T
he National Association of Realtors (NAR) is facing an 8% decline in membership, a trend that has been exacerbated by controversy and financial setbacks. Some agents view NAR membership as a "mark of professionalism," but others are reevaluating the value proposition.

    In November, the NAR reported 1,526,631 members, although it's unclear how many renewed their memberships by January 1. Massachusetts agents have been among those stepping back from the organization. The NAR has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a president resigning over sexual harassment allegations and a replacement being forced out due to blackmail.

    The group has also settled a lawsuit over commissions for $418 million and faced criticism over lavish perks for volunteer leaders. With low inventory and high mortgage rates contributing to the decline, the NAR is forecasting an 8% drop in membership this year. Members are required to join their state and local real estate organizations, which can add up: a Boston-area agent may pay $156 plus a $45 special assessment to join NAR.

    Some agents, like Hailey Oliveira of RE/Max, have let their memberships lapse after her franchise dropped the requirement for NAR membership. "Every single realtor is a salesperson," she said, "and they're really good at looking at value propositions." Oliveira finds value in the Massachusetts Association of Realtors but would consider rejoining if its membership could be decoupled from the NAR's.

    Greg Vasil, CEO and president of the Greater Boston Real Estate Board, notes that it's still early on the membership front, with a renewal deadline of March 31. Anthony Lamacchia, broker/owner of Lamacchia Realty, sees an NAR membership as essential for professionalism and requires his agents to be members due to the organization's advocacy work.