In three short days, we will close the book on 2025, and it’s a year worth pausing to appreciate. 

For me, it has been enormously rewarding to serve during such a pivotal year for the Northeast Tennessee Association of Realtors® (NETAR) as it marked its 30th anniversary. Just as meaningful has been the opportunity to work alongside a board of directors that consistently demonstrated professionalism, insight, an unwavering commitment to teamwork and dedicated efforts for the association.

Simply put, I couldn’t have asked for better partners. 

With just one month of data still to be finalized, it’s already clear that the regional housing market has largely settled into a new normal. The frenzy of recent years has faded into the rearview mirror, replaced by steadier, healthier conditions. Ane the likelihood of a local market downturn remains extremely low given current fundamentals. 

As we head toward the prime buying and selling season of early 2026, the region is moving steadily toward balance. Price growth has moderated – but not reversed – while inventory has expanded just enough to give buyers more choices without undermining market stability.  

Beyond residential housing, it has been gratifying to see the commercial real estate sector regain momentum. New construction activity and a steady stream of business announcements point to renewed investor confidence and optimism about the year ahead. These are visible, tangible signals of economic resilience. 

NETAR has also had a year of meaningful progress. The association significantly expanded its professional educational offerings for members and market and economic insights for both members and the public. Its social media presence grew, extending NETAR’s reach and relevance across the region. 

 Membership now stands at 1,793 primary members and 99 secondary members – numbers that reflect both growth and engagement. 

Advocacy efforts intensified, while professional development and community service initiatives reached new heights. The list of community-caring projects alone exceeds what space allows here, but each one reinforces the association’s commitment to serving beyond the transaction. 

It’s also worth remembering that NETAR was a pioneer in embracing regionalism – a vision that has strengthened the real estate profession for three decades. That foresight continues to pay dividends for consumers and homeowners. 

Taken together, these accomplishments speak to the unique skills, experience, and leadership that Realtors® and NETAR bring to today’s economy and communities.  

The Tri-Cities outperformed many peer markets, continuing to earn regional and national recognition, and further established the region as an affordable place to invest, live, and build a future. NETAR’s members invested more than ever in protecting homeownership, pursued innovation through conferences and education, and partnered with local charities to meet critical community needs. 

As 2025 comes to a close, the takeaway is clear: this was a year of progress, professionalism, and purpose for the market, for NETAR, and for the communities the association and its members serve. 

It was an honor to serve as the president of the association, and I look forward to the coming year in my role on the board of directors as the past president.