2027 Slate of Candidates
The Nominating Committees have selected your GAAR & SWMLS Candidates for the 2027 Board of Directors Election.
Vote online Monday, October 19th - Sunday, October 25th.
GAAR Board Positions Open
Director Positions & Candidates
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5 Director Positions for 2027-2028 (2-year term)
- Larissa Alarid-Martinez
- Morgan Cannaday
- Cathy Colvin
- Rick DeVoss
- Steve Gritchen
- Brennan Posen
- Natalie Reyes
- Adam Trujillo
Officer Positions & Candidates
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President-elect (1-year term)
- Amy Neal
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Vice President (1-year term)
- Eanika Nunez
GAAR Candidate Questionnaires
DIRECTOR CANDIDATES
Larissa is running for GAAR Director, download her full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
For Albuquerque specifically, the challenge isn't that homes aren't selling. It's that homes are no longer selling simply because they're listed. Success today depends on pricing correctly from the start, preparing the home well, and executing a strong marketing strategy. Expertise makes a measurable difference now more than ever. Buyers have more negotiating power than they did a few years ago. They are more likely to negotiate repairs, request seller concessions, or receive closing cost assistance, and they generally have more time to evaluate their options before making an offer. While affordability is still a challenge, today's market offers opportunities for well-prepared buyers who have a clear strategy.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
One of the greatest ways the association can remain relevant is by providing practical, hands-on education that members can immediately apply to their businesses. Beyond meeting continuing education requirements, we should offer training that reflects today's market pricing strategies, negotiations, technology, AI, social media marketing, risk management, and business planning. Just as important is recognizing that Realtors are at different stages of their careers and serve different types of clients. A new broker has different needs than a seasoned professional, and those specializing in residential, luxury, land, commercial, property management, investment properties, or short-term rentals each face unique challenges. By providing targeted education, mentorship, and resources for every career stage and every real estate niche, the association can become an indispensable partner that helps members grow their expertise, adapt to change, and better serve their clients throughout their careers.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
Over the next two years, I believe GAAR has an opportunity to become even more essential to its members by focusing on the unique needs of our local market while preparing Realtors for the future. Albuquerque and the surrounding communities have their own challenges, including affordability, limited inventory, growth patterns, new construction, and the differences between neighborhoods and property types. GAAR can provide unique value by offering more practical, in-person education that addresses these local challenges, helping members understand market data, improve negotiation skills, strengthen their businesses, and adapt to changing consumer expectations. There is also an opportunity to better support Realtors across all stages of their careers and specialties, from new brokers building a foundation to experienced professionals serving niches such as residential, land, commercial, luxury, investment properties, and new construction.
The next two years will also be an important time to strengthen the connection between Realtors, the association, and the community. By increasing collaboration, expanding mentorship opportunities, embracing technology, and continuing to advocate for housing solutions, GAAR can help members not only navigate change but lead through it.
Morgan is running for GAAR Director, download her full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
The real estate industry continues to face significant challenges surrounding housing affordability and accessibility. Home prices remain out of reach for many buyers relative to household incomes, while higher interest rates impact monthly payments and therefore reduce purchasing power. Limited and mismatched inventory (especially affordable, entry level housing) continues to constrain the market as well.
The industry is also facing an issue of public trust. Recent national lawsuits and settlements concerning real estate commissions have brought increased scrutiny to industry practices, compensation and our value/necessity in the real estate transaction.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
Instead of assuming we know what our fellow members need, we should regularly ask: What is your biggest challenge right now? Where are you losing time? What do you wish you had help with? Then, we can use that feedback to shape education, technology offerings, communication, and member services.
Our Tech Tune-Up events are a wonderful example of taking the extra step to provide our members with one-on-one help and support.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
Changes coming to the appraisal industry are sure to have a large impact on us in coming months - UAD 3.6 will provide consumers with improved data and consistency, BUT the additional time, technology, and training required for appraisers, combined with a wave of retiring appraisers, will inevitably lead to fewer appraisers in the market, longer appraisal turnaround times, and higher costs for consumers.
Our association should proactively collaborate with local appraisers, GAAR's Appraisal Committee, and legislators to understand these challenges and advocate for practical solutions. It is critical that laws governing appraisers remain aligned with The Appraisal Foundation’s national standards and qualifications, helping reduce unnecessary barriers, support the next generation of appraisers, and maintain timely, affordable appraisal services to consumers.
