ENGAGE 25

Join us at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue, WA
on October 22–23, 2025

This October, Washington’s rental housing professionals will once again gather for ENGAGE25, a powerful two-day conference hosted by the Rental Housing Association of Washington (RHAWA). Taking place at the modern Meydenbauer Center in downtown Bellevue, this annual event brings together education, policy insight, and advocacy to shape the future of housing across the state.

With eight educational tracks, 25+ breakout sessions, policy-driven keynotes, and dynamic networking opportunities, ENGAGE25 offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and lead.

WHY ATTEND?

ENGAGE25 is more than just a conference—it’s a platform for action. Designed for housing providers across the spectrum, the event offers the opportunity to explore pressing challenges in Washington’s rental housing industry and collaborate on meaningful solutions.

Whether you own a single property or oversee a large portfolio, ENGAGE25 equips you with the tools and insights needed to operate more effectively in a rapidly changing environment. Learn how to protect your property rights, understand new regulatory trends, and stay compliant with local laws.

You’ll also gain strategies to streamline operations with proven legal, financial, and management practices. The event will empower you to influence housing policy through coalition building and advocacy; while helping you amplify your message through media and public engagement.

ENGAGE25 isn’t just about learning—it’s about leading. Join the conversation and help shape the future of rental housing in Washington.

EXPLORE 8 POWERFUL CONTENT TRACKS

ENGAGE25’s programming is organized into eight targeted tracks, covering every corner of the housing industry. Stick to one area or mix and match sessions across both days.

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

Investment Strategies, Risk Management & Success Stories

Build smarter. Grow stronger. This track focuses on long-term success through portfolio growth, risk management, succession planning, and smart investing. This track includes 3 breakout sessions. 

TRUE COST OF BUILDING

Breaking Ground & Navigating Roadblocks

Explore how permitting, labor shortages, rising wages, and material costs drive development expenses and impact project timelines for varied housing development projects. This track includes 3 breakout sessions.

POLICY IN ACTION

Strategies, Stakeholder Perspectives, & Systemic Solutions

Stay ahead of upcoming legislation, rent control proposals, and statewide housing policies that could continue to reshape the industry. This track includes 3 breakout sessions.

PROPERTY RIGHTS

Eminent Domain, Takings & Government Overreach

Protect your assets and learn how to navigate regulatory overreach, legal battles, and constitutional protections affecting housing providers. This track includes 3 breakout sessions.

RENTAL OPERATIONS

Navigating Laws & Strategies

From lease compliance and tenant screening to rent increases and turnover, this track is your guide to adapting your operations to comply with new state and local laws. It includes 4 breakout sessions & a learning lab.

HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

Deep Dive into Blueprints & Breakthroughs

Hear from builders and stakeholders about zoning, permitting, and local opposition—and learn how to move projects forward despite systemic barriers. This track includes 4 breakout sessions.

ADVOCACY IN ACTION

Empowering Your Voices for Housing & Civic Change

Discover how to influence policymakers, organize grassroots efforts, and make your voice heard at the local and state levels. This track includes 4 breakout sessions and a learning lab.

MEDIA MASTERY

Challenging Narratives, Protecting Reputations & Amplifying Impact

The housing narrative is shifting. Learn how to engage with media, use social platforms effectively, and shape public opinion with compelling storytelling. This track includes 4 breakout sessions and a learning lab.

ENGAGE & ELECT: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF HOUSING THROUGH LOCAL & STATE ELECTIONS

The conference will host two candidate forums, so join us for ENGAGE & Elect general sessions, a vital opportunity to participate in local and state elections that will shape the future of housing and community development.

The morning candidate forum features local officials like Bellevue City Council Member Jared Nieuwenhuis, Tacoma Mayor and City Council Candidate John Hines, and Spokane City Council Member Jonathan Bingle, moderated by Kevin Wallace, to discuss their policies on preserving housing providers and promoting responsible, sustainable growth.

Later, engage with state candidates including Rep. Amy Walen, Chad Magendanz, Mayor Kevin Schilling, and Rep. Michelle Caldier, as they outline their visions for housing and community policies at the state level.

This is your chance to ask questions, hear directly from candidates, and understand how their broader platforms could impact your community’s future—your voice truly matters in shaping a better tomorrow.

NETWORKING AND CONNECTION

Don’t miss the RHA PAC Happy Hour & Public Officials Mix & Mingle, where you can connect with civic leaders, policymakers, and housing peers. It's the perfect space to share ideas, build relationships, and drive meaningful change.

DISCOVER THE MEYDENBAUER CENTER

Located in downtown Bellevue, the Meydenbauer Center offers a modern and accessible venue for this year’s event. With both the first and fourth floors in use, attendees will enjoy easy access to breakout rooms, a spacious exhibitor hall, and comfortable lounges for networking. Staff and signage will guide you between floors via elevators and escalators, making transitions seamless.

Complimentary garage parking makes daily attendance easy, and for those staying overnight, hotel options are just a short walk away. Choose from the InterContinental Seattle Bellevue, Seattle Marriott Bellevue, The Westin Bellevue, or Hilton Bellevue—all offering top-tier comfort and proximity to the venue.

DINE & UNWIND IN BELLEVUE

While wonderful snacks, beverages, and lunch will be provided at the Meydenbauer Center during ENGAGE25, downtown Bellevue is filled with top dining spots, making it easy to enjoy a great meal before, during, or after your day. Just steps from the venue, El Gaucho offers a classic Pacific Northwest steakhouse experience with prime cuts and elegant table-side service.

For a high-energy dinner, Wild Wasabi Signature delivers tableside teppanyaki and sushi—perfect for groups. Looking for bold flavors? Cielo Cocina offers vibrant Mexican dishes, family recipes, and festive margaritas. And when it’s time for a coffee break, Story Coffee and nearby cafés provide the perfect atmosphere to recharge and connect.

ATTENDEE EXPERIENCE

Your ENGAGE25 registration grants you full access to all general sessions, breakout sessions, and learning labs. Additionally, you'll enjoy complimentary breakfast, lunch, snacks, onsite parking, and invitations to evening receptions*, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging conference experience.

*Annual Business Meeting & Awards reception is reserved for RHAWA members only.

HELP US SPREAD THE WORD

Do you work with contractors, attorneys, insurance agents, lenders, or other service providers who support the rental housing industry? Let them know about ENGAGE25. From plumbers and general contractors to tech providers and legal professionals, this event is a valuable opportunity for your network to connect with housing providers, showcase their services, and stay on top of industry trends.

Encourage your partners to attend, exhibit, or sponsor—because when we all engage, our industry grows stronger together.

LET’S SHAPE THE FUTURE OF HOUSING—TOGETHER

Join housing leaders, legal experts, developers, and advocates at ENGAGE25. It’s time to protect our industry, promote equitable solutions, and push for smarter housing policy in Washington State.

Register now at ENGAGEwa.com
For general questions, contact Chloe Moser at cmoser@RHAwa.org.
For exhibitor and sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Luke Brown at lbrown@RHAwa.org.