Paul Sigurdson, a long-time agent with Counselor Realty, was recently named Realtor of the Year by the Minneapolis Area Association of Realtors (MAAR).

This annual award is bestowed upon "members for their volunteerism in the association and community. It's given to those who display sincere commitment and devotion to the residential real estate industry," according to MAAR.

Sigurdson has been an agent more than 30 years and has severed on several community and professional boards and committees, including the food shelf in Columbia Heights. He was appointed by the

Minneapolis city council has served on the city's real estate advisory board from 1990-2002, has been active in the MAAR Public Affairs Committee and has served on the NorthstarMLS Board of Directors since 2003.

Here's what Emily Green, 2014 MAAR president, had to say: "Paul Sigurdson has worked tirelessly to promote and help direct our industry. Paul's efforts, from his work within the community to representing his Realtor peers on a national level, have helped to ensure a healthy marketplace for all Realtors and the clients we serve."