A recent NAR (National Association of REALTORS®) report highlighted the significance of the housing sector, not only in the economy but also in the enduring social and financial advantages of homeownership. The report emphasized that owning a home contributes significantly to social benefits within communities and the nation. Homeowners in their residences are more inclined to engage in community activities and advocate for their voices to be heard. It's not solely the financial gains that should inspire an agent but also the enduring value that fosters sustainability and prosperity in a community, potentially leading to the establishment of prosperity zones in the United States.
During challenging times like the pandemic or natural disasters, real estate professionals in the USA often take the lead in organizing charitable initiatives to aid victims, including their own neighbors. In this spirit, NAR acknowledges REALTORS® who serve their communities and neighbors by presenting awards like Realtor of the Year and Good Neighbor awards. Recipients of these awards are esteemed by their peers as dedicated professionals who exhibit a commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the communities they serve. These real estate professionals exemplify the REALTOR® spirit through their professional accomplishments, volunteer work, and community engagement.
Real estate agents go beyond showing properties; they play a pivotal role in advocating for property rights, which is essential for a country's economy. The residential sector provides homes for families, serving as a primary source of wealth and savings for many, and often the main inheritance passed down to future generations. Real estate transactions and investments generate significant revenue, contributing approximately 15% to the USA's GDP and around 3 trillion dollars. Despite the pandemic, real estate continues to drive positive economic growth in many countries. In today's globalized world, the real estate sector transcends national boundaries as investors seek higher returns and retirees search for affordable living options.
Real estate professionals can facilitate cross-border transactions, aiding clients in navigating international real estate investments. By obtaining the CIPS (Certified International Property Specialist) designation from NAR, professionals equip themselves with the necessary expertise to engage in international transactions, encompassing aspects like currency conversion, political dynamics, cultural nuances, and macroeconomic considerations. Understanding cultural disparities and global business practices is crucial to avert pitfalls and foster client confidence.
To address the escalating demand for global investments, local real estate associations and their members can collaborate to establish connections that unlock opportunities in international markets. Through bilateral agreements with foreign associations, they can seamlessly organize trade missions and participate in international events such as the National Association of Realtors Conference and Expo held in the USA, drawing attendees from 75 countries.
Through collaborative efforts of associations like PIR- Portuguese International Realty, professionals in global markets are informed about investment prospects, such as the Golden Visa in Portugal, enhancing their ability to serve clients effectively.
It is crucial to acknowledge the real estate sector's role in advancing a country's digital economy and society. The competitive nature of the industry, evolving consumer behaviors across different generations, market dynamics influenced by various factors like natural disasters or economic shifts, all necessitate real estate professionals to embrace cutting-edge technologies such as CRM systems, e-lock boxes, virtual tours, video marketing, and augmented reality. The sector's emphasis on agility, transparency, and efficiency drives early adoption of technological innovations to streamline administrative and legal processes.