As I write my final letter as President of the Champaign County Association of REALTORS®, I’ve had the privilege of reflecting on the incredible journey this past year has been. Serving as your President has truly been one of the greatest honors of my professional life, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me.

Throughout my time on the Executive Committee — and especially this past year — I’ve seen firsthand just how much gets accomplished behind the scenes on behalf of our members. Much of it happens quietly, but the impact is significant. Together, we’ve made incredible progress.

We made the strategic decision to invest our reserves through Morgan Stanley, and since opening that account in September 2023, we’ve earned over $75,000 in non-dues revenue. That’s real money reinvested into our association without raising dues — a huge win for our members. We also streamlined operations and earned our official 501(c)(6) status, ensuring long-term stability.

We launched Memberlink, a new streamlined communication system, and this year we also introduced our new CCAR logo, mission, and vision statements.

Mission: Advocating for Consumers | Empowering Members | Advancing Real Estate. Vision: Cultivating a thriving real estate community where REALTORS® inspire trust, lead innovation, and champion sustainable homeownership for future generations.
These updates reflect who we are today — modern, professional, and future-focused — while honoring the strong foundation that has brought us here.

Our REALTOR® membership remains strong, and affiliate participation is at an all-time high. Our Business Partnership Program brought in its highest income ever — more than $38,000 — creating stronger relationships and more value for our members.

From free 45-hour post-license courses to ABR and RENE designations, and the continued success of our Leadership Academy, we’ve expanded education and leadership opportunities for our members.

CCAR contributed thousands of dollars to local and state charities, including Habitat for Humanity, the Eastern Illinois Foodbank, CU @ Home, and the REALTOR® Relief Foundation. Once again, REALTORS® have shown that we are a force for good in our communities.

Through record-breaking fundraising events like Cash Bash, continued RPAC Major Investor support, and legislative engagement, CCAR earned Triple Crown recognition — a testament to our shared commitment to protecting homeownership and private property rights.

These accomplishments aren’t about one person. They’re about all of us — leaders, members, staff, and affiliates — working together to strengthen our association and our profession.

I especially want to thank our Chairs, Vice Chairs, Board of Directors, and leadership team for your dedication and service. To our staff — Janet, Shelly, and Gabby — thank you for being the steady hands that keep this association running day in and day out. And to our members, thank you for your trust, your energy, and your commitment to CCAR.

Now, as I pass the gavel to our incoming President, Deana Gauze, I have no doubt that CCAR is in great hands. I’ve seen firsthand Deana’s patience, positivity, and steady leadership, and I look forward to seeing where her leadership takes us in the coming year.

Thank you for the privilege of serving as your President. Together, we’ve written a chapter I will never forget.

With gratitude,
Jayme Ahlden

REALTOR® Safety: Knowledge is Power

I’ll never forget where I was when I heard the news that Beverly Carter’s body had been found. Like so many others, I had been following the case closely and praying for a different outcome. Sadly, that wasn’t in the cards.

The silver lining is the lasting impact her story has had on REALTOR® safety. Her son, Carl, went on to establish the Beverly Carter Foundation, which continues to make a powerful difference in our industry. Years ago, I crossed paths with Carl at an airport baggage claim. I introduced myself and thanked him for the positive change he has created out of unimaginable loss. I told him his mother would be proud -- that her death was not in vain.

Each September, the National Association of REALTORS® designates REALTOR® Safety Month to remind us of the importance of protecting ourselves in every aspect of our business. Whether it’s meeting new clients, showing homes alone, or navigating today’s digital world, safety must always be at the forefront of our minds.

That’s why I’m proud that CCAR is hosting a timely event:

Knowledge is Safety: REALTOR® Safety Workshop

📅 Tuesday, September 30, 2025
🕙 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 CCAR, 305 Burwash Ave, Savoy
💲 Free for CCAR Members (includes lunch + 2 CE hours for TEC 1707)

This hands-on workshop, organized by our Young Professionals Network, is designed to equip REALTORS® with real-world tools for staying safe:

• Mastering the Art of Prevention: Recognizing predatory behavior and intentional failure with safety expert Kelly Simpson.
• Self-Defense Training: Intro to R.A.D., led by the University of Illinois Police Department.
• Cybersecurity Essentials (TEC 1707): Protecting yourself and your clients from phishing, ransomware, and other digital threats with instructor Justin Letheby.

