The 2024 OPTECH Conference & Expo, hosted by The National Multifamily Housing Council, is the hub for the most important conversations and business deals in multifamily housing technology and operations. The annual event boasts brilliant keynote speakers, exceptional educational sessions, informative workshops and numerous networking opportunities.

To help you make the most out of your time at OPTECH, we’ve put together 7 tips to ensure you maximize your time and have a great experience: 

Tip #1: Recharge (literally and figuratively) at FUTURESLab.  

Curated by the Real Estate Technology and Transformation Center (RETTC), the FUTURESlab is a vibrant space that will offer more than just networking - it promises to be a hub of innovation and inspiration. Engage with short, impactful presentations, relax in comfortable seating areas with charging stations, and visit the FIRE Pavilion, a hands-on tour of the latest construction tech. Whether you visit the FUTURESlab to recharge or to spark new ideas, this exciting new conference feature is your destination for forward-thinking in multifamily real estate.

FUTURESLab Hours

  • Monday: 1 -3:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Tip #2: Stand up for what’s right at the inaugural OPTECH Advocacy Day on Wednesday, October 23.

At OPTECH’s inaugural Advocacy Day, you’ll be equipped with the tools and resources to engage in effective policy advocacy for the future of rental housing technology. The day includes an Advocacy Briefing and Workshop and organized Hill and agency meetings.

Advocacy Day Schedule

  • 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. - Advocacy Briefing and Workshop
  • 11:30 a.m. - Bus Departs Gaylord for Capitol Hill
  • 12:30 – 4:30 p.m. - Hill Briefings and Outreach Meetings

Tip #3: Carefully review this year’s conference agenda to identify programming that will help you take your unique operations and technology playbook to the next level.

General Sessions

From the official launch of the groundbreaking Real Estate Technology and Transformation Center to thought-provoking presentations by forward-thinking leaders, this year’s general sessions cover some of the industry’s most important and most talked about topics, including: 

  • Introducing CRETT!
  • Keynote Speech by Erica Dhawan
  • Keynote Speech by Senator Mark Warner
  • A Fireside Chat with Brendan Wallace

Opening Pitches

From 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22, hear short pitches highlighting the latest innovative multifamily products and services.

Breakout Sessions

These sessions allow you to take a deep dive into specific topics and participate in informative and interactive Q&As.

Topics include:

  • Tech, Meet Touch: How to Strike a Balance That Can Elevate the Resident Experience
  • Enhancing Digital Sophistication in Prospect and Resident Outreach
  • AI and Automation in Multifamily Marketing: Navigating the Regulatory Changes
  • From Theory to Action: Adopting AI and Automation for Enhanced Property Management
  • Balancing Environmental Impact with Fiscal Responsibility
  • Navigating Multifamily Risk: Proactive Compliance, Insurance, and Fraud Prevention
  • Blueprint for Innovation: Piloting and Sustaining New PropTech in Multifamily
  • Leveraging Technology for Strategic Operational Risk Management
  • Cybersecurity and Data Privacy in Multifamily: Strategies for Protection and Compliance
  • Unleashing the Power of AI: Transforming Data into Actionable Intelligence
  • Ask Me Anything: Steering Data Strategies in Multifamily
  • Harnessing Big Data: Creating Effective Data Management Systems for Multifamily Success
  • Driving Transformation: Building a Data-Driven Culture in Multifamily Real Estate
  • Mastering Centralization: Tactical Insights for Multifamily Executives
  • Ask Me Anything: C-Suite Strategies for Technological Transformation

Technology Workshops

OPTECH technology workshops are 75-minute sessions loaded with takeaways. 

Topics include:

  • Data-Driven Renter Insights: Crafting Exceptional Resident Experiences
  • Establishing Robust AI Governance Policies: Ensuring Safe and Effective Use of Generative AI
  • Fees, APIs, Integrations, oh my! Adopting Resident Service Fee Standardization in Multifamily
  • Smart Living: Building Digital Ecosystems for Modern Apartment Communities
  • Turning Data Chaos into Harmony: Establishing Effective Data Cleaning Processes

Breakfast Briefings

Start your day with an informative update on the constantly shifting regulatory and legislative landscape. From HUD Fair Housing guidelines to housing affordability and tax updates, breakfast briefings are your chance to stay informed, ask questions and connect with NMHC to share your challenges and interests related to current and upcoming policy changes. 

