T
he American Real Estate Association (American REA) has reached 10,000 members in just a year since launching its paid membership program. Co-founder Jason Haber, a Compass agent, aims to have 100,000 members by January and is hiring staff to support the trade group's growth. Despite being formed in response to NAR's sexual harassment scandal, American REA seeks to "coexist peacefully" with the National Association of Realtors (NAR).

    Haber praised NAR CEO Nykia Wright for leading a cultural change within the organization. He noted that while there is still work to be done, NAR has made progress in addressing issues such as sexual harassment and non-disclosure agreements.

    American REA has formed a board of directors and recruited corporate sponsors, including RLTYco and Forcefield Protection. The added revenue will enable the association to transition from an all-volunteer nonprofit to one with a full-time staff. Haber emphasized that none of the funds will go to the founders, who take no compensation for their work.

    The trade group is not affiliated with Compass, despite Haber's involvement as a Compass agent. Less than 10% of members are affiliated with Compass, and American REA has suggested tweaks to the Clear Cooperation Policy rather than scrapping it altogether. As the association evolves, Haber believes it will represent a diverse set of viewpoints from brokers nationwide.

    American REA is taking steps to mitigate risk, including forming a board with a lawyer and securing insurance. The trade group aims to be well-insured as it enters its next iteration.