The Arlington Board of REALTORS® (ARBOR) and the Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS® (GFWAR) are pursuing a unification of the two organizations into a single REALTOR® association.
A task force comprised of members from both associations has led this endeavor with the objective of enhancing member benefits, bolstering our regional representation, and strengthening our ability to serve both the real estate market and our communities effectively. The culmination of these efforts was a vote on May 16 of both the GFWAR and ARBOR Boards of Directors to move forward in unifying our associations into one.
This is just the start of an exciting journey. We’ve pinpointed three core services—Advocacy, Professionalism, and Community Engagement—to steer our efforts. These will set our priorities and highlight the value we offer to our members, consumers, and communities.
Your participation and feedback are crucial as we move forward. We’re dedicated to keeping you informed every step of the way and value your input in shaping the future of our association.
We greatly value your input and strive to create a community where everyone’s voice is heard. Please take a moment to share your feedback with us by clicking here.
Save the Dates
We want to hear from you! We hope to see you at these town hall and member meetings:
June 7th | Town Hall Meeting | Arlington | 9AM
June 14th | Town Hall Meeting | Arlington | 10AM
June 14th | Town Hall Meeting | Waxahachie | 2PM
June 18th | Town Hall Meeting | Arlington | 2PM
July 10th | Town Hall Meeting | Arlington | 10AM
July 17th | General Membership Meeting and Vote | Arlington | 10AM
Unification Task Force Members
Co-Chair | Michael Langford (GFWAR)
Member | Shannon Ashkinos (GFWAR)
Member | Blake Barry (GFWAR)
Member | Bart Calahan (GFWAR)
Member | Suzanne Westrum (GFWAR)
Co-Chair | Joanne Justice (ARBOR)
Member | Larry Hurley (ARBOR)
Member | Sarah Mascarenas (ARBOR)
Member | Dixon R. Holman (ARBOR)
Member | Taylor Oldroyd (ARBOR)
Unification FAQs
1. Are the two organizations currently discussing collaborating or forming a new unified REALTOR® association?
Yes, we are actively discussing unification to better serve our marketplace while retaining our current MLS services.
2. What are the primary motivations for unification?
To improve member value, strengthen our regional voice, increase operational efficiencies, and expand member support and benefits.
3. How far along are the discussions?
We are in the planning phase, facilitated by T3 Sixty. Based on member feedback through communications and scheduled townhall meetings, and the unification will be voted on in July 2024.
4. Have any decisions been made?
No. Member and Board votes are required for any proposed unification to proceed (see question 9).
5. Does this mean I will have to join a different MLS or learn a new MLS system to do business?
No. There will be no changes to the MLS system; NTREIS and CoreLogic/Matrix will remain the same.
6. What benefits are expected?
Unification will provide a greater member experience, enhance core services, reduce duplicate memberships, and increase community and state impact.
7. How will these efforts affect the established mission and vision of the organizations involved?
Unification aligns with our missions and visions, enhancing our ability to deliver value to members and the communities we serve.
8. Will there be opportunities for stakeholders to provide input?
Yes, members can provide feedback through a joint comment form administered by T3 Sixty. You can also email any of our BOD members or our CEO directly.
Click here to submit your Unification Comments and Questions
9. Is there a timeline for deciding?
Both Boards of Directors have voted to move forward with membership presentation and vote. If members vote favorably, this triggers the unification process, aiming for a new association within 18-24 months.
10. When can we expect to receive more information?
A General Membership meeting is scheduled on July 17th where members will vote on the proposed unification. Before the vote, there will be a comprehensive joint-communication campaign, including FAQs, stakeholder outreach, and town hall meetings on the following dates:
June 7th | June 18th | July 10
11. Is this discussion being driven by the NAR settlement and the associated practice changes?
No, however, unification will better position us to proactively address regulatory and industry changes.
12. What are the potential challenges and how are you addressing them?
We are addressing potential challenges, such as technology integrations and contracts, through thorough evaluations and consultations.
13. How might changes affect current employees?
No positions are being eliminated. An organizational chart is being developed with the Core Services (see question 19) as the basis for employee structure.
14. How will you ensure that members' needs and interests are still prioritized?
“Members-first” is the mindset adopted by the task groups of diverse members. All formal decisions are vetted by the Board of Directors and members will be able to vote when required.
15. What will happen to existing contracts and agreements with members, vendors, or other partners?
We will honor all existing contracts and work to ensure a smooth transition for members, vendors, and partners.
16. What steps will you take to ensure a smooth transition?
A comprehensive transition plan (see question 19), developed under the guidance of legal counsel and financial advisors, will address structural changes, communication, technology integration, and support for members and employees.
17. How will the organizations' cultures be integrated?
Both Associations are committed to supporting our members, advocating for our industry and homeownership, and maintaining our high standards of professionalism in our communities. This shared commitment will continue through unification.
18. Will there be any immediate changes to fee structures or membership costs?
While still in the planning phase, we anticipate a reduction in costs for all members.
19. What can you tell me about the organizational strategies and structures for the Unified Association?
An Ideal Association Outline will guide the transitional and permanent structures, focusing on advocacy, professionalism, and community. Here are a few short answers to the key items:
Strategy Items:
Vison: The strategic vision for the new organizations is as follows: “To elevate the success and excellence of those we serve by focusing on/through Advocacy, Professionalism, and Community Engagement.”
Core Services:
- Advocacy
- Professionalism
- Internal and External Community Engagement
Structure Items:
Naming: No decision has been made on the name at this time, but a “new name” will be established through a defined and complete process which will include membership input as appropriate, will be in accordance with NAR requirements.
BOD: There will be a Transitional BOD which is made up of an equal number of directors from each of the associations that will be appointed by each organization and will remain in place during the duration of the transitional period which could be as much as 12 months. The Permanent BOD will be elected by the membership and will consist of 13 members including the following: Chair, Chair-Elect, Treasurer/Secretary, and Past-Chair. Directors will have staggered two-year terms.
Committee/Task Groups: The unified Association will utilize a blend of standing committees and task groups to ensure a broad, diverse, and representative set of volunteers are leveraged to advise the BOD and support key services provided by the association.
Staffing: The current staffing levels are anticipated to be retained with a combination of C-Level executives, Core Service managers, and administrative service and support staff.
Location: During the Transitional phase each of the current locations will be retained. Efforts will be initiated to determine whether to pursue a new centrally located headquarters with satellite service locations.
20. How will the unification of the associations affect the competitive position in the market?
Unification will enhance our competitive position by aligning services with community and economic activities, benefiting members, and strengthening our market presence.