The Rhode Island real estate landscape is poised for an interesting year ahead, following recent leadership announcements from the Rhode Island Association of REALTORS® (RI REALTORS). On November 10, 2025, Crystal D’Agostino was named the 2025 Realtor of the Year, while Michael Pereira was confirmed as the 2026 President of the association. These leadership changes are more than just ceremonial—they offer real estate professionals a glimpse into potential priorities, policies, and industry trends for the year to come.

Spotlight on Crystal D’Agostino: 2025 Realtor of the Year

Crystal D’Agostino, broker and owner of Start Realty in West Warwick, has long been recognized as a leading voice in Rhode Island real estate. Her extensive experience spans residential sales, property investment, and community involvement. Notably, she and her husband manage over 200 rental units through real estate syndications, giving her unique insight into both the owner-occupied and investment segments of the market.

D’Agostino has also held multiple leadership roles, including past president of the Kent-Washington Association of REALTORS® and vice president of RI REALTORS. She serves as a director on the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) board and holds numerous professional designations, such as ABR (Accredited Buyer’s Representative), Certified Military Residential Specialist, and Commercial & Investment Real Estate Certified. Beyond her professional work, she is actively involved in organizations like Foster Forward and Habitat for Humanity, reflecting her commitment to the community.

D’Agostino’s recognition signals an emphasis on both investment-savvy practices and community engagement. Professionals in the state may see an increased focus on supporting investor clients, promoting affordable housing initiatives, and leveraging industry certifications to enhance credibility.

Michael Pereira: 2026 RI REALTORS President

Michael Pereira brings more than two decades of real estate experience to his role as 2026 President of RI REALTORS. He has previously served as treasurer, president-elect, and president of the Greater Providence Board of REALTORS®, and has extensive experience on national committees within NAR.

Pereira’s professional designations—including C2EX, AHWD, PSA, ePro, SRS, ABR, and GREEN—highlight his commitment to excellence and ongoing education. Under his leadership, members may expect a renewed focus on professional development, strategic advocacy, and collaboration between local and national real estate networks.

Pereira’s leadership could translate into expanded educational opportunities, greater visibility for state-level advocacy, and stronger alignment with national best practices.

What These Leadership Changes Mean for Realtors

The combination of D’Agostino and Pereira at the helm of RI REALTORS offers both continuity and fresh energy. Here’s how these changes may impact the real estate community:

1. Professional Development and Designation Uptake

Both leaders hold multiple industry designations and have deep experience in real estate education. Realtors anticipate a potential increase in training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities designed to enhance professional skills and credentials.

2. Focus on Investment and Property Management

D’Agostino’s background managing hundreds of rental units suggests that investor-focused initiatives and landlord advocacy may gain traction. Real estate professionals involved in property management or investment sales should watch for policy discussions that could impact this segment.

3. Advocacy and Policy Influence

With Pereira’s national experience and D’Agostino’s local prominence, RI REALTORS are well-positioned to advocate for housing policy reforms, zoning updates, and legislation affecting property ownership. Realtors may have new opportunities to participate in shaping state housing policy.

4. Community Engagement and Social Responsibility

D’Agostino’s involvement in charitable and community organizations indicates that social responsibility and public outreach may become a greater focus. This could include REALTOR-led community programs, affordable housing initiatives, and collaborations with nonprofits.

5. Networking and Collaboration

The combination of local expertise and national connections could open doors for realtors in Rhode Island to participate in larger networking initiatives, policy advocacy campaigns, and professional collaborations beyond the state.

Key Takeaways for Real Estate Professionals

• Stay Engaged: With new leadership, RI REALTORS may introduce fresh programs, policies, or advocacy initiatives in 2026.
  
  
• Leverage Opportunities: Anticipate increased training, professional development, and networking events.
  
  
• Plan Strategically: Investor-focused policies may become more prominent, impacting rental and investment property markets.
  
  
• Be Proactive: Community engagement and social responsibility may become part of the association’s focus, offering opportunities to enhance your business reputation.
  
  
• Follow Advocacy Closely: Policy initiatives could affect zoning, taxation, and housing supply—stay informed to guide your clients effectively.

The recent leadership changes at RI REALTORS—highlighting Crystal D’Agostino as Realtor of the Year and Michael Pereira as President—signal a forward-looking approach combining professional excellence, community engagement, and strategic advocacy. For Rhode Island real estate professionals, 2026 promises opportunities to grow skills, expand networks, and influence the future of the state’s housing market.

Staying connected to RI REALTORS and keeping an eye on upcoming initiatives will help realtors navigate market shifts and leverage leadership priorities for business growth and client success.