2026: A New Chapter for LIBOR and a Renewed Focus on REALTOR® Success

by Doreen Spagnuolo, LIBOR CEO

2026 begins a new chapter for LIBOR, with a new President, Shaan Kahn, and a renewed focus on empowering REALTORS® to succeed in an ever-evolving market and increasingly complex industry.

A licensed broker and owner of RK Realty Group in Melville, Shaan is the 85th President of LIBOR and a recognized industry leader who has helped guide our association’s strategic direction, champion fair housing, and advance professional and ethical standards at the local, state and national levels. A thoughtful and sophisticated professional, he approaches issues with clarity and communicates effectively. LIBOR is all about strong governance, collaboration and forward momentum and Shaan’s leadership style and experience align with our 2026 goals.

Top Priorities for the Year Ahead

We are focusing on priorities that directly reflect the challenges and opportunities REALTORS® are facing. First, we are strengthening member communication, onboarding and engagement so members always know where to turn for assistance, answers and education. Our industry is complex, with new rules, regulations and legal risks, and our members need a resource they can rely on. We want to ensure LIBOR is that trusted resource for members.

Second, we are expanding education, professional development and leadership training. Now more than ever, REALTORS® must elevate their knowledge, professionalism and awareness to remain trusted advisors to clients. When members position themselves as trusted resources, they build stronger client relationships, earn referrals and grow their businesses. Leadership training is especially important, because professionalism and strong leadership set our members apart.

Third, we are increasing broker engagement and leadership participation. Brokers drive culture and involvement, and when brokers are engaged, they gain critical insight into trends, education and risk management they can share with agents. Alongside this, we are advancing advocacy and policy leadership, so members understand how advocacy protects and promotes their businesses. We also are improving technology, AI and operational efficiency to create a better overall member experience and continue serving as a true concierge for member success.

These are just a few of our priorities, but underscore our commitment to supporting REALTORS® in meaningful, practical ways.

Innovative Programs and Initiatives

Equipping REALTORS® with resources that give them a competitive edge is central to our mission and LIBOR members can expect several new programs and tools to help grow their businesses and better serve clients.  

A new benefit exclusively for LIBOR members is Keeping Current Matters, a powerful resource designed to help you sharpen your competitive edge, make more informed decisions, and confidently guide your clients with timely, trusted insights. LIBOR is the first association in the nation to offer members KCM’s foundational market insights and a curated version of its client-ready marketing platform as a built-in member benefit.

We are also introducing an in-house AI expert to provide practical tutorials and guidance on using AI to improve efficiency, marketing and client service. We are elevating consumer-facing messaging to clearly communicate the value and importance of working with a REALTOR®, helping buyers and sellers seek out our members when they are ready to transact. We also will continue to offer leadership summits and training, along with timely risk management and legal updates, to ensure members stay informed, protected and positioned for success.

A Powerful Voice for REALTORS®

As we lead LIBOR through its next chapter, we are excited to collaborate with Shaan, whose background in advocacy gives him a distinct advantage – he understands the power of REALTORS®’ collective voice and how critical it is in shaping policy at the legislative level. We will continue to advocate for homeownership, property rights and protections for REALTOR® businesses, and having Shaan’s voice will be essential to driving meaningful change.

“This feels like a full-circle moment,” Shaan told us. “Early in my career, working in the Manhattan Borough President’s office taught me that progress comes from sitting down with every stakeholder, asking questions, listening and understanding others’ perspectives, even when divisions feel wide.

“Real progress doesn’t come from one person or one point of view – it comes from collaboration, and that belief shapes how I lead. In a challenging market for both consumers and REALTORS®, our mission is clear: to support, advocate for, and empower our members so they can deliver the highest level of service. This is our association.”