Dear Member,
As your president for one of the largest associations in the country and the largest in San Diego, it would be an understatement to say 2020 isn’t what I expected. Most likely, you are in the same situation. Simply, 2020 has included some new challenges, known challenges and, unfortunately, some unresolved challenges.
With all of the challenges we have been confronted with, I would like to take this moment to assure you, our 20,000 members, that your association is working on your behalf, and continues to support each and every one of you. Ultimately, we are here for YOU. As a membership that is representative of the many diverse cultures of America, we not only stand as leaders in the industry but a family of REALTORS® and Community Ambassadors to every home in San Diego County. I stand honored today in saying that SDAR remains an organization of diversity and inclusiveness that is committed to equality for all people. It is a place in which divisive behaviors or practices are unacceptable. While the challenges of today have surged a global call against injustice, and strike fear of health uncertainties, there are also many people filled with confusion and hopelessness. It is in this, that I need all of our REALTORS® to stand, united, on the front lines, and continue to be beacons of hope and active participants of social awareness and safety, and examples of the change we all seek.
As we enter into the second half of 2020, we all must remember that as REALTORS® we not only exemplify the highest degree of professionalism and ethics, but we are also ambassadors to our community. As ambassadors we represent our profession but also our communities by providing everyone with the respect and dignity they deserve. During the last couple of challenging weeks, I have been reminded of the role REALTORS® have to shine as examples of how everyone should treat everyone. REALTOR® is more than a title. It is a word that describes someone who has direct contact with his/her community, and someone who ensures that both buyers and sellers are treated fairly. Our association will continue to support our members and communities in equality to live up to what it is to be a REALTOR® organization. We must remain united with our partners and communities to respect everyone. I applaud each of you for your dedication to our profession, your dedication to being a REALTOR®, and all that stands behind the word. That’s Who We “R”!
Moving forward, we find ourselves in a “new norm” for 2020. My mid-year update would not be such without commending my leadership team, board of directors, valued committee members and staff who have been working tirelessly during the pandemic to remain strong and keep our members informed, but to also make sure each member has what they need to continue serving their clients safely and effectively. Through their diligence and commitment to you, our members, we have been blessed to still be able to produce some great member benefits and training to help you succeed in times such as these. The following tools and resources are just a few of the ways we are working on your behalf in the new norm.
- Partnered with the Union-Tribune in producing “Real Estate Connections,” an online information center to keep San Diegans informed about the pandemic, as well as information to find their next home, and matters pertaining to real estate.
- Production of the broadcast of “The Scoop - Power Hour” to bring thought leadership and valuable information from medical experts, elected officials, economists, and various real estate leaders to our members. This broadcast provides invaluable market statistics, current pandemic information, and helpful real estate tips and practices. Members’ response has been enormous and I am happy to report The Scoop will continue with the current format to better serve you.
- To date over 500 members have taken advantage of the delivery service the association is providing. To assist members with the current pandemic orders and social distancing, members can order anything from our store (signs, forms, lock boxes, etc.) and the association will deliver the products directly to the member FREE of charge.
- Complimentary Practice Safe Real Estate kits for you and your clients. Each REALTOR® is entitled to request one kit per client which consists of 3 masks, 6 footies (3 pair), hand sanitizer, a computer camera blocker, and other items. This kit is also offered to those who enter new listings into the MLS, and we have delivered nearly 1,000 kits, with the supplies to support our members moving forward.
In closing, your association is working, every day, to provide you with what you and your clients need to be safe and successful. Throughout the remainder of this year you will see more benefits and services launched to help you and your clients. 2020 has been challenging, but it is making our association, members, and communities stronger.
I thank you all for your support and I am honored to be your president during these times. Just as my heart is up for the challenges, I know your hearts are too.
Serving you proudly!
Carla Farley, President
Greater San Diego Association of REALTORS®
