The opinions expressed by nonstaff contributors may not reflect the official opinion of Maryland REALTORS® and/or policies derived from leadership and staff.
Mission Statement
Maryland REALTORS® exists to support all segments of its membership and their specialties. Maryland REALTORS®, through collective efforts with local boards/associations and the National Association of REALTORS®:
■ Develops and delivers programs, services and related products that maintain and elevate the high standards of the real estate business and the professional conduct of its practitioners;
■ Assists members in ethically and professionally serving the public;
■ Promotes and preserves the right to own, transfer and use real property; and
■ Protects the right of members to conduct business within a framework of fair and reasonable laws and government regulations.
In principle and in practice, Maryland REALTORS® values and seeks diversity and inclusive participation within the field of real estate and recognizes each member as a unique individual.
The Importance of Passion
Whatever the real estate business is today, it will change tomorrow. Our lives are always on the go, each of us armed with our planner of choice—paper, digital, or (please, no) in your head—as we move from showing to meeting to training, cramming multiple projects into a never-ending day.
It’s a lot, right? But we love it. We’re our own bosses, we set our own agendas, and the joy we bring to others when buying or selling a home is something you truly must experience to appreciate, right? If you’re anything like me, this work isn’t just a job; it’s a passion.
That kind of passion is essential. Hold onto it.
But when the business of real estate shuts off for the day, what do you do? Most of us have family, and time with loved ones makes all our hard work much more meaningful. Yes, we should all be passionate about our loved ones.
But here’s my question to you: what else are you passionate about?
Everyone needs a reset now and then—something outside of work that brings a sense of wholeness. For me, my ongoing work with the Boys & Girls Club of Westminster provides that balance. I’m still reflecting on an “Adulting 101” financial education event that
Everyone needs a reset now and then—something outside of work that brings a sense of wholeness.
Maryland REALTORS® helped to support. You can read more about it in the June/July issue of Maryland REALTOR® magazine.
The reality is this: even now, serving as your 2026 President, I could easily fill every inch of my planner and leave no time for the Boys & Girls Club. But I intentionally don’t. I make space for this passion because it fills my soul. It brings me joy, and that sense of fulfillment carries over into my real estate work, making me a more effective REALTOR®, broker, community leader, and industry leader. It’s a catalyst that elevates everything else I do, even if I can’t fully explain how. But that’s me—what about you? Are you an artist? Writing a novel? Active in your community? Whatever it is, whatever fuels you, make time for it. Carve it out in your week. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
This is a fantastic issue of the magazine. If leadership is a passion of yours, turn to page 6
for “Perspectives on Leadership” and hear from several of our local board presidents about what drives them. And if you want to see what future leadership looks like, head to page 14 to meet the 2026 graduating class of Leadership Academy. Congratulations to all!
As this issue publishes in April, I’d be remiss not to remind you that it’s Fair Housing Month. Turn the page to access valuable fair housing resources from Maryland REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®.
Thank you for being an active member and thank you for the passion you bring to your clients each and every day. ■
Denise Lewis Is Maryland REALTORS®’ 2026 President.
Fair Housing at Your Fingertips
Fair housing is more than a legal requirement—it is the foundation of strong, inclusive communities and a thriving real estate market. In Maryland and across the nation, the promise of equal access to housing continues to shape how REALTORS® serve clients, advocate for consumers, and strengthen neighborhoods. Through education, advocacy, and professional standards, Maryland REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) provide the tools and resources to help our members uphold fair housing laws, recognize and prevent discrimination, and promote equitable homeownership opportunities. For Fair Housing Month, we’ve compiled resources available from both your state and national associations to help you when serving your clients.
Maryland REALTORS® Fair Housing Page
Maryland’s Fair Housing Brochures
Available in English & Spanish Maryland REALTORS®’ Fair Housing brochures provide detailed information about fair housing and protected classes in the state, counties, and in select cities.
The MREC Review of Source of Income Discrimination Laws
Please note:
Within this issue, the Legal Department has provided additional information about Source of Income on page 28.
Download Source of Income Discrimination Laws in Maryland
The Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) has compiled specific information about understanding and following source of income laws.
You can easily access our fair housing legal resources through the link, www.mdrealtor.org/FairHousing (bookmark it!) or by using the QR code above. This link can be your starting point for Maryland REALTORS®’ resources, plus resources from our partners with affiliate organizations. Also provided on this page is a direct link, should one need to file a complaint.
Resources from the National Association of REALTORS®: Fairhaven 2.0
Fairhaven is NAR’s interactive online town where REALTORS® navigate real-world fair housing scenarios and discover practical solutions. This self-paced, two-hour course explores key topics such as avoiding steering, fair housing marketing best practices, addressing implicit bias, and advocating for clients facing discrimination.
Fairhaven is a free, online training option for NAR members to meet NAR’s Fair Housing Training Requirement. The course is pass/fail, with opportunities to retake if needed. Participants receive a detailed performance report, and those who successfully complete the course earn a certificate of completion.
Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing
Bias Override is an NAR certificate course that equips real estate professionals to recognize and interrupt stereotypical thinking, helping prevent fair housing violations and ensure equal service to every client. Participants explore the science of identity and implicit bias, examine how bias can influence decision-making, and engage in interactive exercises to strengthen communication and build inclusive business relationships.
NAR has partnered with the Perception Institute to offer introductory videos on the mind science of identity. REALTORS® can watch these videos to become familiar with key concepts before enrolling in the interactive classroom course to further develop practical strategies for overriding bias in their business.
Access NAR’s Fair Housing Training Understanding the
Resources for Fair Housing Month
Access ALL of NAR’s Fair Housing Resources
NAR provides links and resources, updated for 2026. Toolkits, book recommendations, film and video recommendations, news articles and more are available to members. Also available is NAR’s 2026 Fair Housing poster.
Explore the latest news related to Fair Housing on this page.
Fair Housing Act
Fair Housing Essentials for Brokers
To reduce risk and strengthen compliance, brokers should prioritize comprehensive fair housing education for agents and staff to ensure a clear understanding of legal obligations and prohibited conduct. NAR’s dedicated Broker resource page features a downloadable 32-page guide covering:
■ Sources of fair housing laws (federal, state, and local) and prohibited conduct
What Everyone Should Know About Equal Opportunity Housing
■ Advertising guidelines
■ Developing a brokerage-wide compliance program
■ Demonstrating a public commitment to fair housing
■ Conducting agent trainings and more
Download NAR’s Real Estate Brokerage Essentials
Explore the latest news related to Fair Housing on this page.
