The National Association of Realtors will launch its tech-conference tour this month, the trade group announced today. The first event of the tour will be held on April 12 in Fairfax, Va., and others will follow in different locations throughout the summer and fall.
Launched for the first time last year, "NAR Tech Edge" conferences aim to shed light on emerging technological trends in the real estate industry. The announcement of the tour came shortly after NAR revealed the inaugural members of its new startup accelerator, REach. The program will provide mentoring and, potentially, funding to the participating companies.
"Technology continues to change the way that Realtors and the real estate business operate," said NAR President Gary Thomas in a statement. "NAR Tech Edge is a great opportunity for Realtors to further expand and build upon the techniques and tools they’ve already successfully incorporated into their business."
Technology tools are integral to Realtors’ business dealings, according to the 2012 NAR Member Profile. The survey found that nearly all member respondents used their email on a daily basis, and that eight out of 10 used smartphones with Internet capability on a daily basis. In addition, more than half of respondents reported having their own websites and regularly using social media.
Speakers for the one-day events will include CEO of the Social Media Marketing Institute and Century 21 Advantage Gold Bill Lublin; NAR Director of Digital Engagement Nobu Hata; and Vice President of Platform Development at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Amy Chorew.
NAR Tech Edge will take place in Fairfax, Va., on April 12; Bullhead City, Ariz., on April 19; San Francisco on July 24; Boca Raton, Fla., on August 7; Columbus, Ohio on September 7; Parsippany, N.J., on September 23; Chicago on October 9; and Springfield, Mass., on October 18. The events are open to Realtors and non-Realtors alike.
To learn more or register for the conference, visit www.epronar.com/nar_tech_edge.cfm.
