2021 DMAR Director Candidate Slate

All REALTOR® members may vote for candidates running for the at-large position in the South/East District. Only North District members (determined by their preferred mailing address) may vote for candidates running in the North District, only West District members may vote for candidates in the West District, only Central District members may vote for candidates in the Central District and only South/East District members may vote for candidates in the South/East District. Online voting will open Wednesday, June 30th and close at 12:00 PM on Wednesday, July 7th. If you do not receive the correct ballot please contact Amber Alvarado at 303-300- 8489 or aalvarado@dmarealtors.com.

Central District Candidates (one open District position)

Angela Livingston, Z Property

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I have been working in the real estate industry since 2008. I have worked with many of the top names in this market and have learned a great deal. When I was first licensed I wanted to be a part of everything but I did not have the time. Now that I am more established in my career I have the time and the confidence to take on this role. I have lived in Colorado my whole life. I grew up in Colorado Springs, moved to Boulder for my undergraduate studies and then moved to Denver in 2008. I have worked with the non-profit Raise the Future (formerly The Adoption Exchange) for over a decade in several capacities. First as a volunteer, then as their Young Professional Ambassador, a private fundraiser and on the board of directors for their annual gala and largest yearly fundraiser. I am very much looking forward to this opportunity to serve my fellow REALTORS® and to help promote and protect the brand.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Market disruptors: ibuyers, automation, etc.
2. Inventory
3. The belief that we provide no value. I work very hard to show clients, friends and family the value of REALTORS®.

Colton Harris, PorchLight Real Estate Group

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I am an active member of both DMAR and PPAR with local and state knowledge of the real estate market serving multiple counties. I've earned my At Home With Diversity certification as this was pertinent in being able to understand and assist the community at large in Denver and the surrounding area. I use my resources to donate to matters that mean the most to me such as schools, homelessness, veterans affairs and other non-profit organizations serving our local community. I'm community-oriented and want to see our communities thrive!

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

The real estate profession in and of itself is challenging because of the constant need to be in the face of the community. With that said, maintaining rapport with local businesses, the community and other leaders is paramount. The ability to adapt to the ever-changing world and standards is also another huge challenge however, it certainly can be done.

Pamela Helm, Compass 

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I have been in residential real estate for almost six years. I started with Kentwood Real Estate for the first three to four years and then moved to Compass with my team, Helm Weaver Helm. Helm Weaver Helm was the top team at Kentwood for two years and now we have been the top team at Compass for the last two years with a sales volume of almost $98 million a year. We have been ranking in the DMAR top teams for the last three years. Prior to my years as a Residential Broker, I worked in commercial real estate for almost 20 years with Frederick Ross International, as their New Business Development Manager, R & B Commercial Management and also Lincoln Property Company in Dallas, Texas as their Regional Marketing Director. I have not held a position for DMAR before; however, I currently am on the Glenmoor Country Club Architectural meeting for the last five years. I have been involved with the Colorado Chapter Alzheimers Association (Purple Gala) and National Jewish member for the Rev the Runway event for the last three years.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

I think the real estate industry is going through some fairly crazy times the last few years and it is creating some real challenges. I think there are many areas of concern but here are the few that I would put at the top of my list:

1. Ifeel the lack of affordable housing is definitely one of the most significant issues facing the Denver/Colorado market.
2. Technology. This ever-changing market is so fast-paced and I think we have a real challenge keeping up with all the technology changes. SentriLock, lockbox devices, training and education. Including smart technology in homes, iBuyers on-line, video marketing, video tours, etc.
3. Low inventory. This is a challenge for veteran brokers as well as brand new agents. The level of competition is at its highest level ever and then add the challenge of online discount brokerage companies... it's challenging and an ultra-competitive environment that is not going to get any easier - just more cut-throat. This unique market condition will also create ethical concerns, business sustainability issues and competitive advantages and disadvantages from the idea of the "coming soon" online system with REcolorado. In this crazy race to find a home for your buyer, everyone is looking for "off-market" opportunities, which circumvents the whole MLS system.

