The second half of 2026 is filled with opportunities for agents to sharpen their skills, expand their networks and stay connected to the industry. From continuing education and professional development to networking events and statewide gatherings, MAR has something for every member between July and October.
July kicks off with the Planning & Zoning, Smart Growth & Sustainability event on July 14, a full-day virtual continuing education program offering six continuing education credits. Facilitated by Craig Foley, the course explores planning, zoning and sustainability issues shaping communities across the Commonwealth. With the housing crisis still plaguing communities, agents can have a great impact on working with locally elected officials on planning and zoning issues to make communities resilient and accommodating to additional development. While the event is currently at capacity, members can still join the waitlist.
Later in the month on July 23, members can enjoy a summer evening on the water during the YPN Social: Cruise the Charles. Hosted by the MAR Young Professionals Network, this popular event combines networking, food and scenic views along one of Massachusetts’ most iconic waterways. The Young Professionals Network gathers agents together to share best practices, referrals and networking. With only a handful of tickets remaining, interested members are encouraged to register soon.
MAR’s Diversity, Inclusion & Member Engagement Task Force will host a virtual book review of The Medici Effect: What Elephants and Epidemics Can Teach Us About Innovation on Aug. 19. Facilitated by professors at Suffolk Law, the discussion will explore how innovation emerges when different perspectives and disciplines intersect, offering practical ideas Realtors can apply to their businesses and communities.
September brings MAR’s premier annual gathering, the 2026 Conference, taking place Sept. 8–10 at the Sea Crest Beach Resort on Cape Cod. The event features nationally recognized speakers, including Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist and Egypt Sherrod, from HGTV’s “Married to Real Estate.” Steve Brown will be presenting on practical AI tools for agents’ improved productivity. The legal team will provide an update on new regulations, laws and resources available to help brokers and agents. The conference offers educational sessions, networking opportunities, and recognition of the State REALTOR® of the Year, Good Neighbor Award recipient, Milton H. Shaw Award honoree, and local association REALTORS® of the Year. The conference when held at the Cape always sells out, register today.
October offers additional opportunities for professional growth, including the Broker Success Summit on Oct. 7. Designed for brokers, managers and brokerage leaders, this one-day event focuses on leadership, business strategy, industry trends and practical solutions to help firms thrive in an evolving marketplace.
For members pursuing advanced professional development, the Graduate REALTOR® Institute (GRI) program continues this fall. GRI 301: Technology explores emerging technologies, digital marketing, AI, compliance and valuation tools, while GRI 302: Expanding Your Base helps Realtors broaden their expertise through topics such as commercial real estate, international brokerage, foreclosures, short sales and settlement practices.
In addition to these events, members can take advantage of MAR’s growing library of online continuing education courses throughout the year. Covering topics such as buyer agency, fair housing, disclosures, designated agency and dual agency, these on-demand programs provide a flexible way to stay informed while earning CE credits.
Whether members are seeking CE credits, fresh business strategies, leadership insight or meaningful peer connections, these programs reflect MAR’s commitment to supporting Realtors at every career stage. By participating, members can stay ahead of market changes, strengthen client service and build relationships that benefit their businesses and local communities.
Visit the MAR Events Calendar to register and learn more about upcoming programs and educational opportunities.
Theresa Hatton is the CEO of the Massachusetts Association of REALTORS®.