What do you like about being a CRS?
I earned my designation early in my career because I believed there had to be more to success than just a real estate license. The education has made me a stronger and more educated REALTOR®, which is better for my buyer and seller clients. Unfortunately, some REALTORS® have more of a ‘used car salesperson’ mentality. That’s not what we do; we do a lot more than that—the ethical foundation, understanding the components of the transaction, staying current on market volatility and being aware of regulatory issues. A dedicated REALTOR® really needs that deeper education.
You’re heavily involved in volunteer leadership positions locally and nationally. What drives you to commit to these positions?
I first got involved with the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Palm Springs- Desert Cities in 2003. At a meeting, I just put my hand up, and the next thing I knew, I was president-elect for the next year. My passion for serving the real estate community snowballed from there and I now serve as a director for the California Association of REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS®; and I will be national president of the Women’s Council in 2019. I love being able to stand up, volunteer an idea or suggestion, and see how the collaboration benefits both REALTORS® and consumers. I’m a better REALTOR® at the end of the day because of my involvement. When I come home and sit in front of clients, I know I’m doing something proactive to protect their homeownership rights. It’s a ripple effect that goes far beyond me.
What lessons have you learned that you would pass on to anyone starting on that path?
Get involved—that is key to being more than a salesperson and showing that you are ‘more than houses.’ If someone sees something in you and taps you on the shoulder to get involved, give it a try. Perhaps they see something in you that you haven’t yet seen. We all understand that you have a life outside of real estate. The so-called work/life balance can be a real challenge, but giving even a little bit back will make you a better REALTOR® and a stronger member of your community and family.
You’re a champion of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® as first vice president. What issues are facing female REALTORS® in the industry today?
What’s interesting is that just this year, the California Association of REALTORS® did a women’s initiative, WomenUp™, focused on bringing to light the fact that the gap between women who are broker-owners or running real estate firms compared to men is significant. Through interviews we learned that women were faced with challenges, culture clashes or fewer opportunities, and therefore they stepped out to build their own companies. I actually had one woman tell me when I was president-elect of my local Women’s Council network that I should step down because I was pregnant. I’ll never forget that.
You must build a support system in all aspects of your life and delegate, so you can move forward doing the things about which you’re passionate. I rely on my “tribe.’’ More women need to know that they can step up and be that broker-owner, be that manager, and have a seat at the table no matter what level—and our profession needs more mentors in roles to help make that happen. With the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, we continue to work with our members to provide mentoring and education to develop and advance them as professionals and leaders in their business, their community and the real estate industry.
How do you see the industry changing in the next few years and how can CRSs be prepared?
I think the industry is constantly changing in ways we haven’t even imagined. New regulation is constantly being proposed from government on all levels. As REALTORS®, as CRSs, we must be on top of what’s going on so we can be prepared to fight for our clients and private property rights. Getting involved in areas such as RPAC is vital. This is your livelihood, and if you want it to continue, you must step up and get involved by volunteering your time and writing that check.
What’s your home life like and what are you passionate about outside of work?
I have two sons, Ethan, 11, and Jordan, 13. They definitely keep me busy and grounded, and they’re very supportive of what I do. I’m really passionate about teaching my children the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community, while also showing them that moms can do anything. I’m also an avid runner and passionate about fitness. And I love reading, as it helps fulfill my desire to always learn.
You describe yourself on Twitter as a tech geek. What is a tech product that you simply can’t live without?
Can I have two? Genius Scan+ and Adobe Spark Post. Typically, I do everything paperless so I can use Genius Scan+ to take a picture of something, convert it to a PDF, manipulate it and put it into my Dropbox or Google Drive. With Adobe Spark Post, I can create great graphics on my phone for free, which is perfect for creating engaging presentations or social media posts.
Heather Ozur, CRS, achieved her CRS Designation in 2005. She can be reached at heather@heatherozur.com or 760-537-0774.
