By Dawn Scotland
The Truth Reporter
The Toledo Realtist Association held its monthly general body meeting July 17, 2024 at TolHouse. The meeting featured a panel of esteemed real estate professionals providing their expertise in an ever changing market and was open to the public.
Rob Pasker, along with 12 other founding members, revived the branch in 2019. They are a burgeoning organization of the premier Black real estate professionals and allies within the northwest Ohio region. Their mission is to educate our community, advocate on behalf of our community and also elevate the real estate businesses in the process.
The Greater Toledo REALTIST® Association (GTRA) is a Trade Association whose mission is to build a supportive infrastructure to become a positive and dominant influence in the Ohio real estate market. They aim to represent a unified voice for African Americans and other underserved populations, brokers, agents, affiliates and the clients [they] serve.
The group is a local board of The National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. (NAREB®), that was formed in 1947 by African American real estate professionals out of a need to secure the right to equal housing opportunities, regardless of race, creed or color.
The organization is not just an organization for realtors but anyone who is interested in breaking down barriers in black homeownership. Within the organization there are lawyers, brokers, contractors, event planners and title reps.
The panel discussion was facilitated by Delise Simmons, GTRA Treasurer and featured:
- Emory Whittington (Whittington Group Reality)
- Loreen Banks Kendricks (Jewel Reality; GTRA Director)
- Rob Pasker (Pasker Real Estate; GTRA Founding President)
- Anthony Ross (Ross Realty Group)
The panelist answered questions varying from best business practices, to tips on leveraging technology and even discussions on how to maintain and balance quality of life in the real estate industry to a room full of professionals and as well those interested in the field.
The group ensures training and educational opportunities are available to their entire membership, providing certifications and special designations in many areas of interest. The organization has over 60 members and is continuing to grow!
NAREB is governed by a board of directors and an executive committee comprised of members and leaders in the industry from across America. Each local chapter continuously accepts new members to join and actively become community real estate leaders. To learn more visit: toledorealtists.org or Facebook Greater Toledo Realtist Association.