September signals “back to school” for many people – even those of us whose lives are no longer tied to an academic calendar. And while it may not mean new pencils or class schedules, as a Realtor® I use this time to think about my business plan for the upcoming year.

Fortunately for NVAR members, our annual Convention and Trade Show is perfectly timed to coincide with this change of seasons. As you’ll see at NVAR.com/convention, there is energy, engagement and yes – education, in store for us on Oct. 15!

While there is no shortage of opportunity throughout the year to learn and engage at NVAR, the annual Convention is an amazing full day of inspiration where you can energize yourself – and your business. I can’t say enough about what a terrific benefit this is for NVAR members. If you attend nothing else throughout the year (but I sincerely hope that you do!), please plan to be there. You’ll be glad you did!

Another really important way to engage is to VOTE! Not only are there important mid-term elections coming up in November, our annual Board of Directors election begins on Sept. 11. Our ability to choose the individuals who make decisions that affect the way that we do business should not be taken for granted. With that in mind, I ask these three things of you:

1. When you renew your annual dues, don’t uncheck the box for your NV/ RPAC fair share; this helps to ensure a legislative environment that supports our business

2. Review the preliminary slate of candidates at NVAR.com/bod, then vote on Sept. 11

3. Be sure you’re registered to vote, then go to the polls on Nov. 5; attend our Congressional Town Hall on Sept. 13.

Remember, too, that our annual Economic Summit is right around the corner – on Sept. 5. If you haven’t already done so, visit NVAR.com/ES19 to learn more about our impressive speaker lineup and reserve your seat today!

I look forward to seeing you at the Northern Virginia Community College in Annandale on Oct. 15, if not before. There will be many more details to come at NVAR.com/Convention as the date approaches.

As always, I value your feedback and can be reached at President@nvar.com.