Texas REALTORS® Office Renovation Project

Moving Forward Together

Over the past two years, we’ve been exploring how to modernize our headquarters. Here’s a look at where we’ve been, where we’re headed, and how your voices fit into the journey.

Why This Project Began

In 2023, when our largest tenant announced they would vacate their space in our building, it provided an opportunity to ask ourselves, “How well does our space work for us, our members, and the way we work today?”

Our Goals

From the start, the goals of this project have been consistent:

• Bring everyone together on one floor. Eliminating the central corridor and dividing walls will help us feel more connected and efficient.

• Create flexible, hybrid-ready spaces. From small Zoom rooms to multipurpose meeting areas, we want variety that supports both focus and collaboration.

• Host larger meetings in-house. Our current boardroom maxes out at 24 seats. We want space that can flex to accommodate more of our members and committees comfortably.

• Modernize the staff and member experience. We want a workplace that is bright, collegial, and something we can all be proud of.

• Add an outdoor terrace. A space that supports fresh air, informal conversations, and the ability to host members and elected officials.

• Generate revenue. By converting some of our current first-floor offices into leasable space, we strengthen the long-term financial position of the association.

  
  

Clearing Up a Misconception: What “Open” Really Means

We’ve heard some concerns about the term “open floorplan” or “open concept.” For many, that phrase brings to mind a tech startup: rows of desks crammed together, no walls, and everyone working with headphones on. That is not the design being developed for our space.

The conceptual drawings show a balance of enclosed offices, small Zoom rooms, collaborative huddle spaces, and flexible meeting areas. Some walls are coming down to improve flow and connection, but this is not a “one big room” model. The intent is to create a variety of spaces — quiet zones, team spaces, enclosed rooms, and more open areas — so people can choose the right environment for the work they’re doing.

What We Heard From You

Recently, we asked for your input on the initial design concepts. You spoke candidly, and we’re grateful. Here are a few of the themes that came through:

• Shared desks: Concerns about storage, identity, and convenience.

• Noise and privacy: Especially from teams whose work requires frequent calls or confidential conversations.

• Zoom and meeting rooms: Strong support, with worries about availability and fairness of use.

• Flex space: Excitement about hosting larger meetings, but questions about kitchens, noise, and capacity.

• Practical details: Reliable tech, lighting sensitivity, restrooms, food smells, and storage space.

How We’re Taking This Into Account

Your feedback is being carefully reviewed as we prepare the next iteration of design. Some of the ideas and suggestions raised include:

• Considering how to balance noise and privacy for call-heavy teams.

• Exploring storage options so staff without permanent desks can keep needed items at the office.

• Looking at booking systems and usage policies to keep shared spaces fair and accessible.

• Assessing the role of kitchenettes and staff pantries alongside event spaces.

• Factoring in technology, reliability, and ergonomics as part of the equipment plan.

• Reviewing restroom capacity, lighting, and ventilation as part of the design standards.

Not every detail can be resolved by design alone, and some issues will depend on future policies and operational practices. But all these points are part of the conversation as we move into the next design phase.

The Road Ahead

Between now and mid-November, we’ll be refining the design and working with general contractor candidates to lock down real numbers. A budget proposal in the range of $13–15 million will then go to our Executive Board in December, and finally to the full Board of Directors on February 10.

This timeline is important, because the scope and budget must be approved by our governing bodies before construction can begin.

What This Means for You

Change is never easy, and it’s natural to view a project like this through the lens of your own day-to-day needs. But the bigger picture matters, too:

• A more efficient, flexible use of space.

• A headquarters that reflects the pride and professionalism of our association.

• A work environment that supports both focus and collaboration, both staff and members.

Your feedback continues to be part of the discussion, and it helps ensure we are considering the full picture as we shape the future of our space. Future designs will be shared with staff as we move closer to construction.

Thank you for your honesty, your patience, and your commitment as we take this next step together.