Moving the Needle: Communication & Transparency

Written By: Brianna Keysacker - Association Executive of Greater Central Board of REALTORS®

The real estate industry is entering an exciting era of renewal and opportunity, and local real estate boards are leading the charge with enthusiasm and innovation. In vibrant communities across Central Arkansas—including cities like Maumelle, Lonoke, North Little Rock and beyond—Realtors and board members are embracing fresh approaches to strengthen connections, boost engagement, and deliver even greater value to members and the public alike.

Recent discussions among dedicated board leaders such as Brianna Keysacker of the Greater Central Board of Realtors (GCBOR) have spotlighted tremendous potential for growth. While every organization faces hurdles, the focus is squarely on turning these challenges into springboards for success. Communication has always been key in real estate, and boards are thrilled to explore dynamic ways to ensure every member stays informed and connected. By enhancing email outreach, amplifying social media presence, and introducing creative reminders, Realtors can easily stay on top of important deadlines—like annual dues and professional development—freeing them to focus on what they love most: serving clients and closing deals.

The industry-wide shifts, including the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) settlement that took effect in 2024, represent a powerful step forward. These changes promote greater transparency, clearer disclosures, and more personalized negotiations around compensation. Far from being a setback, they empower Realtors to shine as trusted professionals who openly explain their value, the independent contractor model, and how fees support exceptional service. Consumers now enjoy more choices and better understanding, building stronger, more confident relationships that benefit everyone involved.

Safety is another area where Realtors are proactively elevating standards. Tools like FOREWARN provide instant peace of mind with quick identity checks and risk insights, allowing agents to work confidently—whether showing properties solo or in new neighborhoods. Combined with ongoing education on ethics and best practices, these resources help members uphold the highest professional standards while protecting themselves and their clients.

Operationally, boards are energized by the chance to modernize and streamline. The annual dues season and awards planning are busy times, made no simpler by the recent winter weather, but teams are rising to the occasion with smarter processes. Outdated policies and bylaws are being thoughtfully refreshed by the Governing Documents committee, creating a clearer, more supportive foundation that makes it easier for everyone to thrive.

Community outreach shines as one of the most inspiring aspects of this forward momentum. Boards are eager to expand programs that bring financial literacy and homeownership education into local schools, helping students and seniors discover that buying a home is an achievable dream through practical lessons on credit scores, saving strategies, and budgeting. While access to schools can take effort, the passion for making a difference drives creative partnerships and meaningful impact.

Several bright ideas are sparking real excitement:
For governance and committees, the vision includes crafting a dynamic strategic plan to chart clear paths for advocacy, community service, and growth. Comprehensive handbooks for committee chairs will make onboarding new volunteers seamless and rewarding. Splitting larger committees into nimble, focused subgroups distributes energy efficiently, allowing more members to contribute their unique talents. In order for Realtors to join committees within GCBOR, all you need to do is raise your hand! Reach out to Brianna and you can be on any number of great committees such as the Impact & Inspire Committee for volunteer opportunities and community outreach. You can find a complete list of the committees on the GCBOR website. 

Member engagement is getting a fun, interactive boost. Imagine new member orientations where agents set phone reminders for dues right on the spot—simple yet game-changing for staying organized. Fair Housing Month events come alive with gamified formats like "The Price is Right" or "Family Feud," turning important education into enjoyable experiences that draw bigger crowds and foster lasting connections. Sharing ready-to-use curricula on financial basics equips young people with tools to build bright futures in homeownership.

On the logistics side, practical tweaks keep events running smoothly and inclusively. Events are pre-planned throughout the year and General Membership meetings consistently have strong attendance numbers. 

Looking ahead, the future feels incredibly promising. The Governing Documents committee's ongoing work to update policies, procedures, and bylaws will deliver a rock-solid framework that supports innovation and agility. Community efforts are expanding outward, with exciting service projects—like sprucing up bus stops or refreshing spaces for veterans in Maumelle, Lonoke, and other underserved areas—creating visible, heartfelt impact. The Impact and Inspire committee is actively welcoming new members to fuel these grassroots initiatives, turning good intentions into transformative results.

At the national level, strong leadership from NAR is driving positive change, focusing on transparency, member support, and rebuilding trust across the industry. As the market rebounds—with forecasts pointing to increased home sales in 2026 thanks to easing mortgage rates, growing inventory, and pent-up demand—Realtors are well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities.

This is a time of optimism and action. By prioritizing clear communication, embracing tools for safety and efficiency, and pouring energy into community service, local real estate boards are not just solving challenges—they're building a brighter, more connected future. Realtors are stepping up as exceptional communicators and advocates, strengthening public confidence and paving the way for sustained success. Together, we're creating an industry that's more transparent, safer, more engaged, and deeply rooted in service to our communities. The best is truly yet to come!


Upcoming GCBOR events: 

Excellence Awards 2026, February 21

New Member Orientation, March 18

Greater Central Board website https://www.greatercentralboardofrealtors.com/
Contact Brianna Keysacker at brianna@gcborAR.com