As the President of the Women’s Council of REALTORS, I am passionate about promoting the essential role of REALTORS in the home buying and selling process. In an era of easily accessible online listings and information, some may question the necessity of a real estate agent. However, there are several compelling reasons why home buyers and sellers can greatly benefit from working with a professional REALTOR. Additionally, membership in the Women’s Council offers unique advantages, including access to a network-driven referral system that sets us apart. Let’s delve into these reasons and perks in detail.

Expertise and Guidance:

One of the primary reasons to engage a REALTOR is the invaluable expertise they bring to the table. REALTORS possess a deep understanding of the local market, trends, and pricing dynamics. Their knowledge allows them to provide accurate and up-to-date information, empowering buyers and sellers to make informed decisions. REALTORS guide clients through every step of the process, from pricing, staging, and marketing a property to negotiating contracts, managing inspections, and ensuring a smooth closing. Their guidance helps clients navigate the complexities of the real estate transaction with confidence and ease.

Access to Exclusive Listings and Market Insights:

REALTORS have access to a wealth of resources, including exclusive listings that may not be available to the general public. By working with a REALTOR, home buyers gain access to a broader range of properties that align with their specific criteria and preferences. Similarly, sellers benefit from their real estate agent’s ability to effectively market their property to a wider audience, increasing the chances of a quick and profitable sale. REALTORS also have access to comprehensive market data and insights, enabling them to advise clients on pricing strategies and market conditions.

Negotiation Skills and Advocacy:

Negotiating a real estate transaction can be complex and emotionally charged. REALTORS are skilled negotiators who advocate for their clients’ best interests. They leverage their knowledge of the market, contract terms, and local regulations to secure favorable terms and pricing. Whether representing buyers or sellers, REALTORS act as their clients’ trusted advisors, ensuring that their goals and objectives are met throughout the negotiation process.

Women’s Council Membership:

Network-Driven Referrals: One of the unique perks of joining the Women’s Council of REALTORS is the opportunity to participate in a network-driven referral system. As members, we have access to a vast network of professionals in the real estate industry, including REALTORS from diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. This network becomes an invaluable resource for referrals, connecting buyers and sellers with reputable agents across different markets. By leveraging Women’s Council membership, clients can tap into a trusted network of REALTORS, ensuring a high level of service and professionalism throughout their real estate journey.

Professional Development and Collaboration:

Membership in the Women’s Council provides ongoing opportunities for professional development and collaboration. Through educational programs, workshops, and networking events, members can enhance their skills, expand their knowledge, and stay updated on industry best practices. The Council fosters a supportive environment that encourages collaboration, idea-sharing, and mentorship, enabling REALTORS to continually improve their service offerings and better serve their clients.

Conclusion:

The decision to work with a REALTOR when buying or selling a home is a wise investment that brings numerous benefits. From their expertise and guidance to their exclusive access to listings and negotiation skills, real estate agents play a critical role in ensuring a smooth and successful real estate transaction. Additionally, membership in the Women’s Council of REALTORS offers an extra advantage through network-driven referrals and opportunities for professional growth. Embrace the value of REALTORS and consider the benefits of Women’s Council membership as you embark on your real estate journey.

This has been an incredible year for the Women’s Council of REALTORS Austin Chapter and it is only the beginning.

We have worked diligently to understand the unique needs of each board member and chair, and we have been learning how to work together effectively. Despite our differences, I believe that we have achieved success because we are starting to understand that each of us brings something very valuable and unique to the table. There is no one better at being me than me, and we should all be true to who we are. If I attempt to be someone I am not, I am doing the world a disservice. Being true to yourself and sharing it with our members and the rest of the world has the potential to change lives.

It is my goal to create an environment of transparency during my year as president. There is no doubt that this is not an easy and glamorous position. While it is a challenging position, it is also very rewarding. This experience is helping me to grow both personally and professionally as a leader and a person. 

As a result of my networking efforts, I have met a number of influential individuals who want to help me catapult my career forward. Having access to the network has allowed me to meet key real estate professionals who I can call my “tribe.”

Our last and most recent event, the “Winter White Party,” held at the Kinningham House in Round Rock was an enormous success. We had at least 100 attendees and it was a night full of networking, laughter, food, photography and fun!

I am looking forward to a successful year as we begin the new year, I am  extremely excited about what lies ahead. Our Chapters membership numbers are steadily increasing as we continue to educate our community on the benefits of being a member of the Women’s Council of REALTORS, Austin Chapter (WCR).

This year’s first “New Year, New You” event was held at LendFriend, and we were excited to host it. There was a photographer on site, Sarah Lynn, who provided all registered attendees with two headshots. In addition, there were stations where guests could create a vision board and have it framed. Our belief is that setting goals is essential to success, and displaying them daily is a smart way to stay on track.

January 2023 Monthly Luncheon

The topic of this month’s monthly lunch will be “Shifting Your Mindset”. The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Thursday, January 26 at the Centro Event Center in downtown Round Rock. Speaker Dragan “Slayer” Trajkovski is an expert at using Peak Performance Strategies by Tony Robbins to achieve the most successful results for the world’s most successful and influential leaders, entrepreneurs, actors, and athletes. One of Dragan’s greatest passions is seeing individuals achieve something they never thought possible. I am looking forward to seeing you at the meeting.

We are hosting our very first new member orientation October 12 from 1-2 at LendFriend in one of the conference rooms.  If you are a newer member and would like to learn more about the various benefits Women’s Council offers, please do not miss this.  We would like to give you a t-shirt, provide you with your new member pin, and send you home with a folder of tools you can access in your free time.

Remembering Cor’Dlaine “Cordie” McGhee

I am saddened to share that Cor’Dlaine “Cordie” McGhee passed away after a lifelong battle with various health issues, ultimately pulmonary failure. She was positioned to take over the membership recruitment chair in 2023 and there could not have been a better fit for this important position. I knew the second I met her at the negotiation panel that we hosted that she was a very special individual. She had this innate ability to light up any room that she entered and welcome any and all people that stepped into her path. It was no accident that she was brought into my life. Cordie sprouted her angel wings on Nov. 18, one day after the day she was to be installed in her newly appointed position. Cordie will always hold a special place in the hearts of the WCR Austin family and she will always be remembered and sorely missed!

I wish you a fruitful 2023 and I am looking forward to serving our members and our community in the coming months.