Dan Murphy Reflects on the past year
As his term as National President of the REALTORS® Land Institute comes to a close, Dan Murphy takes a moment to look back on a transformative year for the land industry and the RLI community.
From advancing professional education and strengthening member connections to championing the role of land brokers across the nation, Dan shares his insights, proudest moments, and vision for the future of land real estate.
Read on to learn more:
the Voice of Land
Reflecting on your entire year as the RLI National President, what are the accomplishments you are most proud of?
When I look back at this year, the thing I’m most proud of isn’t one single event or project. It’s the fact that RLI truly became the voice of land.
We didn’t just talk about it… we showed up at the White House, alongside the National AG policy conversations. RLI had a seat at the table, we spoke up for private landowners, for property rights, where people actually live and work on the land!
We also brought members together in new ways; new education, new round tables, and new energy. It felt like a family… we really hit a stride.
On a personal level, being able to carry the same philosophy through M4 Ranch Group, where land, legacy, stewardship, pretty much drive everything we do. I was incredibly impressed with what RLI and the presidency role enabled us to be a part of.
“RLI truly became the voice of land”
Education, Conferences and Supreme Court Cases
What were the most significant milestones and initiatives achieved during your presidency?
Education
There’s definitely a few things that stand out, in particular education and bringing people together:
- We launched New LANDU education modules
- We launched New Virtual Roundtables
Education is everything in our industry, and without it, we’re so far behind the curve. Introducing the new education and virtual roundtables, enabled our brokers from all over the country to connect and learn.
“We worked really hard on the digital aspect of how we bring people together, when we live so far apart”
You know, there’s 2,000 of us across the nation… we are literally from one coast to the other, from northern boundary to southern boundary. So digital, plays a vital role in growing those intimate relationships?
National Conferences
Alongside digital, the RLI National Conference, is such a big deal… its the one time we all get a chance to get together (If your liver lives through it, it’s great). It’s a great chance to sit around, drink whiskey, talk, get to know each other, build relationships, and then turn those relationships into better business.
We also strengthen our partnerships with incredible advocacy and conservation groups, alongside expanding our reach in such a big way.
“And to be frank… we’re literally now in the conversations that are actually staffing the nation’s policies”
Supreme Court cases
The other part that I really enjoyed is probably one of the most meaningful for me, the RLI’s role in the Supreme Court cases.
We had a chance to be involved in 2 Supreme Court cases about Private Landowner Rights. It gave us an opportunity to not only keep people in the conversation, but to also drive those conversations in a positive way for private landowners across the nation.
Having allies in the White House has been incredible, and it’s surreal to be one of the people sitting in those meetings. I’ll tell you, having meetings in the White House might sound routine to some, but it’s not…it’s a real flex. It was cool, no doubt about it.
“For a cowboy from the western part of Colorado, sitting in the White House alongside the WHIP Leader and others was something special. Moments like that mean a lot, especially when you’re there to talk about what you love; land and legacy”
That passion made it easy for us to step into those conversations, and for me personally, it felt natural. I love wearing that hat, and I’ve never been shy about speaking my mind.
to be heard everywhere… land matters
How did your initial vision for RLI expressed at the start of your term shape your approach to leadership throughout the year?
You know, at the start of my term, I said I wanted RLI to not just talk about land, but to be heard everywhere… land matters. That’s been my compass all year long, and I think we’ve done a remarkably good job of that.
This mantra was at the forefront of every decision we made, whether it was about education or partnerships or advocacy, it was filtered through that lens. Does this help RLI’s voice reach further and mean more?
That mindset comes directly from our daily work at M4 Ranch Group, being out in the field, talking with landowners and buyers. We see firsthand how policies, education gaps, and inefficiencies impact those people. That’s what inspired me to push for RLI to bridge that gap and build real connections.
“Whether it’s Main Street, Washington, D.C., or downtown Montrose, the goal has always been the same: to bring real issues to the table, those that affect the people who live and work on the land and to help them stay prepared for what’s ahead”
Knowledge, and Connection
Can you elaborate on the impact of the new educational modules and virtual round tables on members, development, and industry connectivity?
LandU
The impact has been huge, ‘LandU‘ is frankly the backbone of the RLI.
We’ve worked to make it more flexible and relevant in the real world. Going through LandU is a lot like joining a fraternity or sorority, you build relationships that last. These are your teammates, the people you grow and rise with in the industry, and that community aspect has been a big deal.
The courses themselves are packed with practical, real-world knowledge, everything from water rights and conservation easements to carbon credits, energy, and mineral rights. You also learn about critical topics like wetlands and endangered species and how they impact land decisions.
