In 2020, REALTORS® Jill Wright and Corey Wright had an unexpected guest during filming for the National Association of REALTORS video series First-Time Buyer.

Every time the cameras started rolling outside, a loud, unseen bird interrupted the scene. When filming stopped, the bird went silent. The crew laughed through multiple takes, but the mystery bird was never found. It was a lighthearted start to what became a meaningful experience.

The Wrights, a husband-and-wife team with Keller Williams, serve clients in Smyrna, Georgia and the greater Atlanta area. They were invited to participate in the series and spent two full days filming. Like most TV productions, scenes were shot more than once to get the best angles and sound. Jill joked that they had to remind themselves not to end every take with their usual phrase, “Great — let’s check it out!”

Their episode followed a relaxed first-time buyer named Max, who toured about ten homes before choosing a three-bedroom house in Smyrna. Once his offer was accepted, a few serious issues surfaced.

An appraiser flagged a large hole in the backyard, concerned it might be a sinkhole. That could have delayed or stopped the loan process. After further inspection, experts determined it wasn’t a sinkhole, easing the lender’s concerns and keeping the deal alive.

Another challenge was a significant water leak near the electrical panel — a safety issue that needed immediate attention. The Wrights coordinated with professionals to assess the damage and negotiated seller credits to help cover repairs, including plumbing fixes and a new water heater.

Moments like these show what real estate professionals really do behind the scenes: solve problems, manage risk, and protect their clients’ interests.

Before real estate, Jill and Corey worked as actors and met in Atlanta. Today, they run a growing family business built on teamwork, communication, and staying calm when surprises pop up — whether it’s a backyard repair or a very loud bird.

Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“Jill and Corey Wright: A Rude Bird Was Just the Start”
National Association of REALTORS®

Every Veterans Day, we pause to honor the courage and sacrifice of the men and women who defended our country. But for real estate professionals, appreciation can go beyond words. It can show up in the work we do every day.

Leaders like Kenneth Cano have demonstrated what it truly means to continue serving after military life ends. Transitioning from the United States Air Force into real estate, Cano built his business around guiding fellow service members and veterans through one of life’s biggest milestones: homeownership.

In 2026, that mission matters more than ever.

Military families face unique challenges — frequent relocations, tight timelines, complex benefit structures and financing rules that many agents simply don’t understand. Programs like the VA Home Loan offer powerful advantages, but they require expertise and advocacy to use effectively in today’s competitive market.

That’s where Realtors® step in.

The National Association of REALTORS® continues to champion policies that protect veterans’ access to professional representation and fair housing opportunities. But policy alone isn’t enough. Real change happens locally — in your market, in your office, in your conversations.

This Veterans Day, Take Action:

• Educate Yourself. Pursue advanced training in VA financing and military relocation.
• Audit Your Marketing. Make sure your messaging clearly welcomes and supports military buyers and sellers.
• Host a Veteran-Focused Seminar. Partner with lenders who specialize in VA loans and offer value to your community.
• Advocate Confidently. In competitive situations, stand firm for your veteran clients and communicate the strength of their offers.
• Give Back. Volunteer with local veteran organizations or sponsor community events honoring service members.

Serving veterans isn’t a niche. It’s leadership.

This Veterans Day, let’s move beyond appreciation posts and commit to action. Let’s ensure every service member and veteran we encounter feels understood, represented and fiercely advocated for.

Because supporting those who served shouldn’t be seasonal — it should be part of who we are as Realtors®.

Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“Kenneth Cano: Supporting Those Who Serve”
National Association of REALTORS®

Finding “the one” — that perfect home — can feel overwhelming in today’s housing market. Inventory remains limited in many areas, prices are still elevated compared to pre-2020 levels, and interest rates continue to influence affordability. But the idea of a perfect home may need a modern update.

According to Twijana Echols-Jones, a REALTOR® featured by the National Association of REALTORS, many buyers get stuck searching for a “unicorn” property — one that checks every single box. In reality, the right home is often the one that offers strong potential and fits your long-term goals, even if it isn’t flawless on day one.

Instead of focusing only on cosmetic details, successful buyers in 2026 are learning to evaluate possibilities. Could an unused dining room become your home office? Could a modest backyard transform into an entertainment space? Could a home in a slightly different neighborhood offer better long-term value and community growth? Seeing beyond current finishes or outdated décor can open doors you might otherwise overlook.

Today’s market also requires confidence and preparation. That means understanding your financing options, getting pre-approved early, and knowing your budget comfort zone — not just your maximum approval amount. It also means moving decisively when a strong property hits the market.

For first-time buyers especially, education is key. Understanding closing costs, local assistance programs, inspection contingencies, and negotiation strategies can make the difference between frustration and success. The buying process may feel complex, but the right guidance and preparation can make it manageable.

Most importantly, remember that a home is more than a checklist. It’s where you’ll build routines, host celebrations, and create stability. The “perfect” home isn’t about perfection — it’s about alignment with your lifestyle, priorities, and future plans.

