by Kim Dale | Jan 20, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
As we embark on the year ahead, I’d first like to say that I am truly honored to be serving as your 2024 Association President. Taking on the role of Association President is a huge leadership role and one that I do not take lightly. In my perspective, a leader is someone who inspires action, ignites passions and empowers others to succeed by recognizing the value in their unique skill sets. As I take on this position, I acknowledge the trailblazers who came before me who helped to set the PACE and pave the way, setting the foundation for another successful year. I am equally inspired by those new members who are just starting their journey into real estate, who will bring fresh insights and ideas to our Association, and by those whom I get to serve alongside, guiding this Association forward.
When I started in real estate 11 years ago, I walked into my brokerage without a clue of what I was getting myself into. I was clueless about what an Association meant for us as real estate agents. I was told that I needed to join an Association, so I drove down the street and walked through the door. I was immediately greeted with a warm smile, was handed forms and applications and yet another fee schedule and realized that by joining I would have access to the MLS. Great! Now I can view and show properties! My entire perception of the Association was that it provided me access to the MLS, at that time little did I grasp that it was so much more.
After meeting with my first potential client, I realized that I needed guidance, education, coaching, and leadership. I began observing what successful agents around me were doing and asked them what I needed to do. I started going where these agents were going, and it turns out that these inspiring agents were attending business meetings, events, property tours, city updates, networking gatherings, committee meetings, and classes all revolving around the Association with fellow real estate professionals with shared objectives. They all aimed to keep our profession and business at its best and provide our clients with the exceptional service they deserve. Moreover, it seemed that these agents who invested so much of their time and energy into bettering their profession were also the most successful.
I am very much aware of some challenges we face in the current market, as there is an air of uncertainty for many. In this season in our profession, with challenges stemming from interest rate hikes, national lawsuits, and soaring property taxes after significant inflation, we have witnessed members leaving the industry to pursue different paths. However, as Albert Einstein astutely said, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” I want our members to know that this Association stands with them, offering the tools, classes, information, and supportive community that will help us navigate through another year of uncertainty. We will continue to equip them for success, and inspire them to get involved and join committees. I want them to use myself and our staff as a resource and for support.
During my tenure as your president, I envision a collaborative group of individuals who are all working towards shared goals. I see an opportunity for agents, brokers and affiliates to combine their talents and create a strong team. We have put together an amazing set of committees that have set the PACE for this Association. We have members who have selflessly volunteered their time and have a dedicated staff who work diligently to ensure the success of our members and committees. Our Board of Directors is genuinely committed to the growth and future of this Association. My vision for the Association is to continue to grow and cultivate a strong membership, building on the foundation that captured my heart when I became a member 11 years ago. Association membership goes beyond MLS access; it constitutes a community of like-minded individuals with shared goals, committed to upholding ethics, contributing to the community, and acquiring comprehensive knowledge in all aspects of real estate.
Our objective in 2024 will be focused on our members. Identifying your goals, igniting your fire, and empowering you towards success.
by Delaine McMurry | Jan 20, 2024 | Women's Council of REALTORS
Welcome to 2024, the Women’s Council of REALTORS Austin is very excited for our year. Our event line up has been meticulously curated for our members. This year, our focus is twofold: fostering robust business-building activities and cultivating an ecosystem of invaluable connection within our community.
The winds of change that swept through the past year have undeniably transformed the landscape of our business operations. Recognizing this we are dedicated to equipping our members with the tools and opportunities needed to not only navigate this shift but also thrive in it. We firmly believe in the power of collective learning and shared experiences to enhance both individual and collective growth.
Against the backdrop of rising costs, we remain steadfast in our commitment to maximizing value for our members. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programming, we strive to deliver exceptional educational opportunities at accessible price points. Moreover, our robust community initiatives offer unique avenues to deepen connections within our networks and express gratitude to those who enrich our lives — be it colleagues, clients, or family.