Fair Housing Declaration
Download and print the REALTOR® Fair Housing Declaration.
Explore the latest news related to Fair Housing on this page.
This page provides a comprehensive overview of the laws, responsibilities, programs, and actions if discrimination is suspected.
Explore the latest news related to Fair Housing on this page.
Download a complete copy of NAR’s ADA Compliance Kit. Please note: you must be logged into the site to access this information.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance Kit
Perspectives on Leadership
Local Association and Board Presidents Share their
Thoughts on
Leading Issues
To serve as state president is an extraordinary honor— not only because of the responsibility, but because of the people. This year, I have had the privilege of watching our local leaders step forward with purpose, creativity, and a deep commitment to their members and communities. Their leadership reminds me that while our roles may differ, our mission is shared.
At the state level, we often talk about selecting a few clear priorities and executing them well. Initiatives like broker engagement, next-generation implementation, and partnerships such as our financial literacy joint venture with the Boys & Girls Club are important examples of that focus in action. But behind every initiative is something even more powerful: strong local leadership.
At the core of everything we do is relationships. Collaboration, idea-sharing and problem-solving strengthen our associations and sharpen us as leaders. Even before taking the oath of office, this year’s presidents were already connecting, meeting virtually, building trust, and laying the groundwork for a year of service defined by cooperation and shared purpose.
In the following pages, you will hear directly from many of our 2025–2026 local association presidents. Each offers a personal perspective on leadership — what it means, how it shapes their work, and why it matters now more than ever. I am proud to introduce their voices and hope you find their insights as inspiring as I do.
Denise Lewis President, Maryland REALTORS®
How Local Boards Cultivate Strong Relationships
BY PAM BATSTONE
To cultivate strong membership, leadership must focus on engagement, value, and connection. Strong membership begins with listening—actively seeking input from members to understand their needs, challenges, and goals.
No organization can make a strong impact without creating meaningful opportunities for involvement through committees, task forces, educational programs, mastermind sessions, and networking events. By doing so, we empower members to contribute their talents and feel invested in the organization’s success.
We schedule regular broker meetings to inform members of forthcoming NAR, Maryland REALTORS®, and local classes to help boost participation.
Delivering consistent, high-quality professional development and relevant resources reinforces the tangible value of membership. Transparent, safe, timely, solution-oriented, and clear communication builds trust and ensures that members feel informed and supported. Recognizing achievements, celebrating milestones, and highlighting member successes further strengthen a culture of appreciation and belonging.
Finally, maintaining a welcoming, inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are respected encourages collaboration and innovation. When members feel heard, valued, and supported, they become ambassadors for the organization, strengthening recruitment, retention, and the overall vitality of the association.
Pam Batstone, President, Anne Arundel County of REALTORS®.
The responsibility for being a voice for the Industry
BY YVETTE RIPPEON
Serving as a leader and being a voice for the real estate industry is an honor and a responsibility. We are entrusted with representing not only our profession, but also homeowners, buyers, and the communities we serve. Being a voice means listening first. We must be certain we clearly understand the concerns of our members, as well as the needs of the consumer, while balancing the challenges facing our local markets. We must use all that information and thoughtfully communicate it to our community partners, elected officials, and the public that we serve. We set the tone for professionalism, integrity, and the principles that guide our industry. Collaboration, respect, and trust will ensure that we can protect the future of our profession while keeping homeownership accessible and valued in our communities. Being the voice of the real estate industry gives us an opportunity to advocate for policies, protect property rights, and support fair and ethical business practices, which promote a healthy housing market.
Yvette Rippeon President, Carroll County REALTORS®.
How to Translate Big Policy Issues into Local Impact
BY TERRENCE MCGOWAN
The longer we are in real estate, the more we learn that everything touches everything. A single real estate transaction almost always affects multiple other transactions.
The same is true with legislation. Whether local or state, legislation has the ability to affect our customers and our transactions.
Recently, the Maryland Department of the Environment allowed a general permit known as a CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation) to lapse in 2025. This has stalled sales of properties, as well as delayed the ability to obtain permits for new structures to be built.
Understanding what is happening with current and upcoming legislation helps us, as agents, provide accurate and up-to-date information for our buyers and sellers.
With changes our legislators are proposing to address the current housing shortage, it is especially important to stay aware of proposed legislation and zoning changes.
Terrence McGowan President, Coastal Association of REALTORS®.
Mentorship as a Leadership Responsibility
BY TIFFANY HARRIS
Leadership, to me, has always been about service — showing up, sharing knowledge, and making sure no one has to navigate this journey alone. None of us achieve success by ourselves. Along the way, someone opened a door, offered guidance, or spoke life into us when we needed it most. Mentorship is how we honor that investment by paying it forward.
As leaders, we have a responsibility to be the support system we once needed. That means being accessible, honest, and willing to pour into others, even when our schedules are full. It means sharing both our wins and our struggles so others can learn with confidence and clarity. Mentorship builds stronger professionals and stronger communities. It creates space for growth, accountability, and belief, especially for those who may not yet see their own potential. When we intentionally develop others, we multiply impact beyond our individual success.
True leadership is not measured by how high we climb, but by how many we bring with us. When we invest in people, we invest in the future of our industry.
Tiffany Harris
President,
Greater Baltimore Board of REALTORS®.
Why Professional Standards Matter More Than Ever
BY SHANDELL GREEN
What Leadership and Community Service Mean to Me
BY PAULA DIGGS SMITH
Being a leader is less about a sense of elevated power and more about mentoring and lifting others. Over four decades, I’ve learned a lot along the way. I have been inspired by many strong leaders. I now feel an obligation to the next generation to do the same—to build strong leaders who will promote professionalism and integrity in our industry now and into the future.
Leadership means creating an environment where people feel supported and inspired. I want those around me to feel valued. I want them to feel they have a voice that will be heard. I want to spark something that helps someone else see themselves leading and making improvements to our industry.
I believe leadership and community service are closely connected. A community is made better through strong leadership.
Community service means loving where you live, enough to invest in it. It means recognizing that everyone we help find a home is beginning a new chapter—planting roots, building futures, and making memories. It means understanding that our impact goes far beyond contracts and closings. It reaches into schools, neighborhoods, local businesses, and beyond.
Professional standards in today’s real estate environment are not only important but essential. Real estate is evolving quickly. Market pressures are growing, and competition is stronger than ever. And buyers? They are smarter, and their use of technology, including AI, continues to grow.
Professionalism is what distinguishes us as REALTORS® from algorithms, clicks, or unverified online sources. It’s not just about contracts and comps. It’s about showing up with honesty, fairness, respect, and a heart for service —strengthening the trust that keeps business thriving.
