As I have traveled this past year throughout REALTOR associations, I am often asked the question “Why should I stay a member of NAR?” This blog post is dedicated to that question, and I hope it adds some clarity for those of you who may have that same question.
As a REALTOR, becoming a member of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) isn’t just a badge of honor; it’s a vital step towards enhancing your career and advocating for the rights of property owners across the nation. One of the most significant roles NAR plays is as a pillar of advocacy, fighting tirelessly for the interests of real estate professionals, buyers, and sellers. Recent victories, such as combating the CDC’s eviction moratorium, highlight NAR’s commitment to protecting landlords and maintaining a balanced housing market. Furthermore, NAR has been instrumental in working with the Veterans Administration (VA) to establish clearer guidelines regarding buyer representation agreements and allowing buyers to pay compensation, ensuring fair representation for our military members and veterans in the homebuying process.
Joining NAR is not just about access to an MLS system, as I’ve heard people comment—this common misconception overlooks the true power and influence of the association. NAR provides invaluable resources and guidance that help maintain and expand the right to homeownership in America, fostering a more robust real estate market for all. To learn more about NAR’s strategic legislative priorities and recent advocacy accomplishments, visit NAR’s Legislative Priorities and NAR Advocacy Wins. With your membership, you not only enhance your professional standing but are also a part of a community dedicated to making a difference in the housing landscape.
Why don’t you check out NAR’s Advocacy Podcast? You can find it here.
In addition to advocacy, being a member of the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) offers numerous educational opportunities that are essential for professional growth. NAR provides a variety of training programs and certifications designed to equip real estate professionals with the latest industry knowledge and best practices. These resources not only help members stay competitive in a rapidly changing market but also promote ethical standards and client-focused service within the industry. NAR’s commitment to continuous education ensures that members are well-prepared to guide clients through the complexities of real estate transactions, ultimately fostering trust and loyalty in client relationships. Engaging in these educational programs also opens doors to networking opportunities, allowing members to connect with other professionals and share insights that can lead to collaborative success.
Other benefits of NAR membership include access to the largest database of private property records in the country, the REALTORs Property Resource (RPR), and don’t forget you have access to a massive library and archives section. There you can access digital books to check out, all as part of your membership.
One more thing worth mentioning is our Code of Ethics. As a REALTOR member, we adhere to a higher standard of ethics, and that’s important to note. In addition, did you know there is a Pathways to Professionalism that is a list of suggested professional conduct for all members? Check it out and see what you think.
As some members are frustrated with the recent rule changes, it’s understandable they may want to take it out on someone or something. In full fairness, understanding the full picture of what NAR does is vital to answering the question “Why should I stay a member of NAR?” For those of you wondering, hopefully, this blog provides some clarity for you.
PS-Did you know NAR offers new Consumer Guides to the Practice Changes? You can find them here.
Consumer Guide to Written Buyer Agreements
Consumer Guide to Open Houses and Written Agreements
REALTORS Duty to Put Client Interests Above Their Own
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If you’re looking for more ideas to implement into your real estate business to achieve success, be sure to read The Standout Agent, available on Amazon and everywhere books are sold. There’s a reason why it quickly became a #1 seller!
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Until next time…