It’s more than just a workshop – it’s an opportunity to build confidence, sharpen skills, and stand together as a community committed to safety.

Beverly Carter’s legacy reminds us that our work is not only about serving clients but also about safeguarding ourselves and one another. I encourage all CCAR members to take part in this important workshop and to recommit to putting safety first – every day, in every transaction.

Dear Members,

This summer is all about empowering YOU -- your voice, your tools, and your business.

Your Voice – Help Shape CCAR’s Future
The upcoming membership survey is your chance to tell us what matters most. Your feedback directly shapes the education we offer, the resources we provide, and the advocacy we prioritize. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts when the survey hits your inbox -- your voice truly matters.

Your Tools – Connecting REALTORS® Like Never Before
We’re excited to announce the upcoming launch of CCAR’s MemberLink, an online forum designed exclusively for our members. Launching in August, MemberLink will give you a space to ask questions, share property haves and wants, and collaborate with fellow REALTORS®. Think of it as a virtual roundtable where we can all learn and grow together.

And don’t forget about the tools already at your fingertips through your NAR membership -- from creating branded client reports with RPR® to staying protected with Window to the Law and other legal risk management resources. These benefits are designed to save you time, enhance your professionalism, and protect your business.

Your Business – Raising the Bar for Professionalism
Finally, a quick reminder that staying informed protects both you and your clients. The updated Code of Ethics, Article 10-5 reinforces our commitment to professionalism and respect. And, as we discussed at the recent Managing Broker meeting, understanding and reporting potential buyer agency agreement violations safeguards not just your business, but our industry as a whole. For more information on this, click here. 

Together, these efforts -- your feedback, your engagement, and your professionalism -- make us stronger. Thank you for showing up, speaking up, and continuing to raise the bar for REALTORS® across Champaign County.

Here’s to a great second half of 2025. Let’s keep leading with excellence!

Warmly,
Jayme Ahlden
President, Champaign County Association of REALTORS®

Dear Members,

This past month, I had the privilege of representing our association in Washington, D.C., alongside our leadership team, as part of the National Association of REALTORS® Legislative Meetings. While the monuments and historic landmarks never fail to inspire, our purpose was clear: to advocate for private property rights and champion the policies that support REALTORS® and the clients we serve every day.

We met directly with Senator Tammy Duckworth and Representative Nikki Budzinski, engaging in meaningful conversations about the issues affecting homeownership, housing supply, and our ability to operate as independent professionals. I'm proud to report that both lawmakers were attentive and receptive to our message. Our voices were heard.

Here's what we were fighting for on your behalf:

Increasing Housing Supply: 

America is facing a shortage of 4.7 million homes. We urged Congress to support legislation that would help unlock inventory, convert vacant commercial space into residential housing, and incentivize long-term owners to sell. Measures like the More Homes on the Market Act and the Revitalizing Downtowns and Main Streets Act could be game changers.

Expanding Housing Opportunity for All: 

We strongly backed the Fair and Equal Housing Act, which seeks to codify protections for sexual orientation and gender identity under the Fair Housing Act -- ensuring all Americans have a fair shot at homeownership.

Protecting Independent Contractors: 

With 88% of REALTORS® operating as independent contractors, we pushed for protections that allow us to maintain our status and flexibility. We also advocated for the Association Health Plans Act, which would give our members better access to affordable health insurance.

Smart Tax Policy for REALTORS® and Consumers: 

We voiced support for legislation that would preserve the 20% small business income deduction for pass-through entities and help first-time buyers access their retirement savings without penalty.

Throughout our meetings, we also shared local market data, economic impact reports, and the real stories of our communities - reminding lawmakers that real estate is not just about property; it's about people, opportunity, and building wealth across generations.

Our trip was more than a photo op on Capital Hill. It was a powerful reminder of the impact REALTORS® have when we show up, speak up, and stand united. Thank you for giving us that opportunity.

