By Sharon O’Mahony, 2023 President, Seattle King County REALTORS®
January and February are filled with forecasts about what the new year will bring. Based on predictions I’ve seen, 2023 could be a year of continued uncertainty for the housing industry. For Realtors, this can mean an opportunity to prepare and empower ourselves during a time of market rebalancing.
As I embark on my 19th year in this dynamic profession, plus the honor of serving as president of Seattle King County REALTORS®, I am grateful for the groundwork and accomplishments of my predecessors, as well as the dedication of this year’s leadership team and association staff.
Rachel Mehmedagic (Adler), SKCR’s 2022 president, recently reflected on some of our association’s significant achievements and some of the commonalities between Realtors and this year’s zodiac animal, the rabbit. In her column in the December issue of Seattle Agent, Rachel noted these shared qualities include an aptitude for good reasoning skills, confidence, kindness and a focus on details and goals.
The slower pace of activity we are experiencing as the year gets underway is an ideal time to refine our goals, refresh our personal brand, hone our skills and recommit to the Realtor movement.
I am writing this column from Olympia where I have joined hundreds of Realtor colleagues from across the state for our annual “Hill Day” event. It is exciting to be back in person for the first time since 2020, and to have an opportunity to engage in grassroots advocacy by meeting with elected representatives to discuss key issues impacting our industry. Housing is definitely on their radars!
Beyond governmental and public affairs activities, the Realtor Party offers myriad ways for members to promote homeownership, build strong communities, foster a vibrant business environment – and enhance the productivity of members.
Because our market is in constant flux, we need to prepare ourselves to pivot and lean into our community for support. Continuing education, volunteering and networking are three proven ways I use to improve productivity and cultivate more business.
Now is a great time to take advantage of opportunities to develop new skills, fulfill continuing education (clock-hour) requirements and earn credentials and designations via both online and in-person classes and conferences. Perhaps it’s the right time to pursue a managing broker’s license, certification in one or more specialties, or a leadership position.
Check out the offerings in the education section on SKCR’s website or the Northwest Multiple Listing Service site. The state and national associations also offer numerous classes and resources to help Realtors keep abreast of changing laws, rules, and trends.
Friendly reminders: Renewing brokers must take the Washington Real Estate Fair Housing 6-hour course by June 1, 2023. Also, Realtors are required to complete ethics training every three years. Take advantage of Code of Ethics resources, including free classes, listed in the Education section on SKCR’s website.
Plan to attend SKCR’s annual Battle of the Barristers program (date to come). This popular event sells out and helps raise funds for our association’s First Citizen Scholarships.
As you peruse the calendars of courses, think about taking classes in other areas. Doing so has been a fun way to expand my network.
Another great way to network is via involvement in our professional association.
Join a committee or interest group, help interview candidates seeking public office (and the Realtor endorsement), volunteer at one of the service projects, take part in our special events, such as the golf tournament, the RPAC auction, or the civic banquet honoring the Seattle-King County First Citizen Award recipient.
Successful Realtors tend to be great problem solvers, tenacious, ethical, and self-motivated. Just as you are dedicated to helping fulfill your clients’ dreams of homeownership, your Realtor associations are committed to helping you seize opportunities to thrive regardless of market cycles. Make 2023 a breakout year! We welcome your participation. Connect with us online at nwrealtor.com or call 425-974-1011.
Sharon O’Mahony is a broker at Windermere Real Estate/Greenwood. https://sharonomahony.withwre.com/