For more than nine decades, Missouri REALTORS® has stood at the center of one of life’s most meaningful milestones - achieving the dream of homeownership. Since its founding in 1936, the association has grown into the state’s largest trade organization, empowering over 25,000 members to serve Missouri homebuyers, sellers, and communities with integrity, advocacy, and professionalism. As we celebrate this remarkable 90‑year anniversary, we reflect on the landmark achievements, legislative leadership, and community‑building efforts that have shaped Missouri’s real estate landscape.
A Foundation Built on Growth
The story of Missouri REALTORS® begins in St. Louis, where the organization was founded on February 13, 1936. Led early on by Clarence “Charlie” Lang, the association quickly became a unified voice for real estate professionals across the state.
But the growth didn’t stop there. As the needs of members expanded, so did the association’s footprint:
- 1957: Missouri REALTORS® relocated to Columbia, settling into the historic Guitar Building, symbolizing the organization’s long‑term investment in Missouri communities.
- Over the years, continued expansion and modernization of office space supported growing membership, enhanced professional services, and provided hubs for training, meetings, and advocacy.
- Today, Missouri REALTORS® operates from its Columbia headquarters, delivering world‑class education, legal support, and member services from a modern and centralized location.
This physical growth mirrors the association’s evolving role - transitioning from a small membership group to a statewide leader shaping the real estate profession and the homeownership experience for generations.
Advocacy Wins That Changed Missouri
A defining hallmark of Missouri REALTORS® is its unwavering commitment to consumer protection and private property rights. Over 90 years, the association has been at the forefront of legislative advancements that strengthen communities and make homeownership more accessible.
One of the most significant recent legislative victories for Missouri REALTORS® came with the successful defeat of a proposal to impose additional recording fees in Missouri’s second‑ and third‑class counties. These fees were widely viewed as an indirect tax on the transfer of real property, a practice expressly prohibited under Article X, Section 25 of the Missouri Constitution. By preventing this measure from moving forward, Missouri REALTORS® protected consumers from unnecessary costs at the closing table and upheld long‑standing constitutional safeguards.
This wasn’t just a procedural win - it was a meaningful victory for Missouri families, ensuring that homebuyers and sellers aren’t burdened by hidden taxes and that the real estate market remains fair, transparent, and accessible.
In addition to large‑scale victories, Missouri REALTORS® regularly champions:
- Property tax protections
- Fair housing practices
- Economic development initiatives
- Consumer‑friendly real estate regulations
Through legislative sessions year after year, the association ensures Missouri consumers benefit from fair, transparent, and supportive real estate policies.
REALTORS® Making a Difference in Missouri Communities
Beyond politics and transactions, Missouri REALTORS® embodies what it means to serve communities.
In 2025 alone, more than 550 REALTORS® participated in statewide efforts during REALTOR® Volunteer Days, impacting over 13,000 Missouri residents. From serving meals and cleaning streets to supporting humane societies and revitalizing local landmarks, REALTORS® consistently show that their work extends far beyond buying and selling homes - it’s about building stronger, more connected communities.
This culture of service has been part of the association since its inception. For 90 years, Missouri REALTORS® has encouraged members to embrace leadership, volunteerism, and civic engagement, recognizing that healthy communities create healthy real estate markets.
Leadership That Moves the Industry Forward
A 90‑year history naturally includes an impressive lineage of leaders who have shaped the direction of Missouri’s real estate industry. From early presidents serving two‑year terms in the 1930s and 40s to modern leaders guiding the association through technological and market shifts, each has contributed to the association’s powerful momentum.
Missouri REALTORS® has also produced national‑level leaders, strengthened professional standards, and consistently elevated the REALTOR® brand as a symbol of trust and ethics. With nearly a century of leadership development - from board service to state presidencies - the association continues to invest in cultivating real estate professionals who drive the industry forward.
Honoring the Past, Building the Future
As Missouri REALTORS® celebrates 90 years of service, one thing remains unchanged: the deeply rooted mission to help Missourians achieve the American Dream of homeownership.
Homeownership has always been more than a transaction. It’s stability, security, belonging, and opportunity. For generations, Missouri REALTORS® has been the bridge between dreams and doorsteps - advocating, educating, and serving with dedication.
Here’s to 90 years of progress, partnership, and opening doors for Missourians. And here’s to the future families, neighborhoods, and communities that will continue to grow with the support of Missouri REALTORS®.