In almost 24 years in real estate, I’ve learned many lessons. One of the biggest is that REALTORS® have opinions, often strong ones, and they’re never shy about sharing them.
I say that with respect and understanding because I’ve never been shy about speaking up either. I’ve spoken openly about the state of our industry and about the organization that represents more than 70,000 real estate professionals: the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB).
At its core, TRREB belongs to its Members. It serves us, represents us, and should always be listening to us.
In 2017, I began volunteering on committees; in 2021, I joined the Board; and in 2025, I was honoured to serve as President. I stepped forward because if I had ideas that could help TRREB operate more effectively, I believed I had a responsibility to try to make those ideas happen.
I know firsthand that TRREB’s staff and elected Directors are deeply committed to serving our Members. Much of their work, the complex policy work, governance decisions, operational improvements and government advocacy, happens behind the scenes, but it has a profound impact on our profession. It truly matters.
As President my role is to represent our Members, advocate for them and, most importantly, listen to them. And in 2025 I have heard a lot. I make a point of responding personally to every message I receive.
But it has become clear to all of us in TRREB’s leadership that the time has come for a more thorough, scientific, and representative understanding of what our Members think.
That’s why I’m so proud that TRREB has launched the most ambitious and comprehensive Member consultation in our organization’s history: Your Voice, Our Future.
In the email announcing the campaign I wrote:
“To serve you better, we need to hear directly from you, what’s working, what’s not, and where we can do better. Your insights will help us grow stronger, more connected, and more responsive to your needs. This initiative is about listening, learning, and evolving together. With input from more than 70,000 trusted professionals, we can ensure TRREB continues to reflect and support the Members it serves.”
If you have concerns about how we communicate, our professional development programs, our government advocacy, our systems or how TRREB does business in general, this is your opportunity to tell us. Your feedback will help guide the path ahead.
We want every Member to know they have a voice, and we want to draw on that collective wisdom as we shape TRREB’s future.
To ensure this consultation is meaningful and credible, we have engaged one of Canada’s most respected research firms, Pollara Strategic Insights. Pollara has launched a comprehensive survey of our entire membership, with follow up focus groups and town halls scheduled in early 2026.
TRREB will analyze the findings carefully and release an interim report in late winter, followed by a final report in the spring.
Meaningful, positive change only happens when we collaborate, communicate respectfully and engage constructively. That is what I hope to see in the months ahead.
It is crucial that Members participate in this consultation so that we receive the clearest and most accurate understanding of what our full membership truly thinks.
If you have opinions about what TRREB is doing, (and I know you do) then step up and speak out. We are listening.
Elechia Barry-Sproule
TRREB President