By Jamie Swann, Contributing Writer
On Terrell Newberry’s installation day as 2016 Northeast Florida Association of Realtors president, many in the audience were shocked when he entered the room in a wheelchair.
The usually lively 64-year-old Newberry was unable to stand while taking the oath of presidency.
“The love and compassion shown from everyone that day,” recalled Newberry. “That was a moment for me.”
The president has fully recovered from the autoimmune disorder. But he constantly remembers the encouragement he received that day and during his time in office.
“It was incredible to see the show of support. Support from people I didn’t even know,” he said. “They never once doubted me.”
With his successor recently elected at NEFAR’s September general meeting and luncheon, Newberry’s term is in its final months.
Knowing challenges the next president may face, Newberry suggests teamwork is fundamental for the association’s success.
“As president, we work closely with our leadership team in making decisions,” explained Newberry. “Everything we do is for the greater good of the association.”
Set to take office in January are veteran Realtors with more than a combined century of leadership experience in Northeast Florida.
Incoming officers include President Marc Jernigan of Exit Real Estate Gallery, President-elect Ben Bates of Coldwell Banker Ben Bates, Treasurer Jeanne Denton-Scheck of Watson Realty Corp. and Secretary Ron Harris of Harris Realty Partners.
“I believe that communication solves 95 percent of our problems,” said Jernigan when speaking of goals for his presidency. “We’re a large group so I’m looking forward to getting to know more people within our association and making sure that we all communicate better.”
With 7,242 members in August (including Realtors and business partner members in Duval, Clay, Putnam and St. Johns counties), NEFAR is the largest professional/trade association in Northeast Florida.
This year, NEFAR has achieved a steady growth in membership, adding a total of 431 new members since January.
Jernigan predicts the growth isn’t expected to slow any time soon. “With the market on an upswing, we see a high number of people turning to a career in real estate,” he said.
According to NEFAR, closed sales increased by 4.3 percent in August 2016 compared to August 2015.
The median sales price of homes also increased, up from $172,945 in August 2015 to $190,750 in August of this year.
“Population growth and demand for homes continues to be strong in Northeast Florida,” said Jernigan. “As Realtors, we must be ready to support these new homeowners.”
A Florida native, Jernigan intends to bring his love of the Sunshine State with him when he takes office, making the theme for 2017 “Professionalism in Paradise.”
“I’m a Florida-born Parrothead who enjoys the Florida lifestyle, but professionalism is still very high on my list,” said Jernigan, who has more than 15 years’ experience. “My theme stands as a reminder that we can have fun and enjoy our job as Realtors, but we must remain professional.”
Bates has 40 years of real estate experience and has served in several NEFAR leadership positions, including as its current treasurer.
Denton-Scheck is a longtime board member and officer in NEFAR, as well as a member of the Women’s Association of Realtors, Jacksonville chapter. She’s been in the business for more than 15 years.
Harris founded Harris Realty Partners and, for more than 30 years, has worked with builders and buyers in the Jacksonville market. He also is on the board of directors for the Northeast Florida Builders Association and is chairman of the Sales and Marketing Council.
With just three months until he takes office, Jernigan is excited for what lies ahead.
“I believe 2017 is going to be a great year for us,” said Jernigan. “I can’t wait to get started.”