Member engagement is the cornerstone for both the short- and long-term success of Seattle King County Realtors® (SKCR). Like many organizations, we value our members, recognizing they come from myriad backgrounds and business models. SKCR leadership and staff work every day to deliver value for members’ investments and our shared commitment to industry excellence.
As we transition into a new year, I am both mindful of and grateful for last year’s team. These dedicated professionals navigated through many challenges, including the significant change to our state’s agency law, which governs how we represent homebuyers. As we evolved, we maintained a focus on increasing housing supply and embraced numerous affordable options for homeownership.
In our quest to enhance member engagement, we offer many avenues for involvement, including advocacy, communications, education, networking, resources and recognition.
We hit the ground running in 2025 as several hundred Realtors gathered in Olympia last month for our annual Hill Day visits when members interact with lawmakers to discuss real estate-related issues. This popular and effective way to engage brokers is one of dozens of events we offer throughout the year.
We are grateful to the 90-plus affiliate members who support our industry through services such as lending, title insurance and home inspection. These members make valuable contributions to the association via their involvement and insights, whether by serving on committees, providing timely information or sponsoring events. As examples, the Affiliate Council hosts our annual food drive for local food banks and a charity golf tournament. The 2024 event drew 156 golfers and raised $15,000 for Humble Design, which fully furnishes home interiors for individuals, families and veterans emerging from homelessness.
Another well-attended event was the Battle of the Barristers that attracted more than 660 registrants and generated a record-setting $41,000 for the Seattle-King County First Citizen Scholarship Foundation. The popular Dessert Dash at our Awards & Installation Gala added nearly $12,000 more to the scholarship fund, enabling us to award $51,000 to 29 recipients who demonstrate a commitment to community service.
Students are not the only ones we recognize:
- We honored civic commitment and volunteerism when we honored Tod Leiweke, CEO of the Seattle Kraken, as the 86th recipient of the prestigious Seattle King County First Citizen Award.
- Three outstanding members received Good Neighbor Awards (and checks!) for their volunteer support of nonprofit causes in local communities.
- We celebrated industry excellence by presenting 18 awards at our year-end event, ranging from “Five to Follow” to a Lifetime Achievement and Realtor of the Year.
Along with industry excellence, our mission also encompasses professional development and ethical business practices. These are part of a robust continuing education program. Last year’s calendar featured 113 classes that drew 4,600+ attendees. Collectively, they earned nearly 1,100 national certifications, designations, and endorsements.
Also earning endorsements during 2024 were candidates for public office and bond/levy propositions from three school districts. Dozens of members participate in bi-monthly meetings of the Governmental and Public Affairs Committee where they discuss wide-ranging concerns affecting housing policy, growth, and quality of life issues.
A record number of Realtors, elected officials, and other stakeholders attended the annual Housing Issues Briefing where ideas to increase housing supply and attainability are advanced.
Through the Realtors® Political Action Committee (RPAC we help advance legislation and hold an auction to support candidates who are aligned with our interests.
Communication is also a priority for SKCR. We issue voting guides, create content for various platforms, encourage feedback, and collaborate with others, all aimed at creating meaningful connections and commitments to help members achieve their personal goals.
Our 2025 Board of Directors reflects our continuing efforts to seek the brightest and most dedicated volunteer leaders. These community minded REALTORS® will meet the moment in 2025 and beyond. Our future looks bright thanks to our Young Professionals Network (YPN). This group’s leadership development and networking events include brunches with guest speakers, evening social hours, a Blue Bash that benefited the Realtor Relief Fund, and a first-ever REALTOR + Fair.
We strive to offer diverse ways for members to be involved, demonstrate their skills and passions, stay informed, feel connected, stay involved and feel valued. Together, we can build stronger communities and make a lasting impact.
Garrett Nelson, 2025 president of Seattle King County REALTORS®, is a managing broker with Keller Williams Greater Seattle and a director at the National Association of REALTORS®.