A Perfect Storm?
Although most of us have weathered the recent housing market shift, it remains to be fully seen if the industry as a whole will as well. The public’s overall low trust level and perception of Real Estate Professionals combined with easier access to information and economical ways to market homes to the public may give them more reasons in coming years to go about real estate needs on their own or at least rethink what role an agent/broker plays in the process.
An Industry Trend
Recent articles have predicted an increase in real estate licensees in the next ten year. However, I have yet to see projection from industry trade groups (REALTOR® Associations) with as positive of an outlook regarding their membership numbers. This starts the notion that although we should see more real estate salespeople and brokers, less of them may decide to join and pay to be part of industry trade organizations.
United We Stand?
As an independent broker I do believe in having a say in how I run my business and in what way (within reason) I can assist customers who choose to employ my services. That being said, we are an industry that survives on cooperation. If our industry starts forming multiple groups this could further complicate assisting the public and further deepen the ill feeling they have towards us.
The Next Step…
The root of the possible issues I described come down to money and value proposition. The National Association of REALTORS® has taken large strides recently to try and connect with a wide base of members and needs to continue to do so in the interest of the public. Real Estate Professionals need to take more responsibility and learn that their Local, State, and National Association(s) are of use for them and not just a an annual bill.
