Each year, the National Association of REALTORS®’ Young Professionals Networks across the country apply for an opportunity to be recognized as innovators and rising leaders shaping the future of the industry. This year’s winners represent the full spectrum of YPN excellence, from small but mighty rural networks to statewide powerhouses driving impactful initiatives.
Here’s a closer look at the 2025 award winners and what they’re looking forward to in 2026.
Small Network of the Year: Tulare County Association of REALTORS® YPN
In 2025, the Tulare County YPN network in central California doubled down on partnerships within the association and with several community organizations to offer programming that tackled everything from fair housing education to self-defense and safety training. Their “Month of Giving” event reached record numbers by providing shoes, socks, haircuts, dental screenings and resources to families across rural communities—turning the kickoff into an eagerly anticipated annual tradition.
In 2026, the network plans to “be bigger and better than ever,” setting both organizational and personal goals for each advisory board member.
Medium Network of the Year: Fresno Association of REALTORS® YPN
Fresno YPN, also in central California, posted one of its strongest years on record, driven by intentional marketing, a 20% growth in Instagram engagement and a robust event lineup. Their Lunch & Learn series—especially “The Branding Blueprint: Authentically You”—set new attendance records and armed members with tangible tools like headshots, worksheets and content-creation booths.
A $7,000 fundraising effort allowed the network to donate 888 backpacks to local schools, complete with bike helmets and haircuts for students. Looking ahead, Fresno aims to build on this year’s momentum.
Large Network of the Year: Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS® YPN
Raleigh YPN in North Carolina executed a fully integrated strategy in 2025, reintroducing in-person new-member orientations, expanding university partnerships and creating recruitment pipelines with nearby colleges. Their Coffee and Conversation series brought national voices into local discussions, while the “Built to Lead” Power Panel underscored the power of association involvement and mentorship.
Next year, Raleigh plans to deepen leadership development through structured mentorships, expanded committee representation and an NC Legislative Week reception that bridges advocacy and professional growth.
Mega Network of the Year: Chicago Association of REALTORS® YPN
Chicago YPN’s popular monthly breakfast series often sells out with more than 120 attendees and blends education with relationship-driven programming. Their mixers drew 160 attendees each, while volunteer initiatives supported local schools and organizations, including packing nearly 10,000 pounds of food for neighbors in need.
In 2026, Chicago plans to strengthen its advisory board structure with defined leadership roles, expand volunteerism and further develop its pipeline into state and national leadership academies.
State Network of the Year: Texas REALTORS® YPN
Texas YPN leveraged its statewide reach to deliver leadership programming, advocacy engagement and resources that benefit every YPN chapter across the state. A newly developed Texas YPN Playbook has already influenced other associations. Statewide events like the REALTORS® to Watch panel and quarterly Think Tank Sessions offered members access to industry leaders and timely professional development.
Next year, Texas YPN plans its largest REBar Camp yet, including co-hosted Think Tanks with neighboring states, deeper committee partnerships and expanded leadership tenure. With dedicated YPN Advance funding, the committee is also strengthening its national presence.
A Year Defined by Innovation and Impact
From hyperlocal service to statewide leadership systems, the 2025 winners show what’s possible when young professionals lean into leadership. Their work is shaping stronger networks, more resilient communities, and a future where members can grow and expand their businesses.
Nicole Slaughter Graham is a contributing editor at REALTOR® News and the manager of the YPN Lounge. Connect with her at ngraham@nar.realtor.