IREM president’s message: Reflecting on 2024 and anticipating 2025

As the year draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the events the IREM Boston Chapter hosted and the issues we addressed throughout 2024.

Advocacy for the policies and regulations that benefit the real estate management industry, the importance of professional development, and networking and community building were a few of the key issues we focused on this year. 

We placed a particular emphasis on diversity, equality, and inclusion, actively working on several initiatives, including workshops and training sessions that address unconscious bias and other DEI topics. We hosted cultural heritage events and bolstered our DEI Ambassadors Program with new members. Through the IREM Foundation, the Boston Chapter also offers diversity scholarships to assist members from marginalized groups with the cost of tuition associated with achieving IREM certifications. All these efforts reflect a commitment to supporting our members and promoting a more inclusive and equitable industry.

I would be remiss without giving a large shout out of appreciation to Kimberly Parker, chair of the DEI Committee, for her tireless work in organizing and promoting many of these important programs.

Our annual Economic Forecast Luncheon in January was one information packed session with data pointing to rent growth in Boston outperforming the nation by considerable numbers. Let’s keep that momentum moving!

The early summer Education Tradeshow and Industry Partners Vendor Expo at Granite Links Ballroom in Quincy was attended by 110 people and featured 19 vendor booths, three educational workshops, a lively networking session and a terrific buffet lunch. 

IREM celebrated Unity Day with residents, city of Boston officials, the Boston Housing Authority administrator and representatives on a beautiful summer day in August. 

September marked the Chapter’s 26^th Annual Charity Golf Tournament at Granite Links. The sold-out tournament was followed by a cocktail reception featuring raffles, prizes, a silent auction, and music, with a portion of the proceeds raised during the annual event benefiting the IREM Foundation. 

September also found members of the Boston Chapter participating in the IREM New England Conference, a full day of interactive sessions on topics relevant to all real estate professionals held in beautiful Mystic, Connecticut.

Our annual grand holiday event, held on December 4^th this year at the Seaport Hotel in Boston, was indeed grand! In addition to conducting some business, we recognized members for outstanding service, networked, enjoyed a lavish meal and officially installed our slate of Officers and Board of Directors for the new year. 

We also spoke to several industry trends in these pages over the past year – from the increased role technology is playing in property management to the growing demand for multifamily housing. 

We were thrilled with the influx of new members in 2024. We welcomed 21 ARM and 7 CPM designees, along with 24 CPM candidates, 11 associates, and five students. 

We also welcomed with great gratitude nine Silver and two Gold Friends of the Industry. The FOI designation refers to levels of sponsorship within our organization. We are so thankful for the contributions of all our members and partners who support our industry through funding and participation.

A few words must be said about the many New England Past President’s Scholarships awarded this year. These grants encourage education and industry knowledge by assisting recipients with the cost of tuition associated with earning an IREM credential. 

We recognize that reaching a professional developmental goal often comes with financial challenges. IREM Foundation scholarships support industry professionals looking to enhance their education and are funded by generous IREM members dedicated to supporting the dreams and aspirations of fellow real estate managers. 

On a personal level, it has been my honor and privilege to serve as President of the Boston Metropolitan Chapter No. 4 this year and while I will no longer claim that title, I will enthusiastically remain a member of the Board of Directors. I look forward to the prospects and advancements that 2025 will bring to our industry!

And by the way – it was truly a remarkable event several weeks ago when many of our Chapter members connected at The Stockyard Restaurant in Brighton. Much gratitude to our esteemed sponsors, Bermans Adjusters, Bouvier Insurance, and Blusky Restoration Contractors LLC, as well as to insightful speakers from Downing Van Dyke LLC. 

Chris Salamanis-Rivera is the 2024 IREM Boston Chapter president and Vice President of Learning and Development at Beacon Communities, Lynn, Mass.