For those of us in the industry, the last few years in real estate have been, well, let’s just say strange.
From the COVID boom and all the things that came along with it — virtual home tours, masked showings and historically low interest rates. Then, to rising interest rates, a lack of inventory and affordability challenges. All topped off with a few practice changes when it comes to agent compensation and buyers agreements, and like I said, times are strange.
But things in real estate are always and will always be changing, and, at the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®, we recognize there is no room for pessimists and same-old-wayers. Just like Realtors adapt, always with an eye to the future, so must we.
That’s why we are thrilled to announce the launch of ChicagolandHomes.com. For several years, Mainstreet has been running a paid media campaign to educate consumers about the benefits of working with a Realtor. Our campaign and educational content has attracted thousands of potential buyers and sellers.
We’re taking that a step further with ChicagolandHomes.com, which is a new, consumer-facing website that provides all of our resources in one place, along with a searchable database of member listings, offices and individual agent profiles.
In addition to the website, Mainstreet is shortening its name to Mainstreet REALTORS® and unveiling a modern, new logo. We also have a new tagline that speaks to the core of what we do for our members, “Empower YOU.”
Along with these important elements, the board and leadership at Mainstreet also sat down to develop new values that accurately differentiate and capture the essence of Mainstreet:
We believe in EVERY member.
We are obsessed with what works.
We make it easy.
We are change-makers.
We do the right thing.
We are really, really nice.
And, we’ve developed a powerful manifesto that demonstrates our commitment to our members.
We are Connectors, Solvers & Teachers.
Our members are extraordinary when they are empowered to reach their potential.
We obsess about what works for them. We experiment. We listen, learn … then teach.
We always look for what’s next. The “new” opens possibilities and brings diversity. We are united and excited by our differences and discoveries. That’s why same-old-wayers and pessimists won’t be found here. Some opportunities only come around once. We seize them since life is short but the future is limitless. We connect members to our community and contribute our knowledge and resources to make a difference. We assertively protect the fundamental right to own property because our members’ livelihood depends on it. We always do what’s right, especially when no one is looking. Our members deserve the best, because we believe they can do anything. Our members never settle. Neither do we.
We are excited about the future of Mainstreet REALTORS®, our members and the industry and look forward to continuing to celebrate the good times, rise to the challenges and evolve together to always meet the needs of Realtors and the buyers and sellers they serve.
John Gormley is CEO of Mainstreet REALTORS®.