The Greater Albuquerque Association of REALTORS® gathered on Friday, March 6, at the Marriott Pyramid North to celebrate the outstanding achievements of its members during the Annual Awards Gala. The evening recognized professionals whose dedication, leadership, and service continue to strengthen the real estate community across the Albuquerque region.

The celebration was hosted by 2026 GAAR Immediate Past President Christopher Shain Tanner and 2026 GAAR President Chris Venegas, who guided attendees through an evening focused on recognizing excellence in the profession. From rising stars to longtime industry leaders, the honorees represent the commitment and expertise that define the REALTOR® community.

Throughout the evening, GAAR honored the following 2025 award recipients:

2025 GAAR Award Winners

REALTOR® of the Year

Belinda Franco, The Hive Real Estate Collective 

Doyle Pargin Lifetime Achievement Award

Ian Caird, Bruce Caird Realtors

Sales Manager of the Year

David Lynch,  Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

S.A.L.E.S. Award
(Sales, Achievement, Leadership, and Excellence in Service)

Michelle Rohl, ERA Summit

Rookie of the Year

Franky Armendariz,  Coldwell Banker Legacy

Rookie on a Team

Dasi Amedi, Coldwell Banker Legacy

Affiliate of the Year

Martha Maldonado, Fidelity  National Home Warranty

GAAR Family Scholarship Recipients

Santos Peña, Keller Williams Realty

Prabhu Jot Khalsa, ERA Summit

Each award highlights a different aspect of professional excellence. Some recipients were recognized for leadership and mentorship, others for community impact, and several for impressive early career success. Together, they reflect the depth of talent and dedication within GAAR membership.

The Annual Awards Gala continues to be one of the association’s most anticipated traditions, offering a chance for colleagues, friends, and industry partners to celebrate the accomplishments that move the profession forward.

Congratulations to all of the 2025 GAAR Award Winners for their achievements and their continued contributions to the Albuquerque real estate community!

OUR  SPONSORS

DIAMOND

Fidelity National Title of New Mexico

PLATINUM

Nusenda Credit Union

GOLD

Fidelity National Home Warranty
GECU Federal Credit Union
Guild Mortgage
Next Level Restoration and Remodel
Pop-A-Lock of Albuquerque
Richmond American Homes

SILVER

Bank of Albuquerque Mortgage
Envoy Mortgage
First American Title
Kirtland Credit Union
My Auction Addiction

BRONZE

Black Mesa Property Inspections
Antoinette Baca, Farmers Insurance
Goosehead Insurance
Old Republic Title

PHOTO BOOTH

Jen Hernandez, CMG Mortgage

MAGICIAN

Terry George, Avid-Home Inspections

MASK CONTEST

Hutt Team, Bell Bank Mortgage