HAR congratulates Karishma Asrani, Broker at Compass, on her designation as 2023 REALTOR® of the Year. Each year, the Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR) honors a member that most personifies the REALTOR® in spirit and ethics, through service to their profession, peers and the REALTOR® association. For demonstrating a long and inspired commitment to HAR, its members and the real estate industry as a whole, Karishma is our 2023 honoree.

Karishma possesses more than a decade of experience specializing in Houston’s luxury housing market and has earned prestigious accolades, including HAR’s 20 Under 40 in Real Estate and the National Association of REALTORS®’ (NAR’s) 30 Under 30 in Real Estate.

As a 2011 Texas REALTORS® Leadership Program graduate, Karishma exemplifies true leadership. Other notable achievements and roles include the following.

Young Professionals Network (YPN):

  • Served multiple terms as a YPN board member from 2008 to 2017.
  • Assumed the role of YPN chair in 2010, which led to the Chapter of the Year award at the NAR conference.
  • HAR YPN 20 Under 40 award winner in 2012.

Texas Real Estate Political Action Committee (TREPAC):

  • Chaired the TREPAC committee from 2021 to 2023 and created the Global Dinner event series – a fundraising event by the Global Committee and TREPAC to help members learn about different cultures.
  • TREPAC committee member from 2012 to 2017.
  • HAR TREPAC Fun Run Chair in 2014 and 2015.
  • TREPAC Major Investor since 2014.

HAR advisory boards:

  • 2023 Vice Chair of the Global Advisory Group and actively participated on the Global Advisory Group from 2013 to 2017.
  • In 2016, contributed her expertise to the Technology advisory group.

Cultural empowerment:

In 2023, Karishma co-founded the South Asian Real Estate Professionals Network (SAREP), a non-profit aimed at advancing the South Asian real estate community through advocacy and leadership. Karishma was elected the group’s vice president.

TR & NAR:

  • Represented Houston at TR as a TREPAC Trustee from 2019 to 2022.
  • TR board director from 2010 to 2023.
  • In 2021 and 2022, served on the NAR Leading Edge advisory board and delivered an inspirational speech at the NAR Board of Directors breakfast.
  • NAR 30 Under 30 honoree in 2009.

We asked Karishma to reflect on her real estate career and describe what this honor means to her.

What was your first reaction when you learned that you were the 2023 honoree?

My first reaction was a mix of surprise, followed by joy and then gratitude. It’s truly an honor to be recognized by my peers and the industry for my passion of real estate.

What does this honor mean to you?

Being named the 2023 REALTOR® of the Year is a tremendous validation of the effort and passion I’ve invested in my profession. It’s the most prestigious award I have received. This honor motivates me to continue raising the bar to serve my community.

What do you find most gratifying about your work as a real estate professional?

The most gratifying aspect of being a REALTOR® is the opportunity to help people achieve their dreams of homeownership. Real estate transactions are not just about buying or selling properties; they are about guiding people in life-changing experiences. Whether it’s a first-time homebuyer or someone looking to invest, being a part of these significant milestones is incredibly fulfilling.

What advice would you offer new real estate professionals or folks considering entering the real estate profession given current market conditions, opportunities and challenges?

In the current market conditions, adaptability is key. Our business has been evolving with technology and now the way business is done is going to change in the coming years. So stay informed about the market dynamics, technologies, and latest trends. Build a strong network, both online and offline, and never underestimate the power of continuous learning. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and always prioritize honesty and transparency in your dealings.

What other thoughts or comments can you share with our readers?

Real estate is an ever-changing and highly rewarding field and true success requires a combination of knowledge, grit, and a customer-centric approach. Stay true to your values, cultivate strong relationships with everyone you encounter, and remember that every transaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact on someone’s life. It’s not just about properties; it’s about people and their aspirations.