This past year was about progress—strengthening our MLS, engaging in advocacy, and delivering education that supports our members and the communities we serve. These wins reflect the dedication of our REALTORS®, volunteers, and leadership working together toward a stronger future.

MLS: Modern Tools, Stronger Listings

Work Smarter, Not Harder

New Input Process

A redesigned listing input system is helping members work smarter, not harder. Irrelevant fields have been removed, making it easier to enter listings quickly and accurately. The result is a more simplified, streamlined, and mobile-friendly experience.

Multiple Listing Options for Sellers
GLAR adopted the NAR MLS Multiple Listing Options policy. It provides sellers and their agents with greater flexibility in how properties are marketed, while maintaining fair housing principles and equal access to MLS information.

More Transparent Listing Agreements
Broker-to-broker compensation language was removed to keep forms compliant, promote clarity, and strengthen transparency—while ensuring REALTORS® retain full control over compensation discussions.

Enhanced MLS Security
Multi-factor authentication was added to protect MLS data and safeguard against cyber threats, strengthening system security and member confidence.

Certified Photographer Network
Members can now select a Certified Photographer directly when entering a listing. These professionals can upload photos, videos, and virtual tours on an agent’s behalf—saving time and enhancing listing quality.

DepositLink Launch
GLAR proudly partnered with DepositLink, a secure digital payment platform built for real estate. This tool replaces paper checks and reduces wire fraud risks—bringing speed, security, and convenience to transactions.
Members can now:

  • Collect earnest money deposits instantly
  • Pay agents directly from the brokerage
  • Receive rent payments for investment properties

Think Venmo for real estate—with bank-level security and compliance.

Inclusive & Accessible Remarks Field
To support a more inclusive home search, the MLS emphasized a minimum of 100 characters in the remarks field. This ensures listings include meaningful descriptions that better serve voice tools and screen readers, helping buyers with visual impairments and improving overall engagement.

 

Advocacy

Back The PAC Up Launch

Back The PAC Up is the refreshed brokerage advocacy competition, formerly known as the RPAC Cup. Strong advocacy benefits everyone and this is a fun way to learn together, encourage engagement and show the impact members have on homeownership and private property rights.

• More than $63,000 raised
• Over 72% member participation
• 169 Brokerages Participated
Local Policy & Community Updates

GLAR kept members informed on critical local issues, including:
• Accessory dwelling unit changes in Lansing and Eaton County
• Funding opportunities for septic system repairs and replacements
• Community accessibility improvements
Bonus: Every GLAR-endorsed City of Lansing candidate was elected

Federal Advocacy Engagement

Thanks to the leadership of our Federal Political Coordinator and REALTOR® member, Chris Dean, GLAR leaders met with Congressman Tom Barrett to discuss key issues impacting our local housing market. The conversation focused on housing affordability, protected classes, downtown revitalization, and opportunities to strengthen local businesses—ensuring our region’s real estate voice is heard at the federal level.

 

Education:

Industry Updates continued to be a cornerstone of member education and networking. In 2025, members had access to 16 hours of complimentary continuing education, fully meeting licensing and membership requirements across elective, legal, and fair housing categories—while providing valuable opportunities to connect face-to-face with fellow REALTORS®.

GLAR Academy gives members the flexibility to learn on their own schedule—anytime, anywhere. When members can’t attend an Industry Update in person, most continuing education and informational sessions are available on demand.

 

Membership:

Financial Health: Strong Today. Prepared for Tomorrow. Your association continues to be financially strong. Finances are diligently monitored by the finance committee, treasurer and the Board of Directors. A third-party company does a financial review annually to ensure checks and balances.

GLAR is financially strong and stable.
The Association ended 2024 with more assets than liabilities and a positive operating surplus, meaning revenues covered expenses and added to reserves. Spending remains disciplined, revenue comes from multiple reliable sources (not just dues), and debt continues to decline.

GLAR is prepared for the future.
Healthy cash reserves and investments allow the Association to weather market changes, maintain services, and continue investing in REALTOR® programs and advocacy.