But maybe the most valuable lesson from ‘LandU’ is learning to be the “source of the source.” If you don’t have the answer, you know how to find someone who does.
“That’s where RLI truly shines, connecting people with the experts and resources that help them move the industry forward”
Virtual Roundtables
The virtual roundtables have been incredible and really highlight the importance of the digital side of what we do. In today’s world, we’re all connected through technology and for our members, many of whom live and work in remote areas, that connection is essential.
Without the digital aspect, it would be nearly impossible to get everyone into classes that fit their schedules, their world, and their travel demands.
“Travel keeps getting tougher, and our calendars only get fuller… that’s why these digital ‘campfires’ have been so impactful, giving us a place to share stories, exchange ideas, and sharpen one another”
Those moments lift the entire industry and strengthen each of us as professionals. Every conversation adds to that collective knowledge, and that shared insight is a huge advantage for our businesses.
Creating A Stronger Voice
How do your efforts to build stronger partnerships with advocacy and conservation groups expand our allies, reach and influence?
That’s actually pretty simple, as Land brokers sit at the intersection of policy and property.
The decisions made in Washington, in state capitals, or even by local county commissioners directly impact every acre of ranchland, farmland, recreational property, transitional ground, and future development sites.
“Protecting the land and defending private property rights isn’t just central to who we are at RLI, it’s fundamental to who we are as a nation”
By partnering with advocacy and conservation groups, even though I’ve never loved the word “advocacy” RLI gains a stronger voice and a seat at the table where those critical decisions are made.
Together, we’ve been able to shape conversations around private land ownership, water management, wildlife habitat, agriculture, and land use. These partnerships help ensure that the issues influencing land value, transfer, and future growth are guided by people who truly understand the land.
protecting private property rights
What has been the significance of RLI’s involvement in recent key court cases affecting property rights and why were these legal victories important to our land professionals?
The Sheets vs. El Dorado County case
I like to describe it as “the last pig at the trough” scenario. What happens in a lot of counties and it just happened to me yesterday here in Montrose County, is that they come to you and say, “We need turn lanes on these highways because the traffic density is already high, but you’re adding to it… you’re the last one here, so you have to pay for it.”
In other words, even though the county didn’t plan properly for growth or updating its zoning and master plans, the final developer or landowner gets stuck with the bill?
That’s exactly what happened in El Dorado County, the county went after a property owner at the end of a cul-de-sac, claiming he had to pay for infrastructure issues that were never addressed before.
“The Supreme Court ended that nonsense with the Sheets vs. El Dorado ruling”
Just yesterday, when I was talking with our local highway department, I couldn’t help but point out that they might want to revisit that case… because what they were suggesting directly violated a Supreme Court decision.
“Cases like this matter deeply, because they protect private property rights and hold local governments accountable for proper planning and policy”
The Open Fields Doctrine
We’re facing a real issue in this country with game and fish departments having the ability to access private property without a warrant to set up surveillance cameras. That authority goes back to laws first written in the 1930s during Prohibition, originally meant to let officers inspect open fields for illegal activity… hence what became known as the “open fields” doctrine.
But technology has changed, and that old law doesn’t fit today’s world.
In the case we were involved with; a game warden who had a dispute with a hunting and fishing club set up cameras on a private property that could stream footage directly to his phone. That meant 24/7, year-round surveillance without a warrant. Worse yet, those cameras were pointed toward the clubhouse and a nearby residence, essentially monitoring the area around a home that’s supposed to be protected under constitutional privacy rights.
“We took that case to the Tennessee Supreme Court and won, reinforcing that private property is just that… private”
Since then, roughly 27 states have signed on in support of that decision, the next fight will likely reach the federal level. At the end of the day, it’s about a simple principle: if a state agency wants to come on your land and conduct surveillance, they need to get a warrant. Otherwise, stay off.
enabling Growth, Unity and Success
On a lighter note, what are some inspiring success stories from RLI members that stood out during your term?
Honestly, there’s a lot to look back on:
accountability, professionalism, and unity
During my presidency, the National Association of Realtors faced some truly tough moments. Whether fortunately or unfortunately, they were forced to confront major issues in real estate, especially through the lawsuits that were backed by the Biden Department of Justice targeting our industry.
“The biggest success for me has been about broadening our impact and bringing common sense back into the national conversation”
They fought back and ultimately won, which was a massive victory against some of the largest real estate companies in the country, as well as the Association itself. But what came out of that challenge might be even more important… it forced real reflection. It prompted a shift toward accountability, professionalism, and unity within the brokerage community.