Cathy is running for GAAR Director, download her full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
There are many........ Here are just a few:
- High interest rates and financing costs
- Housing affordability and limited inventory
- Economic uncertainty affecting buyers and investors
- Changing regulations and zoning restrictions
- Technology disruption, including AI and digital platforms
- Construction costs and labor shortages
- Climate risks and rising insurance costs
- Changing consumer preferences, especially demand for flexible/remote work spaces
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
By providing value to the membership. With all the challenges facing our industry, staying relevant is more important than ever. As SWMLS moves toward an open MLS model, GAAR cannot rely solely on MLS access to demonstrate the value of membership. We need to clearly communicate and continually enhance the benefits GAAR provides—advocacy, education, professional development, networking, leadership opportunities, community involvement, and resources that help REALTORS® grow their businesses. As a leader, I want to help GAAR adapt to this changing environment, listen to what members need, and make sure membership provides value that REALTORS® cannot get simply by accessing MLS data.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
We are navigating a rapidly changing industry, with shifts in the market, evolving policies, never ending lawsuits and acquisitions and increasing demands on our businesses. It critical that we remain nimble and able to shift quickly.
Rick is running for GAAR Director, download his full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
Teaching buyers how to prepare for a loan application so they can afford a house in today's market.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
Offer more educational programs that don't focus on "CE" so much, and provide new members with the big picture of how the Association operates.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
It is possible that politics will become a unique challenge over the next two years. We need to assure that the Association can operate in an autonomous fashion and rid ourselves of all political influences.
Steve is running for GAAR Director, download his full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
- Low Income Housing
- Rent Control
- Property Taxes
- Inventory
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
Continue to publish and talk about all the benefits available.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
- Affordability becomes a policy fight, not just a talking point.
- Tech adoption is now table stakes, with AI layered on top.
Brennan is running for GAAR Director, download his full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
AI and public perception are extremely large challenges that we face in the coming years. We have to be able to adapt and utilize the tools available to us without overdoing it. We also need to see if current rules and regulations are in place to promote honesty in all listings.
I think another big battle we are facing right now is still supply and rates. Supply is incredibly low and GAAR should work with local builders to see how we can advocate to change the building process for the better.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
I think GAAR sometimes comes off as a popularity contest and we could do a much better job of giving pertinent and wanted information. We need to find a way to stay relevant and provide resources that Realtors will actually use.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
The next few years will shape how RE evolves and continues for the future. We are going to have to adapt to a rough market, dealing with AI, new technology, new rules and regulations, and navigating a tough financial market at the same time.
Natalie is running for GAAR Director, download her full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
Buyers unsure of market conditions, interest rates, economic confusion and some realtors not providing accurate information.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
GAAR has been great in my opinion. This is why I want to be part of this. I can help the growth and benefits. In addition I can bring fresh ideas and add value to something that is already valuable!
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
AI and app benefits.
Adam is running for GAAR Director, download his full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
AI and automation are changing the way business is done. Zillows large takeover has been pushing out realtors or making them adjust their business models.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
Let them know the benefits of their membership rather than seeming like a disciplinary force. Listen to ideas and implement in a democratic way.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
AI changes and large corporate takeovers. The political implementations in our local government on affordable housing and tax incentives to bring in large corporations bringing in more buyers.
OFFICER CANDIDATES
Amy is running for GAAR President-elect, download her full answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
I think we are still in education mode regarding the settlement. Consumers still have lots of questions, so being knowledgeable ourselves is important. Gaining the trust of our clients should be the most important goal of brokers. Also, it is getting increasingly difficult for buyers to be able to afford comfortable housing. Our lower inventory is driving somewhat of a seller's market, making things even more challenging for buyers.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
During my last several years on the Board, I have seen how committed they are to solving problems, and doing their best to create better member satisfaction. We still have some work to do, but we are making progress.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
I think transitioning into working with a new CEO will be the most unique thing we will face in the next year. I'm also looking forward to the continued growth of our event center revenue as well.
Eanika is running for GAAR Vice President, download her answers HERE.
