2025 was a governance-heavy year, marked by intentional restructuring and cleanup. The Board approved multiple bylaw revisions addressing Executive Committee authority, officer vacancies, board meeting procedures, and special meetings. A significant long-term change was adopted to transition Director terms from three years to two years, with staggered terms beginning in 2027 to improve continuity and succession planning. The ValleyMLS Director election policy was formally aligned with its bylaws to support this transition.
The Board also approved a formal title change from Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to Association Executive (AE) across governing documents, reinforcing the Association/MLS leadership structure and clarifying operational authority.
Financial Position & Oversight
Financially, 2025 was strong and stabilizing, despite elevated legal and consulting activity.
HAAR, ValleyMLS, and 535 Monroe Street LLC all consistently outperformed or exceeded budget expectations throughout the year.
ValleyMLS experienced strong net income driven by quarterly fees and controlled expenses, while HAAR benefited from steady MLS royalty income and improved investment performance.
Net assets increased substantially year-over-year, and investment strategy was adjusted to raise the equity allocation ceiling from 60% to 70% for long-term growth.
The Board also oversaw both a standard audit and a forensic audit covering activity from 2023 forward, reflecting a strong emphasis on transparency and fiduciary responsibility.
MLS Policy, Forms & Technology
2025 included major MLS operational and compliance updates, many driven by state law changes and industry standards:
Adoption and revision of multiple forms, including Exclusive Buyer Agency, Exclusive Right to Sell, Transaction Brokerage (renamed Transaction Facilitator), Inspection Addendum, and Coming Soon Addendum.
Adjustments to DOM rules for Contingent and Pending listings to improve data accuracy.
Approval of Forewarn as a new member safety benefit.
Transition from Zeck to OnBoard for governance management .
These actions significantly modernized MLS operations while maintaining compliance with Alabama law and NAR guidance.
Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships
A key strategic focus in 2025 was data sharing and regional collaboration. The Board authorized entering into a Data Share Agreement with FMLS and Greater Alabama MLS. A dedicated workgroup was formed earlier in the year to study the implications, risks, and benefits before approval, demonstrating a methodical approach to expansion .
Additionally, the Caravan Workgroup was approved, laying groundwork for renewed member engagement and listing exposure initiatives.
Leadership, Staffing & HR
Leadership transition and workforce stabilization were central themes:
An extension AE Search was approved for WAV Group consulting support through Q1 2026 to assist with the AE search.
A comprehensive Employee Handbook was approved, reflecting updated HR practices and compliance standards.
A third-party HR consulting firm was selected to support staff and volunteer leadership governance .
Education, Advocacy & Member Engagement
Education remained a core value in 2025:
Expanded CE offerings, GRI courses, and specialty designations (MRP, RENE).
Significant training related to new Alabama legislation (HB230 / HB382).
Continued emphasis on Fairhaven and ethics education to meet new NAR requirements .
Advocacy and outreach included ARPAC fundraising efforts, RealtorĀ® community service initiatives, and active engagement in local elections and public policy.
2025 at a Glance
2025 was a year of correction, alignment, and preparation.
The Board focused on:
Strengthening governance and due process
Stabilizing finances and investments
Modernizing MLS rules, forms, and technology
Preparing for leadership transition
Positioning HAAR and ValleyMLS for sustainable growth beyond 2026