National Women’s History Month Spotlight: Mary Arey

What leadership roles do/did you hold in the real estate industry?

Currently President, Salisbury/Rowan Association of REALTORS®.
Previously, served on Board of Directors for several different terms.
MLS Chairperson

What leadership roles do/did you hold in NC REALTORS®?

Simply leading local REALTORS® to participate at state functions.

What is your role in the industry today?

Active REALTOR®

What is your role in NC REALTORS® today?

Active member

What years were you active in the industry?

1979-84; 1997-2018

\What years were you active in NC REALTORS®?

1979-84, 1997-2018

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment in the industry?

Promoted/demonstrated integrity and professionalism to improve the public’s perception of REALTORS®.

Also, demonstrating and promoting safe practices as recommended by NAR. We still have agents meeting total strangers at vacant properties, etc.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment as an NC REALTOR®?

Please see above.

What were the greatest challenges you faced in the industry?

Finding qualified experienced agents to join our firm.

Overcoming prospective client’s lack of trust after their negative experiences with previous agent(s).

What were the greatest challenges you faced as an NC REALTOR®?

Using the old NCAR website.

Having forms changed without sufficient notice.

Have you been inspired by other NC REALTOR® women throughout the years? Please name them here and briefly describe how they have impacted you, the industry or the association.

Bonzie Everson, who has taken leadership roles both locally and at state level. Her example helped encourage me to accept my current position as President of our Association.

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