Challenges Facing the Current Real Estate Industry:
Affordability, inventory, changing regulations, new contracts and ensuring REALTORS® continue to demonstrate professionalism and value to consumers.
How Do You Feel GAAR Could Be More Relevant to Our Members?
By strengthening communication, increasing member engagement, and clearly demonstrating how the Association’s advocacy, resources, and leadership decisions directly benefit our members.
What Do You Feel Will Be Unique About the Next Two-Year Time Frame?
The next two years will bring a lot of change and opportunity. We will welcome a new CEO, implement our new strategic plan, and embrace new technology like Dash. I think strong leadership, adaptability, and communication will be especially important during this transition.
SWMLS Board Positions Open
Director Positions & Candidates
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2 Director Positions for 2027
- Courtney Byrd
- Carmen Cavnar
Officer Positions & Candidates
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President-elect (1-year term)
- Sam Sandoval
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Treasurer (1-year term)
- Linda Coy
This board is comprised of both Participants and Subscribers. To keep the proper balance, the SWMLS Board must always have more Participants than Subscribers. With five seats open this year, only one could go to a Subscriber, so most, if not all, Participants will fill seats.
SWMLS Candidate Questionnaires
DIRECTOR CANDIDATES
Courtney is running for SWMLS Director, download her full answers HERE.
What leadership skills do you bring to the role?
My background in education, real estate mentoring, and compiance has given me a unique perspective that would be an asset to the SWMLS Board.
The skills I developed as an educator continue to serve me well in real estate. I currently mentor new brokers, helping them navigate the business and build confidence in their careers.
For the past two years, I have also had the privilege of serving as Chair of the SWMLS Compliance Committee. This experience has strengthened my leadership skills and taught me the importance of fairness, objectivity, collaboration, and listening to different perspectives before making decisions.
I believe my greatest strengths as a leader are my ability to communicate, bring people together, and make thoughtful decisions based on what is best for our membership.
Most importantly, I genuinely care about helping Realtors succeed!
What is the role of the SWMLS and what are the challenges facing SWMLS moving forward?
The main role of the SWMLS is data collection, accuracy and collaboration.
I think one of the biggest challenges moving forward is AI. Maintaining data accuracy, security, and compliance is important and we will have to keep up with that.
Another challenge will be making sure our rules and resources continue to evolve with the way Realtors actually do business. Technology and rules are important, but understanding what Realtors need in the field is just as important. SWMLS should be a partner in our success, not simply technology we get to use.
What are the strengths of the SWMLS core software and affiliated technology offerings and where do you see room for improvement and/or change?
Flex recently had a facelift and I like the new look! Since Flex is at the core of what we do as Realtors, I have no complaints about it. It's the only platform I've used so I don't know any different.
Forewarn has provided so much peace of mind and countless hours saved on potential scams, I seriously couldn't do my business without it.
I know others love the data and analytics other technologies provide and to be honest, they aren't my cup of tea. I will leave that to Tego and continue to share his expertise with those around me who want to know 😊
Where do I see room for improvement? Sometimes the challenge isn't having more technology but making sure we are getting the most out of the technology we already have. I would like to see SWMLS continue to focus on education, communication, and feedback from its members when evaluating future technology and improvements. The Tech Committee does a fantastic job at this!
Carmen is running for SWMLS Director, download her full answers HERE.
What leadership skills do you bring to the role?
I have been a New Mexico real estate broker since 2018, working with buyers, sellers, investors, military families, first-time homebuyers, and Spanish-speaking clients. I have a bachelor’s degree in accounting and hold the RENE and Military Relocation Professional certifications.
I currently serve as Chair of GAAR’s ABCD Committee and am also involved with the Government Affairs and LEAP committees. At the state level, I serve on NMAR’s Spanish Forms Subcommittee, where I have helped with efforts to make real estate forms and information more accessible to Spanish-speaking brokers and consumers.
I believe in being involved because it helps me stay on top of industry trends and understand the changes affecting our business. As an active broker, I use the MLS tools, forms, and data regularly, so I understand how the decisions made by SWMLS affect subscribers in their day-to-day work.
I bring the perspective of an active broker, committee leader, bilingual professional, and business owner. I ask questions, listen to different viewpoints, and am not afraid to speak up when I believe there may be a better way. I am dependable, I follow through, and I understand that serving on the Board means looking beyond my own business and considering what is best for all SWMLS Participants and Subscribers.
