Photo of Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith

Key Realty
At-Large Director

WHY DO YOU WANT TO SERVE AS A DIRECTOR?

Serving as a board member in the past was an extremely rewarding experience. I am applying to once again be able to contribute to our organization’s mission and goals. During my previous time on the board, I gained valuable insights into the complexities of our industry. I became the “Pandemic President” and I am proud of what we accomplished together. Once again, we face some challenges in our industry and I want to be involved and help promote ways for us to grow and overcome the changes we are adapting to in order to succeed. My previous experience on the board, as president of the board, and as a member of several committees at the local and state levels shows my dedication to our mission to achieve our goals and drive our initiatives forward.

EDUCATION

Number of Years Licensed: 16

Type of License Held: Salesperson

Position held in your company: Mentorship Director

Bowling Green State University with a degree in Communications

NOR INVOLVEMENT

  • NOR President, Board of Directors 2020
  • NOR Board of Directors 2016 – 2021
  • RPAC, Chairperson
  • Legislative & Government Affairs, Chairperson
  • DEI committee, Chairperson
  • Education committee
  • Investment committee
  • Community Service committee
  • Forms committee
  • Grievance committee

OR INVOLVEMENT

  • Ohio Director
  • Legislative Steering committee
  • State Political Coordinator
  • Professional Standards committee
  • 2025 Forms committee
  • 2025 Strategic Planning, Vice Chair

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

I’ve been involved in various food drives as well as clothing drives. I’ve also participated in Habitat for Humanity projects. I’m on the committee for the Key Community Foundation.

FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT EXPERIENCE

Prior to my career in real estate, I was a promotions manager at a local television station. Part of my responsibilities was to review and present budgets to the board. As part of the real estate industry, I was the treasurer for the board in 2018 as well as part of the investment committee.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS EXPERIENCE

Until I discovered the significance of RPAC, I had little understanding of the connection between real estate and government affairs. My perspective shifted dramatically when I attended a Major Investor dinner, where I realized the critical importance of staying engaged with legislation that impacts homeownership. Since that pivotal moment, I have actively participated in the Legislative & Government Affairs Committee, currently serving as its chair. Additionally, I hold the role of State Political Coordinator for OR and was a member of the Legislative Steering Committee. Last year, I had the honor of chairing RPAC, further deepening my commitment to advocating for our industry.

COMMUNICATIONS EXPERIENCE

Effective communication skills are essential in real estate for several reasons. Strong communication builds relationships with clients and colleagues. This helps lead to successful transactions. Also, clear and persuasive communication is so important in our industry. The ability to articulate helps others understand the goals I want to achieve for our membership. I have learned throughout my years of experience how to market myself and market my properties. It is also important to educate clients and other agents through clear communication. I believe one of my strengths when referring to communication is my ability to problem-solve. I am ready to tackle a challenge and discuss the best way to get the most positive outcome for the parties involved.

STRATEGIC PLANNING EXPERIENCE

I have extensive experience in communications, both in strategic planning and execution. Throughout my career, I have developed and implemented communication strategies that effectively convey our organization’s mission and objectives. In 2025 I will be the Vice Chair for the Strategic Planning Committee at Ohio REALTORS® then Chair in 2026.

TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE

My goal is to utilize the available tools and platforms, allowing me to adapt quickly to changing needs and trends in the industry. Luckily our association offers many apps and resources to make agents look good and become successful.

REAL ESTATE TRENDS EXPERIENCE

Real estate trends are always interesting to watch. After 2020, there were more people working from home and more people wanting to buy bigger homes to accommodate the potential of two people needing an office. In the commercial world, the need for office space fell significantly and left many buildings with vacancies. At present, inflation, elevated interest rates, and a shortage of inventory have combined to create significant challenges related to housing affordability and availability. The popularity of short-term rental platforms has changed the landscape of residential real estate. Investors are increasingly interested in properties that can be rented out as short-term rentals. On the flip side, some communities and legislatures feel these STR will negatively impact the values in some neighborhoods.

The use of technology in real estate is expanding, from virtual tours and online listings to sight unseen purchases. Real estate platforms and apps are streamlining processes for buyers, sellers, and agents. With ongoing demand for rental units, investors are increasingly looking at multifamily properties as a stable investment, particularly in growing urban areas.

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

As the former President of the Board of Directors, we developed and implemented strategic initiatives that helped members work through the pandemic. My experience as an Ohio Director further deepened my understanding of the industry, allowing me to advocate effectively for our members. Looking ahead, I am excited to take on the role of Vice Chair of Strategic Planning for OR in 2025. This position will allow me to leverage my leadership skills to shape our long-term vision and strategic direction, particularly in the evolving real estate landscape. Additionally, my role as Mentorship Director at Key Realty has equipped me with the tools to support and guide emerging leaders in our field. I am passionate about empowering others and believe that strong mentorship is vital for the continued growth and success of our organization.