When a first responder receives an emergency call, instinct and experience kick in, and they immediately jump into action. Tony Barrett, Broker/Owner of Barrett Realty, a former paramedic, firefighter, and the newly installed 2024 RASM President, embodies this spirit of action and dedication. His journey, marked by a rich history of service, leadership, and advocacy, reflects a commitment to both his community and the real estate profession. On December 7, guests of the 2023 Installation and Awards Banquet heard from outgoing president Brian Tresidder, and 2024 RASM President Tony Barrett presented his vision for the Association in the New Year. In addition, during the banquet, the 2024 RASM officers and directors were installed, and nine award winners were recognized.
During his speech, Tony expressed gratitude to Brian Tresidder and the numerous REALTOR® volunteers for their dedicated past and ongoing service to the Association. Additionally, he took the opportunity to share his industry experience, and unveil his theme and goals for the Association in the upcoming year.
FROM COMBAT MEDIC TO REAL ESTATE LEADER
Tony’s journey began as a Combat Medic in the U.S. Army, where he honed his skills in emergency medical services. Following his military service, he transitioned seamlessly into a 30-year career as a paramedic with the Sarasota Fire Department, demonstrating a passion for helping others. Concurrent with his firefighting career, Tony founded Barrett Realty, initially operating from his Myakka City home. Today, the brokerage boasts a team of diligent and knowledgeable real estate agents dedicated to ensuring client protection and transactional seamlessness.
Tony’s commitment to others extends to his role as the 2024 RASM President, where he actively serves both his clients and fellow RASM members. Drawing on his emergency services background, he brings problem-solving skills to the forefront, ensuring the Association’s objectives align with the needs of its diverse membership.
HEROES WELCOME HOME: BRIDGING THE GAP FOR VETERANS
In 2012, Tony established Heroes Welcome Home, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization aimed at assisting veterans in the home-buying process. It originated after Tony witnessed a returning veteran get denied a loan because of an insufficient work history. Focused on providing down payment assistance, education on home buying, credit repair, and other services, the charity has become a beacon of hope for those who served.
RECOGNITIONS AND INVOLVEMENT
Tony’s impactful contributions have garnered well-deserved recognition. In 2016, he received the prestigious RASM Humanitarian Award - an honor reserved for outstanding members who make significant community contributions through volunteer work. This esteemed accolade underscored Tony’s exceptional efforts in establishing Heroes Welcome Home, showcasing his unwavering commitment to creating positive change within the community. Beyond this, Tony plays an integral role in real estate leadership, currently serving on the Florida REALTORS® Board of Directors, and previously serving as the RASM Leadership Institute Chair in 2019, and as the Chair of the RASM Green Committee in 2018. These diverse responsibilities reflect Tony’s broad and influential presence within the real estate community, further emphasizing his dedication to shaping a better future.
Furthermore, Tony is a distinguished graduate of the 2020 Florida REALTORS® Leadership Academy, a rigorous program designed to develop emerging REALTOR® leaders aspiring to make a meaningful impact, foster business growth, and enhance their leadership acumen. The challenges of 2020 made the Academy even more demanding as businesses grappled with navigating unprecedented circumstances. Tony’s active participation in the program during this tumultuous period underscores his unwavering commitment to continuous professional development, highlighting his resilience and determination to excel in the face of adversity.
THEME FOR THE NEW YEAR: MEMBERS FIRST
As the 2024 RASM President, Tony’s guiding theme revolves around prioritizing “Members First,” underscoring the critical importance of fostering engagement and collaboration within the real estate community.
“This year, my theme is simple: ‘Members First.’ It’s all about looking at what we do every day and making sure it lines up with our mission, vision, and strategic plan, and, most importantly, supports our members. Placing our members at the forefront and addressing their specific needs must be our topmost priority. Covid presented us with a new perspective from which we continue to glean insights. Navigating the unknown presented challenges in engaging our membership, but those challenges helped us recognize the importance of not taking for granted the inherent value within our community, the value of coming together to share insights and collaborate,” said Barrett.
