For months, a wide range of indicators concerning the housing market have been pointing towards an improved market, with evidence that prices, sales and construction activity are all starting to rise after 5 lean years. Recent data has shown that housing, which was battered by the 2007-09 recession, is increasingly one of the brighter spots in the economy.
Now is the time to capitalize on your efforts with the current uptick in the market and that was just our focus at our 2012 Annual Conference in Kingsport, Tennessee. For those of you who attended hopefully you came away with much enthusiasm of what you could do to reach out to the numerous Baby Boomers headed your way. The AARC continues as your primary vehicle for learning how to reach those retirees looking to relocate and combines the knowledge of many professionals who all have a hand in retiree recruitment. If you are a member, please feel free to use our on-line research and webinars to learn the latest trends. At our conference, we were excited to roll out our newest tool, a consumer marketing website for our Seal of Approval members. This prestigious program was established to recognize communities and master-planned developments that possess the resources and amenities to attract today’s relocating retiree. Go to www.RetirementDestinations.org to research unbiased information on retirement communities for buyers and then you will realize how important it is that your community be among this top-notch group. To our members, we truly appreciate your membership and endearing friendship. We are constantly looking for more ways to help you grow with our rebounding economy and to the not-yet-members we sincerely encourage you to get involved so you too can provide insight into this ever-changing segment of the market.
Sincerely,
Ramay Winchester, Chair
The AARC Selects Hilton Head Island, SC 
The American Association of Retirement Communities is excited that the island paradise, Hilton Head, South Carolina will host the 2013 Annual Conference. Hilton Head Island is home to the PGA’s RBC Heritage Golf Classic, played on Sea Pines Harbour Town Golf Links with its iconic lighthouse at the 18th hole. Sea Pines and Hilton Head were pioneers in retiree and second home attraction. Many of the established community development practices in common use today began at Hilton Head. This area, with its lush semi tropical setting, offers much to do and see for conference attendees including great golf, pristine beaches and outlet shopping. We are sure that you will enjoy your time “on Island”. The Conference Committee is busy planning the agenda and speaker line-up.