Bill Barnes, the new leader of the Bonita Springs-Estero Association of Realtors knows he is taking the helm in the midst of stormy economic times.

“It’s easy to guide a ship when the ocean is flat,” Barnes said. “We’re on the outer edges of a hurricane here.”

Barnes is a manager and developer of 13 different real estate offices between Boca Raton and Lee County.

He was named Chief Executive Officer for the Bonita Springs-Estero Association of Realtors Aug. 1.
Barnes reports to B.E.A.R.’s Board of Directors, including board president Sherry Haas.

“Bill is well suited to lead our association. His experience, combined with his great leadership style and can-do attitude, will be of great benefit to the real estate community,” Haas said.

Barnes has built a 30-year career in the real estate industry, as a Realtor, broker and manager.

He sees his first priority as helping the board of directors.

“I want to provide a new level of organization and leadership for the board,” he said.

He also wants to develop programs to help real estate agents.

“The market won’t change. We have to change to do well for our customers.”

Haas had praise for the skills Barnes brings to the leadership position. “He has exceptional organizational skills, significant leadership qualities and has always exceeded his goals and objectives,” Haas said.

Barnes has been the recipient of numerous business and community service awards. This year, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Coldwell Banker Cares Foundation for his eight years of service as Care’s chairperson for Southwest Florida.

“My career to this point has fully prepared me to excel in the position for which I’ve been hired. I couldn’t imagine a better fit,” Barnes said.

Barnes makes his home in Fort Myers with wife Cindy Hester Barnes. He has three daughters and four grandchildren.

The Bonita Springs - Estero Association of Realtors includes nearly 1,000 broker, Realtor and affiliate members in Southwest Florida.