For those curious about the Women’s Council of REALTORS Austin, we extend a warm invitation to join one of our monthly business-building and accountability sessions. These gatherings offer a welcoming space to introduce yourself, witness the essence of our community, and discover the multitude of benefits we offer.
We eagerly anticipate your presence at our upcoming events. To catch a glimpse of the enriching experiences that await, visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/wcr.austin/
by Kent Redding | Jan 20, 2024 | Austin Board of REALTORS
At the Austin Board of REALTORS®, we aim to foster a community of belonging among the most engaged and professional REALTORS® in the nation. Being a part of this esteemed Association means being part of something larger than oneself. As real estate agents, we deeply understand this. The heart of our work is putting ourselves in another’s shoes and helping them find “home”. And the impact of that work literally shapes the Central Texas communities we serve.
That’s why I’m naming 2024 as our “Year of Empathy.” Empathy is the bedrock of agent professionalism, fostering trust and rapport not only with your clients but also with fellow real estate professionals. As our marketplace continues to evolve, and ABoR continues to advocate for housing affordability and accessibility, empathy should define who REALTORS® are and guide our interactions.
Empathy is also an essential component to fostering a community of belonging. Our collective strength lies in valuing every voice and every individual, and this commitment to inclusion is what defines the Austin Board of REALTORS® and Unlock MLS.
As a Board, we welcome your feedback, input, ideas, and suggestions. I pledge, alongside my fellow Board members, to listen, learn, and engage honestly and respectfully. We want you to remain engaged members, whether that’s attending one of our signature events such as the Central Texas Housing Summit, listening to the Driving It podcast each week, or just taking advantage of one of the many ABoR benefits available to you, such as a free subscription to Austin Business Journal or Inman Select.
As your 2024 President, I’m committed to leading with empathy and fostering opportunities for you to collaborate and connect. That begins with our Annual Meeting on January 31, for which virtual tickets are still available at www.ABoR.com/Events. We’ll be providing an important legal update and unveiling several new ABoR and Unlock MLS benefits that are coming to you this year. In addition, Dr. Clare Losey, our in-house housing economist, will share a 2024 forecast for the Central Texas Housing Market.
There’s a lot going on in our industry right now, and I understand that this can feel unnerving. While change can feel uncertain, it also presents us with new opportunities.
If you seek a supportive community where your voice is heard and understood, ABoR will continue to be here for you.
by Tawanna Verock | Jan 20, 2024 | Editor's Choice
As we embark on a new year, local associations are invigorated by the infusion of new leadership. The Austin Board of REALTORS and the Williamson County Association of REALTORS proudly introduce their respective presidents for 2024, Kent Redding and Kim Dale. These esteemed individuals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their positions, ensuring a promising future for their organizations.
Kent Redding, a distinguished professional with Berkshire Hathaway Texas Realty, assumes the role of president at the Austin Board of REALTORS. With a career marked by excellence and a deep understanding of the real estate industry, Redding is well-equipped to guide the association towards even greater heights. His proven track record of success, coupled with a passion for fostering collaboration and growth within the real estate community, makes him an ideal leader for the Austin Board of REALTORS.
Meanwhile, the Williamson County Association of REALTORS welcomes Kim Dale as its president for 2024. Dale brings a wealth of knowledge and experience from her tenure at Realty Texas, where she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and service. With her extensive network and strategic mindset, Dale is poised to strengthen the association’s position as a leading force in Williamson County’s real estate market.
Both Redding and Dale embody the qualities of effective leadership—vision, integrity, and a dedication to their respective communities. They understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing the real estate industry in their regions and are ready to champion the interests of their members. By fostering collaboration, advocating for industry best practices, and staying abreast of emerging trends, they aim to ensure that their associations remain at the forefront of innovation and excellence.
Under their guidance, the Austin Board of REALTORS and the Williamson County Association of REALTORS can look forward to a year filled with growth, professional development, and enhanced member services. Redding and Dale will work tirelessly to provide resources, educational opportunities, and networking platforms that empower their members to thrive in a dynamic and evolving real estate landscape.
