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Pulse is a recurring column where we ask for readers’ takes on varying topics in a weekly survey and report back with our findings.
Coming up Nov. 8-10 in Boston is NAR NXT, the trade group’s annual conference where Realtors come together to meet and make decisions about the organization’s direction. With all of the challenges NAR has experienced over the past few years, this year’s conference is poised to be one of the most important and impactful ever.
Whether you’re planning to attend in person or simply follow Inman’s coverage of the event, we asked: What would you like to see NAR focus on next? Do you want to see the end of MLSs requiring NAR membership and the end of the three-way agreement? Are you most focused on their legal reboot? Are you fascinated by all the back and forth around Clear Cooperation? Do you care most about NAR’s political ties and lobbying efforts?
- Advocating for homeownership. Protecting and providing value to the agents that are members.
- I would love to see NAR focus on rebuilding its value propsition to its membership. It lost its way years ago and needs to remember its core purpose is to serve its membership.
- NAR should downsize operations and go into a cost-cutting mode after capitulating on the lawsuit and spending hundreds of millions of membership dollars without filing an appeal. They should’ve put it out for a vote. They should begin by selling the buildings in Chicago and New York and putting that money back In our coffers.
- Your question about what NAR should prioritize in 2025 raises an important point. In my view, NAR — as well as all Realtor organizations — should take this opportunity to pause, reflect, and conduct a thorough self-assessment.
The recent years have exposed troubling issues within NAR and local leadership, leading to multiple resignations and early retirements. While the root causes might not be entirely clear, one contributing factor seems to be a disconnect from the organization’s core mission as individuals rise through the ranks. Leadership should be about service (servant leadership), not self-importance. Unfortunately, we seem to have veered from this ideal, often becoming distracted by temporary, “shiny” pursuits rather than staying true to our purpose.
At its heart, our profession exists to serve consumers, guiding them in buying and selling real estate and protecting property rights. Therefore, my suggestion for 2025 is that NAR, along with state and local associations, dedicate time to internal reflection, prioritizing member needs and addressing the internal divisions that have emerged — not only within NAR but also in numerous local associations. The recent national resignations from NAR, recall elections and alternate slates of electors (at least in Central and North Texas) reflect the growing demand for change and the fact we have forgotten why we exist.
Let’s return to what we do best: supporting consumers and safeguarding property rights. If NAR aims to remain relevant and effective, a hard look inward is not only beneficial but essential.
Editor’s note: These responses were given anonymously and, therefore, are not attributed to anyone specifically. Responses were also edited for grammar and clarity. Inman doesn’t endorse any specific practice and regulations may vary from state to state.
What did we miss? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.