From Bonavista, Newfoundland to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, there are more than 132,000 REALTORS® serving their communities in every corner of this expansive country.
For a nation that’s 40 times the size of the United Kingdom, it’s interesting to see how different local real estate markets compare to one another. Factors that affect housing in Moncton, New Brunswick won’t register with those living in Calgary, Alberta. Everything from climate and the economy, to geographical challenges and population density varies from one province to another.
That’s why we make it a goal to visit as many towns and cities as possible across Canada each year, and 2019 was no different. It’s important we know about circumstances affecting you and to hear how CREA can help you in your day-to-day business.
Last year, CREA representatives attended 28 trade shows, including the oft-requested CREA Open House featuring presentations from our Board of Directors and CREA staff about the services and products we provide our members. However, that just scratches the surface on how many events, training sessions, presentations and panels we’re a part of each and every year.
Do you know what visitors are searching for on @REALTORdotca? Stop by our #REALTORQUEST booth to learn how to increase the reach of your listings and maximize leads using the 2018 Insights Report. pic.twitter.com/UVsP1mgxAf
— CREA | ACI (@CREA_ACI) May 29, 2019
We launched a revamped #ProudREALTOR® campaign in 2019 to help gain a better understanding of Canada’s more intriguing markets that may not necessarily make national headlines on a regular basis. If you’ve attended a CREA Open House before, you may have seen one of our representatives—and enthusiastic REALTORS®—waving around #ProudREALTOR® signs for photo opportunities. The new campaign, one we are looking to expand on in 2020, was designed to have REALTORS® share with us their personal stories about why they are a #ProudREALTOR® where they live and work.
Shelley Skidd is a #ProudREALTOR because she says the REALTOR®️ Code stands for integrity and she ♥️ what she does. #FrederictonNB pic.twitter.com/kJQ83XrkVC
— CREA | ACI (@CREA_ACI) October 30, 2019
Whether it was Smiths Falls, Ontario, where there’s been a spark in real estate development and purchases since one of Canada’s largest cannabis companies moved to town, or Yorkton, Saskatchewan, where being in the middle of the largest and richest potash field in the province helps grow the economy, Canada’s communities have stories to tell. By spending time with REALTORS® in each of these municipalities, we’re able to learn more about them both personally and professionally.
This morning we met Rosemary Wall of @C21Colonial who told us she’s a #ProudREALTOR because “it’s a wonderful occupation full of fantastic colleagues and it’s great to help people fulfill the dream of finding a new home.” Thanks for having us, @peireaREALTORS! pic.twitter.com/HzoPULaUOV
— CREA | ACI (@CREA_ACI) October 18, 2019
What was interesting to learn was how the REALTORS Care® mindset has cemented itself among these communities. From local food drives to charity golf tournaments and home builds, we were encouraged to see no matter the size of a local board, REALTORS® go out of their way to give back to those in need. Experiencing these charitable events first-hand was eye-opening. Remember, if you have a story to share about giving back in your community, let us know by sending an email to info@realtorscare.ca and we’ll post about it on the REALTORS Care® website.
Our training specialists continued to crisscross the country by attending hundreds of industry events, including board and association training sessions and broker training sessions. A typical month had specialists attend about 20 sessions in places such as the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, the Greater Toronto Area and all over the Maritimes. For some, there’s nothing like a face-to-face learning environment, and we understand that and accommodate such requests. If you feel your board, association or brokerage would benefit from a hands-on training session at your event, simply fill out this form and we’ll help you arrange the rest. For self-learners, all the training resources you need can also be found on CREA’s Training Hub.
Of course, there were many noteworthy events and conferences CREA attended, including the following:
- Banff Western Connection – the west coast’s premier multi-day real estate conference featuring educational sessions, a large exhibit hall, social events and more.
- REALTOR® Quest – With more than 130,000-square feet of exhibitor space and a packed schedule of informative and entertaining speakers, this is Canada’s largest real estate conference and trade show.
If you have a question about CREA WEBForms® 2019, our experts have the answer! Stop by our #REALTORQUEST booth to learn more about the new, easy to use end-to-end document and transaction management solution. pic.twitter.com/oG9OnPLe0Z
— CREA | ACI (@CREA_ACI) May 30, 2019
- National franchisor events – CREA was in attendance for annual events organized by franchises such as Royal LePage, RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker and Century 21.
We’re here in beautiful Halifax at Coldwell Banker’s #CBeyond event. Stop by the CREA booth to let us know why you’re a #ProudREALTOR and if you have any questions on the products and services we provide! pic.twitter.com/biKRKsyKWW
— CREA | ACI (@CREA_ACI) October 2, 2019
- Tech Show for REALTORS® – This half-day event in Kitchener, Ontario, featured presentations from leaders in Canada’s tech industry.
- Association Executives Seminar – Representing more than 200 board and association executives, this event delivers resources and programs to improve professional development.
Much like years past, CREA plans on hitting the road again in 2020 and we look forward to meeting with you at your area’s next industry event.
