PRESIDENT’S CORNER: The Road Ahead: Driving Change Together

Stepping into the role of President of the Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors has fueled my passion for this industry into overdrive. As an immigrant living the American Dream, real estate has profoundly shaped my life, and I have experienced firsthand its impact on individuals, families, and entire communities. However, as much as we celebrate the opportunities the real estate industry creates, we must also acknowledge the challenges ahead.

There’s no denying that change is here. The real estate industry is evolving rapidly—lawsuits, regulatory scrutiny, and shifting consumer expectations are forcing us to take a hard look at how we do business. It’s easy to get caught up in the negativity, but history has shown that industries either adapt or become obsolete.

Let’s take a step back—how many of us have a Netflix subscription? An Apple iPhone? Did you make a purchase on Amazon this month? Now, how many of us still rent movies from Blockbuster, use a BlackBerry, or shop at Sears? The difference between those who thrive and those who fade away is simple: they embrace change.

Netflix didn’t just accept the shift from DVDs to streaming—it led the charge and revolutionized entertainment. Apple transformed itself from a computer company into a global technology powerhouse. Amazon went from selling books online to becoming the dominant force in global commerce.

What does this mean for us as Realtors?

It means we can’t be the Blockbuster of our industry. We must recognize that consumer expectations are shifting. We need to be proactive, not reactive. We need to prove, through our actions, the value we bring to buyers, sellers, investors and communities. We are not just transaction facilitators—we are advisors, advocates, and industry experts.

At HGAR, we are committed to lead from the front. Our strategic plan is already in motion, and we are doubling down on:

• Advocacy: We fight for homeowners, landlords, renters, and fair housing—not just for Realtors. We’re expanding our engagement with local policymakers because the most impactful real estate decisions happen in our own backyards.
• Professionalism & Education: We’re elevating our industry with new learning opportunities—not just CE classes, but actual business development and leadership training to help Realtors stay ahead.
• Engagement: The most important factor of all. Without engaged members, our association risks becoming irrelevant. We are actively welcoming new leaders, new voices, and new ideas while honoring the experience of those who came before us

The Road Ahead

There will always be naysayers—people who criticize, question and doubt our profession. But their voices do not define us. Our actions do. This is our moment to evolve, step up, and demonstrate why we are essential to the future of housing, communities and wealth-building in America.

The question isn’t whether change is coming—it’s how we choose to meet it. Are we Netflix, Apple, and Amazon? Or are we Blockbuster, Blackberry, and Sears?

I know which future I’m choosing. Do you?

Let’s build it together.