In advocacy and service,

Jayme Ahlden

President, Champaign County Association of REALTORS®

Dear CCAR Members,

June is officially Homeownership Month. While many see it as a time to celebrate the American Dream, we as REALTORS® know it’s so much more than that. It’s about stability. It’s about community. It’s about creating generational wealth and opportunity.

Every time we hand over a set of keys, we’re not just helping someone move into a house – we’re helping them step into a new chapter of their life. Whether it's a first time buyer excitedly measuring walls for furniture, a growing family upsizing, or someone finally finding their perfect retirement oasis, we get to be a part of that story. What a privilege!

As REALTORS®, we’re not just market experts – we’re advocates, educators, and community builders. During Homeownership Month, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the impact you make every day. Your work helps people build wealth, find stability, and invest in their future. That’s powerful.

Let’s also remember the importance of advocacy in protecting homeownership. From zoning conversations at city hall to federal policy decisions in D.C., our voice matters. Whether it's championing fair housing, promoting housing inventory solutions, or defending property rights, our association’s work behind the scenes helps ensure homeownership remains accessible and equitable for all.

So this month, I challenge each of us to celebrate homeownership a little louder. Share your stories. Invest in RPAC. Educate your clients. Post something on social media. Write a quick thank you note to a past client. Let’s shine a light on the value we bring – not just in June, but all year long.

Sincerely,
Jayme Ahlden
President, Champaign County Association of REALTORS®

I hope you had the opportunity to attend our recent 2025 Business Partner Expo! A huge thank you goes out to all of our incredible Business Partners. We're proud to have nearly 30 partners - six of them newly added - and we're so grateful for the strong relationships we've built with each of them. their support is vital to the success of our association, so please remember to support their businesses in return

Click here to view the full list of our 2025 Business Partners, including our newest additions.

I'm also excited to announce that the 2025 class of the CCAR Leadership Academy has officially been selected! This year's cohort represents a diverse mix of brokerages and experience levels, and we're thrilled to welcome them on this leadership journey. With only 10 spots available each year, the selection process is competitive - if you weren't selected this time, I encourage you to apply next year!

Here's what the 2025 Leadership Academy class has to look forward to:

• DISC Training - building stronger teams through understanding personality styles
• Capitol Conference/Lobby Day in Springfield
• Volunteering at a local nonprofit
• Local Government Day - meeting with city officials and attending a City Council meeting
• Attending a CCAR Board of Directors meeting
• The Keystone Project - a capstone initiative to bring their leadership learning to life.

Click here to see the full list of this year's participants and be sure to congratulate them!

Finally, a big shout-out to our Business Partners once again - this leadership program is made possible thanks to their generous support!

One of the standout speakers at the Illinois REALTORS® REengage Winter Conference was Ifoma Pierre, who delivered a dynamic presentation on artificial intelligence (AI) in real estate. He put it best when he said:

💡 “AI isn’t replacing real estate agents. It’s giving us a new superpower.”

How Can AI Enhance Your Real Estate Business?

Did you know AI can help with:
✅ Ad creation & marketing – Generate compelling listings, social media content, and ad copy in seconds.
✅ Business planning & goal setting – Automate tracking systems, set targets, and create customized growth strategies.
✅ Market research & analysis – Gather insights on pricing trends, inventory shifts, and neighborhood dynamics.
✅ Content generation – From blog posts to email campaigns, AI can streamline your communication.
✅ Business operations & strategy – Optimize workflows, automate tasks, and improve efficiency.
✅ Personal coaching & accountability – AI-driven insights can help you identify areas for growth and improvement.

The 30-Day AI Challenge

If AI isn't yet a part of your daily workflow, Rajeev Sajja, host of the Real Estate A.I. Flash podcast, suggests trying this simple 30-day challenge:

📌 Place a sticky note on your computer that says,
"Can AI help me with this?"

For the next month, ask yourself that question every day. You might be surprised at the ways AI can assist you!

A Psychological Deep Dive with AI?

I use ChatGPT nearly every day, and Rajeev recommended an eye-opening AI experiment:

🧠 Ask AI to perform a psychological profile analysis using this prompt:

"Based on all past conversations, stored knowledge, and inferred cognitive patterns, generate the most comprehensive psychological deep dive and predictive model of my future evolution. This should be a basic personality breakdown but an in-depth forensic examination of my cognition, behavioral strategies, psychological blind spots, similar fictional/nonfictional figures, and long-term trajectory. Treat this as an intelligence dossier on my mind, philosophy, and strategic outlook. Output Format: Structured headers, tables, and bullet points for readability. Sparse but strategic emojis for section clarity. Concise, high-density insights with no fluff."