Every transaction is an opportunity to build trust. In a world that can feel transactional, we remind people that this is still a relationship-driven business grounded in care, credibility, and long-term commitment.
Professionalism is our competitive advantage. If we stay committed to it, we will continue to thrive no matter how the market changes. Holding ourselves and one another to the highest standards protects the public, elevates our profession, and secures the future.
When we celebrate the standards that make our profession shine, it shows we are not just selling homes; we are shaping communities and protecting the dream of homeownership. That’s the power of professionalism.
Paula Diggs Smith President, Harford County Association of REALTORS®.
Shandell
Green Mid-Shore Board of REALTORS®.
How to Lead with a Multi-Faceted Membership
BY KAREN EBEID
Leading Pen-Mar REALTORS® means leading across state lines. Our association borders both Maryland and Pennsylvania, and our members operate under two different licensing systems, legislative priorities, and
professional environments. This reality requires thoughtful, intentional leadership.
The key is alignment without assumption. While regulations may differ, our shared commitment to ethics, professionalism, and property rights unite us. Effective leadership begins with listening, ensuring representation from both states and creating space for every voice to be heard.
It also requires balanced programming, advocacy, and communications, so no member feels secondary due to geography. Transparency and inclusivity build trust across state lines.
What might have been a challenge has become our strength. Leading a multi-faceted membership means embracing differences while rallying around a common purpose—serving our clients and elevating our profession together.
Karen Ebeid Pen-Mar Association of REALTORS®.
Embracing Technology without Losing the Human Element
BY CAROLE WEBB
As President of the Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS®, I have seen firsthand how rapidly technology is reshaping our profession. From AI tools and digital marketing to virtual showings and automated systems, innovation is helping us work smarter and serve clients more efficiently than ever before. Embracing these tools is no longer optional — it’s essential.
But in the middle of all this advancement, one truth remains: real estate is still a relationship business.
Technology should enhance connection, not replace it. Behind every transaction is a family navigating change, uncertainty and opportunity. Our clients are making some of the most emotional and financially significant decisions in their lives. They need more than data; they need guidance, reassurance, and someone who truly listens.
As leaders, our responsibility is to embrace innovation while protecting the heart of our profession. When we
lead with purpose and serve with heart, technology becomes a tool—not a substitute—for trust.
The future of real estate belongs to professionals who can balance both: modern efficiency and meaningful connection.
Leadership Lessons Learned the Hard Way
BY ANNETTE MATTHEWS
For me, leadership isn’t about being perfect or having all the answers or even trying to control everything around us. It’s about being honest, communicating openly, and knowing when it’s time to let go and hand off tasks to others.
I used to think being a leader meant tackling every problem by myself, but I’ve learned that isn’t true. The strongest leaders draw on the strengths of their team and aren’t afraid to ask for help or lean on others.
Being a good leader means showing others how it’s done. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes, but I know that admitting when I’m wrong and learning from those moments is what really matters. It’s not easy, but being honest about our failures helps us grow, and it encourages those around us to do the same. That’s how we build a culture where people feel safe to try, to stumble, and to get back up again.
Leadership starts with self-awareness and setting boundaries that protect both us and our teams. It takes courage to lead as a whole person—to show up not just as someone strong, but as someone real. Being vulnerable isn’t a weakness; it’s a way to connect. Letting others see that we’re human can be scary, yet it’s the key to building genuine trust and a sense of belonging.
Carole Webb
Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS®.
Annette Matthews President, Southern Maryland Association of REALTORS®.
Breaking Barriers
Six local boards have elected Black women to lead their members
Maryland REALTORS® reflects the rich diversity of the state we serve. In 2026, that diversity is powerfully visible in local leadership: six Maryland associations are led by Black women presidents. Is it a record? Likely. But the real story is not about numbers. It’s about progress.
Across Maryland, association leadership is becoming more representative of the members and communities we serve. And when leadership reflects lived experience, perspective, and possibility, the entire profession grows stronger.
Why This Matters
“When I saw Yolanda Muckle serve as Maryland REALTORS®’ President in 2023, it affirmed for me that leadership in the profession could reflect diversity at the highest levels,” said Terez Dorsey, the first Black female President serving the Frederick County Association of REALTORS® (FCAR). “That moment affirmed that leadership within the industry could reflect the diversity of the communities that REALTORS® serve.”
For Dorsey and others, visibility is more than symbolic. It is transformational.
“We’re sending a message,” added Paula Diggs Smith, President, Harford County Association of REALTORS®, now serving her 44th year as a REALTOR®. “It’s important that our children and generations to come see themselves represented by men and women in leadership positions.”
For decades, women have comprised the majority of the real estate workforce. Leadership roles, however, have not always reflected that reality. The emergence of more women — and more women of color — in top positions marks a meaningful and forward-looking shift for the industry.
Six Leaders, Six Paths
While they share a cultural background, gender, profession, and a deep respect for cultivating trust and professionalism, these six presidents — Paula Diggs Smith, Terez Dorsey, Shandell Green, Tiffany Harris, Annette Matthews, and Carole Webb — represent a wide range of experiences.
Their ages span from their 30s to their 70s. They entered the profession through different doors. They balance varied family demands and lead in distinct ways.
Yet they share common advice: get educated, show up, get involved, speak up, and mentor others.
“For me, leadership has never been just about being invited into the room,” said Tiffany Harris, President, Greater Baltimore Board of REALTORS® (GBBR). “It’s about showing up fully, contributing meaningfully, and making sure the door stays open for the next person.”
Harris, broker/owner of Century 21’s Harris Hawkins & Co., earned her license in 2014 after nine years in property management. Real estate was not originally part of her plan. “I had a high school friend who offered me a referral, and real estate wasn’t what I had planned to do, but she encouraged me.”
She began as a dual-career agent and quickly discovered how much she valued the profession, and its power. “I wanted to provide the knowledge my family didn’t have when my grandmother lost her house due to a reverse mortgage. Nobody knew how to save it.”
For Harris, leadership is about expanding access to information that builds generational wealth.
For Dorsey, the mission is deeply personal. Having experienced periods of housing instability, she understands firsthand the life-changing power of stable housing. “I know what it feels like to question where
you’ll lay your head at night, and I also know the pride and stability that comes with holding the keys to your own home,” she said. Purchasing her first home in 2018 reinforced her belief in the importance of access, education, and advocacy. “That journey fuels my commitment to ensure others have access to the same opportunity.”
