Get Involved, Get Ahead.
RE/MAX® agents know that showing up is how you stand out.
Real estate is more than just transactions. It’s about relationships, growth, and giving back to the industry. In other words, success doesn’t only come from closing deals; it can be found in the contributions agents make toward shaping the future of real estate. Agents who put their hands up and get involved with boards and associations can help drive meaningful change in real estate while furthering their own credibility and professional development.
RE/MAX proudly supports organizations like the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), and many more, encouraging agents to engage in leadership roles and professional development opportunities. By participating, agents can deepen their industry knowledge, build meaningful connections and contribute to the industry’s next steps.
In a recent survey within the RE/MAX network, over 68% of respondents have taken the step to participate in organized real estate, whether on a local, regional, or national scale.1 The impact of their involvement is far-reaching, both for their careers and for the real estate community.
Here are three stories from agents who have leveraged these opportunities to make an impact:
Gurcharan (Garry) Bhaura
Broker of Record – RE/MAX President Realty
Garry Bhaura’s paved his path in real estate leadership starting as a committee member of the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) serving as TRREB President in 2018. His contributions extended to the Real Estate Institute of Canada (REIC) and the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA). Currently, Garry is serving as the Vice Chair of CREA and has the honour of being selected as Chair-Elect for 2025, with plans of stepping into the role of CREA Chair in 2026.
I have always believed in the importance of continuous education, learning, and staying engaged with the industry. Every day, I wake up with a commitment to ask myself, “What have I done for others?” This mindset drives my efforts to contribute meaningfully to both the industry and the community. Involvement in Organized Real Estate is about more than just personal growth; it’s about shaping the future of real estate and ensuring its continued success. My guiding principle has always been to leave the industry in a better place than where we found it.
Harpreet Christie
Agent & Owner – RE/MAX Lloydminster Barr Realty Ltd.
Harpreet Christie’s journey in organized real estate began as President of the Real Estate Association of Lloydminster and District (2008-2010). She later served as Director for the Association of Saskatchewan Realtors® (2016-2019) and played a crucial role in amalgamating Saskatchewan’s real estate boards. Harpreet also continues to impact various charitable initiatives, including the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Champions of Tomorrow.
Being part of these boards has been incredibly fulfilling. The experience gave me incredible insights on leadership, teamwork, and networking, which have been invaluable in my career. One of my proudest achievements was contributing to the successful amalgamation of real estate boards in Saskatchewan, a project that required strategic management and collaborative effort. Observing the entire process unfold was an amazing experience. It motivated me to leverage my expertise to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Justus Smith
Agent – RE/MAX Crown Real Estate
Justus Smith’s involvement in organized real estate has been about learning, networking, and giving back. He’s participated in the Association of Regina REALTORS® & Saskatchewan REALTORS® Association. He has chaired the REALTORS® Care Committee and served on Professional Standards and Awards committees, building a strong referral network and reputation within the industry.
I believe in ‘The more you learn, the more you earn’ mindset. It feels good to give back while continuing to learn best practices for my business. Being on out-of-area committees has also helped me build a solid referral network. I’ve been able to win offers for my clients because other agents knew me personally, and my reputation preceded me.
These stories show that participation in organized real estate can offer more than professional wins—it can open doors to personal growth, leadership and meaningful industry impact. RE/MAX is dedicated to empowering agents who step into these roles, helping maintain its status as the #1 name in real estate2. At RE/MAX, you too can feel motivated to go the extra mile and pave new opportunities in organized real estate.
This could be your chance to build a legacy and power the industry’s future.
1: Based on an internal survey of the RE/MAX network, with 130 respondents.
2. Source: MMR Strategy Group study of unaided awareness.
