Greenwich Association of REALTORS® celebrates the organization's 100th Anniversary at Annual Membership Meeting
On Friday, January 12th, the Greenwich Association of Realtors® hosted its 100th Annual Meeting, a milestone event that kicked off celebrations of a century of real estate excellence and community service. The meeting was hosted at the Greenwich Country Club and attended by over 200 Realtor and Affiliate members.
This centennial meeting began with an address from the 2024 CT Association of Realtors President, Carl Lantz. Citing all of the challenges the industry currently faces, and the stress that builds as a result, Lantz urged members, "Be kind. Be kind to one another, work together, and respect each other."
Lantz then installed the 2024 Board of Directors as they accepted their Oath of Office.
2024 Greenwich Association of Realtors President, Bryan Tunney, then shared remarks reflecting on all that was accomplished in 2023 and shared strategic plans for the year ahead. "Throughout this year, in addition to the celebrations and festivities surrounding GAR’s 100th Anniversary, there will be an immense focus on professionalism, transparency, and consumer protection by continuing to advocate on behalf Realtors and their value in all parts of the transaction process."
Following his address, Tunney introduced Pam Cunconan, Chair of GAR's 100 Year Celebration Task Force. "100 years ago we understood that joining NAR and promoting the Code of Ethics would set us apart. If you look back at the minutes of those first meetings the Code of Ethics was central in building this organization. 100 years later, that Code of Ethics is still central to who we are…it guides us in how we treat our clients, our customers, our fellow agents and the general public," Cunconan shared.
Cunconan highlighted that through the joint efforts of the 100 Year Celebration Task Force and the Community Affairs Committee over the past year, GAR Leadership recognized the need for a formalized effort for charitable giving and volunteer efforts. The Greenwich Association of Realtors Community Foundation was created to do just that, by providing funding for other charitable organizations and projects that aim to make Greenwich a better place to live, work, learn, and play.
Plans for the GAR 100th Gala, also organized by the 100th Year Celebration Task Force, and a Save the Date were unveiled to members by Cunconan. The event will be hosted in April 2024 at the new Bruce Museum, and will serve not only as a celebration for members and community partners, but a fundraiser for the Greenwich Association of Realtors Community Foundation.
Next, Tunney introduced the keynote speaker for GAR's Annual Meeting: Dr. Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist for the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). Yun shared his insights on the current real estate market and the future of the industry, including his forecast that national existing home sales would increase by 13% in 2024.
GAR Committee Chairs then shared their annual reports with the membership, culminating with presentations by the Awards Committee. Pam Cunconan was named 2023 GAR Realtor of the Year for her commendable efforts in preparing GAR for the centennial and the future. Bryan Tunney was inducted to the GAR Hall of Fame, joining a short list of members who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to GAR and the Greenwich Multiple Listing Service, as well as the state and national associations through his continued volunteer efforts at each level.
Established in 1924, the Greenwich Association of REALTORS® is the professional board of choice for the real estate industry in Greenwich. The organization provides professional development and support services for REALTORS® and represents the concerns and interests of private property and home ownership rights. The association includes over 850 members and is headquartered in Greenwich, CT.
For more information about the Greenwich Association of Realtors and our 100th Anniversary Celebrations, please visit our websites or contact our office.
Website: GreenwichRealtors.com, GAR100.com