Diggs Smith’s path began with a newspaper ad. “My first job out of college was with the mortgage/collections department of a bank in Ann Arbor, Michigan,” she said. There, she was encouraged to attend banking/ appraisal seminars. Something about these seminars clicked, and she began to pursue Real Estate in earnest. After relocating to Baltimore, she attended a real estate career night, then earned her license in 1982.
“Because of my prior work with a bank mortgage collections department in Michigan, real estate jumped out at me,” she said. “I also had a one-year-old son, so I needed the flexibility that this career can provide.”
Annette Matthews, President of the Southern Maryland Association of REALTORS® (SMAR), has built an enduring career in real estate spanning nearly two decades. Her journey began with Long and Foster in Suffolk, VA, where she started in 2006. The profession’s flexibility was a significant factor in her decision, especially as her children grew older and her family’s needs shifted.
Annette’s entrance into real estate was encouraged by her husband, Calvin, who was serving in the U.S. Navy at the time and was already a licensed real estate professional. Calvin believed Annette would thrive in the industry. “You’ll be good at it. You like to talk to people!” he said. This confidence and support played a crucial role in Annette’s career choice.
After moving from Arizona in 2014, Annette decided to obtain her Maryland real estate license. Her commitment to helping others and her passion for connecting with people have been central to her success and leadership within SMAR.
Shandell Green, President of the Mid-Shore Board of REALTORS® (MSBR) and a REALTOR® with The Gerdes Team with Real Broker, LLC, began her real estate career after obtaining her license in 2019, following her earlier experience as an assistant and office manager. “(My boss) told me that I am more than managing the office and sitting behind a desk,” Green said.
Green embraces a leadership approach founded on engagement and collaboration.
Carole Webb, President of the Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS® (PGCAR) and a REALTOR® with Samson Properties, often shares the heart behind her business: Every home has a story—and my story helps you move smarter. “I got into real estate through personal experience navigating homeownership challenges,” Webb said. “That journey shaped my perspective and drives my commitment to helping others make confident, informed decisions from the very beginning.”
“Serving others led me to association involvement, where I believe that showing up and contributing to the success of others and this industry matters just as much as producing,” said Webb. Raised in a service-based family, giving back was natural. Today, that foundation continues to guide her leadership as she remains committed to holding the door open for others to grow, lead, and step forward.
Overcoming Barriers
Each of these leaders encountered obstacles along the way — from the absence of role models who looked like them to subtle and sometimes overt discrimination.
Dorsey often felt she had to work harder to earn respect. “Even with a daughter with cerebral palsy I still needed to show up,” she said. “I believe we should leave the world better than we found it.”
“As a Black female brokerage owner in a competitive marketplace, I had to overcome barriers related to access, visibility, and credibility in spaces where representation has historically been limited,” Harris said. “These obstacles refined my leadership, deepened my commitment to service, and reinforced my belief that progress in our industry requires courage, adaptability, and collaboration.”
Diggs Smith recalls moments in the 1980s when implied references about neighborhoods and clients required her to “read between the lines,” she said. “It was tough, but I was tougher. I knew I couldn’t dwell on these opinions. I kept my chin up and kept pushing forward.” She points to the board game ‘Factuality’ (www.factualitythegame.com/) as a powerful way to engage in conversations about race, gender, and class in constructive ways.
A rising tide raises all ships. We have different boats, different stories, different strengths, and yet the same water carries us all. When we lift one another, we rise together.”
Leadership decision makers should look like the members they serve.”
Terez Dorsey
A true leader possesses passion, curiosity, actively engages with others, fosters collaboration, and makes decisions with confidence.”
Shandell Green
Paula Diggs Smith
2026 GRADUATES
LAUREN BUMSTEAD
JENNIFER CERNIK Monument Sotheby’s International Realty Greater Baltimore Board of REALTORS®
TAMIKA JOHNSON RE/MAX United Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS®
CHRISTINE JOYCE
Long & Foster Real Estate –Severna Park Anne Arundel County Association of REALTORS®
VONDELL RICHMOND
JENNIFER
VONDELL RICHMOND
SHERRI
MYISHA
SHELLEY
Leadership is a responsibility, not just a title. I lead by example, guided by integrity, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping others.”
Annette Matthews
Leadership
is lifting as you climb.”
Tiffany Harris
True leadership isn’t about being the loudest in the room. It’s about making a meaningful impact.”
Carole Webb
In every case, perseverance and purpose prevailed.
The Leadership Academy Pipeline
Five of the six presidents credit Maryland REALTORS®’ Leadership Academy as a pivotal experience in their growth.
Dorsey, a 2024 graduate, recalls a message from Maryland REALTORS® CEO Chuck Kasky about the importance of decision-makers reflecting those impacted by decisions.
Harris, a 2021 graduate, says the program helped redefine what leadership looks like — and who it includes. Among her goals is expanding community engagement, including organizing “Harvest for Hope,” a post-holidays food drive in January that she hopes will become an annual tradition.
Diggs Smith, a 2022 graduate, found that her advocacy had sharpened. “The program opened my eyes that it’s not just a matter of selling the next house, but representing homeowners, discovering what matters to them, and sharing their concerns with elected officials in order to change laws affecting real estate homeownership...I didn’t realize I had a voice that could be heard. The Leadership Academy introduced me to leaders who looked like me, women I want to emulate, like JoAnn Poole, Colette Massengale from the National Association of REALTORS®, and others.”
After more than four decades in real estate, Diggs Smith also feels the need to give back. “I understand that my responsibility as a leader is less about me, and more about lifting, inspiring, and strengthening others. It’s about planting seeds and growing other leaders,” she said. “To borrow the words of our incredible leader and 2026 Maryland REALTORS® President, Denise Lewis: ‘Be One, Do One and Bring One.’ It will benefit us all.”
Green, a 2023 Leadership Academy graduate, made collaboration a top priority, asking members of her graduating class to participate in her installation as MSBR President. “Having everyone present mattered because it united diverse perspectives, built support, and opened the door to bringing more people together,” Green said. She also praised an early convening of association presidents by Denise Lewis, Maryland REALTORS®’ 2026 President. “This early collaboration
laid a solid foundation for connection, communication, and shared leadership throughout the year.”
Webb, a 2020 graduate, describes Leadership Academy as the place where she truly found her voice as a leader in the industry. “I look beyond visibility or popularity and focus on who is consistently doing the work and having an impact,” she said. “I make a deliberate effort to elevate members who may not have the largest platforms but show integrity, insight, and the potential for leadership — just as others once recognized that potential in me.”
