Congratulations to Michael Pennisi of Coldwell Banker, Maplewood, on being selected to receive the prestigious NCJAR REALTOR® of the Year Award for 2025.
Michael exemplifies the highest standard of REALTOR® leadership—combining professional excellence with community service and a long-standing commitment to the REALTOR® organization.
As Regional Vice President for Coldwell Banker, Michael leads more than 700 agents across North and Central New Jersey and oversees over $1.5 billion in annual sales. For more than a decade, he has driven the #1 region in production growth for Coldwell Banker New Jersey, consistently promoting innovation, mentorship, and culture throughout the brokerage community.
Michael’s service to NCJAR spans over ten years. He previously served on the Board of Trustees and held key officer roles, including Treasurer, Secretary, and Vice President. A graduate of NCJAR’s Leadership Academy, Michael also completed NCJAR’s Brokerage Class, further solidifying his dedication to leadership and professional development within the association.
At the state and national levels, Michael has made significant contributions. He chaired both the NCJAR and NJ REALTORS® Young Professional Networks (YPN) and was appointed to the National YPN Advisory Committee. He has also served on NAR’s Housing Opportunity Committee and Broker Engagement Committee, as well as several NJ REALTORS® committees, including Strategic Planning, Technology, PR & Communications, and Independent Expenditures.
Michael is a member of the RPAC Hall of Fame, recognized for both his personal contributions and his exceptional ability to mobilize support for REALTOR® advocacy and legislative priorities.
Now in its fourth year, Michael’s Growth Mastermind event series has become a cornerstone of agent development in the region. Each month, the event draws over 500 professionals for live, high-level education featuring national speakers, fostering collaboration and elevating standards for agent success.
Outside the industry, Michael served for more than a decade as Vice Chair of the New Providence Board of Adjustment, where he helped guide responsible development and protect community values. He is also a dedicated fundraiser for Project Purple, raising awareness and support for pancreatic cancer research in honor of those affected.
Michael has been nationally recognized as a REALTOR® Magazine “30 Under 30” honoree and has been featured by Good Morning America and The New York Times for his leadership in real estate. He continues to speak at conferences and masterminds across the country, sharing insights on leadership, professionalism, and strategic growth.
Michael truly embodies the REALTOR® “Spirit,” and we are proud to call him a member of the NCJAR REALTOR® family.
