ABBY TAMMEN | CEO, Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors

In her work as head of the Charlottesville Area Association of Realtors, Abby Tammen believes in leading with a mindset of curiosity and collaboration.

“I listen to understand, not just to respond,” she says. “And I encourage everyone at the table to contribute their perspectives. I share relevant insights when helpful, but I also acknowledge that I don’t have all the answers.”

CAAR serves more than 1,300 real estate professionals and affiliate members throughout Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson.

After more than six years on the job, Tammen continues to be energized by a single question: “What services and products best support our members? That guiding principle has helped me adapt to changing needs, anticipate industry trends and lead with purpose.”
Tammen oversees day-to-day CAAR operations, as well as all programs and products. She manages a team of 10 and provides support to the association’s board.

Before being tapped to lead CAAR, Tammen served as the association’s senior director of programs and MLS operations.
In addition to the trade association, CAAR has other business entities: residential and commercial multiple listing services, a licensed real estate school and the Hillsdale Conference Center, which offers 3,500 square feet of meeting space.

At the start of her career, Tammen worked for the National Association of College Auxiliary Services, a professional trade association supporting professionals in higher education segments like food services, bookstores, housing and transportation.

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