Michelle Mills Clement, Chief Executive Officer
Erika Villegas, President
Lutalo McGee, President-Elect
Sarah Ware, Treasurer & Immediate Past President
The Chicago Association of Realtors’ value lies in its leadership — a group of Realtors who create tools for their fellow Chicago Realtors. This leadership team guides a board of directors and over 20 committees that advance the mission to make Chicago a vibrant place to live, work and play. They volunteer their time and expertise to ensure their fellow members have the tools they need to keep their businesses moving forward.
One of the most vital tools members will utilize to face industry changes is the Forms & Contracts library. In addition to the 80-plus industry forms and contracts already available, the Chicago Association of Realtors’ legal counsel and member volunteers are committed to reviewing and recommending changes to our forms and contracts that address industry changes.
This year, the power of the association’s advocacy efforts was evident in the work surrounding the real estate transfer tax. Working with the Illinois Realtors organization and the National Association of Realtors, the association ensured members were informed about the impacts of the proposed increased transfer tax, had the tools necessary to share that information with their clients and voted on the issue. These efforts led to the resolution being defeated at the polls.
The association’s dispute resolution services remain an important aspect of upholding professionalism and the Code of Ethics. Realtor members are protected by Article 17 of the Code of Ethics, which outlines members’ duty to arbitrate. This underscores the importance of the Code of Ethics, which, under Article 17, allows members to settle compensation disputes efficiently and at little to no cost, rather than litigating these disputes through the courts.
The Chicago Association of Realtors believes in the power of associations to harness the talent of its members and provide value to its entire membership. It will continue to foster communities, bring members together and provide tools to navigate changes together.
