By: Nicole Slaughter Graham
Heather Haase, a longtime YPN member, real estate speaker and workshop facilitator, has attended many conferences. She been to the National Association of REALTORS®’ annual conference in the past, but this year’s was different, she wrote on her blog, Agent Inner Circle. Haase described the conference as a “Phoenix moment.” In an ever-changing profession, ups and downs are a given, and it’s the people—the community—that help one triumph through.
From conversations with friends and colleagues to sessions she attended and opportunities to teach, Haase found camaraderie, resilience, hope and a passion for the industry around every corder. Here are a few of her insights:
Strength Together
Some of the most meaningful moments happen outside the conference rooms, Haase said. When real estate professionals have a chance to talk and share their burdens, they lift each other up. Haase wrote, “These moments, where friends and colleagues shared their stories, left a deep impact. Some opened up about the struggles of leadership, of carrying both the burden of expectations and the passion that drives us forward….That affirmation of community gave me hope and reminded me of my own journey. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my association, and seeing others share that same gratitude felt like a moment of unity.”
Values Serve as a Through-line
Even when they’re “off the clock,” real estate agents are still integral parts of their communities, which means their values shine through in every facet of their lives. During NAR NXT, Haase attended a session on business planning, facilitated by Natalie Davis, founder of The Evolution Group Powered by Keller Williams Downtown, LLC in Loveland, Colo.
The session reminded her that her values shape every aspect of her life: “I came away from that session reflecting on my own values: play and creativity, integrity, positive authenticity, and empowerment. For me, these values aren’t just words; they shape every conversation, every challenge, and every triumph. They’re my compass, guiding me to approach real estate—and life—with purpose and meaning. I was reminded that when we lead with our values, we inspire others to find their own path.”
Resilience is at the Core
Real estate agents are no strangers to “unprecedented times.” Take the interest rates of the 1980s, the market crash of 2008, and the pandemic market of 2020-2021 as examples. At every turn, real estate professionals have to dig deep and find new resolve. This year was no different, and Haase could feel it. “The tiredness was palpable, but so was the commitment. It was a reminder that resilience isn’t about avoiding struggles; it’s about pushing forward, even when the road feels uphill.”
Haase shared many more insights about her days in Boston amongst her colleagues, teaching, learning and growing as a professional. You can read her thoughts in their entirety here.
Nicole Slaughter Graham is a contributing editor at REALTOR® Magazine and the manager of the YPN Lounge. Connect with her at ngraham@nar.realtor.