Here are my votes for the people who had the greatest impact on the real estate industry during the past 25 years:
– Toronto real estate lawyer and columnist Bob Aaron for his insightful articles relating to the real estate industry. He hits the mark on a lot of contentious issues in our industry, commenting on real estate professionals, mortgage brokers and real estate lawyers. His recounting of cases makes us more aware of our obligations and duties.
– Lou Radomsky, the Ontario Real Estate Association’s legal counsel, for his efforts to improve the courses at OREA and his ability to relate to our profession in the days past when we had actual classes on ethics.
– OREA’s Ozzie Logozzo and his staff for continuing efforts to improve the educational system in Ontario. OREA is to be commended for not standing still in an era that demands more education and more skills training.
– CREA for its efforts to lobby the various legislative assemblies to make our voices heard and for their efforts to battle the Competition Bureau.
– The Competition Bureau, for taking action regarding access to the MLS system. This legal battle continues and only the lawyers will benefit. The bureau doesn’t care. They have access to free legal advice.
– Virtual tours and YouTube, which have made live video streaming available to the world.
This has had a tremendous impact on direct mail programs of all types.
* * * * *
I’ve been thinking about what it’s meant to me to have been a member of the select group of people who call ourselves Realtors.
Sure, we are all members of a national association that has rules and regulations to abide by, but what does it really mean to you and me as members?
It’s become crystal clear to me that in spite of all those media types who will hurl slings and arrows against us whenever the public decides that they’ve been wronged, we are truly an honourable profession.
Our professionals don’t only sell real estate – we help buyers find homes, land, cottages and so forth, but we also give a great deal back to the communities in which we live. Many brokers and their agents excel in donating to worthy causes. Some of us volunteer to assist those in need…and we do it unselfishly.
A Realtor’s lapel pin should be worn with pride and we should not take lightly the mantle of responsibility that it implies. Sure, the public calls us their “agent,”’ but we are really bearers of service and integrity.
As Realtors, we are constantly improving our education and our skills to ensure the public is well and honourably served. It’s a never-ending process. Many of us complain about the hours that are imposed on us to ensure the public is well served, but earning your license is not just a means to an end. It’s not about commissions. It’s about serving our community as a representative of the best association in Canada.
As I approach my 44th year in this business, I am extremely proud to have been a member of this association. The friends and colleagues I have met over the years will forever be etched in my memories.
I thank all of you who have taken the time to read my articles in REM and send me emails, pro and con, about my stand on certain issues or topics. It’s you, the readers, who will help to sustain REM, Canada’s national trade magazine.
Stan Albert, broker/manager, ABR, ASA at Re/Max Crossroads’ iRealty office in Toronto can be reached for consultation at stanalb@rogers.com. Stan is now celebrating his 44th year as an active real estate professional.
Stan Albert, ABR, ASA is a consultant with Re/Max Premier in Vaughan, Ont. He can be reached for consultation by email. Stan is now celebrating his 45th year as an active real estate professional.
