Realtor Trade Show and General Member Luncheon 

A membership luncheon for the Marco Island Area Association of Realtors (MIAAOR) was held at Hideaway Beach last week. Not only did realtors enjoy a signature Hideaway Beach buffet lunch, but this well attended event gave Realtor Support Network (RSN) members a chance to be in the spotlight. The RSN are (non-realtor) member companies that serve the industry as affiliates, such as mortgage companies, attorneys, insurance companies, etc. RSN members could sponsor a table to allow realtors to learn about their product or service.   

MIAAOR voted in a new board to be installed later this year. It was announced prior to the event that Shirley English had retired as the Chief Executive Officer. English had stayed a month or so beyond her intended retirement date and by then president of the association Gary Elliott, also stepped down. Steve Josselyn, president elect, has taken the reins and while the board decides on a new Executive Director, Kandy Sweeney will serve as the Association Executive.   

The featured guests of the luncheon were Captain Tim Guerrette and Cpl. Jim Spartz from Collier County Sheriff’s office. They spoke on realtor safety, especially in situations like a realtor showing a property or holding an open house. Specific apps that will contact a group of friends with a tap of your cellphone were mentioned as well as best practices for safe parking and how to walk through a property giving yourself the best advantage.    

The event finished with a raffle. RSN members featured in the trade show brought items valued at $50 or under for a lucky person whose card they picked from those in attendance.

Photos by Val Simon