As we approach the end of the year, which has been a busy one for many appraisers, I wanted to bring appraisers’ attention to an individual whose work and dedication to our profession is critical to its current and future health. The MBREA has been in existence for decades. My involvement dates back several years and during those years it was always clear that, while presidents come and go, the executive vice president has been a constant presence and is responsible for running the organization and maintaining the MBREA as a leading voice among professional appraisal organizations. Steve Sousa is the leader of the MBREA as his commitment has allowed the organization to exist as a critical source of education and representation.

Many of you have met Steve and probably know him fairly well so when you see him next be sure to thank him. He ensures the organization’s voice is heard at national meetings and conferences and that the best interests of appraisers are always represented. He also actively orchestrates and attends meetings with elected officials to fight for legislation that benefits appraisers. Passing legislation that will support the health of our profession is a very slow process. It requires persistence, creative thinking, networking and passion, all of which Steve demonstrates year after year. 

His knowledge of the pending legislation, the issues discussed at a national level and the key players involved in these decision has allowed him to effectively advocate for us. While many of you might ask why action has been so slow to progress, my response is the following. As a witness to some of the challenges in changing the status quo, I assure you that very little would happen on a state or national level without people like Steve. So when legislation eventually passes and rules that govern our profession eventually change- to our benefit- it is Steve Sousa and other individuals that we will have to thank. While it may take a long time to see the result of this persistence, that is the case with many fights in life that are worth the effort.

The appraisers that comprise the board of the MBREA are committed to the profession. Steve is not an appraiser but I am not sure I know anyone who is more committed to advancing our interests, organizing education and spearheading events like the annual Expo. When you work up close with someone like this you realize how fortunate you are to have his talents engaged on your behalf. He could easily be doing this for another organization or private company but continues to do so for us. 

Some of you reading this are members and some are not, but we all benefit from an organization like the MBREA and this organization is really only as good as the person in charge. This holiday season most of us have a lot for which to be thankful. We work in a dynamic, growing market. While challenges to the profession certainly are on the horizon, it is these times when leadership is needed most. I am hopeful that his past and ongoing efforts to help our profession will lead to meaningful changes that ensure our livelihoods. I do know that without him, we would be in a far worse position both locally and nationally so kudos and thanks to you Steve for all you do. 

Happy Holidays!

Marcus Johnson, MAI, MRA, is the 2017 president of MBREA, and vice president, The Appraisers Group, Belmont, Mass.