Dear Members,

As we turn the page to a new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has undoubtedly been one of the most challenging years our industry has faced. From the shifting dynamics in the housing market to regulatory challenges and lawsuits, we have been tested in ways we could not have anticipated. Notwithstanding these difficulties, we remain determined and look forward to what’s ahead.

Despite numerous legislative victories and successful new initiatives and member benefits, we faced unprecedented challenges in 2024. Our national governing body, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), has encountered its share of struggles, including legal challenges, negative publicity, and changes in policies that directly affect our day-to-day work. While these issues have been daunting, it’s important to remember one key fact: our profession is resilient, and we have weathered storms before.

Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and time to repair. NAR has acknowledged that trust has been broken. However, a new administration at NAR is forging a very different path than it has taken in the past. Led by a new Chief Executive Officer, Nykia Wright, NAR has vowed to correct past mistakes and create a member-centric organization that listens, adapts, and innovates to better serve its members. This vow has been endorsed by Arizona’s own Craig Sanford, who will serve as Treasurer of NAR for the next two years. I hope you will join me in giving NAR’s new leadership an opportunity to prove themselves.

I echo Nykia’s words when she stated, “Our goal is not to increase membership, but rather increase the value each individual member receives from us.”

The Arizona Association of REALTORS® stands firm in our commitment to ensuring that the interests of our members are represented and protected. We will not allow these external challenges to define us or diminish the important work we do every day, meaning that we will continue to protect your interests and roll out new and innovative member benefits and services.

As a REALTOR®, your role has never been more critical, and your ability to provide exceptional service to your clients and communities remains the foundation of everything we do. REALTORS® are trusted advisors, advocates, and pillars of our communities. To the public, the term REALTOR® means expert guidance in complex transactions, advocates of home ownership, and an unrivaled level of dedication in helping our clients navigate one of the most important decisions of their lives – buying or selling a home. And the continued use of statewide forms that have a proven track record and established legal precedent enable us to do just that. The benefits of standardized statewide forms are undeniable as they provide a reliable framework that supports efficient, transparent, consistent, and legally sound real estate transactions.

Heading into 2025, I want to assure you that you will not face the future alone and that we do not take your membership for granted. We are stronger when we work together and we are committed to keeping you informed, empowered, and prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Furthermore, the Arizona REALTORS® will continue its statewide advertising campaign to ensure that the public recognizes the importance of working with a REALTOR®.

To all of you – our dedicated members – we are grateful for your decision to remain steadfast in upholding the high standards, integrity, and ethical principles that set REALTORS® apart. Your resilience, your hard work, and your continued trust in the Arizona Association of REALTORS® inspire us every day. We will continue to stand alongside you, prioritizing your success, and working to ensure that we remain a vital force in the real estate industry.

We are entering the new year with strength, resolve, and an unshakable belief in the power of the REALTOR® community. Together, we will continue to elevate the value of our profession.

I wish you peace and prosperity in the year ahead and look forward to an exciting new year!

Scott M. Drucker, Esq.

Chief Executive Officer

The Arizona Association of REALTORS®