Get to Know CREA’s 2025-2026 Chair, Valérie Paquin
Paquin of Blainville, Quebec, was installed as Chair at CREA’s Annual General Meeting.
Real estate has always been a part of Valérie Paquin’s life. As a second-generation REALTOR®, Paquin followed in her father’s footsteps and has spent the past 20 years helping her clients achieve the dream of homeownership.
While already a REALTOR® and co-owner of Via Capitale Partenaires, Paquin knew she had more to contribute to the industry. With the encouragement of her colleagues and her own determination to see a better future for Canadian real estate, she put her name forward to join the CREA Board of Directors.
“I first ran for the CREA Board because I knew I was going to be in real estate for at least the next 20 years,” says Paquin. “It was important to me to be part of shaping its future. That first step gave me the opportunity to grow, both professionally and personally.”
Paquin is eager to share the importance of getting involved at any level with the REALTOR® community nationwide. It’s not just about contributing to the future of CREA—it’s also about expanding perspectives. Engaging with peers from coast-to-coast-to-coast reveals both the similarities and unique nuances of real estate across Canada.
When asked about her priorities as CREA Chair, three things came to mind:
- The value of connections.
- The importance of communication.
- Inspiring others to volunteer.
Connecting, coast-to-coast-to-coast
Citing the importance of connections throughout her real estate career, Paquin feels connections are a superpower all REALTORS® should harness.
After all, REALTORS® regularly connect buyers and sellers, negotiate deals, and build bridges.
“Individually, we are great. Together, we are a real force,” she says with optimism when speaking about the future.
With nationwide challenges, like Canada’s housing crisis, it’s never been more important to work as a team to champion the industry. And, Paquin says, “when we know each other well, we collaborate better.”
Volunteerism
Volunteerism is something incredibly close to Paquin’s heart, the value of which she hopes to share with REALTORS® across the country. When reflecting on where that appreciation stemmed from, Paquin recalls the example set for her by her father. “Throughout his career, he volunteered his time, energy and passion to our industry,” she says. “He gave back, and he paid it forward. He was not alone. He always had the support of my mother.”
Outside of real estate, Paquin is an avid supporter of Ronald McDonald House Charities. A charity that supports the families of sick children while they undergo treatment. She’s recently been involved in fundraising efforts and helped to cook meals for the families involved in the program.
Now, some questions!
We asked Paquin to answer a few questions to get to know her better. Here’s what she had to say.
What are you excited about this year?
Everything! More specifically, having the opportunity to help shape what CREA will look like in the wake of REALTOR.ca becoming a taxable entity. I’m really excited to work alongside the CREA Board of Directors and strategic planning team to deepen our impact and vision for CREA.
Do you remember the first time you thought you might want to work in real estate?
Yes! When I was about eight years old my sister and I were playing at our dad’s office, pretending we were real estate agents. We acted out transferring calls from other offices and looked for houses in the books (at that time there was no REALTOR.ca, everything was printed). That was the first time I remember thinking I might want to do this for real one day.
Do you have any hobbies?
When I have the time, I really like to bake. Pastries are my favourite and my go-to is a chocolate éclair.
Where’s the best place to have a good long chat with a friend?
At a cottage by a lake with a glass of wine.
How do you like to clear your head after a busy week?
Music. I really love Charlotte Cardin.
What’s your favourite Québécois dish and where’s the best place to get it?
I have to say bagels, and my favourite spot is St-Viateur Bagel.
What’s one phrase that every REALTOR® should know in French?
Voulez-vous faire une offre? (Would you like to make an offer?)
Get to know CREA's full leadership team, including its 2025/2026 Board of Directors.
