Building Business and Connections Through Volunteerism

Building Business and Connections Through Volunteerism

By Lisa Fant

As a Realtor®, you are an integral part of the community you serve and, if you volunteer, a key player in the Realtor® association. With your unique talents, abilities, interests, ideas, and experiences, you have much to offer your state and local board/association. New Jersey Realtors® and local board/association committees provide members with opportunities to be involved in the industry and help shape the future of the association. Committee volunteers drive important decisions and create a collaborative space to connect with other Realtors®, enhancing their experiences within the industry, their businesses, and their communities.

Realtor® Susana Maksuta with Century 21 Thompson & Co. in Red Bank attributes her sense of fulfillment and camaraderie within her community to volunteering on the state level. “Volunteering is a fantastic way for me to give back to my community and industry while also benefiting personally and professionally,” said Maksuta. “I have met incredible colleagues, learned new skills, and made a meaningful impact in our community. The sense of fulfillment and camaraderie I have gained through volunteering is truly priceless.”

Volunteering with your local or state real estate association can be a game-changer for your career, offering numerous opportunities for growth and connection. “The more I volunteered the more educated I became, the more I collaborated the more the world showed me additional paths,” said New Jersey Realtors 2024 President-Elect Kathy Morin.

“The more I gave the more people I touched, the more relationships I formed, the more people knew me, liked and trusted me, the bigger my sphere became, and the more referrals and business I gained.” In a people-facing role like real estate, building relationships is key. Volunteering not only enriches the community but also directly benefits your business by expanding your professional networks and enhancing your reputation, ultimately leading to more opportunities and referrals.

As a member of the New Jersey Realtors® Communications Committee, Rachael Apanovitch with Coldwell Banker Realty in Hillsborough values the opportunity to voice her opinion on the decisions and planning involved in the association’s member communications and consumer campaigns. “The most rewarding aspect of volunteering with the Communications Committee has been connecting with our members and being an important part of the decision-making process,” said Apanovitch. “It’s enjoyable to bring fresh ideas to the table and share them openly. We give feedback to each other, and the atmosphere is always positive.”

Realtor® Nicole Ventrella with Keller Williams Realty in Moorestown finds immense value in participating in local and state real estate committees, specifically with New Jersey Realtors® Communications Committee where she serves as vice chair. “Volunteering is a commitment I make in many areas of my life,” said Ventrella. “I really enjoy our local and state real estate committees, which give me the opportunity to be an active participant in important conversations and decisions.” By collaborating with others dedicated to advocacy, she gains insights into real estate topics, consumer issues, and legislation. “It really is a great group of people who come forward and become involved. Everyone is extremely supportive of one another,” said Ventrella.

New Jersey Realtors® offers a diverse range of committees catering to various interests and expertise. From professional standards and ethics to public policy, education, and community service, there is a committee that aligns with every Realtor’s® passion and professional goal. These committees not only shape the future of the real estate industry but also provide invaluable learning experiences and opportunities for personal growth. “Volunteering has expanded my professional network by connecting me with other volunteers, community leaders, and also nonprofit organizations,” said New Jersey Realtors® 2024 First Vice President Sue LaRue. “Volunteering helps me foster compassion and a better understanding of diverse populations, by enhancing customer service skills by being able to relate to clients from various backgrounds.”

Realtors® are more than just property experts—they’re community builders. Active involvement demonstrates your commitment to the profession and your dedication to high ethical standards. “I’ve been enriched, as a real estate professional, to understand various communities, and social responsibilities, and provide valuable insights that benefit my career,” said LaRue. “It introduces me to a diverse group of professionals I might not encounter in my regular job. Engaging with experienced professionals opens up opportunities for mentorship and provides guidance and insights for my career development.”

New Jersey Realtors® 2024 Treasurer Jairo Rodriguez began his commitment to service during his time in the U.S. Air Force and it continues to drive him to positively impact his community. “Volunteering with the real estate association was a natural extension of my commitment to service, allowing me to contribute beyond just selling homes—it’s about forging lasting relationships and helping everyone find their place in our great country,” said Rodriguez. “Observing the dedication of our local and state staff inspired me to be part of something larger. I must also acknowledge the support from my peers; their confidence in me spurred my involvement in association leadership. Their belief in my unique perspective and voice was the encouragement I needed to step up and make a difference.”

Volunteers are the foundation of New Jersey Realtors®’ continued success. By lending your time and expertise, you can contribute to the growth of the real estate industry, expand your own professional horizons, and make a lasting impact on your community.