What is the role of the SWMLS and what are the challenges facing SWMLS moving forward?
The role of SWMLS is to provide accurate and reliable property information, create and enforce rules that support cooperation between brokers, and provide the tools and resources we need to serve our clients. SWMLS also has a responsibility to protect the integrity of its data and make decisions that benefit the membership as a whole.
I believe one of the biggest challenges moving forward is making sure members understand all the benefits and technology already included with their SWMLS membership. GAAR and SWMLS have done a good job of making this information available, but many members are busy and may not realize everything they have access to or how those tools can help their business.
SWMLS will also need to keep up with artificial intelligence, data security, industry changes, and changing consumer expectations. Clear communication and education will be very important. Short demonstrations, a simple benefits checklist, a “Tool of the Month,” and presentations at brokerage meetings could help members see how these resources can save them time, improve their business, and keep them safer. Sometimes members do not need more information; they need to see how a benefit can solve a real problem in their daily work.
What are the strengths of the SWMLS core software and affiliated technology offerings and where do you see room for improvement and/or change?
One of SWMLS’s biggest strengths is the number of tools it provides to help us work more efficiently and safely. Flexmls gives us access to reliable property and market information, ShowingTime makes scheduling easier, and FOREWARN adds an important layer of safety when meeting new clients. These tools support different parts of our business and help us provide better service to the public.
The opportunity for improvement is helping more subscribers understand what is available and how to use it. SWMLS and GAAR provide a lot of information and training, but members are busy, and many may not realize the full value of their benefits. I would like to see more short, practical demonstrations that show how each tool can solve a problem or save time in our daily business. I also think subscriber feedback should continue to be considered when evaluating existing technology or adding something new.
OFFICER CANDIDATES
Sam is running for SWMLS President-elect, download his full answers HERE.
What leadership skills do you bring to the role?
I have had the privilege of serving as a real estate qualifying broker for the past 20 years, an experience that has provided me with invaluable knowledge, perspective, and a deep understanding of our industry. Throughout my career, I have developed skills that have contributed not only to my professional success, but also to my growth as a leader and business owner.
It would be an honor to serve as President of the SWMLS Board. I would bring to the role the qualities I believe are essential to effective leadership: trust, honesty, accountability, and, above all, integrity. These principles have guided me throughout my career and are values I believe should remain at the heart of everything we do.
Owning and operating a business has also provided me with tremendous leadership experience. I have had the opportunity to work with and lead employees, brokers, and industry professionals, while developing the ability to manage both people and financial responsibilities effectively. These experiences have taught me the importance of communication, collaboration, sound decision making, and treating people with respect.
After 20 years in this industry, I believe I have the experience, leadership skills, and commitment necessary to serve our members and help guide SWMLS toward continued growth and success. I would be honored to have the opportunity to give back to an industry that has given me so much.
What is the role of the SWMLS and what are the challenges facing SWMLS moving forward?
SWMLS plays a critical role in the areas of data and technology, serving as a trusted resource for our members and the broader real estate community. Our responsibility extends far beyond simply collecting data. We are responsible for collecting, storing, maintaining, validating, cleaning, analyzing, protecting, and researching data so that our members can rely on accurate and meaningful information to make informed business decisions.
At the same time, SWMLS provides technology and tools that enable our members to operate more efficiently, improve their businesses, and better serve their clients on a daily basis. As technology continues to evolve, our role is to ensure that these tools remain relevant, secure, innovative, and aligned with the needs of the professionals who depend on them.
One of the greatest challenges we face is the extraordinary pace at which technology, particularly artificial intelligence, is advancing. AI creates tremendous opportunities, but it also raises important questions about data ownership, privacy, security, and control. Who has access to our data? Where is that data being stored and processed? How is it being used, shared, or repurposed? And, perhaps most importantly, how do we ensure that our data is being handled responsibly and in a way that protects the interests of our members?
These questions require us to be proactive rather than reactive. SWMLS must continue to understand emerging technologies, establish appropriate safeguards, strengthen data governance, and develop better ways to monitor and control how our data is accessed and utilized. Our goal is not to resist innovation, but to embrace it responsibly—ensuring that technology and AI work for our members while maintaining the trust, security, accuracy, and integrity of the data entrusted to us.
