Joyce Etchison Attends International Conference

Joyce Etchison from the Naples Amerivest Realty office was among more than 300 Realtors who traveled from around the United States and the world to learn about the latest international trends, how to market their properties, establish international business relationships, and continue their professional development at the 11th Annual International Real Estate Congress in Miami, Florida June 12 - 14, 2007. High-level delegations from approximately 10 countries and 30 U.S. cities traveled to Miami to network with real estate practitioners from the U. S. and around the globe.

"This was an outstanding program for anyone involved in any phase of real estate services in the United States and with neighboring countries and cities. I had the opportunity also to meet some wonderful agents from as near as Vero Beach and Sarasota as well as many other Florida cities, then on to North Carolina, Colorado, Costa Rica, and even learned more about Dubai! We shared information about our respective markets and set up a referral network among us" Etchison said.

This year's conference brought together an array of nationally and internationally known real estate experts, forecasters, and national speakers to address the hottest industry issues, including factors that are influencing trends in international real estate investment and development. "I especially enjoyed the presentation by Dr. Lawrence Yun, senior economist with NAR on the topic of 'Real Estate Forecast and Markets to Target for Foreign Investment' , as I came away confident that we are just experiencing a "blip" in our market after seeing the statistics on baby boomers' demand in Fla., economic growth, housing prices compared to other markets in the U.S. and especially abroad. South Florida offers 'warm waters' unlike many coastal countries abroad and there is a definite trend showing the demand for our properties coming from Europe, Canada, and Asia."

"I also enjoyed visiting new highrise construction in downtown Miami and was 'awed' by the change of its skyline, as I sold real estate there in the late 70's and early 80's. The architecture, views and amenities are incredible. All in all, I came home rejuvenated about the real estate market and opportunity in Florida, made great contacts for my potential buyers and sellers, but I regret the five pounds I gained due to the fine dining offered at the historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables".

The conference will be held June 9 - 12, 2008 in Miami once again. To contact Joyce, visit her website at http://www.joycesellsnaples.com/