In 2026, finding “the one” is less about chasing flawless listings and more about recognizing opportunity when you see it.

Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“Twjana Echols-Jones: Reenvisioning ‘The One’”
National Association of REALTORS®

In today’s 2026 housing market, things look different than they did a few years ago. There’s more inventory in many areas, price growth has slowed, and buyers have a bit more room to negotiate. Even so, buying a home is still emotional — especially when family is involved.

That’s something REALTOR® Kim Watts knows firsthand. A few years ago, she appeared on the TV show First-Time Buyer while helping her nephew purchase his first home. What made it unique wasn’t the cameras — it was the family dynamic.

Her nephew quickly fell in love with one particular house. Kim knew it was a strong option and encouraged him to move quickly. But like many first-time buyers, he turned to family for advice. His mom suggested looking at a newer home before making a decision. That pause gave other buyers time to step in, and soon the home they loved was heading toward a bidding situation.

Situations like this are common. Family members mean well, but too many opinions can make it harder for buyers to stay focused on what they truly want. As an agent — and an aunt — Kim had to carefully balance honesty with support. She explained that acting sooner might have avoided the competition, while still respecting everyone’s input.

In the end, her nephew submitted a strong offer slightly above the asking price, and it was accepted. The home even appraised for more than he paid, giving him instant equity.

The experience was a reminder that real estate is about more than contracts and negotiations. It’s about guidance, clear communication, and helping people make confident decisions. Whether working with strangers or family, the goal stays the same: protect your client’s interests and help them reach a milestone they’ll never forget.

Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“Kim Watts: Mixing Business With Family”
National Association of REALTORS®

Success in real estate doesn’t always start with a lifelong plan. Sometimes it begins with a simple opportunity—and the willingness to learn.

That’s exactly how it started for Rachel Mooney, an Atlanta-area REALTOR® whose journey shows how growth and persistence can turn a beginner into a leader. Years ago, while studying business at college, she wasn’t planning on becoming a real estate professional. But when she heard the local housing market was booming, she decided to give it a try. She didn’t have all the answers. What she did have was curiosity and determination.

Fast forward to 2026, and she now leads a successful real estate team in metro Atlanta. Instead of being the one asking questions, she’s the one guiding buyers, sellers, and even newer agents through one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

What makes her story relatable is how honest it is. She started out not knowing much about contracts, financing, or negotiations—just like many first-time buyers don’t today. That experience shaped how she works. She understands that clients often feel overwhelmed at first. There’s paperwork, mortgage terms, interest rates, inspections—it’s a lot. Her goal is to slow things down, explain everything clearly, and help people feel confident instead of confused.

In today’s 2026 housing market, that kind of approach matters more than ever. Inventory shifts. Rates change. Buyers and sellers read headlines that can make the process feel intimidating. Having someone who can break it all down in plain language makes a huge difference.

She also appeared in the educational docuseries First-Time Buyer, which follows real couples navigating the homebuying process. The show highlights something important: real estate isn’t just about selling houses. It’s about teaching, advising, and empowering people.

Her journey proves a simple truth. Everyone starts somewhere. With the right mindset, today’s student can become tomorrow’s trusted guide. And in a market that keeps evolving, that kind of leadership is exactly what buyers and sellers need.

Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“Rachel Mooney: When the Student Becomes the Teacher”
National Association of REALTORS®

Real estate has always been about more than transactions. At its core, it’s about people, stability, and community. In 2026, REALTORS® across the country continue to prove that their role extends far beyond buying and selling homes—they are leaders, advocates, and changemakers.

From addressing food insecurity to supporting youth mentorship programs, REALTORS® are stepping up where help is needed most. Many are launching and leading nonprofit initiatives that provide mentorship to at-risk youth, helping young people build confidence, gain life skills, and see new possibilities for their futures. Others are organizing housing support programs, renovating properties for families in need, and partnering with local organizations to expand access to safe shelter.

Food security remains a pressing concern in many communities. REALTORS® are coordinating meal programs, weekend backpack initiatives for students, and community dining events that ensure families have reliable access to nutritious food. These programs not only meet basic needs but also create connection and dignity.

Beyond hands-on service, real estate professionals are leveraging their networks and leadership skills to raise funds, mobilize volunteers, and build strategic partnerships. Their expertise in housing, negotiation, and community planning uniquely positions them to make lasting, structural impact.

Volunteerism within the profession continues to grow. Many REALTORS® dedicate consistent hours each month to local causes, serve on nonprofit boards, and host fundraising events that strengthen neighborhoods. This culture of giving is not tied to market conditions—it reflects a deeper commitment to community wellbeing.

The drive to serve defines the REALTOR® identity in 2026. It reinforces public trust, strengthens local relationships, and reminds communities that real estate professionals are invested in more than property values—they’re invested in people.

Service is not an extra responsibility. It is a core value. And through continued compassion, leadership, and action, REALTORS® are helping build stronger communities for the future.

Source: REALTOR® Magazine
“The Drive to Serve’”
National Association of REALTORS®