Matthews credits her leadership preparedness to a longstanding commitment to volunteer service, which began with active involvement in military wives’ clubs and other organizations. These formative experiences were pivotal in developing essential skills such as collaboration, community engagement, and leadership. Matthews’s consistent advancement through roles of increasing responsibility—including Chair, Vice President, and Treasurer—afforded her significant insight into the organization’s operations and the intricacies of leadership.
With each position, Matthews deepened her understanding of organizational functions and further enhanced her ability to lead and support colleagues within her association.
A Collective Impact
Individually, each achievement is significant. Collectively, their leadership represents something even greater.
For Dorsey, the momentum is shared. “Leadership is not about finding one leader but awakening all leaders,” she said. “We look to our past leaders, respect their achievements, and keep moving forward. I may be the first Black female to be president of FCAR, but I’m not leading in isolation.”
Six leaders. Six journeys. One forward-looking profession — increasingly reflective of the communities it serves and committed to expanding opportunities across Maryland. ■
Advertising Compliance Is Not Optional: What You Must Know
BY SCOTT LEDERER
As Executive Director of the Maryland Real Estate Commission, I am charged with enforcing the laws that govern every real estate licensee in this state. Among the most visible—and most frequently misunderstood—areas of regulation are advertising.
Let me be clear: advertising compliance is not discretionary. It is required by Title 17 of the Business Occupations and Professions Article and by the regulations set forth in COMAR 09.11. These provisions exist to protect Maryland consumers and to ensure accountability within the profession. Every licensee and every broker is expected to know and follow them.
To assist the industry, the Commission publishes an Advertising Checklist as a practical compliance tool. Used consistently, it will prevent many of the violations we continue to see.
Advertising Is Broadly Defined
If you promote yourself or a property to the public in any form, you are advertising.
This includes, but is not limited to:
■ Yard signs
■ Print advertisements
■ Business cards
■ Direct mail pieces
■ Websites
■ Email campaigns
■ Social media posts/profiles
■ Video content
■ Digital banner ads
■ Text message solicitations
Regardless of medium or platform, if the communication promotes real estate services or a specific property, it must comply with Title 17 and COMAR. The Commission does not distinguish between “formal” marketing and a “quick post.” If the public can see a promotion, it is advertising.
Brokerage Identification Is Mandatory
The most common violation we encounter is the failure to properly identify the brokerage.
Maryland law requires that advertisements by affiliated licensees meaningfully and conspicuously include the name of the brokerage with which the licensee is affiliated. This requirement exists because consumers are entitled to know the brokerage responsible for the services being offered.
If the average consumer must search for the brokerage name or click through multiple pages to find the brokerage name, the advertisement likely does not comply.
This violation appears most frequently in:
■ Social media bios
■ “Just Sold” graphics
■ Team or Group logos
■ Email Signatures
■ Online ads created through third-party platforms
■ Team-branded marketing materials
A visually appealing design does not excuse noncompliance. The brokerage name must be meaningful in a conspicuous way.
Teams Operate Under Broker Supervision
Teams are not independent brokerages. Under Maryland law, a team functions under the supervision and authority of a licensed broker.
Team names and branding must not suggest otherwise.
The Commission continues to see team names structured in ways that imply independent brokerage status. Terms such as “Realty,” “Properties,” “Company,” or similar wording can create consumer confusion if presented improperly.
If a reasonable consumer could conclude that a team is itself a brokerage, the advertising is problematic.
Brokers must actively supervise team advertising. Passive awareness is not supervision. Policies, review procedures, and clear approval processes must be in place.
Accuracy Is a Legal Requirement
Advertising must not be false, misleading, or deceptive. This includes exaggeration that could reasonably influence a consumer’s decision.
Examples of problematic claims include:
■ Advertising a property as “sold” without clarifying your role in the transaction
■ Representing production statistics that cannot be verified
■ Implying guarantees of outcomes
■ Suggesting exclusive expertise without a factual basis
■ Misrepresenting license status or credentials If a claim cannot be substantiated, it should not appear in your advertising.
Consumers rely on advertising when choosing representation. Inflated or ambiguous claims undermine public trust and expose licensees to disciplinary action.
Social Media Is Not Exempt
Digital advertising is where we see the highest volume of compliance failures.
A Facebook post announcing a listing is advertising. An Instagram story promoting an open house is advertising. A LinkedIn banner offering real estate services is advertising. The same legal standards apply as they do to a printed brochure.
Common violations in social media include:
■ Omission of the brokerage name
■ Failure to identify oneself as a licensee
■ Use of team branding that obscures brokerage supervision
■ Continued display of outdated brokerage affiliations
■ Inaccurate “sold” representations
The speed of social media does not diminish regulatory responsibility. Posting quickly does not excuse posting improperly.
Licensees are responsible for monitoring their online presence. If your brokerage affiliation changes, your online advertising must change immediately. If a team dissolves, its branding must be removed. If your license status changes, your advertising must reflect that change.
Failure to update digital content is still a violation.
Broker Responsibility Is Direct and Ongoing
Under Title 17 and COMAR, brokers have the supervisory responsibility for the advertising of affiliated licensees.
This supervisory responsibility is expected to be active. Brokers must:
■ Establish advertising policies
■ Review and approve marketing materials
■ Monitor team advertising
■ Ensure brokerage identification requirements are met
■ Maintain required records
A broker cannot avoid responsibility by claiming a lack of awareness. Supervision requires oversight systems that function in practice.
In enforcement matters, the Commission evaluates whether reasonable supervisory measures were in place. Brokers who fail to implement meaningful oversight place their licenses at risk.
Use the Advertising Checklist
The Commission developed the Advertising Checklist (page 20) to eliminate confusion and reduce violations. It distills statutory and regulatory requirements into practical questions that should be asked before publishing any advertisement.
At a minimum, you should confirm:
■ Is the brokerage name included and conspicuous?
■ Is the advertisement truthful and fully accurate?
■ Is the licensee clearly identified as a real estate professional?
■ Is the team name compliant and not misleading?
■ Are production claims verifiable?
■ Does the advertisement avoid guarantees or promises that cannot legally be made?
The Checklist is a preventive compliance tool. Brokers should incorporate it into onboarding, training, and routine advertising review processes.
Failure to use available compliance tools makes avoidable violations difficult to defend. ■
Scott Lederer is the Executive Director of the Maryland Real Estate Commission.
MREC ADVERTISING CHECKLIST
All advertisements to be placed by or on behalf of a licensed Salesperson, Associate Broker, or Broker licensed by the Maryland Real Estate Commission (MREC) should be submitted to the Broker, Branch Of fi ce Manager, or the BrokerManager’s designee for compliance review before release. If the advertisement has been created for a Team member or on behalf of a Team, the Team Leader should also review and approve the piece using the checklist below.
