Dangers Impacting Associations

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Overview

The real estate industry faces credibility issues due to many part-time, untrained, and unethical agents, resulting from low entry barriers and minimal education requirements. This gap creates a large disparity in service quality, tarnishing the industry’s reputation and lacking initiatives to elevate national standards, which could harm both the industry and consumers.

The Dangers

The top 10 dangers are listed below in order of their danger index. At the bottom of the page, you can see how they were classified and indexed.

D1. Leaders Not in Unison with Fast-Paced World.  
D2. Too Many Uninformed Decisions Are Taken.  
D3. Broad Resistance to Consolidation.  
D4. The Lowest Common Denominator Impediment.  
D5. The Unwieldy Governance Structure.  
D6. Reluctance of Leaders to Step Up.  
D7. Loss of Primary Revenue Source.  
D8. Changing of the Old Guard.  
D9. Local Association Charter Revoked.  
D10. The Dues Disconnect.  

D1. Leaders Not in Unison with Fast-Paced World

Leaders of state and local associations are not keeping pace with the fast-moving world around them.

In Context
The real estate industry is undergoing rapid changes, driven by technological advancements, shifting consumer preferences, and evolving market dynamics. However, many leaders of state and local associations are struggling to keep up with these changes. This disconnect between leadership and the fast-paced world around them can result in missed opportunities, a lack of innovation, and an inability to effectively address emerging challenges and opportunities.
Author's Perspective
Leaders of state and local associations must find ways to stay in unison with the fast-paced world around them. This will require ongoing education, professional development, and a willingness to embrace change and innovation. Failure to do so could result in a disconnect between leadership and the needs of members, ultimately impacting the effectiveness and relevance of the associations.
Danger Index: 100/100
(Critical)
Probability: 5.0/5.0
(100% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 5.0/5.0
(Game Changer)

D2. Too Many Uninformed Decisions Are Taken

Uninformed decisions are being made at the state and local association levels, leading to suboptimal outcomes.

In Context
The real estate industry is complex and rapidly changing, requiring informed and strategic decision-making at all levels. However, many state and local associations are struggling with a lack of information and expertise, leading to uninformed decisions that can have negative consequences for their members and the industry as a whole.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must prioritize informed and strategic decision-making to ensure that they are effectively addressing the needs of their members and the industry. This will require access to relevant information, expertise, and resources, as well as a commitment to ongoing education and professional development. Failure to address this challenge could result in suboptimal outcomes and a loss of credibility and effectiveness.
Danger Index: 80/100
(Severe)
Probability: 5.0/5.0
(100% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 4.0/5.0
(Major Impact)

D3. Broad Resistance to Consolidation

There is broad resistance to consolidation among state and local associations, hindering their ability to adapt and thrive.

In Context
The real estate industry is experiencing a trend toward consolidation, with many organizations merging to achieve greater efficiency, scale, and competitiveness. However, there is significant resistance to consolidation among state and local associations, driven by concerns about loss of autonomy, identity, and control. This resistance can hinder the ability of associations to adapt to changing market dynamics and capitalize on new opportunities.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to overcome resistance to consolidation and explore opportunities for collaboration and partnership. This will require open communication, a willingness to embrace change, and a focus on the long-term benefits of consolidation. Failure to address this challenge could result in a fragmented and inefficient association landscape, ultimately impacting the ability of associations to effectively serve their members and the industry.
Danger Index: 70/100
(Severe)
Probability: 5.0/5.0
(100% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 3.5/5.0
(Major Impact)

D4. The Lowest Common Denominator Impediment

State and local associations are hindered by a focus on the lowest common denominator, limiting their ability to innovate and excel.

In Context
Many state and local associations are focused on meeting the needs and expectations of the lowest common denominator among their members. While this approach can ensure inclusivity and broad representation, it can also limit the ability of associations to innovate and excel. By focusing on the lowest common denominator, associations may be less willing to take risks, embrace new ideas, and pursue ambitious initiatives.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to balance inclusivity with a focus on innovation and excellence. This will require a willingness to take risks, embrace new ideas, and pursue ambitious initiatives that can drive the industry forward. Failure to address this challenge could result in a lack of innovation and a stagnant association landscape, ultimately impacting the ability of associations to effectively serve their members and the industry.
Danger Index: 64/100
(Severe)
Probability: 4.0/5.0
(80% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 4.0/5.0
(Major Impact)

D5. The Unwieldy Governance Structure

The governance structure of state and local associations is unwieldy, creating inefficiencies and hindering effective decision-making.

In Context
Many state and local associations have complex and unwieldy governance structures, with multiple committees, subcommittees, and boards. While this structure is designed to ensure broad representation and inclusivity, it can also create inefficiencies and hinder effective decision-making. The unwieldy governance structure can slow down the decision-making process, create barriers to innovation, and make it difficult for associations to adapt to changing market dynamics.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to streamline their governance structures to improve efficiency and decision-making. This will require a focus on simplifying processes, reducing bureaucracy, and empowering leaders to make strategic decisions. Failure to address this challenge could result in a lack of agility and responsiveness, ultimately impacting the ability of associations to effectively serve their members and the industry.
Danger Index: 60/100
(High)
Probability: 5.0/5.0
(100% Chance)
Timing: 3.0/5.0
(3-5 Years)
Impact: 4.0/5.0
(Major Impact)

D6. Reluctance of Leaders to Step Up

There is a reluctance among potential leaders to step up and take on leadership roles within state and local associations.

