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evin Sears concluded his tenure as National Association of Realtors president on November 17, after 679 days in office—nearly twice the usual term. During the final Board of Directors session, the room buzzed with relief and gratitude as the organization moved from listening to action, having just adopted a three‑year strategic plan.

    Sears opened the meeting, earning multiple standing ovations and a heartfelt tribute from CEO Nykia Wright. Wright recalled how Sears’ guidance helped her navigate her first year and credited him with steering the association through its darkest period, preventing bankruptcy, balancing budgets, and securing the strategic roadmap for the next three years. She praised his willingness to tackle difficult tasks that others avoided.

    The session also saw the installation of the new leadership team: Kevin Brown was named 2026 president and Kristine Hansen elected president‑elect. Board business included a narrow defeat of a proposal to disclose referral fees—66.3% voted against it, falling short of the required two‑thirds majority. Members cited concerns about rushed implementation and potential unintended consequences.

    Treasurer Craig Sanford announced that 2026 membership dues would remain at $156, based on a baseline of 1.2 million members, below the current 1.491 million. He projected a $41 reduction in expenses for the year.

    Advocacy updates were provided by Party Director Zeke Morris, who reported that the Realtors Political Action Committee had raised $38.97 million by the end of October, reaching 86% of its $45.5 million goal.

    The meeting, lasting about 90 minutes, also featured a lighthearted moment when attendees used the push‑voting system to ask whether Sears deserved a vacation—over 2,000 members answered “yes.” Throughout, the atmosphere reflected a collective sense of accomplishment as the NAR transitioned from crisis to a forward‑looking strategy.