President’s P erspective We have all heard the cliché that “Perspective is every-
thing,” and often times one’s perspective is vitally important. In football, one running back sees all of the defenders, whereas another sees the spaces between them. In real estate, one buyer sees all the flaws in a property and another sees the possibilities.We have all worked with both types and we know which ones enjoy the most success.
Some may choose to focus on problems and difficulties. I earnestly hope that together we
will focus on solutions and opportunities. It makes a BIG difference. Together we can improve the value of REALTOR®
membership, we can influence legislation that not only protects but
encourages property ownership, and we can help our individual members grow their business. I am trulyhonoredto have the opportunity to serve aspresidentof the GeorgiaREALTORS®
for 2015. I am thrilled with the leadership team with whom I have the good fortune to work. We have a great group that works well together. These individuals bring a wide variety of experience, view points, and expertise together to lead our organization. Linda Carol Porterfield has done a great job as president for 2014. She has been a pleas-
ure to work with and has worked tirelessly on behalf of our Association. Each president builds on the foundation provided by their predecessors. Linda Carol has earned my respect and my thanks for the great job she has done. Also, congratulations to the new REALTOR® spiring example of what it means to be a REALTOR®
on the local, state, and national levels are tremendous. Read about your new REALTOR®
of the Year, Donnie Laurens! Donnie is an in - . His involvement and accomplishments of
the year on page 10 in this issue. As we embark on a new year, there are a few things I’d like to bring to your attention:
EXPLORE YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS AND DISCOUNTS. Read about the Lighthouse Benefits program in the REALTOR®
News section on page 5.
You have a great new insurance benefit available to you through GAR. Additionally, visit
www.garealtor.comto learn more about all of your member discounts, including DocuSign, UPS, Pearl Insurance and more.
THE 2014 ANNUAL CONFERENCE & EXPO WAS A GREAT SUCCESS! Held in Destin on September 17-20, the Conference had an attendance of more than 550 Georgia REALTORS®
and guests. Educational options were numerous and varied. The “Pirates
of the Gulf Coast” theme party was great fun with some really interesting costumes. The expo was a center of activity with 43 vendors in attendance highlighting the latest tools and services available to real estate professionals. The great time that we had at the Annual Conference brings me to urge you to…
REGISTER TODAY FOR THE 2015 INAUGURAL & LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE!
For the first time in many years, we’ll hold the Inaugural and Legislative Conference in down - town Atlanta at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. Plan now to attend! Let’s show up at the State Capital in record numbers and impress our elected officialswith a show of how much we care about the legislation that impacts our industry. See the special Inaugural & Legis lative Con- ference section at the end of this magazine for all the details about the conference.
We have an exciting year ahead of us and I look forward to serving you as President. Have a safe and wonderful holiday season!
JIM SMITH 2015 President
GEORGIA REALTORS ®
www.garealtor.com
GEORGIA REALTOR®
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