Let’s be honest: Many real estate professionals join their local REALTOR® association because they are told to by their broker-owner or office manager. Local associations are the gateway to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), but there are things of equal value that we provide.

REALTORS® using the MLS access provided by the association is like a contractor showing up at a job site with only a hammer. Sure, they can get some work done, but they’re missing essential tools like a level, a saw, a blueprint. Your local association provides the complete toolkit for success in real estate.

First and foremost, associations are the first line of defense for the real estate industry. Through political advocacy, people at the local, state and national levels work to protect your business and the rights of private property owners. It is something many other industries envy. We’re the watchdogs, monitoring local municipalities to prevent overreaching policies like excessive property tax stamps, unreasonable ordinances and other well-intentioned but potentially disastrous regulations. Local governments, in their search for budget solutions, look to property owners as a convenient source of revenue. But we’re there to push back, ensuring a fair and balanced playing field. Without this vigilance, the consequences for our industry and our clients could be significant.

Beyond advocacy, your association is a hub for professional growth — not just license renewal. Our focus has shifted to agent empowerment, especially as we weather periods of transition and turnover in the industry. Associations are thinking critically about how we can translate legalese, helping you better understand the changing market and what it takes to make an impact on new and existing clientele. These aren’t just dry lectures; they’re opportunities to connect with fellow real estate professionals who share your drive and ambition. Imagine brainstorming with peers, sharing best practices and building a powerful network that propels your career forward. These connections are invaluable, offering support, collaboration and even lifelong friendships.

And speaking of connections, local associations are actively recovering and redeveloping industry connections that have been lost post-pandemic. Creating events designed to foster a strong sense of community is paramount. From celebrating member achievements at awards ceremonies to engaging in charitable giving, there’s something for everyone. Because social gatherings have a purpose: to strengthen those vital professional relationships. Building a strong network is essential for success in real estate, and we provide the platform for those connections to flourish.

Consider the contracts and forms you use every day. Surveys consistently show that access to these essential tools is one of the most highly valued benefits of association membership. Not only do you have access to a comprehensive library of forms, but you’re also part of a larger network that has developed the Multi-Board Contract, Version 8.0, and its accompanying addenda. This standardized documentation streamlines transactions across northern Illinois, saving you time, reducing errors and ensuring compliance. It’s a powerful resource that simplifies complex processes and gives you a competitive edge.

At NSBAR, we are driven by our commitment to providing resources that other associations do not. This is exemplified by our top-notch tech support. From troubleshooting routine software issues to tackling complex technical challenges, we do what we can to ease the confusion that comes with burgeoning advancements. We do our best to provide personalized support, consistently rated as one of NSBAR’s most valued and utilized services, giving our members the confidence to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape of real estate.

Ultimately, your local association is a partner invested in your success. We provide the resources, advocacy and community you need to thrive in this dynamic industry. The North Shore-Barrington Association of REALTORS® is committed to serving each of you, “One Member at a Time.” We do our best to supplement the support you receive from your brokerage and empower you to achieve your full potential. Whether at state or national meetings, local events or training opportunities, we look forward to connecting with you and celebrating your accomplishments in 2025 and beyond. Real estate professionals are a resilient and resourceful group, and we’re excited to see what you achieve.

Jeff Lasky is the CEO of the North Shore-Barrington Association of REALTORS®.