MREA names new president

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This article was published 13/05/2024 (786 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Manitoba Real Estate Association (MREA) has appointed Sandy Donald, a Brandon-based real estate expert with a 27-year career, as its 2024-25 president.

Donald will collaborate with a team of officers and directors, including president-elect Catherine Schellenberg, treasurer Akash Bedi, and immediate past-president Chris Dudeck, among others.

The new president said his vision is to continue to uphold the great work the group has been engaged in promoting affordable housing.

“I will continue lobbying the government to ensure housing is always top of mind and that public confidence in the real estate industry is maintained, and I look forward to working with the City of Brandon on their housing initiatives,” he told the Sun in an email on Friday. “As with any industry, there are situations that may come up from time to time and I hope to be able to navigate through those and continue to help MREA evolve.”

Drawing from his background, he said real estate means different things to different people, noting a supply of housing, residentially throughout the province, is a challenge that will continue throughout the next year. “But supply is not restricted just to housing — land is limited as well. So as farmers continue to try and make efficiencies in their business and try to expand, that will put pressure on land sales, as it has for the last number of years,” he added.

Since acquiring his realtor licence in Manitoba in October 1996, the group stated, Donald has epitomized excellence and dedication in the real estate sector.

Donald said his journey is deeply rooted in familial ties to agriculture, and embodies a seamless transition from the farmlands of Scotland to the bustling real estate market of Manitoba.

“My upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for the land and its potential,” he said. “Real estate became the canvas through which I could continue my family’s legacy.”

Following his father’s footsteps in farm sales management, Donald said he was initially drawn to agricultural pursuits, but shifting economic landscapes prompted him to broaden his horizons, leading him into the realm of residential real estate.

He added his profound connection with people is central to his passion for real estate, “Navigating intricate transactions, whether it’s facilitating deals for expansive dairy farms or assisting families in finding their dream homes, is immensely fulfilling.”

Beyond his professional endeavours, MREA stated, “Donald is deeply ingrained in the fabric of community service, adding his tenure as president of the Manitoba Real Estate Association, coupled with his past role as president of Brandon Area Realtors in 2013, underscores his unwavering commitment to advancing the real estate profession.”

Donald added he finds solace and purpose in coaching rugby, exemplifying his multi-faceted contributions to sports and community engagement.

“Family is the cornerstone of my existence. My wife and children are my pillars of strength, constantly inspiring me to strive for excellence,” Donald said.

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