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s the real estate market is expected to improve in 2025, the National Association of REALTORS(R) aims to move forward from last year's Sitzer-Burnett settlement and create opportunities for members to thrive. Despite changes to brokers' contracts and office policies, the connection between agents and their clients has remained strong, with 90% of recent sellers and 86% of recent buyers working with a real estate professional.

    NAR's Leadership Team worked to rebuild trust with members through transparent communications in 2024. The association also approved its first balanced budget in over a decade and conducted a survey to gauge how members value benefits such as research, industry news, and advocacy. CEO Nykia Wright emphasizes the need for NAR to redefine what member experience means by understanding REALTORS' modern-day needs.

    Wright is taking immediate steps to build the NAR of the future, including appointing Sherry Chris as a special advisor to focus on building trust with brokerage leaders. Jarrod Grasso will join NAR in March as senior vice president of industry relations, emphasizing state and local associations. A new 2025 Leadership Team will guide NAR's strategic direction, featuring Kevin M. Sears as president, Kevin C. Brown as president-elect, and new members Christine Hansen, Craig Sanford, Sara Lipnitz, and Jennifer Branchini.

    The association's focus for 2025 is on helping REALTORS thrive in their day-to-day business. Wright says, "We must be your advocate and a partner in your business success."