To begin debating the episode, Chris jumps at her decision to leave his retirement and work directly with Nikea Wright.
Shelley Chris: I met Nikia at the end of the summer of 2024. I was really drawn to her energy, intelligence, keen wit, and passion for what she wanted to do. And I really wanted to stand by her side. My roles are now quite limited, but that’s a key role. It restructures relationships with the largest public companies and stakeholders of public companies affiliated with NAR.
Diego Sanchez: The various problems facing NAR are housingwire Other residential media companies. How have you guided Nikia in these first few weeks in terms of prioritizing the assignment?
Chris: In three weeks, I contacted many people. I’m at Chicago headquarters today and have some meetings set up. It’s virtual with some in-person and some stakeholders. We continue to meet and listen to them. We both agreed that listening is the number one job. Next, to correct and move forward in a positive way is Job No. 2.
The other part is bringing Nikea onto the stage. I look forward to being on your stage soon. That’s so she can talk about what she’s trying to do.
Sanchez: How do you think you can remove some of the potential drawbacks of dual agency?
Chris: I think full disclosure is the best thing to do. No matter what form, consumers and agents need to understand exactly how transactions are carried out.
Sanchez: Several state and local real estate organizations have asked to separate membership from national NAR memberships. NAR actually faces several lawsuits on the issue. Why do you think real estate agents should join local state and national organizations?
Chris: NAR has three main buckets that will help its members. I think that codes of ethics and ethical standards are extremely important at such times.
The second is advocacy. It’s only been three weeks, but advocacy is extremely important. This is probably one of the best secrets here in NAR. One thing I want to do is to reveal that secret and make sure it’s known to all the people I’m talking about. It’s very important and the advocacy team has worked very hard on what they’re doing.
The third is just comprehensive support provided by the National Association.
To end the conversation, Chris issued a clear message to organizations planning to separate from the NAR in 2025.
Chris: I want to separate these brokers and organizations. I wonder why. If they’re listening to this podcast, give them a chance. Don’t do anything yet. Let’s give you a chance and see how we can all work together.
