G
et ahead in 2026 by joining the three‑day Broker Power Track at NAR NXT, Nov. 14‑16 in Houston. The track blends popular megasessions—such as the Residential Economic Issues and Trends Forum—with hands‑on peer learning.
Real‑estate brokers are poised for a rebound. After two sluggish years, falling interest rates signal a 14 % rise in existing‑home sales, according to NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. Brokers who can articulate their value to clients and agents will thrive amid shifting consumer expectations, new business models, and AI’s growing influence.
**Why Oregon broker Scott Lewis is heading to Houston**
Scott Lewis, CRS, GREEN, of the Scott Lewis Group in Ashland, says he attends NAR NXT to stay sharp. “It’s a torrent of useful information. I need the best tools to serve our clients, and those who experiment with new brokerage practices gain a clear edge,” he explains.
**Sherry Maser’s take**
Managing broker Sherry Maser, CRB, GRI, of Howard Hanna in Chesapeake, notes, “I always leave NXT with fresh ideas that help me grow. It’s easier to stay current than to catch up.”
**Broker Power Track highlights**
The 13‑session track equips brokers to boost leadership, streamline operations, and focus on growth. Key sessions include:
- **Residential Economics Forum** – Yun presents up‑to‑date insights and forecasts.
- **RISMedia Power Broker Forum** – Leaders discuss today’s challenges and responses.
- **Macro‑force analysis** – John Hentschel, global chair of Counselors of Real Estate, leads a discussion on the 2026 “Top Ten Issues Affecting Real Estate” report.
Other sessions tackle everyday hurdles:
- **Agent recruitment & retention** – Don Hobbs, co‑founder of Expert Partners, shares how to build a culture that attracts top talent.
- **Branding** – Ashton Gustafson, Muse Seminars president, outlines strategies to differentiate your brokerage.
- **Operations** – Sasha Tripp, Story House Real Estate, shows how virtual assistants and streamlined systems free time for strategy.
- **Scaling & team building** – Vanessa Franz Barnes guides brokers through pitfalls and best practices.
- **Small‑team tactics** – Sara Ware, Ware Realty Group, offers compliance‑friendly tools.
- **Team management** – A panel of brokers discusses recruiting, supporting, and retaining high‑performing teams.
- **Training** – Rebecca Thomson, Coldwell Banker, shares coaching programs that boost profits and reduce risk.
- **AI integration** – Rick Janson, Denver luxury broker, leads a workshop on crafting AI policies that balance innovation with ethics.
- **Communications** – Amy Chorew, Curated Learning, presents ways to engage agents across multiple channels.
**Maximize your NXT experience**
Attending the Broker Power Track delivers actionable strategies and real‑world insights. As Harrison Beacher, C2EX, RENE, of Keller Williams Capital Properties notes, the track is especially valuable for brokers from smaller firms seeking concrete takeaways.
**Next steps**
Explore NAR NXT now to learn more about the Broker Power Track and other educational opportunities. Use the online planner to build a personalized agenda that aligns with your business goals. Join peers in Houston Nov. 14‑16 for the energy boost your 2026 strategy needs. Beyond the sessions, connecting with fellow brokers to discuss common challenges and share ideas is an invaluable benefit.
