If you had to sum up your experience in the real estate industry this year in just one word, what would it be?
During the recent Realtors® UNITE! convention in Duluth, Gabe Walsh, CEO of the St. Paul Area Association of Realtors®, posed this thought-provoking question at the Local Association Executives meeting. The responses were as diverse as they were insightful, ranging from “Resilience,” to “Uncertainty,” and “Perseverance.”
While the sense of uncertainty wasn’t surprising, given the many challenges we’ve faced, what struck me most was the group’s prevailing optimism. It was inspiring to hear the collective confidence in our national, state, and local Realtor® associations to help members navigate this unprecedented year.
This reminded me of a quote from legendary singer Dolly Parton: “If you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.” Reflecting on 2024, it’s safe to say that Minnesota has weathered its share of rain—both literally and figuratively.
The announcement of the NAR settlement on March 15 set off a media frenzy, with misinformation quickly circulating in national headlines. Some outlets took the opportunity to question the value of Realtors® and misinterpreted the changes.
But instead of retreating, Minnesota Realtors® stepped up. Our staff and volunteer leaders acted quickly to provide you with resources to navigate the settlement, updated forms to align with the new practices, and corrected misleading narratives in the media about the indispensable role Realtors® play in real estate transactions.
Our legal affairs experts traveled across the state offering training sessions, webinars, and one-on-one guidance to prepare you for this new landscape. These efforts highlighted not only the adaptability of our profession but also your dedication to upholding ethical, transparent service for consumers. Your ability to swiftly adopt new practices underscores the strength of our industry.
As I look back on this tumultuous year, one word stands out to me: opportunity.
Amid the challenges, we’ve proven that our industry is resilient, adaptable, and forward-looking. There’s a reason MNR calls our annual convention "UNITE"—because when we come together, we endure the storm, and the rainbow afterward shines even brighter. This year, that has meant coming together to help our neighbors who were displaced by the historic floods across Minnesota. Earlier this fall, MNR successfully applied for a $1 million grant to assist those affected, helping them rebuild and return home.
As we continue through the rest of 2024 and beyond, Minnesota Realtors® will stand by your side, providing the tools, resources, and insights you need to thrive. Whether it’s through compliant forms, ongoing education, or market analysis, we’re here to support you at every step. The future of real estate holds immense potential, and with your perseverance and our shared strength, we’re ready to shape a more transparent, dynamic, and successful market for years to come.
Josh McFall
CEO, Minnesota Realtors®
To read this article in the November/December 2024 digital issue of The Minnesota Realtor®, click here.