Advertisement means any representation, promotion, or solicitation directed to consumers, by any means such as oral, written, or visual advertisement, for any purpose concerning the provision of real estate brokerage services.
NAME OF LICENSEE
LICENSE CATEGORY
BROKERAGE NAME
PHONE NUMBER
AUTHORITY TO ADVERTISE
TRUE & ACCURATE PICTURE
TEAM ADVERTISING
OFFERING INDUCEMENTS
COMPENSATION FOR REFFERAL FEES
PROPERTY OWNED BY LICENSEES
ELECTRONIC MEDIA & THE “ONE-CLICK” RULE
Does the advertisement include the licensee’s full name exactly as it appears on their real estate license?
If the advertisement includes a licensee’s category, is it correct? The only available options include Salesperson, Associate Broker, or Broker. Terms, such as Associate, are not recognized as licensing categories.
Does the advertisement “meaningfully and conspicuously” display the Brokerage’s name, and include the Brokerage’s full name as it appears on the MREC license (not solely a company logo or abbreviation of the company name)?
Does the advertisement include the identi fi ed telephone number of the Broker or Branch Of fi ce Manager?
Does the licensee have the written authorization of the owner or listing Broker to advertise the Property – i.e., a listing contract?
Is the advertisement’s content factual and true? Does the advertisement avoid any misstatement or exaggeration of fact? Do(es) the licensee(s) in the advertisement hold an active real estate license and are they registered at the brokerage Branch Of fi ce that the advertisement references?
Does the advertisement include the full name of the licensee as the name appears on the license, as advertising in solely the name of the Team is prohibited? Is the Team name directly connected to the Brokerage name using connecting words such as “of, from, with, or at”?
Does the advertisement avoid offering compensation or anything of value through a contest, lottery, drawing or other prize mechanism or element of chance? (Be advised the Commission recognizes an exception to this requirement, for example, a drawing held at an open house that is available to the general public, not only to individuals who buy or sell property with the Licensee, Team, or Brokerage.)
Does the advertisement avoid offering compensation or anything of value to an unlicensed person solely for the referral of a prospective client or customer?
If the advertisement is for the sale, purchase or lease of real property that a licensee owns, does the advertisement state the fact that the owner is a real estate licensee in the State of Maryland?
Does the electronic media (Facebook, Instagram, etc.) advertisement include the required Brokerage name and phone number (a) On the fi rst 25% of the main page of the electronic media advertisement; OR (b) If the electronic media has a limitation of 280 characters or fewer, on the fi rst 25% of a page that is accessible after a single click on a hyperlink on the main page of the electronic media advertisement?
Disclaimer: This Checklist is not intended as a comprehensive statement of all of the applicable statutory and regulatory requirements for advertising. labor.maryland.gov/license/mrec 410-230-3200 dlmrec-labor@maryland.gov
Is Fair Housing Becoming a State Issue?
BY LISA MAY
For more than half a century, fair housing protections have been grounded in the federal Fair Housing Act and administered primarily through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). REALTORS® have long relied on federal standards, particularly those addressing disparate impact and the obligation to affirmatively further fair housing, to guide compliance and professional practice.
Recent federal developments, however, have prompted an important question for our industry: Is fair housing enforcement shifting from a predominantly federal framework to one increasingly shaped at the state level?
Federal Retreat from Fair Housing
Over the past year, several federal actions have altered the regulatory landscape.
First, information and guidance related to the Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule were removed from HUD’s website in 2025, reflecting a broader retreat from civil rights protections that had been in place for over a decade.
Second, in April 2025, the White House issued Executive Order 14281, directing federal agencies to review and consider eliminating disparate impact liabilities for businesses. That directive signaled a shift in how federal civil rights laws may be interpreted and enforced, limiting discrimination findings to cases involving only overt, intentional acts.
Most recently, in January 2026, HUD formally proposed rescinding the disparate impact standard through formal rulemaking. While the statutory protections of the Fair Housing Act remain in place, HUD’s proposal would remove regulatory language that has long guided how discriminatory effects—regardless of intent—are analyzed in enforcement actions.
Disparate impact has been a central feature of fair housing jurisprudence for decades and was affirmed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 2015. The proposed rollback therefore represents not a repeal of the Act itself, but a
substantial narrowing of how discriminatory effects are evaluated at the national level.
REALTOR® Coalition Responds
The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) recently went on record to oppose efforts to weaken federal disparate impact standards. Joining 174 other housing and civil rights organizations, NAR urged the agency not to rescind its existing rule, emphasizing that disparate impact liability is well established in law and remains an important mechanism for addressing policies that may unintentionally restrict housing opportunity.
NAR’s position reflects the profession’s longstanding commitment to fair housing principles and to maintaining clear, predictable standards. From a REALTOR® perspective, clarity in enforcement is critical—not only to ensure compliance, but also to safeguard property rights and promote equitable access to housing markets.
Maryland Enters the Chat
As federal regulatory policy evolves, Maryland lawmakers introduced legislation to enshrine existing fair housing standards at the state level. 2026’s HB 573/SB 274 would codify a disparate impact framework within Maryland law, ensuring that state enforcement authority remains robust regardless of potential changes at the federal regulatory level.
In testimony supporting this legislation, Maryland REALTORS® noted that these assessments are not just for determining when violations occur, but also when they do not. Mirroring the federal 3-prong enforcement test allows businesses to defend current practices as both necessary and the least discriminatory option available to them, even if those practices happen to result in disparate impacts to protected communities.
Keeping Your Footing in a Fair Housing Shift
Though the federal Fair Housing Act remains the law of the land and intentional discrimination continues
continued on page 25
Presenting 2026 Maryland REALTORS® Designations and Certifications
BY SUSAN YASHINSKIE
Maryland REALTORS® is thrilled to announce an expanded selection of courses for 2026, designed to enhance your professional credentials and help you distinguish yourself within the real estate market. Pursuing a new designation is more than fulfilling a requirement—it represents a strategic investment in your business and an opportunity to increase your income while enjoying the learning experience. Our engaging designations and certifications deliver practical knowledge and real-world skills, empowering you to confidently serve your clients, connect with peers, and make education both valuable and enjoyable.
The MRPM certification is composed of three courses: Building Your Property Management Business, Property Management 101, and Fair Housing for Property Management/Legally Renting Maryland Properties. Upon completion of these courses, you will earn the certification and be able to market yourself as a specialist in property management.
