REALTORS® at Roundhouse Script
Roundhouse Rotunda, Santa Fe • January 24, 2024 • 10:00 AM
David Saavedra (NMAR Government Affairs Director): Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us today. My name is David Saavedra, and I have the privilege of serving as the Government Affairs Director for the New Mexico Association of REALTORS (NMAR). I’m delighted to welcome you to this significant discussion on the pivotal role of real estate in our beautiful state and the invaluable contribution of NMAR.
New Mexico is a state like no other—a place where the tapestry of cultures, stunning landscapes, and rich history blend seamlessly. It’s within this unparalleled setting that our real estate market thrives, acting as a cornerstone of our economic vitality. Real estate here is more than just transactions; it’s about shaping communities, driving economic growth, and creating opportunities that enable our residents to lead fulfilling lives.
I’m honored to introduce our esteemed President, Coleen Dearing, who will guide us through the profound significance of real estate in New Mexico and the essential role that NMAR plays in this vibrant industry. Coleen, the floor is yours.
Coleen Dearing (2024 NMAR President): Good morning, everyone, and thank you for gracing us with your presence today. As the 2024 President of the New Mexico Association of REALTORS (NMAR), it’s an absolute pleasure to delve into the profound significance of real estate in our enchanting state and to underscore the pivotal role that NMAR plays in shaping this ever-evolving industry.
Coleen Dearing: New Mexico is, without a doubt, a unique and captivating place—a land boasting diverse art and culture, breathtaking vistas, and a rich, complex history. It’s no wonder that our real estate market reflects this diversity, acting as the bedrock of our state’s economic prosperity. Real estate in New Mexico transcends the mere exchange of properties; it’s the nurturing of communities, the facilitation of growth, and the creation of opportunities that enable our residents to flourish.
Coleen Dearing: Let’s begin by examining the multifaceted role of real estate in New Mexico. It encompasses a broad spectrum of residential, commercial, and industrial properties, each echoing a unique facet of our state’s identity. From the captivating adobe homes in Taos to the bustling urban developments in Las Cruces, our real estate market is a living testament to our diverse citizens and geography.
One of the most compelling facets of real estate lies in its ability to generate employment opportunities. The construction, maintenance, and sale of properties provide not just roofs over our heads but livelihoods for countless New Mexicans. The growth of this sector is pivotal in the livelihoods of many families across our state.
Additionally, real estate serves as a magnet for investment, both local and from distant shores. This investment breathes life into our communities, fortifies infrastructure, and enhances the well-being of our beloved New Mexico.
Coleen Dearing: Now, let’s turn our attention to the New Mexico Association of Realtors (NMAR)—an organization close to my heart. NMAR is a professional trade association that stands as the voice and advocate of 8,000 Realtors across our great state. Our mission is twofold: to support and empower our members while tirelessly promoting homeownership and safeguarding property rights.
NMAR is more than a mere association; it’s a close-knit community of REALTORS who share a common purpose—to ensure that the real estate industry in New Mexico operates ethically, professionally, and always to the benefit of our clients and the communities we serve. We provide our members with invaluable resources, cutting-edge training, and unwavering advocacy to help them thrive in this dynamic and ever-evolving field.
Coleen Dearing: As we celebrate the triumphs of the real estate sector in New Mexico, we must also acknowledge the hurdles that lie ahead. Foremost among these is the pressing issue of affordable housing, a challenge NMAR is passionately engaged in addressing. We are resolutely committed to exploring innovative solutions that make homeownership more attainable for all New Mexicans.
Furthermore, the rapid advancement of technology and innovation continues to shape the real estate landscape. At NMAR, we recognize the importance of staying at the forefront of these developments. We are actively working to equip our members with the latest tools, knowledge, and skills necessary to better serve their clients and to navigate the ever-shifting terrain of the real estate market.
Coleen Dearing: In conclusion, real estate in New Mexico is not just an industry; it’s a vibrant tapestry woven into the very fabric of our communities. It’s an engine of economic growth, a source of opportunities for our residents, and a testament to our state’s unique character. The New Mexico Association of REALTORS is privileged to play a pivotal role in supporting and advancing this industry.