Bailey Dolian, RE/MAX of Cherry Creek

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I obtained my Colorado real estate license in 2007 and worked as a high-level transaction manager for a top-10 Denver real estate team for nearly 10 years. Subsequently, I created my own real estate team and launched a listing coordination company that is still thriving today. In 2019, I was tapped by RE/MAX of Cherry Creek to serve as the company's President and Employing Broker. Reporting to a Board of Directors, I am responsible for supervising 80+ licensed brokers, managing our staff, implementing strategic practices and overseeing all aspects of business operations including our affiliated business arrangements. In the first year after appointment, my team guided the company through its first-ever commercial purchase; we now own and operate our own stand-alone building in Cherry Creek! I am passionate about education and compliance. I have exceptionally high ethical and informational standards for my brokers and REALTORS® statewide. Our primary purpose is to empower and educate the consumer.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Ethical standards + enforcement. I fully support the ideals behind the Clear Cooperation Policy, but the lack of enforcement has been excruciating to witness. Leadership at several large brokerages efforts to exploit loopholes and circumvent the rules any way they can, all motivated by profit. I voiced my concerns in a one-on-one session with NAR's Director of Engagement who echoed the same concerns but noted that NAR's legislative team is gun-shy due to its many recent lawsuits. At the end of the day, it is the consumer who suffers when CCP is ignored. 
2. Burnout. Even my most experienced brokers are beyond exhausted. The fast pace and hyper-competition are emotionally and physically draining for consumers and brokers. While this is (hopefully) a short-term problem, I worry that some of our most experienced professionals won't have the stamina to stick it out. 
3. Commission compression. This is not a new issue, but rather a long-standing and ongoing challenge for our brokers. With the recent lawsuits and consequent policies requiring higher levels of commission transparency, brokers are having to dig deep to justify their compensation and demonstrate value. I strive to be an advocate for brokers across the board.

North District Candidates (one open District position)

John Ball, Distinct Real Estate

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

Beyond being a successful real estate professional and reaping in the joy of helping people, I enjoyed a very productive and successful professional career in the technology sector. During my 30 year tenure in the field, I was a co-founder or early-stage executive in four technology startups where I helped build companies that employed thousands, raised a few hundred million dollars in capital and completed three initial public offerings. More rewarding was the opportunity to play a role in leading teams in the design, development and marketing of some really amazing products. Following my adventures in the technology sector, I founded an investment banking firm conducting mergers and acquisitions in the technology sector. Over the course of 12 years, I completed transactions valued at nearly $1 billion. I bring a balance of entrepreneurship, leadership and problem solving to everything I undertake; even at home with my lovely family (although the technique is a bit different!). I've been on the board of several companies and one non-profit. I also continue to mentor startups through TechStars. https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnpball/

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Threat from disruptive technologies to displace agents altogether or reshape agent incomes.
2. Erosion of client trust and the sullied reputation of REALTORS® through the unprofessional behaviors and practices of too many agents.
3. Tension between development and meaningful social issues including climate change, affordable housing and infrastructure cost-sharing.

Megan Fuller, Motion Homes Group

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I have been working in the Denver market from October 2015. I started out at a Keller Williams office with dreams of opening my own brokerage. I am so thankful to now be working on my own brokerage, Motion Homes Group, and I have a desire to learn and connect with other agents and owners in the community.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Lack of clarity and support. I believe that there is a huge gap in what is saying is being offered to agents versus what is actually being offered in the way of clarity and support. I do not believe that success is one size fits all and that real estate is an incredibly powerful tool to change lives and build wealth, through purchasing, selling or building a career in real estate.
2. Scarcity mindset. This industry has lots of ego and lots of competitiveness and it's easy to fall into a mindset of scarcity with inventory being low.
3. Lack of accountability. It is so easy for agents to become complacent with their day-to-day duties and let the little things slip. In the Slight Edge, Jeff Olson writes about how the little things you do each day add up to be the big things, and when you go from a job into a self-employed position like a real estate agent, it's very easy to let the little things slide.

South/East District Candidates (one open District position)

Matt Hendricks, Zillow 

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I have nearly 20 years of technology and industry experience in commercial, corporate and residential real estate. Along with personally being a licensed broker in four states and the Employing Broker for Zillow in Colorado, I lead the day-to-day operations and management of all of Zillow's in-house licensed brokers and their engagement with local, state and national organizations. Prior to joining Zillow in 2015, I had extensive experience in commercial development, leasing, sales, investment properties, distressed properties and commercial loan portfolio dispositions. I have many years of experience in foreclosures, REO and construction management.

My time at Zillow with Industry Relations has afforded me the opportunity to work with the best and brightest agents, brokers and franchises across the country in every aspect of real estate and technology. The next step of my journey is to be more engaged with my home association at DMAR, along with CAR and the National Association of REALTORS®. I want to be an advocate for change for the better, and for the future. I want to use my experience and expertise to be an ally for REALTORS® and a champion of progress in the industry.