Housing Opportunity Certification (HOC)
This four-course certification introduces participants to programs available to clients seeking homeownership. It also covers best practices for explaining credit and its impact on mortgage applications. Once coursework is completed and the certification is earned, participants are listed on the Maryland Homeownership website.
Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS)
The CIPS certification from the Nartional Association of REALTORS(R) (NAR) consists of five intensive days, during which participants are immersed in the cultures and business practices of five different world regions. With access to a global network of agents, this certification allows you to expand your business beyond the United States.
Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI)
Known as “The Master’s Degree” of real estate, the GRI designation demonstrates your commitment and expertise to clients and peers. Graduates complete 12 days of classes covering topics such as establishing your business, risk reduction, and marketing methods. Students may continue with eight additional classes in the 300 and 400 series to earn the credits necessary to sit for the Maryland Broker’s exam.
Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA)
This NAR certification involves two days of specialized training that equips participants with tools to accurately price properties. Topics include using CMAs, interpreting the market, and collaborating with appraisers to make precise pricing recommendations for clients.
Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®)
The SRES® designation is a two-day NAR program focused on serving the 55+ real estate market, one of the largest markets in the U.S. Completing the SRES® designation provides students with the expertise and resources to guide an expanding aging population through significant life transitions related to real estate. ■
Susan Yashinskie is the Director of Professional Development and Member Engagement for Maryland REALTORS®.
This Election Season, Raise Your Voice for Housing
BY CHUCK KASKY
You know that elections have consequences. We are certainly living through proof that this old saying is 100% true. Because 2026 is an important election year in Maryland, we should all pause to take stock of where we are as a state and focus on what’s important.
For Maryland REALTORS® this means housing. Our goal is to keep that focus despite all the noise and distractions coming at us from all quarters. Collectively, we must make sure housing remains front and center and hold state and local elected officials accountable.
As you know, Maryland REALTORS® have been tireless advocates for increasing housing availability, which directly affects affordability. We have proposed and supported policies to address Maryland’s housing shortage, which is way beyond crisis proportions. In case you missed it, in October 2025, Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman released a comprehensive analysis of the state of Maryland’s housing. The report explains Maryland’s housing crisis, which is prompting many residents, especially younger individuals and middle-income families, to leave the state. It identifies regulatory barriers and inefficiencies in housing development processes as key factors limiting supply and inflating costs, posing a serious threat to Maryland’s long-term economic stability.
Each year, Maryland REALTORS® commissions a poll of Maryland voters to get a sense of how they feel about housing issues. Here are a couple of highlights (or should I say lowlights?).
The share of voters who say “the cost of buying a home or renting an apartment is too high” has continued to increase. Ninety percent say the cost to buy a house is either much (58%) or somewhat (32%) too high. This represents a 6-point jump from last year (84% much or somewhat too high) and a 19-point jump from 2022. The trend is the same for the cost to rent an apartment; 88% say the cost is much (56%) or somewhat (32%) too high (+7 points from last year).
State and local officials receive below-average ratings for their handling of housing affordability
and housing supply. Seventy-eight percent say that the governor and state legislature are doing a poor (44%) or just fair (34%) job at handling the housing affordability and supply problem. Voters are increasingly frustrated, with the “poor” rating up 11 points from last year’s poll.
Local governments fare no better. Three-quarters rate the job being done by local county and city governments on the issue of housing affordability and supply as either just fair (37%) or poor (41%). These statistics lead to an undeniable conclusion: our elected officials need to wake up and provide actual leadership on the issue of housing. Because of their lack of action, the share of first-time home buyers dropped to a record low of 21%, while the typical age of first-time
This election season, attend every candidate forum you can. Raise your voice and ask what they are planning to do about the housing crisis ... There is no question that we can address any shortfalls in infrastructure to support well-planned, inevitable growth and increase in family creation. It’s only a question of leadership.”
buyers climbed to an all-time high of 40 years.
Why, you might ask, haven’t they gotten the message? Mostly, it’s because they’re politicians who listen to the loudest voices - the NIMBYs (Not in My Back Yard) - threatening to vote against whoever supports growth they don’t like, which is any growth. Maybe we need a serious discussion about whether local governments are the right place to make land use policy in Maryland?
What can we do? This election season, attend every candidate forum you can. Raise your voice and ask what they are planning to do about the housing crisis. When they moan about overcrowded roads and schools, ask them what’s their plan to address those issues! We are a wealthy state in the wealthiest country on earth, as measured by several metrics. There is no question that we can address any shortfalls in infrastructure to support well-planned, inevitable growth and increase in family creation. It’s only a question of leadership.
to be unequivocally prohibited, the balance of regulatory interpretation and enforcement emphasis may be shifting toward a more permissive (and some would say dismissive) space.
For Maryland REALTORS®, this underscores important realities.
First, federal protections still apply, and practitioners must continue to operate in full compliance with the Fair Housing Act and all applicable guidance. But second, and perhaps more importantly, state and federal advocacy efforts will play a vital role in shaping how and if these standards evolve.
If current trends continue, it appears that what once seemed settled will be settled no longer. That presents both reason for caution and optimism in the
My fear is that with all the noise about immigration, redistricting, deficits, and taxes, among other things, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and drowned out. Sometimes I get numb about things I can’t control, and I feel like just giving up. Let someone else carry the message. But if not us, who? If not now, when? Keep the faith. Let’s fight the good fight. We’re on the right side of this, so let’s continue to act like it. ■
opportunities created. While the federal framework may be undergoing change, Maryland seems poised to step into the resulting void.
For REALTORS®, staying informed and engaged is not only prudent—it is essential to upholding the integrity of the Fair Housing Act and the trust of the communities we serve. ■
Lisa May is the Director of Advocacy and Public Policy for Maryland REALTORS®.
CEO CORNER continued from page 22
Chuck Kasky is CEO of Maryland REALTORS®.
Make homeownership bloom this Spring season!
BY GREGORY HARE
Spring is a season of new opportunities, and there’s no better time to help your clients plant roots in a home of their own. The Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP) offers realtors the tools and resources needed to guide buyers through the challenges of homeownership, from down payment assistance to programs tailored to overcome hurdles like student debtand rising costs.
Fill 2026 with new homes, and new beginnings!
Below are some of the most advantageous MMP partnership products:
1st Time Advantage 5% DPA Loan:
This product comes with down payment and closing cost assistance equal to 5% of the first mortgage while still maintaining a competitive interest rate on the first mortgage.owers must be firsttime homebuyers.
Gregory Hare is the Assistant Secretary, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. mmp.maryland.gov, singlefamilyhousing.dhcd@maryland.gov, 1-800-756-0119
FHA 203K Limited Loan: Allows for additional financing for repair/modernization as part of the home purchase.