Our commitment is unwavering—to ensure that real estate in New Mexico operates with integrity and professionalism, benefiting all who call our state home. Together, we look forward to a future where real estate continues to be a catalyst for prosperity, inclusivity, and the fulfillment of dreams.
Thank you all for your presence and interest in our vital work. I am enthusiastic about the journey ahead. I will now turn it over to the NMAR Legislative Committee Chairman, Isaac Romero.
Isaac Romero (Legislative Committee Chairman): Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, esteemed colleagues, and fellow REALTORS. I am Isaac Romero, and I am deeply honored to serve as the Chairman of the New Mexico Association of Realtors (NMAR) Legislative Committee. Thank you all for being here today, as we embark on an important discussion about the paramount importance of REALTOR advocacy in our beloved Land of Enchantment, New Mexico.
REALTORS, we are more than just professionals helping individuals buy and sell homes. We are the guardians of the American dream, the dream of homeownership. Today, I want to emphasize why REALTOR advocacy is not just important but absolutely crucial for the well-being of our industry and the people we serve.
Isaac Romero: Our advocacy efforts revolve around four fundamental pillars: protecting property rights, promoting fair housing, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering economic growth. Let’s delve deeper into each of these pillars.
First and foremost, we must vigorously protect property rights. Property ownership lies at the heart of personal freedom and economic stability. REALTORS advocate for policies that not only preserve these rights but also enhance them, ensuring property owners have the autonomy to use, enjoy, and dispose of their property as they see fit.
Isaac Romero: Secondly, REALTORS are tireless champions of fair housing. We firmly believe that every individual should have equal access to housing opportunities, irrespective of their race, color, religion, sex, or any other protected characteristic. Our advocacy efforts work to eradicate housing discrimination and create inclusive, harmonious communities for all.
The third pillar of our advocacy efforts centers around ensuring affordable housing. We recognize that affordability is a pressing issue in New Mexico. We advocate for policies that facilitate the development of affordable housing options, making it feasible for families to achieve homeownership and build a strong foundation for generational wealth.
Isaac Romero: Last but by no means least, REALTOR advocacy contributes significantly to economic growth. A flourishing real estate market bolsters local economies, creates job opportunities, and generates tax revenue, which, in turn, supports essential services. We advocate for smart, forward-thinking policies that encourage investment and stimulate economic activity.
Now, it’s essential to remember that our advocacy efforts are not confined to words alone; they demand collective action. REALTORS across New Mexico are deeply engaged in advocating for these principles at the local, state, and national levels.
With these pillars in mind, the Legislative Committee is proud to support the following housing and real estate related bills:
- House Bill 195, introduced by Representatives Serrato and Dixon, The Opportunity Enterprise and Housing Development Act
- Senate Bill 7, introduced by Senator Rodriguez, an appropriation to the New Mexico Housing Trust Fund
- Senate Bill 31, introduced by Senator Gonzales, an appropriation for the Affordable Housing Act
Isaac Romero: But here’s the crucial part: we need your help! REALTOR advocacy is most impactful when we join forces. Whether you’re a seasoned REALTOR with years of experience or just starting in the industry, your voice carries weight. We urge you to stand beside us, to unite in advocating for policies that safeguard property rights, champion fair housing, ensure affordable housing, and promote economic growth.
In closing, let me emphasize that REALTOR advocacy is not merely a duty; it is a privilege. We possess the unique opportunity to mold the future of our industry and our beloved state. Together, we can continue to make New Mexico a place where the dream of homeownership is not only attainable but realized by all. Thank you and let us stand together to advocate for a brighter and more prosperous future!
David: Thank you everyone. This concludes our event here in the Rotunda. We encourage our members to visit their legislators and explore the New Mexico State Capitol. The NMAR Legislative Conference will resume for lunch at 12:00 PM at La Fonda.