The industry

What problems does the industry need to address to move forward for a positive, forward-thinking and successful future?

Gormley: I believe organized real estate needs to focus on what the consumer thinks, feels and wants. And maybe more importantly, what the consumers of tomorrow will likely think, feel and want. Successful startups figure out what is an unmet need or an unresolved pain point, and then offer a solution, sometimes even before there’s a problem. Realtors have always been in the problem-solving business. Realtor organizations should spend a fair amount of time helping their members prepare to solve tomorrow’s consumer pain points. Part of that challenge is to guard against insular thinking and look to other industries and methods outside of the normal realm.

Baker: As an industry, we need to embrace technology — embrace social media, electronic signatures and other paperless options. The consumer can access the same information as a real estate professional, and often just as quickly as an agent. We need to stop worrying about what the consumer has access to and start making sure we are proficient in providing quality service — as well an explanation of market data and relevant content for our communities.

Thomson: To be successful in 2018, brokers are going to need to up their game. From being able to interpret and explain complex data, leveraging statistics and providing concierge-level service — 2018’s consumer is savvy and the bar is high.