Note: Michael Ezsol was installed as our 2026 President on December 9. At that time, he shared the following remarks filled with goals, dreams, and plans for the coming year. We appreciated his words and know that all of his fellow REALTORS will as well . . .

First, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity to stand before you today as the incoming president of EMTAR for 2026. It is truly an honor, and I’m humbled by the trust you’ve placed in me to lead this organization.

To all the REALTORS, Affiliates and brokers: Thank you for your commitment to this industry. It’s because of your hard work and passion that we have such a vibrant real estate community here in Eastern Middle Tennessee. I’m excited for what we can accomplish together in the year ahead.

As I step into this role in 2026, I have a vision focusing on four key goals:

#1. Creating Opportunities for New Agents (less than three years in real estate)

The real estate industry is ever-changing. The journey of becoming a successful agent can often feel overwhelming.  By offering mentorship, networking opportunities, masterclasses, and professional development, we’ll empower these young agents. The future of real estate is in their hands, and it’s our responsibility to equip them with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

#2. Establishing a Leadership Academy for REALTORS

We have so many talented and ambitious agents and brokers within our organization, and it’s essential that we offer them the opportunity to develop and grow their leadership skills. The Leadership Academy will be designed to identify potential leaders, provide them with the training and resources they need, and then guide them as they take on more responsibilities within EMTAR. By fostering the next generation of leaders, we’ll ensure that our Association remains dynamic, forward-thinking, and equipped to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future. This will be an ambitious task that will take several years to fine-tune.

#3. Connecting Brokers and EMTAR Relationships

A priority will be to strengthen the relationships between our brokers and EMTAR.  I want to have more open communication with our Brokers and learn how EMTAR can partner with their needs. This will foster continued success of our real estate community. My ears are open. Brokers, please tell us what needs you have. We are your partner in success.

#4. Updating Our Strategic Plan, Values, and Safety for Our REALTORS

Our strategic plan is our guide and pathway for EMTAR’s future. It needs to be updated from time to time, and I will try to tackle this with the Executive Committee’s help.

I’m very proud to also announce that EMTAR is going to provide the FOREWARN app starting in January at no extra cost to our members. This will be a huge benefit and will now be part of your benefits as an EMTAR member (a $240 value). FOREWARN allows agents to work safer and smarter by instantly verifying a prospect's identity and potential risks prior to a face-to-face meeting.

In closing, my role as president in 2026 is not just to lead, but to listen, and to help guide our organization toward achieving these goals. I believe we can make a lasting impact, not just for ourselves, but for the agents, brokers, affiliates, and families we serve.

Thank you again for this incredible honor. I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me.

Thank you, Michael! We are thrilled about the plans already shaping up as 2026 gets underway.

As we noted in our last blog (a 2025 recap), the lessons we have learned in recent years will continue to shape the market. REALTOR members who understand these shifts—and can clearly explain them to clients—will remain indispensable. In a market defined by vibrancy, pivoting, and constant adjustments, professional guidance matters as never before. That’s where our EMTAR members come in.

In conclusion, we want to say thank you again to Michael, his fellow board leaders, all of our volunteers, and our REALTOR members throughout Wilson, Smith, and Dekalb counties for what you mean to our Association, to your clients and firms, to your families and friends, and to our Eastern Middle Tennessee communities.

Here’s to a productive, meaningful, and successful 2026!

About EMTAR: Chartered in 1969, our Association’s 1,200+ REALTORS are a proud part of the 36,000+ members of Tennessee REALTORS and of the 1.5 million+ members of NAR, all working to serve the public and protect the rights of America’s property owners. EMTAR members are known not only for their unmatched real estate excellence and high ethical standards, but also for being generous, hospitable, others-focused, loyal, hardworking, and eager to help wherever and whenever help is needed.