Florida Realtors® has kicked off 2026 with a series of impactful events and initiatives, including its annual Real Estate Trends Summit, the launch of its Leadership Academy, the opening of scholarship applications, the release of updated forms, and a review of significant legislative achievements from 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Florida Realtors® hosted its 15th annual Real Estate Trends Summit, providing insights into the 2025 housing market and forecasts for 2026.
- The 2026 Florida Realtors® Leadership Academy class has been selected to develop emerging leaders within the industry.
- Applications are now open for the Florida Realtors Education Foundation scholarships, offering financial aid for the 2026-2027 academic year.
- New and updated real estate forms have been released, reflecting changes in MLS policy, laws, and local requirements.
- A comprehensive report highlights numerous legislative successes from the 2025 session, benefiting consumers and the real estate industry.
2026 Real Estate Trends Summit
Orlando was the host city for the 15th annual Florida Real Estate Trends Summit on January 9th. Over 400 real estate professionals gathered to hear insights from Florida Realtors®’ research team on the trends that defined Florida’s housing market in 2025 and to gain perspectives on the outlook for 2026. During the event, Chuck Bonfiglio was installed as the 2026 President of Florida Realtors®.
Leadership Academy Identifies Future Leaders
Florida Realtors® has selected 15 Realtor members from across the state for its 20th annual Leadership Academy. This program is designed to cultivate leadership skills, deepen understanding of Florida Realtors®, and empower participants to take on leadership roles in committees, associations, or community activities. The 2026 class will engage in various study sessions, team-building exercises, and discussions on leadership techniques.
Scholarship Opportunities for Students
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026-2027 academic year scholarships offered by the Florida Realtors Education Foundation. Awards begin at $1,000, and students in any major are eligible. The deadline for online applications is March 6. While preference is given to those pursuing real estate careers, all Florida residents enrolled in undergraduate or graduate programs are encouraged to apply. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded nearly $2.75 million to 1,986 students.
Updated Forms for Real Estate Professionals
Effective January 5, Florida Realtors® released new and updated listing, leasing, and compensation agreement forms. These revisions incorporate changes related to the National Association of Realtors®’ MLS Policy on Multiple Listing Options for Sellers, align with current laws, and address local requirements. Several older forms have been retired and replaced with new, combined versions available on Form Simplicity.
2025 Legislative Session Yields Significant Wins
The 2025 Legislative Session concluded with numerous victories for Florida Realtors®, aimed at benefiting consumers and the state’s real estate industry. Key achievements include the complete elimination of Florida’s Business Rent Tax, an additional $50 million for the Hometown Heroes Housing Program, and $385 million allocated for affordable housing initiatives. Significant funding was also directed towards water quality and restoration projects. The session also saw legislative action to enhance transparency in condominium transactions, protect property rights against squatters, and improve flood risk disclosures for renters and buyers.
Sources
- Florida Realtors® 15th annual Real Estate Trends Summit, South Florida Agent Magazine.
- Florida Realtors Leadership Academy: 2026 Class, | Florida Realtors.
- Florida Realtors Scholarship Apps Now Open, | Florida Realtors.
- Florida Realtors Rolls Out New, Updated Forms, | Florida Realtors.
- 2025 Legislative Final Report | Florida Realtors, | Florida Realtors.