Dear WVAR Members,

It is an honor to serve as your 2025 President of the West Virginia Association of REALTORS®. As we move quickly into this new year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible work happening across our association and share some key updates that will impact our profession.

Strengthening WVAR in 2025

Our association continues to grow and evolve, and with that growth comes important decisions that shape the future of our industry. This year, our focus remains on advocacy, professional development, and innovation—ensuring that REALTORS® across West Virginia have the tools, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in a constantly shifting market.

Advocacy Efforts: WVAR remains committed to protecting property rights, homeownership opportunities, and REALTOR® interests at the state and local levels. With legislative challenges ahead, we must stay engaged and ensure that our voices are heard in Charleston and beyond. Thanks to Ray for his extensive lobbying efforts we are working on reciprocity, wholesaling and ensuring an equitable playing field for all licensees in West Virginia. Be sure to follow his updates on the WVAR Facebook Page.

Professional Growth: Education continues to be at the forefront of our mission. Thanks to Amy White for her continued efforts with Education and the offerings she continues to coordinate around the state. These new training initiatives, leadership development programs, and continuing education opportunities, will equip our members with the knowledge needed to stay competitive and successful. Check out upcoming classes on the WVAR Calendar.

Building a Stronger REALTOR® Community: Leadership is about bringing people together, and this year, we are focused on fostering stronger connections within WVAR and with the Associations we serve. By celebrating our members, educating ourselves, and elevating our industry, we will continue to strengthen our association.

Key Insights from NAR

At the national level, the National Association of REALTORS® is working diligently to address critical industry challenges and provide resources to support REALTORS® nationwide. Some key updates include:

Market & Housing Trends: NAR’s latest reports indicate that inventory challenges and interest rate fluctuations will continue to shape the real estate landscape in 2025. Staying informed and adapting to these trends will be essential for success. Follow along at https://www.nar.realtor/research-and-statistics

Fair Housing & Ethics: NAR remains committed to expanding fair housing efforts, increasing diversity in the industry, and reinforcing ethical practices to ensure that real estate remains accessible and equitable for all. Now with the Fair Housing requirement for all members! For more information, click here.

Legal & Policy Advocacy: From commission lawsuits to regulatory changes, NAR continues to advocate on behalf of REALTORS® to protect our industry and professional standards. Staying engaged in these discussions is crucial.

Moving Forward Together

The decisions we make today will shape the future of our profession. I encourage each of you to stay informed, get involved, and be a part of the conversation—whether through local board engagement, advocacy efforts, or professional development opportunities.

Together, we have the opportunity to paint the picture of what WVAR will look like in 2025. I look forward to working alongside each of you as we celebrate, educate, and elevate our association this year.

Thank you for your dedication to this profession and for making a difference in the communities you serve. Let’s make this year one to remember!

Best regards,

Josh
President, West Virginia Association of REALTORS®