Degrees/Professional Licenses: Bachelor of Science, Supply Chain Management, WP Carey School of Business, Arizona State University

Tyler Draheim, Coldwell Banker Realty

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I am a full-time REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Realty in the DTC Office. I work on a team with my family and am proud of the work we do for our clients as we navigate their real estate needs together and put them in the best position possible for their present and future. I care deeply about the overall well-being of our state, cities, neighborhoods and everyone in it. I am an active member in the community and serve on the board of directors for my neighborhood's Civic Association. I regularly participate in new learning and certification opportunities to ensure that I am able to serve my clients to the best of my abilities. I am currently pursuing my GRI Designation. I am proud to work for Coldwell Banker Realty in their largest office. I am blessed to work with so many successful agents and would love the opportunity to represent them and our office on DMAR's Board of Directors. Prior to my career in real estate, I worked as an Executive Recruiter where I was able to help people through employment transitions. I currently live in Centennial with my wife and three kids.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Gaining and keeping the public's confidence and trust. With so many options out there, along with new automated competitors trying to disrupt the real estate industry. It is important that we educate the public on the true benefits of working with a REALTOR®.
2. Continuing to advocate for agent safety. Exploring new ways, tools and strategies to keep REALTORS® as safe as possible while showing homes.
3. Financial education and planning. It is important that we start/continue to educate new and experienced agents about building wealth, budgeting and planning for their futures financially.

South/East District Candidate (one open at-large position)

Marie Koecher, Coldwell Banker Highlands Ranch

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I've been a member of DMAR member for about 25 years. Actively involved with Mile High Exchangers for about 20 years. I specialize in homes, land and investment properties. My entry into real estate was as a land developer and successfully completed a 140-acre subdivision in Jefferson County. In the early 80s, I was instrumental in developing building codes, zoning and other city policies that reduced barriers to persons with disabilities. Particularly, I focused on increasing housing opportunities for persons with disabilities and elderly individuals. I was pleased to be appointed by Mayor Hickenlooper to serve on the Union Station Redevelopment Advisory Committee, which transformed lower downtown. Over the last 30 years, I have served on numerous non-profit Board of Director, the Colorado Multiple Sclerosis Society, Seniors in Community Living, Collegiate Academy Charter School, Home Builders Association and worked with the Homeless Program with Lutheran churches.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. One of the major challenges we face as a profession is the preservation of the REALTOR® as a necessary and critical function within the transfer of property. Banks have in the past unsuccessfully attempted to challenge and dilute our role in this endeavor. Now with the advent of technology, the internet and the proliferation of iBuyers, we are needing to reinvent the role of the REALTOR® and the professionalism we bring to the equation.
2. Another challenge is with our zoning regulations. There is a germinating movement to eliminate single-family zoning under the guise of providing more affordable housing, increasing density and instilling social and racial justice. My sense is that this approach is really eroding our private property rights. Let me be clear, I am definitely against red-lining and other discriminating practices and endorse all fair housing regulations.
3. A third challenge is rather subtle but the elevation of REALTOR® in the perception of the public as a viable profession that serves a valuable, trusted, position in the chain of the built environment. We buy, sell, develop and redevelop commercial and residential properties. It's the places that we live, work and play. Yes, sales is our game, but we're more than that!

West District Candidates (one open District position)

David Walsh, Century 21 Bear Facts Realty

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

As a passionate client advocate and long-time educator in real estate, I have spent 20 years in the industry striving for better and more profitable experiences for the public through collaborating with my fellow agents to perfect our skills together. Over my time in real estate, I have enjoyed varied roles from top-producing agent, to Managing Broker, to Productivity Coach to Education Director for Coldwell Banker's corporate offices across Colorado and Texas. These perspectives have lent me a broad view of our shifting markets, the technology we use to match clients and homes and the changing skills sets agents need to build and sustain their success in the marketplace. I feel lucky to have cultivated hundreds of friendships and alliances with the professionals I have worked with along the journey and as an LGBT business leader. I am proud to be a partner in a new Century 21 franchise in Denver. Founded under C21's diversity program, my office has especially dedicated itself to a model of inclusion and the sincere belief that the dream of homeownership should be a path open to everyone across the broad spectrum. To that end, I feel strongly that our agent population should be well educated, skilled and well equipped to assist clients from every walk of life. That also means we as agents should be as diverse and varied as the ever-evolving client base we serve. That means in how we look, how we think and how we meet their needs, which should always be our driving motivator.

