Over 1,000 REALTORS® and other real estate professionals from throughout Illinois gathered September 29 – October 1, 2010, for the Illinois Association of REALTORS® Convention & Expo at the Pheasant Run Resort and Spa in St. Charles.

This year’s convention, themed “Motivate, Innovate, Celebrate,” inspired REALTORS® with the latest market trends, technology tools and time-tested marketing and top producer tips they need to get ahead in the industry. Featured speakers included:

• Top negotiator Steve Harney on what inspires greatness 
• Real estate coach Bernice Ross discusses hot niches in the Gen X and Y markets 
• Tech guru Doug Devitre shares his tips for getting the most out of social media 
• Memory coach Tom Weber offers four tips for boosting your memory 
• Trainer Lynn Madison on how to position your listings for success on the MLS
• Real estate trainer Kim Daugherty on wake-up calls about today’s market

REALTORS® also had the opportunity to earn up to six hours of continuing education (CE) credit toward their licensing requirements with two CE classes. Top vendors serving the Illinois real estate industry showcased their products and services in a state-of-the-art trade expo.

Inaugural gala activities included a reception, dinner and dance in honor of the incoming 2011 IAR officers. New officers are President Sheryl Grider Whitehurst, ABR, CRB, GRI, Development and Operations Coordinator with Traders Realty in Peoria; President-Elect Loretta Alonzo, broker-owner of Century 21 Alonzo & Associates, La Grange Park; Treasurer Michael D. Oldenettel, managing broker-owner of RE/MAX Results Plus, Jacksonville.

• See photo highlights and a photo slideshow.