John Ferguson, 2011 CBR President

The Atlanta Commercial Board of REALTORS® is an organization that is not only the largest Commercial Board nationally, but also continually recognized as the best.  We are blessed to have the best staff and an active membership that truly strives for excellence.  We are competitors, peers, business associates and clients working together to make our industry an honored and respected profession.

So as the market begins to recover, and the level of transaction volume increases, below are five (5) objectives that I hope to push forward in 2011, all intended with the purpose of increasing value to our entire membership.

1. Excellence with Education – we provide monthly programs, expert series, free continuing education programs, etc. as a means to make our peers knowledgeable.  The high quality of classes provided  to our industry, education remains at the forefront of services available to our members. 
2. Efficiencies with Technology – we tested the online MDC application in 2010 and this  is now available to the entire membership.  We will maintain continued focus on Exchange Mail.  Online forms through www.cbrforms.com are a tremendous value to the membership. 
3. An Active Political Voice with Governmental Affairs – we have the responsibility to have an active voice on behalf of realtors.  I want to acknowledge and reiterate the importance of supporting RPAC, the REALTORS® Political Action Committee – this pac makes a tremendous difference to shape laws that positively impact our industry. 
4. Giving back through Community Support – we have extraordinary agent participation on community projects; events such as the YCR golf tournament, Spring Fling,Brokerfest, and numerous volunteer opportunities with our selected charities enable us to give back to the community. 
5. Continued Membership Growth – we had approximately 3,300 members at the market peak in 2007, and will finish the year with over than 2,700 members, of these less than 200 are affiliate members. 
• Our primary revenue source is membership dues – I ask each of you to assist with growing our membership as well as encouraging the next generation to be more active in our Young Council of REALTORS® (YCR).  We all have the responsibility to mentor the next generation. 

For members, the value that you receive grows exponentially with your active involvement and investment within ACBR.  With numerous member benfits including education functions, social networking opportunities, technology enhancements, legal prepared forms, etc, the investment of time and commitment of dues that you make as a member is one of the best investments you will make in your career! 

I am honored to serve as your president and look forward to a prosperous 2011 for all.  

Thank you, 

John L. Ferguson
2011 President