Business Details
Your Trusted Real Estate Association in St. Paul
Since 1886, SPAAR has been dedicated to promoting homeownership and protecting private property rights through the active engagement and professional development of our members. As a trusted local association supporting 8,000+ REALTORS across the Twin Cities metro area, we provide essential resources, advocacy, and community-driven programs to empower real estate professionals at every career stage. Our commitment to professionalism and integrity is reflected in our comprehensive services, including continuing education, compliance support, and market intelligence tailored to meet the evolving needs of our members.With a member-driven governance model and a focus on fostering collaboration, we advocate for fair housing practices, enhance industry standards, and create opportunities for Realtors to contribute meaningfully to their communities. Our team of experienced professionals works tirelessly to ensure members have access to cutting-edge tools, exclusive benefits, and a unified voice in local and state-level policy discussions that shape the future of real estate.
Services
Membership Services
Professional Development
Advocacy Programs
Community Engagement
REALTOR Benefits
MLS Access
Continuing Education
Market Statistics
Policy Representation
Networking Opportunities
Highlights and features
- We offer 135+ years of experience supporting Twin Cities real estate professionals
- Our team provides exclusive member benefits including MLS access and advocacy
- We maintain a member-driven governance model with volunteer leadership
- Our resources include compliance tools and professional development opportunities
- We advocate for fair housing practices and property rights protection
Services
Membership Services
We provide comprehensive membership services including new member orientation, renewal processes, and personalized support through our Member Services Team. Our resources help real estate professionals access exclusive benefits, compliance information, and career development tools. With multiple membership categories available, we ensure tailored support for REALTORS, affiliates, and MLS subscribers across the Twin Cities region.
Professional Development
Our professional development programs offer continuing education courses, leadership opportunities, and specialized training resources to enhance real estate careers. Through partnerships with industry organizations, we deliver relevant content on market trends, compliance requirements, and best practices to help members maintain competitive advantage in the evolving real estate landscape.
Advocacy Programs
We actively advocate for real estate professionals and property owners through local government engagement and policy representation. Our advocacy efforts focus on protecting property rights, promoting fair housing practices, and influencing legislation that impacts the Twin Cities housing market. Members benefit from our ongoing representation in regulatory discussions and community planning initiatives.
Community Engagement
Our community engagement initiatives connect real estate professionals with local organizations through volunteer programs and service projects. We facilitate partnerships that address housing needs, support neighborhood development, and strengthen community ties while providing members with opportunities to demonstrate their professional commitment beyond real estate transactions.
REALTOR Benefits Program
We offer exclusive access to the REALTOR Benefits Program featuring discounts on business tools, marketing services, and financial resources specifically designed for real estate professionals. This program enhances members' operational efficiency and provides cost-saving opportunities through partnerships with industry-leading service providers across the Twin Cities metro area.
People
Gabe Walsh
Chief Executive Officer
Gabe Walsh leads SPAAR's strategic operations, overseeing initiatives that support Twin Cities real estate professionals through advocacy, education, and community programs since his appointment as CEO.
Kara Maurer
Chief Finance and Operations Officer
Kara Maurer manages financial strategy and operational efficiency for SPAAR, ensuring sustainable growth and effective resource allocation to support the association's mission and member services.
Joe McKinley
Vice President of External Engagement and Professionalism
Joe McKinley directs external relations and professional standards initiatives, fostering industry partnerships and maintaining ethical practices among Twin Cities real estate professionals through SPAAR's programs.
Sheri Richards
Vice President of Member Engagement
Sheri Richards focuses on enhancing member experiences through engagement programs, ensuring real estate professionals receive tailored support and resources to succeed in their careers.
Becky Wegscheid
Government Affairs Director
Becky Wegscheid leads SPAAR's legislative advocacy efforts, representing members' interests in local policy discussions and working to protect property rights and fair housing practices.
Questions
What membership types does SPAAR offer?
SPAAR provides REALTOR, Affiliate, and Nonmember MLS Subscriber categories with tailored benefits for each, supporting different professional needs in the real estate industry.
How do I renew my SPAAR membership?
Members receive renewal notices via email with payment options including online payments and installment plans available before the November 30 deadline.
What professional development resources are available?
We offer continuing education courses, leadership programs, and market intelligence resources to help real estate professionals enhance their skills and stay current with industry trends.
How does SPAAR support community engagement?
Through volunteer programs, partnerships with local organizations, and initiatives that address housing needs while strengthening community connections for real estate professionals.
What advocacy services does SPAAR provide?
We represent members in local government discussions, advocate for property rights protection, and work to influence housing policies that impact Twin Cities real estate professionals.
How can I access MLS services through SPAAR?
Members receive MLS access as part of their benefits, with dedicated support for using NorthstarMLS tools and resources to facilitate real estate transactions efficiently.
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