Voices of Real Estate

As President of NAR, I travel to a lot of wonderful places. But, last week was a very special trip for me, as I had the chance to visit my hometown of Steubenville, Ohio, and spend time with some great friends along the way. Here are just some of the highlights of my trip…

My first stop was in Pittsburgh, where my friend, Helen Hanna Casey, who also is on NAR’s Executive Committee, invited me to speak to REALTORS at the Howard Hanna Company Reception.

It was great to see Helen in action. There were about 250 agents at the dinner, which was held at the CLO Cabaret Theatre – a Pittsburgh landmark. And, let me tell you, their enthusiasm was contagious.

The Pittsburgh economy is improving, thanks to steady job growth, and that is helping the housing market. Howard Hanna’s agents are seeing new business, and they are very optimistic.

After the reception, I had dinner with my friend, and fellow Steubenville native, Chuck Bonfiglio, President of the Florida Association of REALTORS, and his wife Roberta. Helen and her husband Steve joined us for dessert. It was a perfect evening, and I left there feeling energized and excited.

On Friday, I made my way over to Steubenville, where I had a wonderful homecoming. I spoke to REALTORS from District 7 and explained to them that we are seeing some positive developments in many of the local markets there and that the job growth in Pittsburgh should help boost their markets, too. The elected officers from the Ohio Association of REALTORS were there, as well. In fact, Ohio Executive Don Freels shared some more good news – foreclosures have declined across the state.

Earlier that day, I shared the same positive outlook with local reporters at a press conference. Check out the great article that appeared the following day in one of the local papers:
http://www.heraldstaronline.com/page/content.detail/id/504608.html?nav=5010

Finally, I got a key to the city and visited my alma mater, Franciscan University of Steubenville, where I met with University President, Father Terrance Henry, T.O.R.

I could not have asked for a better homecoming. Many thanks to all of the officers and staff at the Steubenville Board of REALTORS for making it possible, especially Rick DeLuca and Joann McLain. No matter how far I travel, Ohio will always be home for me. – Dick Gaylord, 2008 NAR President