Earlier this month, RRAR Headquarters greeted members and business partners for our first annual Affiliate Expo. Over two dozen of Raleigh Regional’s Affiliates filled the Grand Ballroom to showcase the services they provide to REALTORS® in the Triangle area.
The event exceeded expectations, according to Brilynn Cologgi, Manager of Business Partnerships, “The launch of the first affiliate expo was a great success. The affiliates executed exceptional interactions with attendees that included raffles, games, prizes and most importantly, their expertise.”
“We support REALTORS® in many different aspects,” Cara Gibbons shared amid the day’s festivities. Gibbons heads the Cary office for Sterling Law, RRAR's 2025 Diamond Affiliate Sponsor. “My favorite [one] is being a resource when it comes to a showing or contract to close. Being available to answer those questions when they’re working with clients, we really enjoy being that resource.”
Past President Tim McBrayer chatting with Cara Gibbons, Abbi Eder, and David Clapsadl from Sterling Law. Photo by Jay Nelson
The day was filled with dynamic networking opportunities across the board. The affiliates were able to talk about the services created to propel members' businesses forward. Members walked away with business cards, brochures, and swag bags from the affiliates. Everyone in attendance was given the opportunity to attend information sessions led by members of the RRAR community.
Kayleigh Bain, RRAR’s Manager of Marketing & Communications, hosted “Marketing Your Brand,” which saw a packed room of REALTORS®, board members, and Association staff.
“The Instagram and branding information can be really helpful because once REALTORS® get their license, they are just expected to understand how to do the marketing part or how to use their brokerage's marketing info,” she explained. “My advice would be to take a class on social media and Canva.”
While REALTORS® are tasked with handling the majority of responsibilities that come with selling a home, it wouldn’t be possible without the assistance from real estate vendors and experts. “I think a lot of REALTORS® know how to work with people, but they don’t necessarily know enough about what it is they’re selling people,” Ed Roberson told us. Roberson, CEO of HomeTeam Inspection Service and 10-year Affiliate Member holds technical classes for REALTORS® to “help them understand the aspects, systems, and components” of a home.
“It’s a way to give something back to the REALTORS® and help make them a better resource for their clients,” Roberson added. Not to mention, HomeTeam teaches these classes for free.
Affiliate member Ed Roberson (L) and REALTOR member Ibn Wallace (R). Photo by Jay Nelson
As an Affiliate Member with RRAR, you’re making your business more visible to 10,000+ members of our real estate community. “Affiliates share their marketing materials monthly with REALTOR® members, have exposure in the affiliate directory, and receive personalized social media posts,” Cologgi explained.
“Best of all, affiliates receive exclusive access to sponsor events that provide unique opportunities to showcase your product or service.” In addition, this partnership offers sponsorship and volunteer opportunities, and access to RRAR committees, councils, and more.
For those interested in becoming an Affiliate Member, Roberson believes it is a great way to “leverage access to REALTORS®” in the Triangle, as well as “establish yourself as a serious vendor, a serious partner, to the real estate industry.”
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the first annual Affiliate Expo. For our REALTORS®, we hope you gained valuable insight for your business. For our Affiliates, we’re honored to have your teams and services on board.
Members talk with TNT Staging at the Affiliate Expo. Photo by Kayleigh Bain
Before you go, here is some more advice from the Affiliate Expo:
“Leverage every opportunity to be mentored by anyone [who’s] experienced and willing. And learn, learn, learn.” – Ed Roberson
“The affiliate directory lists different categories of businesses ranging from lenders, home inspectors, and closing gifts. Some companies are local businesses, woman or veteran-owned, and have been in the industry for years. Check out the directory in the RRAR app.” – Brilynn Cologgi
We hope to see you at our next Affiliate Expo!
