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United, Our Differences Will Take Us Further

By MNR News posted 10-04-2023 11:19 AM

  
In our line of work, it can be easy to focus on what makes us unique or different. After all, there are so many messages directed at real estate agents about standing out from the pack, outworking the competition, and “increasing earnings in five simple steps.” While of course it is important to embrace individuality and grow in your career as an agent, the collective storm of these messages can make practicing real estate feel like a high-stakes game of Monopoly—one where everyone is out to get one another.

But Realtors® should know that buying or selling a house is so much more than a single transaction and the commission that follows. One closed sale makes a significant economic and social impact, not only for the buyer or seller and their agents/brokers, but for the entire neighborhood, city, region, and state. Our job is helping Minnesotans establish homes—places where they can grow families, build equity, and contribute to their communities.

As Realtors®, we have so much more in common than we often talk about, whether we do business in a metro area or a more rural community—like where I was born and raised and practice real estate in Redwood Falls. While the logistics vary in a small market versus a big one, we’re all driven by the same Code of Ethics, which calls us to a high standard as we represent our clients and the wider profession from listing to closing. Even if we use different approaches to accomplish this, we’re all working toward the same goal. Let's not forget that we all have a responsibility to do good where we do business, supporting various causes we’re passionate about. We also face the same issues in understanding and adapting to new laws, upholding professional standards, and keeping up with the rapid changes in technology. Those challenges aren’t going away any time soon.

Together, we can tackle complex issues and achieve goals that span far beyond our individual interests. But it’s important not to erase what makes each of us different in the process. I believe we can strike a healthy balance. By sharing our knowledge, experiences, and resources, we empower each other to provide exceptional service to our clients and deliver the most value to our communities.

Diversity is about recognizing and celebrating all types of people. In my own family, I have a grandson who uses a wheelchair and special medical equipment to walk; a granddaughter who’s an American Indian; and a sister-in-law, niece and nephew who are Hispanic. They have taught me that everyone, regardless of the color of their skin, ability, or background is just as intelligent and talented as anyone else—capable of success if equipped with the right tools and opportunities.

As I’m installed as the next MNR president at UNITE!, and look toward my term as president in 2024, one thing is clear: uniting as an association won’t be optional. If we’re going to successfully tackle pressing housing challenges, adapt to changing laws, and navigate an uncertain market, we’re going to need each other. For me, that means leading our association in such a way to make every Minnesota Realtor®—from Moorhead to Minneapolis to Mankato to Marshall—feel welcomed, supported, and heard. I’m deeply honored to lead alongside all 22,000+ of you! Together we can create a platform where every member is valued. 
This article appears in the September/October 2023 issue of the Minnesota Realtor® magazine. To read it in the magazine, click here. 
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