LaPolitics: I haven’t kept count, exactly, but I know from the past few election cycles we suddenly have more than a couple of realtors who are serving in the Louisiana Legislature. What’s the count up to, who are they and how do you think they’ll help shape policy that’s important to your members?
Louisiana REALTORS President and CEO Norman Morris: Louisiana Realtors is very fortunate several realtors who have stepped up and have been elected to the Legislature. Currently the realtors serving include Sen. Bodi White from Baton Rouge, Rep. Delisha Boyd from New Orleans, Rep. Stephanie Hilferty from New Orleans and Rep. Paula Davis from Baton Rouge. The 2024-2028 Legislature will also feature newly-elected Reps. Troy Hebert and Tehmi Chassion, both from Lafayette. We’re very active in recruiting and supporting realtors running for public office. Realtors in the Legislature and those serving at the local and national levels play a key role in shaping policy and informing other legislators of important real estate legislation that produces positive outcomes for real estate consumers and the industry as a whole.
What issues will your members be pushing during the 2024 regular session?
During the 2024 legislative session, Louisiana Realtors will be working hard to pass legislation that would encourage more insurance companies to write property insurance and provide current active companies with a reason to increase their coverage capacity. Louisiana Realtors is potentially looking at requiring a buyer representation agreement for real estate professionals, which will provide more transparency and education to real estate buyers.
How many members does the association have currently?
Louisiana Realtors’ membership currently is comprised of 16,500 members who represent clients in the purchase, sale and lease of residential, commercial, industrial properties, property management and land acquisitions. Louisiana Realtors is one of the largest membership-driven associations in the state of Louisiana. It has been very rewarding watching LR membership more than double in size during my tenure. I think growth in the profession has been fueled by a desire for a career with flexibility in scheduling, a passion in owning a small business and dedication to serving clients. Yet taking your business one step further and becoming a realtor shows further commitment to education and adherence to ethical standards.
Next year will mark your 10th year as CEO of Louisiana Realtors. How has your style of association management changed alongside the industry over the past decade?
As CEO, I have been proud to lead this great association over the last 10 years. I have had two wonderful mentors along my journey in George Brown and Jim Harris, who taught me to work hard every single day on behalf of our members and the realtors association staff, always tell the truth and never give up. As the real estate industry and politics have changed and evolved over the years, I have tried to embrace and be on the cutting edge of change to ensure Louisiana Realtors has a clear vision and path to create future success for the industry, and the members it serves.