Ultimately, SWMLS has an important responsibility to balance innovation with stewardship. As data and technology become increasingly central to the real estate industry, our ability to protect, manage, and strategically leverage these resources will be essential to the continued success of our members.
What are the strengths of the SWMLS core software and affiliated technology offerings and where do you see room for improvement and/or change?
SWMLS has a significant core strength in its MLS database and FlexMLS. These have been an integral part of our industry for many years, and it is important that we continue to invest in keeping them relevant, innovative, and responsive to the evolving needs of our members. For most active brokers, the MLS is not simply a resource they access occasionally, it is an essential part of their daily business. It supports everything from listing management and market analysis to collaboration, client service, and business development.
One of the greatest strengths of the MLS is the power of the shared database. It allows our members to enter, maintain, and access accurate information while also making that information available across our membership and, where appropriate, beyond it. This shared system creates an environment where brokers and agents can work together more effectively, regardless of the size of their organization or the market they serve. In many ways, the collective value of the MLS is far greater than the value of any individual participant's data because it creates a common platform for cooperation and transparency across the industry.
Looking ahead, I believe there is an opportunity to further strengthen this value through improved data sharing and collaboration across state lines. Real estate does not stop at a state boundary, and neither should our ability to effectively share information and serve clients. I would like to explore how SWMLS can work more closely with our regional MLS partners and neighboring states to create greater interoperability, more consistent data standards, and a smoother experience for brokers who operate across multiple markets.
There is an opportunity for us to think beyond our individual MLS organizations and consider how we can cooperate as a broader industry. By strengthening our relationships with regional and state partners, we can create a more connected data ecosystem that benefits our members, improves the consumer experience, and ensures that FlexMLS and the MLS database remain powerful and relevant tools for the future of real estate.
Linda is running for SWMLS President-elect, download her full answers HERE.
What leadership skills do you bring to the role?
Having previously served on the SWMLS Board of Directors, I understand both the responsibilities of the position and the importance of ensuring that the MLS continues to meet the evolving needs of its members. I have enjoyed the work of SWMLS and appreciate the role it plays in addressing industry changes, evaluating technology that best serves our membership, and developing policies that help brokers adapt and succeed in a rapidly changing environment.
During my previous term, SWMLS faced significant challenges, including the NAR lawsuits, Clear Cooperation, and changes related to buyer brokerage. I was honored to serve as a director during that time and to participate in the discussions, strategic planning, and development of best practices that helped guide our members through those transitions.
In addition to my board experience, I bring leadership, managing my current associates, industry knowledge, 30+ years as a Realtor member and a commitment to serving our membership. I value collaboration, thoughtful decision-making, and open discussion and I would welcome the opportunity to once again be an active and productive member of the SWMLS Board of Directors.
What is the role of the SWMLS and what are the challenges facing SWMLS moving forward?
Some of the greatest challenges facing SWMLS will be keeping pace with rapidly changing technology while protecting the accuracy, security and value of MLS data. SWMLS will be navigating the increasingly complex regulations and the very competitive environment to continue to be relevant and the source for the data. SWMLS must continue to innovate and provide tools that make our members more efficient, while ensuring those tools are practical and accessible to brokers at every level. At the same time, protecting the integrity of our data and maintaining the MLS as a trusted, neutral and reliable source of information will become increasingly important as outside technology companies expand their use of real estate data. Ultimately, I believe SWMLS must continue to demonstrate its value by putting the needs of its members and the integrity of the marketplace at the center of every major decision.
What are the strengths of the SWMLS core software and affiliated technology offerings and where do you see room for improvement and/or change?
SWMLS has done a great job with software and technology choices. The platforms that have been added over the past few years continue to help keep the data accurate while making the tasks of the members easier to accomplish. Things that used to take a lot of time or we had to go to multiple sources are now easily managed with the offering of Forewarn, Real Reports, Flexmls, Rentspree, Property Shield and the new Domus Analytics. All this technology and the tools are easily accessed with a single sign-on to the GAAR/SWMLS platform. I see SWMLS using the tech committee to vet all the latest products and choosing those that fit the needs of the members to help them in their Real Estate careers.