The overarching theme of “Members First” entails a focus to ensure that every need is thoroughly met, particularly given the challenges our industry is currently facing. The Association’s primary responsibility lies in addressing these challenges to empower REALTORS® with the necessary tools and support to adeptly navigate the prevailing climate.
“The recent verdict in the Burnett vs. NAR case has injected an element of uncertainty into our industry, yet I perceive it as a call to action,” said Barrett. “While we undeniably find ourselves in challenging times, now is the moment to reclaim our industry and underscore the true worth of Realtors®. Our role extends beyond facilitating transactions; it encompasses continuous skill development and extends to advocacy for private property rights. We actively engage in lobbying efforts in Tallahassee, advocating for legislation that enhances our profession. Realtors® are not just valuable; we are indispensable. It is imperative that we demonstrate our worth to the public, emphasizing the contributions we bring to the real estate landscape. In addition, we need to foster collaboration with both the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and state associations, ensuring that accurate information reaches our membership, now more than ever before,” added Barrett.
STRATEGIC PLAN AND GOALS FOR 2024
In his role as President, Tony is steadfast in upholding the Association’s dedication to the four pillars outlined in the strategic plan (engage, learn, impact, and lead), with a specific emphasis on promoting diversity. His objective is to strengthen RASM’s influence in the real estate sector, advocating for the timely and precise dissemination of information to ensure the Association remains a reliable and influential voice within the industry.
ADVICE FOR FUTURE LEADERS
Tony aims to inspire others to get involved, drawing from his own experience of receiving encouragement.
“To be completely honest, I wouldn’t be standing here if it weren’t for some key people who tapped me on the shoulder and said, ‘You’ve got this.’ And looking around, I see potential in others who can follow that same path. The energy and wisdom of the people I’ve been surrounded by over the years have taught me so much, and my business has thrived because of the incredible individuals in this Association. I’ve made lifelong friendships with people who genuinely care about my well-being, and I care about theirs. Encourage those around you to step up and get involved; encourage them to be the leaders of tomorrow.”
As the 2024 RASM President, Tony will continue to inspire, urging collaboration, engagement, and a renewed focus on the needs of real estate professionals and their clients.
“We are one big family, and together, we will do great things,” added Barrett. “However, it’s crucial to remember to be kind and non-judgmental. Every one of us has faced struggles at some point in our lives, so let’s be mindful of this on a day-to-day basis. Let’s get out there, excel in property sales, demonstrate our value, engage in teaching, learning, and mentoring, collectively raising the standards. Together, let’s uphold our reputation as the finest local Association on the planet. Here’s to a stellar 2024 for the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota Manatee!”
2023 INSTALLATION HIGHLIGHTS
Newly Installed Officers
- President: Tony Barrett, Barrett Realty, Inc.
- President-Elect: Debi Reynolds, Florida SunCoast Real Estate
- Vice President: David Crawford, Catalist Realty
- Treasurer: Anita Lambert, Premier Sothebys Int’l Realty
2023 - 2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
- Beth Beckert, Sarasota Global Realty
- Jessica Bow, RE/MAX Platinum Realty
- Nathan Butrum, NextHome Excellence
- Pam Charron, Compass Florida, LLC
- Rachel McCoy, Florida SunCoast Real Estate
- Amy MacDougall, Ian Black Real Estate
- Marcia McLaughlin, RE/MAX Alliance Group
- Julia Montei, Coldwell Banker Realty
- Brian J. Partie, Preferred SHORE
- Derek Patti, NextHome Excellence
- Brian Tresidder as Immediate Past President, William Raveis Real Estate
2023 Award Recipients
- REALTOR® of the Year
Alex Krumm, NextHome Excellence - President’s Award
Brian J. Partie, Preferred SHORE Real Estate - Distinguished Service Award
Amy Worth, RE/MAX Platinum Realty - Global Commitment Award
Patricia Tan, Coldwell Banker Realty - YPN Member of the Year
Vicki Haddow, Coldwell Banker Realty - Commercial REALTOR® of the Year
Kenneth E. Hoskinson, Jr., Hembree & Associates, Inc. - Newcomer Award
Vannesa Poole, Catalist Realty - Business Partner of the Year
Robert J. Massanova, SWF Home Inspections
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