that with the membership.
Lastly, giving back to a community that has given so much to me is important. Your local association is your first stop for all things real estate. They can guide you on who to contact about getting your license, what CE classes are available, and what social events may be coming up. I cannot say enough for the staff at Greater Nashville REALTORS®, they really are my first phone call when I have any questions (yes, I still call yearly to ask about my C.E. credits - who honestly is keeping up with when they took Ethics last?) Local associations can also keep you in the loop about volunteering for local non-profits like Habitat for Humanity or local public schools. They are a wealth of information for those that go looking.
In summary, get involved! Raise your hand and say yes to those opportunities and see how your business can flourish. And as always...keep up with those award points!
Maria Kemp has been with The Wilson Group since 2021 and enjoys working with all types of buyers. Jordan Heatherly is her “go-to” lender at Churchill Mortgage and can be reached at jordan.heatherly@churchillmortgage.com.
