by Kim Dale | Mar 16, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
In the ever-changing world of real estate, where market trends shift rapidly and client demands evolve constantly, staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. We are at the helm of a new era; artificial intelligence is just now starting to show us what it is capable of. There are many ways that REALTORS® can incorporate AI into their business, and jumping on this trend when it is still new is one of the best ways to come out ahead.
AI-powered algorithms can analyze a vast number of datasets, helping to identify potential leads based on criteria such as demographics, online behavior, and previous interactions. Using AI for lead generation helps REALTORS® sort through leads to find high-value prospects.
REALTORS® pride themselves on the personal touch they bring to the home buying and selling process. The use of AI enables REALTORS® to deliver targeted and relevant marketing campaigns to current, future, and past clients. Algorithms can tailor marketing messages by analyzing client preferences, browsing history, and interactions. There are numerous avenues for
REALTORS® to get their message out there, including personalized email campaigns, targeted ads, and even customized property listings based on a buyer’s preferences, budget, and location.
The power behind AI tools can also analyze market trends, historical data, and other relevant factors to provide REALTORS® with valuable insights into future property values, market fluctuations, and investment opportunities. This helps agents make data-driven decisions, anticipate market trends, and provide strategic advice to their clients.
REALTORS® don’t work 9-5, they are on all day, every day, for their clients and their needs. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can help agents provide round-the-clock customer support and assistance. We can use AI to automate routine tasks such as answering queries, scheduling appointments, and providing property information. Whether it’s assisting clients with property searches or providing real-time updates on market trends, AI-powered assistants ensure that REALTORS® are always accessible to their clients.
The introduction of AI has been a game changer for REALTORS®. Learning to dive in and utilize what it has to offer will undoubtedly create new leaders in the industry, setting the pace and shaping the future of real estate for years to come.
by Kim Dale | Feb 16, 2024 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
Earlier this month, I attended the Texas REALTORS® Winter Meeting, and I am still blown away by Williamson County’s accomplishments at both the board and member levels in 2023. Numerous leaders were recognized state-wide for setting the PACE for real estate in Central Texas. Our strategic plan can be broken down into a simple acronym: promote, advocate, connect, and educate. When our members come together under this common goal, we set the pace of the industry for our community. Our current, past, and future leaders made a huge impact on our industry this year and deserve all the recognition that they can get.
Advocacy is one of the main focuses of our association, and we are proud to have three individuals recognized for their contributions and passion for TREPAC. Jack Stapleton, 2015 WCREALTORS President, was awarded the Platinum R Award and recognized for becoming a RPAC Hall of Fame member with a lifetime contribution of $50,000 or more. Tami Baker, 2024 Advocacy Committee Chair, was awarded the Spirit of TREPAC Award, which is given to Texas REALTORS® who have exhibited excellence on one or more of the P.A.C. criteria at the local level during the year. Renée Damron, an active member of both the Advocacy Committee and the Community Service Committee, was awarded the Heart of TREPAC Award, which is given to TR Affiliates P.A.C. criteria at the local level during the year. We are so proud of these three for continually advocating and dedicating their time to serving our industry.
We were also recognized for our efforts in professional development. Education is at the forefront of our values at WCREALTORS, and we are pleased to have received two recognitions. Alisha Austin, our Professional Development Chair, serves on our Board of Directors and was awarded the Texas REALTORS® Educator of the Year. This award recognizes an instructor who’s made the most significant contributions to real estate education in Texas. Anyone who has ever taken a class instructed by Alisha Austin knows how much passion she puts into her teaching, and there is no better recipient of this award. Our Selling the Suburbs: WCSPECIALIST Certification Course, created by Darian Rausch, received the Texas REALTORS® Education Program of the Year for the Series or Shorts category. This series goes over anything and everything that a REALTOR® should know to sell real estate in Williamson County. The courses are offered twice a year, and I highly encourage you to check them out.
These past and present leaders continue to pave the way for our association. I am looking forward to where our future leaders will take us.
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 Jennifer Tucker-Neely | Dec 16, 2023 | Five Points Board of REALTORS
This time last year, we were all looking forward with optimism to the year ahead and planning with that inevitable enthusiasm! There is always excitement at beginning something new and working with new people to set goals and get started. It’s so rewarding to be able to reflect on the things we accomplished in 2023.
Before I dive into sharing our accomplishments, I want to take a moment to shine the light on someone who made this year possible through her dedication and skill. Last year, as I assumed the presidency, I received one of the greatest honors of my life: my daughter Hannah’s moving speech about her life lessons and the qualities that make her such a strong, intelligent, and capable individual. I am so grateful that she committed to partnering with me. Over the past year, she assumed the reigns of our brokerage so that I could multi-task and fully devote the time needed to take the reigns as your 2023 president.
Our 2023 Board of Directors was a phenomenal team, representing our association with unwavering dedication. Together, we tackled monumental challenges that will solidify our future success. Here are just a few highlights:
• Securing MLS Independence: Joseph Towns will expertly lead the newly independent MLS in 2024.
• Modernized Bylaws: We streamlined our bylaws to reflect updated national and Texas REALTOR® standards, ensuring continued relevance and effectiveness.
• National Representation: Our unwavering membership growth earned us a powerful voice at the national level, and Jack Stapleton will proudly represent us in 2024.
• Financial Steadfastness: Despite unforeseen challenges like failed air conditioners, a rogue water heater, and a hailstorm that pummeled our roof, our finances remained steadfast. Our building is looking better than ever!
• Embracing Diversity: We established a thriving Diversity Committee, fostering inclusivity and representation within our organization.
• Investing in the Future: Four talented members and one staff member—Scarlett Hao, Jason Dishongh, Dawn Stroud, Kaitlin McWhorter, and Michaela Potts—completed the prestigious TRLP program, injecting fresh ideas and energy into our association.
• Celebrating Local Achievement: We witnessed the incredible honor of Kriston Wood becoming RVP of Texas REALTORS®.
This dedicated board worked tirelessly, day and night, to ensure our association shone brightly. My deepest gratitude goes to Alisha Austin, Amanda Keeley, Belinda Payne, Candy Cooke, Darian Rausch, Greg Hodge, Jason Dishingh, Julie Jones, Kim Dale, Kristi Sanguinet, Michele Sherwood, and Tara Knight for their unwavering commitment.
Beyond the Board: The incredible work we do wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our exceptional committee chairs. These individuals sacrifice countless hours, fueled by passion and a desire to make our association thrive. Until you’ve walked in their shoes, it’s hard to imagine the sheer scale of their contributions.
Our unsung heroes deserve a standing ovation as well. Michaela, Ismael, Sarah, Kimberly, and Katie are the backbone of our association, quietly supporting every event, educational initiative, and member need. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a talented and dedicated staff.
And finally, our association wouldn’t shine so brightly without our phenomenal executive officer, Heather Bonamo. Her drive and vision keep us on track and constantly evolving. We are exceptionally lucky to have such a skilled and dedicated leader.
As I hand the reins to the capable hands of Kim Dale, I feel immense pride and gratitude. Together, we’ve navigated challenges, celebrated triumphs, and laid the groundwork for an even brighter future for the Williamson County Association of REALTORS®. Here’s to what’s to come!