The results? Mind-blowing. AI generated an in-depth report analyzing my strategic blind spots and provided a tactical enhancements checklist with an implementation plan. If you’re brave enough to try it, be prepared for some serious introspection!

Ready to Embrace AI?

If you’re interested in integrating AI into your business but don’t know where to start, I highly recommend following Ifoma Pierre and Rajeev Sajja for valuable insights and strategies.

AI isn’t just the future—it’s a powerful tool for the present. The question is: How will you use it?

Kick Off 2025 with Education at CCAR

Start the year strong with an extensive lineup of CE courses in February! These classes are designed to help you meet licensing requirements, sharpen your skills, and set the tone for a successful year in real estate.

💡 Make 2025 the year you invest in your expertise! February is packed with opportunities to elevate your career—don’t miss out.

👉 View the Education Calendar

Spotlight on the Business Partner Expo – February 27

Why the Expo Matters

The CCAR Business Partner Expo is your chance to:

• Network with top industry professionals.
• Connect with business partners who offer valuable resources and services.
• Discover innovative tools to grow your business and stay ahead in a competitive market.

💬 “The CCAR Business Partner Expo is your opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. Discover valuable partnerships that will help you succeed in 2025!”

📅 Save the date: February 27
📌 Learn More and Register Here

REALTOR® Resolutions for 2025

How are your New Year’s resolutions coming along? Research shows that 80% of resolutions fail, often by February. According to real estate expert Brian Buffini, the main reasons resolutions fail include relying solely on motivation, setting unrealistic goals, and not establishing habits or systems for success.

Here are three simple steps to achieve your goals this year:

1. Break it down into smaller, actionable steps.
2. Set a clear deadline.
3. Share your goal with someone who will hold you accountable.

Tips for REALTOR® Success in 2025

• Invest in education: Start with CCAR’s February CE opportunities!
• Build stronger networks: Attend the CCAR Business Partner Expo, participate in Illinois REALTORS® events, and explore other networking activities.
• Embrace advocacy efforts: Support RPAC and stay informed on advocacy initiatives that impact your business and the industry.

Here’s to a successful and fulfilling 2025!

Dear CCAR Members,

As we close out the year, I recently tuned into episode 10 of the Advocacy Scoop Podcast. This episode offered a reflective look at 2024, and I wanted to share some impactful takeaways with you.

A Year of Advocacy at a Glance:

• 5,000+ Meetings with Lawmakers: NAR’s advocacy team met with members of Congress and their staff over 5,000 times this year—an average of nearly 14 meetings per day! This unmatched effort underscores the strength and influence of our REALTOR® voice.
• 2024 Election Success: Out of 469 races in the general election, RPAC supported 452 candidates and won 439 of those races, achieving a remarkable 97% success rate. What’s more, RPAC remains the largest bipartisan PAC in the nation, evenly supporting candidates across party lines.

2024 NAR Policy Highlights:
Here are just a few of this year’s significant advocacy achievements:

• Protecting Veteran Home Loan Benefits: NAR safeguarded veterans’ ability to work with REALTORS® when purchasing homes through VA Home Loan Benefits.
• Raising the Capital Gains Exclusion: Advocated for the “More Homes on the Market Act” (H.R. 1321), which aims to double the capital gains exclusion on home sales and adjust it for inflation—unlocking more inventory for buyers.
• Encouraging Commercial-to-Residential Conversions: Supported the introduction of the Revitalizing Downtowns and Mainstreet Act, which offers tax incentives for converting underutilized commercial properties into residential units.
• Ending “Trigger Leads” Practices: Championed policy changes to eliminate “trigger leads,” protecting consumers from aggressive calls, texts, and emails after applying for loans.

These wins in advocacy, legislation, and legal efforts are a testament to the incredible work being done to protect our industry and the clients we serve.

