Since December 2019, Bates has led governmental affairs for Texas REALTORS®, advocating for local, state, and federal private property consumers to protect property rights and promote a strong real estate industry. Bates has served Texas REALTORS® for over 13 years as a volunteer, and with more than 30 years of real estate brokerage experience, Bates has proven to be a committed leader and devoted member of the REALTOR® organization, serving in numerous positions at the local, state, and national levels. Bates has held every key leadership role at the Corpus Christi Association of REALTORS® and the South Texas Commercial Association of REALTORS®, including as a founding member. At the state level, he has served the Texas Association of REALTORS® from 2009 to 2019 and most recently as Chairman of the Board in 2019. At the national level, he has been very active in serving the National Association of REALTORS® (2012-2019). Bates is also a graduate of the 2011 National Association of REALTORS® Leadership Academy class. Throughout his career, Bates has earned the following designations: Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), Society of Industrial and Office REALTORS® (SIOR), and Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS). Recognized for his outstanding service in the real estate industry, Bates received the REALTOR® of the Year in 2009 from the Corpus Christi Association of REALTORS®. In 2002, he was recognized as a “Real Estate Heavy Hitter” in the Dallas Business Journal.