Topics include:

  • Affordable housing initiatives
  • Fair Housing compliance
  • Tax policy updates
  • Renter protections and eviction moratoriums
  • Rent control legislation

Tip #4: Study the exhibitor list and prioritize which vendors and suppliers you want to meet with. 

Create a prioritized list of the booths you want to visit so you can maximize your time at the Expo and avoid overlooking solutions that are of the most interest to your business. Dedicate time for meaningful conversations with vendors that interest you. OPTECH is multifamily’s foremost forum for innovative tech, and you are guaranteed to uncover new products and services that can help you elevate your property and add significant value to your business. 

Expo Hours

  • Monday, October 21: 3 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, October 22: 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Be sure to visit the WithMe team at booth 535 to fuel up with a cup of delicious SipWithMe coffee, check out a PrintWithMe device and find out how our amenities can help you decrease spend, control costs and create efficiencies - all while elevating the resident experience. 

Feel like doing a little recon before OPTECH? Browse the LinkedIn profiles of everyone from WithMe who will be attending: 

Tip #5: Remember...there’s only one D.C.! 

Make time to dive into the rich history and vibrant culture of the nation’s capital! Washington, D.C. offers a wealth of iconic landmarks, world-class museums and lively neighborhoods.

See the sights:

  • National Mall - The beating heart of the nation’s capital, the National Mall is an expansive park that’s home to America’s most iconic monuments and memorials. From the towering Washington Monument to the reflective Lincoln Memorial, this historic stretch is a must-visit.
  • Lincoln Memorial - A profound tribute to President Abraham Lincoln, this majestic monument stands as a symbol of unity and hope. Its grandeur and historical significance make it one of the most visited landmarks in D.C.
  • Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History - Embark on a journey through the wonders of our planet at this world-renowned museum. From the dazzling Hope Diamond to the awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibits, it offers something for everyone.
  • U.S. Capitol Building - The epicenter of American democracy, the U.S. Capitol is where history is written. Tour the halls where Congress meets and experience the grandeur of this architectural masterpiece.
  • The White House - As the official residence and workplace of the President, the White House is a symbol of American leadership. Take a tour and step into the history that has shaped the nation.
  • Washington Monument - Rising majestically above the National Mall, the Washington Monument honors the nation’s first president. Take in breathtaking views of the city from the top of this historic obelisk.
  • Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum - Soar through the history of aviation and space exploration at this captivating museum. Marvel at historic aircraft, spacecraft, and the groundbreaking achievements of human flight.
  • Thomas Jefferson Memorial - Pay homage to the author of the Declaration of Independence at this serene memorial.
  • National Gallery of Art - Immerse yourself in the world of art at this prestigious gallery, which houses masterpieces from the Renaissance to the modern era. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, it’s a cultural treasure.
  • Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture - Experience the rich and complex history of African Americans through powerful exhibits that tell the story of resilience, creativity, and contributions to American society. This museum is a must-see for all visitors.
  • United States Holocaust Memorial Museum - A somber and powerful experience, this museum honors the memory of Holocaust victims and educates visitors about the horrors of this dark chapter in history. Its exhibits and stories leave a lasting impact.

Enjoy world-class dining: 

For even more ideas, check out TripAdvisor’s 3 Days in Washington, D.C. city guide. It’s almost as if it was curated for OPTECH attendees! 

Tip #6: Forge connections that are truly monumental. 

Leverage the opportunity to grow your multifamily network! 

Exchange contact information with the professionals you connect with during the conference and at networking events - and make it a point to stay connected! Interact with social media posts. Schedule  15-minute “coffee chats” over Zoom. Make time to build relationships. 

Also be intentional about scheduling conversations with suppliers and vendors who you think can help add efficiency and drive more value for your business! After all, OPTECH was designed to showcase simplified, integrated, sustainable tech for better performance and communities.

Tip #7: Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the historic Potomac River.

We’re teaming up with our friends at Flamingo, PointCentral, Apartment List and Agua Plus to host the FREE Runtech_5K on October 22! Enjoy stunning views of the city on the scenic race route, which will begin at the Potomac River Waterfront Park (just a few steps away from the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center). 

Whether you’re sprinting, jogging or taking a leisurely walk, this event is the perfect way to start your day with fellow industry professionals. Enjoy AguaPlus water at the finish line, network with peers and make the most of this unique conference experience.

We encourage everyone to arrive by 6:45 a.m., as the 5K will start promptly at 7 a.m. 

Register here. 

We can’t wait to connect with you October 21-23 in Washington, D.C.!