Kyle Zelmer, Broker/Owner of Horizon Realty Group, was named the 2024 REALTOR of the Year for the Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS® at their Annual Recognition Gala held in January.
Zelmer’s journey in real estate began in January 2017, fueled by his passion for the industry and inspiration from his grandmother, a career long REALTOR in Southwest Michigan. Zelmer holds several professional designations, including Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR®), At Home with Diversity (AHWD), Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE), and Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) certifications. Zelmer is additionally a Peer Reputable Agent by Peer Reputation.
Zelmer has also completed the Commitment to Excellence (C2EX), a recently launched National Association of REALTORS® program. However, this is neither a designation nor certification; it empowers REALTORS to demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to conducting their business at the highest standards. The award-winning C2EX Program takes
professionalism to the next level by enabling the members to assess their expertise in elements of professionalism, ranging from customer service to the use of technology.
Zelmer was licensed in 2017 and founded Horizon Realty Group in July 2022, which benefits from his extensive leadership experience. As the Broker/Owner, Kyle not only excels in the real estate industry but also serves as the President of the Niles Community Schools Board of Education, Vice President of the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce, and the District Two Director for the Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS ®. In addition, one of the Horizon Realty Group’s missions is to dedicate unparalleled service to the Southwest Michigan communities; in 2022 and 2023, this commitment involved giving back over $7,000 and contributing more than 200 hours of community service through various initiatives. Horizon Realty Group prides itself in putting clients, agents, and communities first.
A graduate of Buchanan High School, Kyle also holds an Associate of Arts degree from Lake Michigan College, a Bachelor of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University, and a Master of Business Administration from Davenport University.
Zelmer’s additional recognitions during his career include The Best of the Best Recognition from Leader Publications in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Kyle has been a three-year platinum producer with the Association, named the 2022 Young Professional of the Year by the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce, and in 2023 he was recognized as part of the Moody on the Market, 40 under 40 class of 2023. Additionally in 2021 he embarked on a six-year term as an elected official for the Niles Community School Board of Education and has since assumed the position of President. This distinction makes Kyle the youngest elected school board official and president in both Niles Schools and the State.
Beyond Kyle’s real estate endeavors, he actively contributes to the community in various ways. As the Vice President of the Buchanan Area Chamber of Commerce Board, the Treasurer for Ride for Tyler Inc., a local nonprofit, and serving as the elected district two director for the Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS®. When Kyle isn’t assisting clients in finding their dream properties or selling their current ones, he often enjoys quality time with his partner, family, and friends; gathered around a warm fire and savoring delicious meals prepared on the grill in the summer months. He can also be found on a walk with his two dogs.
Zelmer stresses, “I continuously seek opportunities to forge connections and expand my network to benefit my clients. Connecting with clients and giving back to the community is paramount to me.”
Zelmer commented, “He is extremely grateful to receive such an extraordinary recognition and truly thanks everyone that has supported him throughout his career. He looks forward to continuing to help make real estate better for everyone”.
Zelmer resides in Niles.
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