Ex-CEO charged with grand theft; local Realtor association left ‘all but broke’

The former head of East Polk Association of Realtors, Jennifer Garula-Mers, has been charged with stealing more than $81,000 from the group. Continue reading

The California Association of Realtors has a new leadership team

In 2026, Tamara Suminski will serve as the president of CAR, which is among the largest state Realtor associations in the country. Mark Peterson and Nikki Coppa are also taking on new roles. Continue reading

American Real Estate Association hires Mary-Frances Coleman as inaugural executive director

Real estate vet and legal expert Mary-Frances Coleman is the association’s first executive director. She said one of ARA’s biggest challenges will be dealing with the “that’s the way it’s always been done” mentality. Continue reading

Douglas Elliman joins upstart American Real Estate Association

The NAR alternative also announced that Douglas Elliman CEO Michael Liebowitz has joined its management board, and that the association is adopting the acronym “ARA.” Continue reading

What’s in it for you? How real estate organizations boost your business.

As far as a great brand goes, I found mine when I joined Coldwell Banker 14 years ago. At the time I was working at a nonprofit in San Francisco. I was lucky to buy my first home through a Coldwell Banker agent. He recognized my drive and desire to mak… Continue reading

Why isn’t there more MLS consolidation? 3 benefits members could reap

With all the advantages that come with consolidations and mergers, some associations still find it difficult. But why? I’m a member of two associations that were recently on the verge of becoming one. Unfortunately, due to lack of member votes and the … Continue reading