The real estate industry is moving at a lightning pace, but, then again, it always has. From upcoming legislative changes to the age limit of an Illinois real estate broker being lowered to 18, there’s always something new to be aware of.
In order for Realtors to stay relevant and on top of their game, they must be engaged in continuing education, networking and community activism. That is where the Young Professionals Network, or YPN for short, comes in. This organization within the local REALTOR associations provides a place for those new to the business or young at heart to do all of the above and more. Overseeing all the local YPN groups is the Illinois REALTORS® YPN Advisory Group (IR YPN AG), which provides support and guidance to YPNs all over the state.
As chair of the IR YPN AG, I’ve been thoroughly impressed by the flurry of activity due to the hard work of the amazing YPN chairs, co-chairs and committee members. Just recently, the Mid-Illinois Realtors Association (of which I am a member) hosted a “Rise and Shine Breakfast Club,” serving acai bowls while learning about the benefits of staging and professional photography to enhance listings.
After attending that gathering, I made my way up to Rosemont to attend the “Mainstreet Night at the Ballpark” event hosted by the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS® YPN at Impact Field in Rosemont. It was a beautiful evening, with members engrossed in conversations everywhere I looked. They were sharing the latest developments in Chicagoland real estate and enjoying the standard game fare of hot dogs, chips and popcorn alongside a fundraising raffle, all while cheering on the Chicago Dogs.
My co-chair, Ethan Nagar, was in attendance from the neighboring association to the north, the North Shore-Barrington Association of REALTORS® (NSBAR). Their dynamic YPN recently had cause to celebrate, having just won last year’s National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) YPN of the Year for medium-sized boards. Quite a feat, considering there are so many others across the nation jockeying for that same honor! Nagar is also being installed this year as the president of NSBAR. I look forward to attending and supporting his leadership achievements.
Looking ahead to August, Nagar and I are brimming with excitement for the upcoming YPN Advance, which is hosted by NAR every year in Chicago. YPN leadership from all over the country descend on downtown to attend sessions, collaborate, share ideas and network. NSBAR adds the cherry on top by providing transportation at the end of the conference to its annual NSBAR-BQ event. Attendees go back to their respective state associations energized and encouraged to lead the charge for the coming year ahead.
All in all, it is vital for REALTORS everywhere to have YPNs in every corner of the areas they serve. As always, I am honored to collaborate with and cultivate new young talent in this dynamic industry that I love so much and encourage all my fellow REALTORS to consider supporting their local YPN committees in all future endeavors.
JJ Devore is the chair of the Illinois REALTORS® YPN Advisory Group and designated managing broker for Century 21 Quest.