On the 15th episode of PNW Mike Check, Mike Connolly sits down with Russell Hokanson, CEO of Seattle King County Association of Realtors. With over 15 years of experience at the association, Russel talks about the positive impact they have made and continue to make for their members, the real estate community throughout the greater Seattle area, and Washington.

As a Washington Native, Russel started his career in politics with an internship with Congressman Joel Prichard, which turned into a full time offer as a Legislative Aide in Washington DC. Within this role, Russel was in charge of listening to constituents' opinions and needs which ultimately helped him understand the bigger picture of how leaders work with others to come to an agreement. These skills translate into his current role as CEO, where he helps the leaders of the association grow and serve their community. 

As the largest trade organization in the country, The National Association of Realtors has chapters throughout the United States, both on the State and local levels, that work together to advance the industry. Russell explains that the members of the association receive a wide variety of educational opportunities, as well as a forum to voice their opinions on issues that affect the industry. Through resources like the Government Affairs Committee, issues such as housing supply or state legislation that affects consumers is analyzed and advocated for through the association, all driven by members. 

When asked about the association’s response to addressing inequity in real estate, Russell explained that it was important that the association acknowledge the history of discrimination that has happened in real estate, and then work to ensure that every aspect of the business is equitable moving forward. Through committees like the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, the Seattle King County Association of Realtors continues to take actionable steps to better the industry. 

We ended our interview with a piece of advice from Russell: 

“If you are a broker, make sure you are a realtor.” 

The breadth of the impact of the Seattle King County Association of Realtors is truly incredible and it was a pleasure to take a deeper dive into that impact with Russell. To learn more about the Seattle King County Association of Realtors visit their website here: https://www.nwrealtor.com/

To hear the rest of their interview, watch our latest podcast below or listen here: or listen on Apple , Spotify or Amazon!