Flex 3% DPA Loan:
This product comes with a loan equal to 3% of the first mortgage. Can be a repeat or first-time homebuyer.
Follow us on social to stay up to date:
Meet your New Affinity Partner, domii®!
As a real estate professional, your workday often puts you face-to-face with people you don’t yet know — in vacant properties, private homes, and unfamiliar neighborhoods. While building relationships is part of the job, personal safety and efficiency should never be left to chance.
This is why Maryland REALTORS® has introduced a new Affinity Partner, domii®, a mobile app designed to give agents smarter tools to work more confidently, stay informed, and take control of their business—all from one easy-to-use platform.
domii® brings together essential tools that agents rely on every day, with a strong focus on safety, insight, and productivity, including:
■ domiiDetect™: domii’s comprehensive safety suite built specifically for real estate professionals
■ DomiTracker™: a GPS-based feature that allows agents to share their real-time location with trusted contacts—such as a broker, manager, or spouse—for added peace-of-mind during showings and meetings
■ DomiIntel™: enter an address to instantly access publicly available owner contact information and property details, then connect through phone, email,
Follow this QR code to learn more and explore the domii app. Note: you must be signed into mdrealtor.org to access this information.
or direct mail, all from one platform, helping agents identify opportunities and run smarter outreach campaigns
■ DomiProspects™: domii’s AI-powered prospecting engine that predicts homeowners most likely to sell, enabling agents to generate high-quality leads without purchasing expensive third-party lists
■ Property Insights: access to property values, tax records, mortgage data, ownership details, and parcel lines
■ Mobile-First Design: critical information accessible wherever your day takes you
■ Simple, Intuitive Interface: built specifically for real estate professionals, not adapted from generic software
Whether you’re meeting a new client, preparing a listing appointment, or prospecting in the field, domii helps you work with greater awareness, confidence, and control.
Maryland REALTORS® members receive exclusive access and special savings through this partnership. ■
Understanding Source of Income
Q: Under Maryland’s Fair Housing laws, is a seller required to accept an FHA or VA loan over a cash offer?
BY TING DONG,
ESQ.
A: The short answer is no. Choosing a cash offer over a financed offer is not the same as discriminating against people with legally protected sources of income.
The Housing Opportunities Made Equal Act of 2020 added “source of income” as a protected class under Maryland’s Fair Housing laws. Source of income is defined as any lawful way a renter or buyer pays for housing, whether the money comes directly from them or from a third party. In practical terms, this includes wages, government or private assistance, grants, loans, gifts, inheritances, pensions, alimony, child support, and proceeds from the sale or pledge of property. FHA and VA loans fall within this definition.
Because source of income is protected, certain actions are prohibited in a real estate transaction. A seller may not refuse to sell, refuse to negotiate, make a property unavailable, impose different terms, publish discriminatory advertisements, or misrepresent availability
based on a buyer’s actual or perceived source of income. Sellers may, however, evaluate a buyer’s ability to pay, provided it is done fairly, consistently, and for legitimate business reasons, such as verifying the amount and source of income.
Taken together, source of income protection means that sellers may choose a cash offer over a financed offer when the decision is based on legitimate, nondiscriminatory, and commercially reasonable factors. What sellers cannot do is reject an offer simply because it involves FHA or VA financing.
Some sellers may assume they can lawfully reject an FHA or VA offer because these loans require certain property condition standards and involve lender-required inspections and appraisals. They may be concerned that an older home will not qualify, and settlement will fall through. While concerns about settlement timelines may be legitimate, sellers generally cannot know in advance whether a property will meet FHA or VA standards. Rejecting an offer solely because
it involves FHA or VA financing is considered discriminatory under Maryland law.
Both buyer agents and listing agents play an important role in ensuring compliance with Maryland’s Fair Housing laws. Buyer agents should educate clients about fair housing protections, so buyers are not disadvantaged by unlawful practices. Listing agents should guide sellers to evaluate offers based on legitimate, nondiscriminatory criteria and maintain documentation of their decisionmaking process. This approach helps reduce the risk of fair housing violations for both licensees and their clients. ■
Both buyer agents and listing agents play an important role in ensuring compliance with Maryland’s Fair Housing laws.
Ting Dong, Esq., is an Associate Counsel at Maryland REALTORS®.
CALL FOR ENTRIES
Awards
Maryland REALTORS® takes great pride in awarding industry honors to outstanding REALTORS®. Recognition is a positive reward for a job well done. It is vital that we honor those individuals who have given outstanding service to the real estate industry and the local boards/associations. The awards will be presented during the Annual Installation and Awards Gala later this year, in October.
THE MARYLAND REALTORS® GOOD NEIGHBOR AWARD: Honors individual REALTOR® members who give unselfishly of their time to assist the communities in which they live. Individuals can apply directly to Maryland REALTORS® and there is no limit to the number of entries submitted by local boards/associations or firms for this award. All nominees submitted to local boards/associations must be submitted to Maryland REALTORS®
DEADLINE: July 6, 2026
THE COMMUNITY ACTION AND REALTOR® EXCELLENCE (CARE) AWARD: This award is given to local board/associations recognizing achievements in community service and charitable actions. The award is designed to raise the profile of REALTORS® and the REALTOR® organization by focusing on boards or associations that have demonstrated an extraordinary record through direct local board/association community service involvement and to include endeavors by REALTOR® members who are part of a local group, team, office or individually. The Award will be divided between a large board/ association (1,001+ members) and a small board/association (1,000 and fewer members) beginning June 1, 2023 through July 1, 2024.
DEADLINE: July 6, 2026
THE REALTOR® OF THE YEAR (ROTY) AWARD: One ROTY application is required to be submitted by each local board/ association to be entered in the Maryland REALTORS® competition. The winner of the state award will travel to National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Annual Convention for consideration in the national award. This award is submitted directly by your localboard/association for consideration.
DEADLINE: CONTACT YOUR LOCAL ASSOCIATION
DEI LEADERSHIP AWARD: This award is designed to recognize those who have made significant steps towards creating a more diverse and inclusive community through the implementation of initiatives and/or programs reflective of Maryland REALTORS®
DEADLINE: July 6, 2026
Other annual awards include the Lifetime Achievement Award, Omega Tau Rho Fraternity Award, President’s Award, Shining Star Award, and more. For a full list of all the awards given by the association or to download application form, please scan the QR code or call or call Maryland REALTORS® at 443.716.3500. Follow this QR code to access the application forms online.
