Filipino Homes founder wins global award

CEBU, Philippines — Cebuano realtor Anthony Gerard O. Leuterio, founder of Filipino Homes, has been awarded the 2024 International Realtor of the Year by the prestigious National Association of Realtors (NAR), a first for Philippine real estate on the global stage.

This award honors Leuterio's dedication to upholding ethical standards, promoting best practices, and elevating the Realtor brand internationally.

The NAR, established in 1908, is the largest trade association for real estate professionals in the United States, representing over 1.5 million members, including agents, brokers, and appraisers. The association plays a crucial role in setting ethical standards, offering professional development resources, and advocating for real estate practitioners.

This year’s NAR Conference, NAR NXT, was held in Boston, Massachusetts, from November 8-10, 2024.

Reflecting on this achievement, Leuterio emphasized a "customer-first" approach: “You need to be responsible to your customers by providing the best product, protecting their investments, and supporting them throughout the journey—and beyond,” he said.

Filipino Homes, based in Cebu, is one of the largest real estate networks in the Philippines. Founded by Leuterio, it offers property listings, brokerage services, and real estate marketing, connecting buyers and sellers with a wide range of properties. The company has expanded significantly, with 100 offices nationwide and a strong team of 11,000 licensed real estate professionals.

As a respected figure in the real estate industry, Leuterio advised aspiring realtors to "always level up your service, avoid shortcuts, and prioritize both buyers and sellers. Build connections, especially with fellow Filipinos, stay current with trends, and, most importantly, never stop learning."

For Leuterio, the award is a victory not only for himself but for the entire Philippine real estate sector.

“This award showcases the talent in the Philippines and highlights our ability to excel globally by adhering to high standards in real estate," he said. "It’s a big win for our country and underscores the importance of international collaboration.”

A firm believer in international exposure, Leuterio frequently leads large Filipino delegations to global real estate conventions, advocating for the positive impact on the Philippine economy. "Real estate is a multiplier; every house sold supports up to 60 families. This award gives hope for more jobs and opportunities in the Philippines," he noted.

Leuterio also expressed gratitude to industry leaders such as Cebu Landmasters Inc.(CLI) chairman and president Jose Soberano III and Primeworld Land executives Sherwin Uy and Johnny Uy, thanking them for their support.

"It’s a great honor to raise the Philippine flag in real estate," Leuterio added. — (FREEMAN)