As we reflect on these achievements, I want to ask: Are you part of the one-third of NAR members who support RPAC? If not, now is the perfect time to get involved and make a difference.

Warm regards,
Jayme

Dear CCAR Members,
As we near the end of 2024, it’s natural to reflect on the challenges and triumphs we’ve faced together. If this year hasn’t gone as planned, know that you’re not alone. The real estate market has tested us all. Nationally, 2023 marked the lowest home sales since 1995, and the forecast for 2024 predicts similar challenges. RIS Media summed it up well: “This year has
been plagued by inflation, high interest rates, a scarcity of inventory, and the aftereffects of the Burnett trial outcome.” It’s been a hard year, but tough times also provide opportunities to grow stronger and prepare for what’s next.

Here’s the good news: NAR’s Chief Economist, Lawrence Yun, believes that “the worst of the downturn in home sales could be over.” This optimism gives us all a reason to focus on the brighter opportunities ahead.

With just a few weeks left in this tumultuous year, now is the time to look forward. Ask yourself: What skills can I strengthen to position myself for success in 2025? Whether it’s sharpening your negotiation techniques, expanding your marketing strategies, or earning new certifications, doubling down on your professional development now will pay o in the year ahead.

If you haven’t already, consider earning your Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation. It’s a great way to enhance your expertise, and NAR is offering the course free through the end of the year! Click here to learn more. Did you know CCAR offers scholarships to support your educational goals? This is a fantastic resource to help you pursue certifications and accreditations that set you apart in this
competitive market. [Learn more about our scholarship program here.] 

It’s no secret: the past couple of years have been tough. But let’s focus on the opportunities ahead. Invest in yourself, sharpen your skills, and prepare to hit the ground running in 2025.

The market will rebound, and those who are ready will reap the rewards.

Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities. Let’s make 2024 a year of growth, resilience, and success.

Warm regards

I’m thrilled to kick off my first article by extending a huge thank you to everyone who attended our Inaugural and Awards Gala! With over 160 people in attendance, it was our largest gathering to date—a night to remember! Congratulations to our Leadership Team and every single nominee who was honored.

A special shout-out to our award winners:

• Affiliate Choice - Lisa Rector
• Affiliate of the Year - Jenny Park
• Rookie of the Year - Mike Goebel
• REALTOR® of the Year - Diana Foltz
• Linda Green Legacy Award - Jim Waller

These individuals represent the very best of our REALTOR® community, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.

Now, let’s talk about something close to all our hearts—this year’s chosen charity, the NAR REALTOR® Relief Foundation (RRF).

Born out of the devastation of 9/11, the RRF began with REALTORS® raising $8.5 million to support victims’ families. Over the years, it has evolved into a critical force for good, raising funds for disaster relief across the country. Today, the RRF has granted over $44 million, helping more than 22,000 families recover from natural disasters. It’s sobering to realize that 90% of U.S.  counties have faced an emergency disaster declaration in the last decade. But thanks to the REALTOR® Relief Foundation, we’re often one of the first responders on the scene, delivering aid quickly—sometimes even before FEMA. In fact, FEMA often directs
people our way because we’re known for stepping in fast and effectively. The scale of disasters continues to grow, as do the needs of those affected. But with 100% of the funds collected going directly to disaster relief (thanks to NAR’s partnership with
state and local associations covering administrative costs), every dollar makes a real impact.

At our October luncheon, we heard from Jeff Borchardt from NAR, who shared powerful stories about the Foundation's work. I’m excited to announce that we officially kicked off our own fundraising efforts during the luncheon—and before it even ended, we blew past our goal of $1,500. Go team!

I hope you’ll join us in supporting this incredible cause. To check our fundraising progress and make a donation, visit the
link below and help us make a lasting difference:

[https://fundraise.givesmart.com/public/campaigns_keywords/graph2#/232801/fundraising/wall]

Finally, I’m thrilled to introduce our 2024-2025 CCAR Leadership Team with a fun twist t for the Iron Throne!

Check out the video below to get a sneak peek at the champions who will lead our association through the year ahead. Whether you're a Stark, Lannister, or somewhere in between, we know you’ll love this epic introduction. Together, we’ll conquer whatever comes our way—no dragons needed.
🐉🏰

Your 107th CCAR President,