“The focus turned to becoming better brokers, not segregated by identity or affiliation, but united by skill and integrity”
At the end of the day, that’s the point; It doesn’t matter who you are, what you believe, or where you come from… the mission is to elevate the standard across the industry. To be more responsible, more accountable, and better at serving the people who trust us with their most important assets.
resilience, commitment, and constant growth
We came in at the right time and were able to have the right conversations, with the right leaders to push meaningful change forward. A lot of that progress comes down to restoring common sense and raising the bar for competency across the industry.
“The National Association of Realtors today isn’t the same organization it was three years ago… and that’s a good thing”
Real estate is a high-risk field, but the entry requirements have never matched that level of responsibility. You can’t practice law without rigorous education and testing, yet someone can become a real estate agent with minimal preparation. That gap matters; the expectation of professionalism and knowledge in this industry needs to be far higher than it’s been in the past.
“The statistics prove it; around 80 percent of people who get their real estate license give it up within 4 years. The industry is tough, it demands resilience, commitment, and constant growth”
It’s not for everyone, but for those who stay in it, those challenges are what make the work meaningful.
Community and Partnerships
Another major positive for me personally has been seeing the connections that come out of this community. When I’m at a national conference or a state meeting and someone stands up to share a story about a deal they completed with another member, someone they met through RLI that means a lot.
“Those partnerships, whether they happen across the country or within the same state, highlight exactly what this organization is about. Building relationships that lead to real opportunities and lasting success”
Navigating and Overcoming the Challenges
What major major challenges did the land real estate industry face this year, and how did you slash RLI respond strategically under your leadership?
Frankly, we’ve had a lot to navigate:
cleanup and recalibration
When my presidency began, interest rates were climbing, inflation was around 9 percent, and the country was in the middle of major elections. All of which influenced how land and landowners were viewed and respected.
We also saw shifts in buyer demographics, growing water challenges, and tighter regulations. Over the past few months, though, we’ve worked hard to get many of those issues under better control compared to where things stood earlier in the year.
It’s been a period of cleanup and recalibration, but the results have been positive. I genuinely believe there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Through it all, we’ve
- Expanded and improved RLI’s educational programs
- Launched chat groups to strengthen connections
- Built a foundation for better communication across the organization
Those steps have made a real difference in bringing our network closer and helping our members adapt to the changing times.
Teamwork
We’re at our best when we’re together. Creating more avenues for people to connect and communicate has been a big focus, and that effort has really paid off.
We’ve faced similar challenges at M4 Ranch Group; constantly trying to stay ahead of data, marketing, and communication. We’re always asking ourselves:
- How do we get better?
- What are we missing?
- Is there another way to market these properties?
- Is there another way to reach new buyers, or connect with a demographic that truly fits the land and resources we represent?
RLI operates the same way. It’s about finding and engaging those agents who want to improve, achieve more, and push themselves further… then helping them plug into the organization in meaningful ways.
“When it comes to teamwork and collaboration, that’s really what made this year special. Across RLI; through our chapters, committees, and countless volunteers… people stepped up in ways that were inspiring. The dedication, the shared goals, and the willingness to lift each other up, are what drove so much of our success. It honestly blew me away to see how deeply people cared and how committed they were to making the organization stronger”
Dedication
I’ve watched people give up time away from their businesses and families to share ideas, bring innovation, and help make us better. That’s what truly defines this organization.
The real engine behind RLI, though, is our executive committee. That team, along with the incredible group of women who run RLI day to day, are the backbone of our success.
Under Aubrey Cabronis’s leadership as executive director, everything runs with precision. Our budgets are tight (sometimes balanced to the exact dollar), and that level of discipline shows how fiscally responsible and commitment-driven the organization is.
“It’s inspiring to see that kind of dedication”
The staff team supports hundreds of volunteers across the country, keeping operations smooth and goals aligned. As a guy in this position, I find myself saying “yes, ma’am” a lot, and I mean that with deep respect. It’s been an honor to witness their professionalism, efficiency, and the way they elevate everyone around them.
Leading with Trust and Purpose
What personal growth and leadership lessons did you gain from serving as the national RLI president?
One thing I’ve learned, though I knew it going in; is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about understanding the questions, connecting the right people, and trusting those around you to help solve problems, drive change, and build something better.
I also learned how important it is to keep your boots on the ground, even when you’re leading from the top. That’s not always easy to do, but in this group, it comes naturally. The support is incredible, and the people involved are some of the smartest, most capable professionals you could ask to work alongside.
“Staying grounded and humble is easy when you’re surrounded by that level of dedication and character. It’s been a powerful reminder of just how special this industry truly is”
We don’t sell widgets. What we do is help protect legacy, protect wildlife, open spaces, transitional lands, and future growth. That sense of purpose gives meaning to every day. Sure, there are moments when you want to throw up your hands and walk away, but then you step back and realize how fortunate you are to be in a position to make a real impact.
