Introducing the WMLAR Next Level Summit

A New Chapter for Real Estate Professionals Across West Michigan

Something big is coming to the Lakeshore!

For years, WMLAR members have gathered each fall for the Association’s Annual Business Meeting. This September, we’re taking that tradition to the next level.

On September 17, 2026, WMLAR will host the inaugural Next Level Summit at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Muskegon Convention Center and VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center—a full-day experience designed to inspire, educate, and connect real estate professionals from across West Michigan.

More than a meeting, the Next Level Summit represents the evolution of WMLAR itself.

As our membership has grown beyond traditional market boundaries, so has our vision. Today’s WMLAR members live and work throughout Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Kent, Oceana, Newaygo, Kalamazoo, Ingham, and surrounding counties. The Next Level Summit reflects that growth by bringing together REALTORS®, brokers, affiliate members, industry partners, and real estate professionals for a regional event focused on helping attendees navigate what’s next in our industry.

A Day Designed for Growth

The day begins with complimentary coffee, networking, and the WMLAR Annual Business Meeting, providing members the opportunity to connect with colleagues and learn more about the Association’s accomplishments, initiatives, and future direction.

Following the Annual Business Meeting, attendees will hear from keynote speaker Terry Watson, whose signature presentation, Evolve or Evaporate™, has inspired professionals across the country to embrace change, challenge assumptions, and take action in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

The afternoon ticketed portion of the Summit is being designed to provide practical business strategies, market insights, risk management education, leadership development, and networking opportunities that attendees can immediately apply to their businesses, plus continued education credits!

Planned programming includes:

• Business growth and sales strategy sessions
• Risk protection and fraud prevention education
• Legal and regulatory updates
• Market trends and economic insights
• Marketing and client engagement strategies
• Networking opportunities with industry partnersVendor and exhibitor experiences
• RPAC Social Hour

Additional session details will be announced throughout the summer.

Featured Speakers

Terry Watson

Many WMLAR members will recognize Terry Watson from previous Association programs, and we’re excited to welcome him back as the inaugural Next Level Summit keynote speaker.

Known for his engaging delivery and practical business insights, Terry helps professionals identify opportunities for growth, navigate change, and create action plans that move their businesses forward. His keynote presentation, Evolve or Evaporate™, will challenge attendees to think differently about leadership, business development, and long-term success.

Tom Cronkright

A familiar face to WMLAR members, Tom Cronkright returns to share his expertise on one of the most important topics facing real estate professionals today: risk protection.

As the co-founder of CertifID and owner of Sun Title, Tom has become a nationally recognized authority on wire fraud prevention, cybersecurity, transaction security, and emerging risks impacting the real estate industry. His sessions consistently provide practical takeaways that professionals can immediately implement to better protect themselves and their clients.

Valerie Garcia

Joining the Summit lineup is nationally recognized marketing strategist and business growth expert Valerie Garcia.

Valerie specializes in helping professionals strengthen their brands, improve client communication, develop marketing systems that work, and create sustainable business growth. Her energetic, practical approach has helped thousands of professionals better connect with consumers while adapting to changing market conditions.

Additional details will be announced as planning continues.

Why Muskegon?

The Next Level Summit also marks an exciting milestone as WMLAR brings a major educational and networking event to Muskegon.

As one of the Association’s primary market centers, Muskegon plays a vital role in the success and growth of our membership. Hosting the Summit in Muskegon reflects WMLAR’s commitment to serving members throughout the region while creating opportunities to bring professionals together from across West Michigan.

We’re also excited to showcase one of the region’s premier event venues. The Delta Hotels by Marriott Muskegon Convention Center and VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center provide the space, technology, flexibility, and professional atmosphere needed to create a true conference experience. From keynote presentations and breakout sessions to networking opportunities, exhibitor experiences, and the afternoon social hour, the venue allows us to deliver a level of programming unlike anything WMLAR has offered before.

More Than Education

The Next Level Summit is being designed as more than a conference.

Throughout the day, attendees will have opportunities to connect with industry partners, technology providers, service professionals, and fellow REALTORS® from across the region. Sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are currently being finalized and will offer a variety of ways for businesses to engage directly with attendees through dedicated networking and showcase areas.

Whether you’re looking to discover new tools, strengthen existing relationships, or build new connections, the Summit will create opportunities to engage with the professionals and organizations shaping the future of real estate in West Michigan.

Save the Date

• September 17, 2026
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Muskegon Convention Center / VanDyk Mortgage Convention Center
• Parking and Entrance Address: 939 Third St. Muskegon, MI 49440

Whether you’re looking for fresh business ideas, leadership development, risk management strategies, marketing insights, or opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, the WMLAR Next Level Summit is being built with one goal in mind:

Helping real estate professionals evolve, lead, and succeed.

Watch for registration details, sponsorship opportunities, and event updates throughout the summer.