Winter Conference

RPLS Winter Conference 2026
RPLS Winter Conference 2026—
“Waves of Change: Real Estate on the Rise”

March 5–7, 2026
W South Beach, Miami, Florida

Registration to come

The Real Property Law Section is pleased to announce that the 2026 Winter Conference will be held at the W Southbeach, Miami.  Situated on shores of white sand and crystal blue waters, the W Southbeach is steps away from Miami's endlessly entertaining melting pot. Explore renowned art galleries, museums, parks, nightlife, and an impressive culinary scene. Stroll the pristine beach while taking in the sunset views. There is something for everyone.

The 2026 RPLS Winter Conference will feature speakers from across Michigan, along with local Florida counsel, who will share timely and practical insights on today’s real estate landscape. The program will include an engaging discussion on Michigan real estate litigation updates, commercial leasing challenges, affordable housing and MSHDA initiatives, and emerging issues for title professionals. Attendees will also hear a legislative update and gain a local perspective from Florida practitioners on post-Surfside developments, insurance reform, and how those changes may influence Michigan practice in the years ahead.

This year’s conference promises to deliver an informative and engaging program designed for all Section members. Attendees will gain practical knowledge and enjoy the opportunity to network with colleagues in one of the country’s most dynamic and inspiring destinations. We welcome practitioners of all experience levels and look forward to seeing you in Miami!

The Section would like to thank Amy M. Smith, Makower Abbate Guerra Wegner Vollmer for planning this program .

Thanks to our Sponsors:

Platinum Sponsors

eTitle Agency

First American Title                 

National Commercial Services

Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA)

PEA Group

Gold Sponsor

Giffels Webster                                           

Registration fee for 2026 Winter Conference:

Before December 18, 2026

Section Members: $540
Non-Section Members: $600*

Young Lawyer Section: $250

After December 18, 2026

Section Members: $620 
Non-Section Members: $680*
Young Lawyer Section: $325

* The cost to become a member of the section is $55. Become a member and save.

For further information please contact Karen Schwartz at rplsks@gmail.com.

Registration to come

Conference Materials: Materials will be available online a week before the conference. We no longer distribute print materials at any Section programs. 

Accommodations:
All registrants are responsible for making their own room reservations and flight arrangements.

Book your room TODAY!
Book your group rate for Real Property Law Section Winter Conference

or call W South Beach Reservations: 1-888-625-4985
and request the Real Property Law Section Winter Conference special group rate of $579.  (Room rate does not include state and local taxes of 14%).

Rates will apply 3 days before and after the conference dates based on availability of group rooms at the time requested. 

Rooms must be booked by February 4th.

Program Chair
Amy M. Smith, Makower Abbate Guerra Wegner Vollmer


Thursday, March 5, 2026

Registration & Welcome Reception

Friday, March 6, 2026

7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Breakfast Buffet
8:30 -9:30 a.m. – Robin Yono and Kurt Brauer, Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
“The Rise and Effects of Data Centers on the Real Estate Market”
9:30 – 10:30 a.m. – Clarence Stone, Michigan State Housing Development Authority
(MSHDA)
10:30-10:45 a.m. - Break
10:45 – 11:30 a.m. – David Martyn, First American Title Insurance Company
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Keynote Session, Ken Direktor and Donna DiMaggio Berger,
Becker (Florida)
“Risk Management for Lawyers and Law Firms in the Post–Champlain Towers South
Landscape”
Evening Reception

Saturday, March 7, 2026

7:00-8:00 a.m. - Breakfast Buffet
8:00-9:00 a.m. – Hon. Chris Christenson
9:00-10:00 a.m. – Emily Sullivan, Couzens Lansky
Commercial Leasing Essentials: Balancing Interests and Managing Risk
10:00-10:30 a.m. - Roxanna Zaha, Butzel Long
Legislative Update

View Past Winter Conference Materials