Spotlighting SPAAR’s Board of Directors with gratitude

SPAAR is a member-led Association with a robust Board of Directors comprised of 20 volunteer members who provide strategic direction, leadership and guidance for the Association and its committees.

Each volunteer board member devotes a portion of their time and talent on behalf of all SPAAR members each month.

As 2023 SPAAR President Brianne Lawrence says, “Real estate is not for the faint of heart, but it will be one of the most rewarding experiences you will ever have and, in my experience, volunteering at SPAAR has only enhanced my real estate journey and business.”

There are many reasons members become involved in the Board of Directors; here are some comments from a few board members answering the following questions below:

Why did you join the Board of Directors?

“Always learning and staying up to date on industry details is important to be the best resource and advocate possible for my clients. It is also important to give back to the industry and help encourage future leaders along the way.” – Amy Peterson, Realtor®

“I wanted to give back to an industry that has given so much to me. I love all aspects of the industry – agent, investor, builder – and what it can do for you and your clients. I am very proud of the good Realtors® around us.” – Mark Mason, Realtor®

“I wanted to make sure I understood all levels of real estate. It has always been important for me to give back to my community and I thought there was no better place than to intertwine volunteering and real estate.” – Brianne Lawrence, Realtor®

What lesson did you learn from a failure and what impact did it have on you?

“I learned not to let seasoned Realtors® bully when I was young and new; they could smell it! Now, as a seasoned agent myself, I welcome helping newer agents to become better whether in my office or elsewhere. By helping other Realtors® it helps our whole industry to do better and be better.” – Jennifer Livingston, Realtor®

What is your definition of success in real estate?

“Educating clients and knowing what is going on in your local market, and why, as well as how it might change. Gaining the trust of your clients so that they could not imagine considering buying or selling without involving you in the process.” – Joshua Drivdahl, Realtor®

“Providing professional services to successfully navigate clients in their homeownership aspirations while procuring relationships that will last a lifetime. In addition, don’t work for recognition but rather do work worthy of it.” – Jason Cassel, Realtor®

What advice would you give a new Realtor® or real estate professional?

“Surround yourself with other real estate professionals. You don’t have to do it alone. Join your local Association and I guarantee you’ll meet and connect with a lot of like-minded people who are willing to help you in your success.” – Nicko Spehn, Realtor®

“Start building your network of trusted advisors from all the real estate affiliates who can assist you and your customers during the homebuying and selling process. I have a network of Realtors®, mortgage lenders, title professionals, home inspectors and more so I can refer my clients and know they will be given the best service.” – Erica Brodd, Affiliate (insurance industry)

“Getting your real estate license is easy. Building your business and becoming a real estate professional is hard. It takes time, so be patient with yourself. You are building a business so treat your business like a business, not a job or hobby. Set goals, be consistent and take daily actions toward your goals.” – Chelsea Erickson, Realtor®

“It isn't always easy. And it isn't always fun. There are so many learning opportunities and growth that comes with the hard that it makes it so rewarding. Just keep going. Don't give up!” – Danielle Pelton, Realtor®

During this month of gratitude, we express thanks to all of the 2023 Board of Directors, who are as follows:

Brianne Lawrence, 2023 president; Amy Peterson, 2023 president-elect; Jennifer Livingston, 2023 treasurer; Mark Mason, 2023 past president; Diana Allen; Angela Brasel; Erica Brodd; Jason Cassel; Joshua Drivdahl; Chelsea Erickson; Patti Jo Fitzpatrick; Anita Hill; Mike Hunstad; Anthony Khambata; Charlie Lefebvre; Adriana Martinez; Danielle Pelton; Patrick Ruble; Nicko Spehn; and Colin Voerding.

Thank you, board members, for all you do! We are grateful to you and your service.

Interested to learn more about volunteering at SPAAR, or serving on a committee or the board? Email spaar@spaar.com.