I feel my long, varied experience and openness to new ideas and gift for collaboration offer me an opportunity to be of unique value to DMAR's Board of Directors. While we as an industry tackle the inventory and pricing challenges we face in this market, I recognize the importance of best preparing our partner brokers for the markets yet to come. I look forward to what the future holds for our real estate businesses and I would welcome the experience of helping DMAR in the tasks of equipping our agents with the skills and tools they will need as the market undergoes the one thing we can all always count on: change. 

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. The commoditization of the agents and their value by companies who would replace our interpersonal skills with algorithms. The public is not well served by being told that our skills can be replaced by technology.
2. Transitioning to the quickly diversifying client bases we serve and meeting our customers on their own terms, across the social spectrum. Homeownership is becoming a reality for all walks, ages and perspectives of life. We have to be on the forefront of embracing that diversity.
3. Preparation and skill-building in shifting markets. Many skills needed for past success have been forgotten in this unprecedented boom market. Many will need to relearn these talents and how best to serve our clients lifestyles and financial needs as the markets evolve in the coming years.

Lisa Nguyen, RE/MAX Professionals

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

Lisa Nguyen served as the 2021 Co-Chair for the first-ever Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) Diversity and Fair Housing Summit as well as on the national AREAA Policy board for 2021. She was also the 2020 President, 2019 VP, 2017-2018 Treasurer for the AREAA Greater Denver Chapter. In addition, Lisa serves on the board of the Community Alliance Council at the Denver Metro Association of REALTORS® (DMAR) since 2016, The Global Task Force at The Colorado Association of REALTORS® (CAR) and the 2019-2021 Wired Women’s Council Planning Committee at DMAR.

Lisa is the team leader for The International Group at RE/MAX Professionals. She was the first person to create an international team for the company which grossed 2.9 billion dollars in sales in 2019 and 3.3 billion in 2020. RE/MAX Professionals has 430 agents, nine different offices around the Denver Metropolitan area in Colorado. Her team is able to service the following languages for real estate including Vietnamese, Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean and French.

She has received multiple awards which include 2017 Diamonds and Pearls AAPI Women Leaders of Denver from Mayor Hancock, 2018 Front Page of the RE/MAX National Publication Above Magazine, 2019-2020 40 under 40 Colorado Homeowner Magazine, as well as the 2020 RE/MAX Hall of Fame. Later this year Lisa will be featured on an episode of HGTV and you can also see some of the work that she filmed in 2018-2019 with the American Dream TV Show. Finally, Lisa is a proud mother to three children Nathaniel (13), Natalie (9) and Layla (1). 

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

Lisa is a huge advocate for diversity and inclusion in real estate and philanthropy work for children and educational purposes. The three challenges she believes that we are facing in real estate currently are:

1. Diversity and Inclusion in homeownership - inclusive of discrimination of the fair housing protected classes.
2. Inflated prices which are pushing the underserved out of homeownership.
3. True professionalism of REALTORS® in the industry.  

Sarah Gallegos, RE/MAX Alliance Olde Town

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

I believe I would be a great candidate for the west district director position because I have been licensed since 2001, and with 20 years of experience, I know the challenges and the joys that we as REALTORS® face every day. I am not afraid to speak up and I have great leadership skills. I have been in business/transformational coaching for the last seven years and use a lot of what I learn in both my personal and business practices to help me communicate and be effective. I am constantly looking for ways to improve the way I do business, and this has proven to be effective, as I sell an average of over 50 homes per year. I have learned to adapt, overcome and thrive through the many obstacles that the industry has faced throughout the years. I believe in building strong and lasting relationships, and I am a strategic problem-solver. I am open to other people's concerns and points of view, and I strongly believe in being a team player. I would love to be able to use and share all that I have learned to the benefit of my fellow REALTORS®, as I continue to learn from them as well.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Industry disrupters that diminish the value of a professional broker.
2. The threat of the demise of the co-op between the buyer/seller agents.
3. The need for better "real world" training for brand new agents.

Rocco Germano, Rock Germano Realty

What are your qualifications to serve as a DMAR Director?

• JCAR Chairman of the Board 2002
• Chairman Governmental Affairs JCAR 2001
• CAR Director 2002
• Certified Real Estate Instructor since 1993
• Board of Directors JCAR 1997-2000
• Member of NARPM (National Association of Residential Property Managers) - Residential Management Professional Certificate.
• Employing Broker/Owner for over 20 years.
• Taught Pre-licensing courses for 2 private Real Estate Schools since 1993.
• Teach Mandatory Update Class.

What do you feel are the three most significant challenges facing the real estate profession?

1. Direction of the Association post-pandemic.
2. Allocation of resources (benefits to belonging to Association).
3. Membership growth.