30 Under 30 FAQ and Contest Rules

Each June, REALTOR^® Magazine features 30 rising young stars in the real estate industry, and every year hundreds of real estate practitioners apply to be one of the 30 honorees. Here are answers to common questions about the "30 Under 30" program.

How can I submit an application?

You can access the online form here, or by visiting our main "30 Under 30" page.

Who’s eligible to enter?

For the 2012 feature, any REALTOR^® member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^® who is 29 years old or younger on May 31, 2012, and who has not been profiled in a previous “30 Under 30.”

What's the deadline?

Applications are due by Jan. 15, 2012.

What are the judges looking for?

Several factors are considered  — business success is just one. Community and professional leadership also are important factors. We strive for balance: We want to ensure we have a diverse group of finalists in terms of business niches, gender, ethnic background, and geographic location. Finally, we look for compelling stories that bring to life innovative business strategies that have worked for you or obstacles you've overcome.

What is the selection process?

Initially, all applications are screened by REALTOR^® Magazine editors to ensure all necessary information has been provided. In the initial screening, we also  winnow the group down to 75-100 semifinalists. A panel of judges then reviews this group, weighing the factors mentioned above, until a consensus is reached on 50 finalists. Of those, we tentatively choose 30 honorees and five alternates. The 30 are vetted with their local and state associations and with the state regulatory boards for ethical violations or disciplinary actions. If a finalist is disqualified for any reason, a replacement is chosen from the list of alternates.

Can I make changes to my application?

Yes. During the application period, you can retrieve your saved application using the e-mail address and password you created when you started the application. The application period for the 2012 "30 Under 30" feature is from Sept. 30, 2011 to Jan. 15, 2012. After Jan. 15, the system will no longer available and your application will be considered final.

Can my broker or colleague provide supporting letters?

Recommendation letters in support of your application can be submitted, but are not required. They must be submitted online via a link on the application form. No e-mail, faxes, or snail mail will be accepted. A maximum of three letters can be submitted.

Can I submit other supporting documentation (awards, certificates, etc.)?

Due to the high volume of applications we receive (more than 500) we can’t accept other supporting documents. Awards, designations, and other honors should be mentioned in the application. The editors will contact you if clarification or additional information is needed.

What if I don’t yet know my closed sales volume or transaction sides for 2011?

You should indicate on the application that 2011 figures are estimates. If you obtain actual sales volume and transaction side data for 2011 before the Jan. 15 deadline, you can go back into the application and update that information, using your e-mail address and the password you selected.

Why do you ask about ethics violations and state regulatory actions? Will either eliminate me from consideration?

Our “30 Under 30” finalists represent the next generation of industry leaders and as such they should set an example of professional and ethical behavior. An ethical violation or disciplinary action does not result in automatic disqualification. The editors will consider the circumstances and weigh the incident against other factors in your application.

Will my sales numbers be independently verified?

Yes. If you are selected as a finalist, we will seek verification from either your broker or MLS.

Do I have to be a member of NAR?

Yes. Only REALTOR^® members of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^® are eligible. If you’re not already a member, you can join before the deadline and still submit an application.

I don't know my NRDS number. Where can I find it?

Your NRDS number is your NAR membership identification number. You must enter your NRDS number to initiate the "30 Under 30" application process. If you don't know your number, you can find it here.

How will I know if my application was received?

An e-mail will be sent to the address listed in the application to confirm receipt of the submitted form. If it’s determined that the application is incomplete or missing some information, a second e-mail will be sent.

How and when will I be notified of the judges’ decision?

All applicants will be notified of their status via e-mail in May 2012.

Why is May 31 the birthday cutoff?

The feature appears in the June issue of REALTOR^® Magazine and profiles practitioners under the age of 30.

I’m turning 30 on May 20. Can I still apply?

Unfortunately, no.

Whom can I contact if I have more questions?

Please contact Katherine Tarbox at ktarbox@realtors.org or 312/329-8403.

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