“If anything, the experience has made me more grateful; for what I get to do every day with M4 Ranch Group and for the incredible team I’m surrounded by at home”
Building on the Momentum
How do you plan to maintain or build upon the momentum gain?
For me, the most important thing is to stay plugged in. Our industry often paints its own picture, but both M4 Ranch Group and RLI share the mindset of always asking:
- “What’s next?”
- “How do we get better?”
- “What are we missing?”
- “What don’t we know yet?”
That pursuit; seeking new knowledge, identifying gaps, focusing on education, always looking for ways to improve… keeps you young and motivated. It pushes you to practice what you preach and to strengthen client relationships.
Momentum isn’t something you can simply pass along, it’s something you have to build and nurture. I was fortunate to step into this presidency with a lot of momentum, and I feel confident that I’m leaving with even more.
I know the incoming president, Jeff Hurtle an ALC and a great producer with a big heart and more time to give than I ever did…is ready to lead.
“The organization is in a terrific position to keep growing, stronger than ever, and I’m excited to see where it goes from here”
The Future and The Legacy Left Behind
What are your key priorities and hopes for the future, beyond your presidency, and what legacy do you hope to leave and what advice or message do you want to pass on to the next president?
Future
Looking to the future, my hope is that RLI keeps building on the foundation it’s laid over the past 110, even 120 years. Stronger education has always defined our lives here, but I’d love to see us grow even bigger in advocacy and influence. Right now, with major legislative wins and a real sense of momentum, RLI has a tremendous opportunity to expand its protective role for landowners and the land itself.
I hope the next generation of brokers and the organizations they’re part of can truly make an impact, and that we’re giving them both the tools and the supportive community they need to succeed.
More than anything, I want us to keep showing up.
“There’s an old saying: ‘those who show up, make the rules’. That’s been true for RLI in Congress, on Conservation Councils, in the Courtroom… you name it. That’s our Legacy, and I’m confident we’ll continue to play a vital part wherever the future takes us”
Legacy
When it comes to legacy, I hope people look back on this year and see it as the time RLI truly found its voice. We became more connected as an organization, and while I’m not sure I’d say we became more respected, there’s no doubt we gained respect on the national stage.
“I truly believe we’ve become the voice of land”
There’s one moment that stands out for me. I walked into a national conference, there were about 700 people in the room. As I came in, wearing my black cowboy hat, the announcer paused the whole meeting and said, “Well, land’s here”
“Well, Land’s here”
That, to me, was the ultimate validation. It captured everything we’ve been working toward: when we enter a room, people know the land community has arrived.
“That’s the spirit I hope to leave behind, a sense of identity, recognition, and lasting momentum for the years ahead”
A Final Thank you
Golly, it’s been quite a journey… not just a year, but a full 4 year term.
First and foremost, I want to say a big thank you. I’ve learned so much during this time and had the chance to deepen relationships with people I already knew well. I also experienced things I never expected and found enjoyment in moments I didn’t anticipate, honestly, it’s been a rewarding and humbling experience.
Above all, I want to thank the members, the staff, and all of our partners… without them, none of this would have been possible. Honestly, I don’t think I could ever say thank you enough for everything they do to help RLI keep advancing its mission.
“RLI doesn’t belong to any one of us, it’s all of ours, built for people across the country”
Most don’t even realize how hard this organization fights for them, but here, the saying “we’re stronger together” genuinely means something.
Looking ahead, I believe the best years are still in front of us. When I think about RLI, about everything it’s accomplished and remember the remarkable presidents who served before me… it’s incredibly humbling to be counted among them, carrying that banner.
“It’s truly been an honor to help lead this organization, and I’m excited to be part of its journey for years to come”
Dan Murphy
Dan Murphy, ALC (Accredited Land Consultant), Broker, Partner, has called the mountain west home his entire adult life. Dan’s extensive and diverse business experience reveals a track record of success. His service on numerous organizational boards throughout the mountain region demonstrates a commitment to improving communities through an applied, big-picture perspective. He has served on the Colorado DOW’s Big Game Allocation Program (BGLAP), the Colorado Wildlife Federation Board of Directors, the Colorado Outfitters Association, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission Advisory Board, and is a founder of Sportsmen for Wildlife Conservation.
Dan also dedicates much of his time and effort building relationships within the Realtor Land Institute, serving as Colorado President in 2021- 2022 (National Chapter of the Year), National RLI Vice President in 2022-2023 to over 2,100 of the top land agents across the country. And serving National RLI President 2025.
M4 Ranch Group
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