WORKING HARDER TO DELIVER WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEED

As we transition from summer into fall, with cooler (we hope!) temperatures, and back-to-school sales, I’m reminded of the changes occurring in our industry. Reflected in the pages of this issue are examples of shifting technologies, communities, and Realtor® demographics that contribute to our new opportunities and challenges.

Michele Lerner’s cover article on page 26 reinforces the notion that Realtors® must be “on board” the technology train. We must keep up with the tools and strategies used by consumers to preserve our relevance in the marketplace and to our clients. The National Association of 
Realtors® has acknowledged this with the launch of its Center for Realtor® Technology. CRT Labs, based at the NAR Chicago headquarters, studies the “internet of things,” smart home, renewable energy technology and more in order to understand their impacts on our industry. 
Search for CRT on realtor.org to learn more about how CRT Labs helps practitioners understand and have a voice in the development of smart home technology.

Commercial real estate is at the forefront of the technology-induced transition. As Frank Dillow explains on page 30, retail establishments are scrambling to keep up with shifting consumer expectations in the almost-instant-gratification world of online shopping. Communities are adapting to reflect preferences for live-work-shop environments.

Ensuring accessibility and adaptability for a homeowner’s specific needs is the concept underlying Universal design, explored on page 14 of this issue. Capabilities can change over time, and this article explores how today’s homes can be welcoming to every resident.

Embracing new generations of Realtors® and homeowners is the premise of this year’s NVAR Convention & Trade Show. Our Generation Realtor® theme explores tactics for bridging the gaps among our diverse population of colleagues and clients. Whether the challenge is generational, cultural or political, there are countless opportunities for education and enlightenment. Take a look at our Convention brochure mailed with this issue to learn more about this year’s re-energized Convention. I hope you will join me on Tuesday, October 11.

Please keep in touch. As always, I welcome your thoughts and feedback!