In Context
The real estate industry relies on strong leadership to effectively manage associations and advocate for members. However, there is a reluctance among potential leaders to step up and take on leadership roles within state and local associations. This reluctance can be driven by a variety of factors, including time constraints, lack of support, and a perception that leadership roles are overly demanding and thankless.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to encourage and support potential leaders to step up and take on leadership roles. This will require a focus on leadership development, mentorship, and creating a supportive environment for leaders. Failure to address this challenge could result in a shortage of leadership talent, ultimately impacting the effectiveness and sustainability of associations.
Danger Index: 56/100
(High)
Probability: 4.0/5.0
(80% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 3.5/5.0
(Major Impact)

D7. Loss of Primary Revenue Source

State and local associations face the risk of losing their primary revenue sources, impacting their financial stability.

In Context
Many state and local associations rely on a limited number of revenue sources to fund their operations and initiatives. This reliance creates a significant risk, as changes in the market or regulatory environment could lead to a loss of these primary revenue sources. The loss of primary revenue sources can impact the financial stability of associations, making it difficult for them to effectively serve their members and support their initiatives.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to diversify their revenue sources to ensure financial stability and resilience. This will require exploring new revenue streams, developing strategic partnerships, and creating value-added services for members. Failure to address this challenge could result in financial instability and an inability to effectively serve members and support initiatives.
Danger Index: 54/100
(High)
Probability: 4.0/5.0
(80% Chance)
Timing: 3.0/5.0
(3-5 Years)
Impact: 4.5/5.0
(Game Changer)

D8. Changing of the Old Guard

The changing of the old guard creates challenges for state and local associations, as experienced leaders retire or step down.

In Context
The real estate industry is experiencing a generational shift, with many experienced leaders retiring or stepping down from their roles within state and local associations. This changing of the old guard creates challenges for associations, as they must find ways to transfer knowledge and expertise to the next generation of leaders. The loss of experienced leaders can result in a knowledge gap and impact the ability of associations to effectively manage their operations and advocate for members.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to manage the transition of leadership to ensure continuity and stability. This will require a focus on leadership development, mentorship, and knowledge transfer to ensure that the next generation of leaders is prepared to take on their roles. Failure to address this challenge could result in a loss of expertise and effectiveness, ultimately impacting the ability of associations to serve their members and the industry.
Danger Index: 42/100
(High)
Probability: 4.0/5.0
(80% Chance)
Timing: 3.0/5.0
(3-5 Years)
Impact: 3.5/5.0
(Major Impact)

D9. Local Association Charter Revoked

The risk of local association charters being revoked creates uncertainty and instability.

In Context
Local associations operate under charters granted by state and national associations. However, there is a risk that these charters could be revoked due to non-compliance with standards or other issues. The revocation of a local association charter can create significant uncertainty and instability for members and the industry. It can also impact the ability of the association to effectively serve its members and advocate for the industry.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must ensure that they are in compliance with all standards and requirements to avoid the risk of charter revocation. This will require a focus on governance, accountability, and continuous improvement to ensure that associations are meeting the needs of their members and the industry. Failure to address this challenge could result in a loss of credibility and effectiveness, ultimately impacting the ability of associations to serve their members and advocate for the industry.
Danger Index: 36/100
(Moderate)
Probability: 3.0/5.0
(60% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 3.0/5.0
(Moderate Impact)

D10. The Dues Disconnect

The disconnect between dues and member value creates dissatisfaction and disengagement among members.

In Context
Many state and local associations rely on membership dues as a primary source of revenue. However, there is often a disconnect between the dues that members pay and the value that they perceive they are receiving in return. This disconnect can create dissatisfaction and disengagement among members, leading to a decline in membership and a loss of revenue. Ensuring that members perceive value in return for their dues is critical for the financial stability and effectiveness of associations.
Author's Perspective
State and local associations must find ways to ensure that members perceive value in return for their dues. This will require a focus on delivering high-quality services, resources, and support that meet the needs and expectations of members. Associations must also engage in regular communication and feedback with members to understand their needs and ensure that they are providing value. Failure to address this challenge could result in a decline in membership and a loss of revenue, ultimately impacting the ability of associations to effectively serve their members and the industry.
Danger Index: 30/100
(Moderate)
Probability: 3.0/5.0
(60% Chance)
Timing: 4.0/5.0
(1-3 Years)
Impact: 2.5/5.0
(Moderate Impact)

Classification and Index

In order to best evaluate and present each danger, an Index was cre- ated based on the probability (P) of each danger occurring, the future timing (T) of the potential danger, and the possible impact (I) of each danger. The combined scoring of these factors results in the PTI Index. The index is not scientific but rather a combined and weighted repre- sentation of the research, surveys, and interviews that enable the dangers to be placed in order of significance as to the level of danger they present.

The overall result of evaluating each danger is presented in the PTI index (Probability, Timing and Impact), which ranks the danger to provide a level of consistency between the dangers/sections of the report. The Danger Index represents a composite overall score.

#

5.0

4.0

3.0

2.0

1.0

Probability

100% Chance

80% Chance

60% Chance

40% Chance

20% Chance

Timing

1 Year

1-3 Years

3-5 Years

5-10 Years

10+ Years

Impact

Game Changer

Major Impact

Moderate Impact

Some Impact

No Impact

Danger Index

81-100, Critical

61-80, Severe

41-60, High

21-40, Moderate

0-20, Low