Spokane Welcomes RHAWA’s New Office with a Packed Open House

The Rental Housing Association of Washington celebrated the opening of its new Spokane office with a lively open house that drew members, local officials, and community partners from across Eastern Washington. The event, held in September, marked a significant milestone in RHAWA’s continued growth and commitment to serving housing providers statewide.

For decades, RHAWA has been the trusted resource for rental housing providers throughout Washington State. With its new office in Spokane, the association is improving its footprint to better support members east of the Cascades. This updated presence reflects RHAWA’s mission to ensure housing providers have the premier support they need to thrive in an increasingly complex housing landscape.

The new location for the Spokane office demonstrates RHAWA’s long-term commitment to local engagement. Relocating to the City of Spokane allows members who prefer in-person services to still come by and visit the office if they choose, while also allowing for more streamlined engagement with local advocacy groups, industry partners, and local lawmakers.

The open house was a resounding success, with strong attendance from RHAWA members, lawmakers, and community stakeholders. Guests were greeted with refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, and a full tour of the new office space, which will serve as a hub for advocacy meetings and member support.

Adding to the excitement, several Spokane City Councilmembers and local candidates stopped by to show their support and meet with housing providers. Their participation underscored the importance of open dialogue between policymakers and the rental housing industry, which is a hallmark of RHAWA’s approach to advocacy.

The event offered an opportunity for attendees to connect directly with decision-makers, share perspectives on local housing issues, and discuss the importance of balanced housing policy. The collaborative atmosphere set a positive tone for RHAWA’s growing presence in the region.

Beyond the ribbon-cutting and introductions, the open house served a deeper purpose: connection. Many members who have long participated in RHAWA trainings or webinars from afar were able to meet staff and fellow housing providers in person for the first time. The energy in the room reflected enthusiasm for community-building and shared purpose among those who provide quality rental housing in Eastern Washington.

By maintaining a consistent presence in Spokane, RHAWA aims to foster more balanced, data-driven conversations about housing policy—an approach that has long guided the association’s work across Washington. With housing issues increasingly debated at both the state and local levels, having a dedicated office in Spokane ensures that Eastern Washington members receive timely information, direct support, and representation in legislative discussions that affect them.

The success of the open house was an encouraging sign of what lies ahead. RHAWA plans to continue its strong engagement with the Spokane community, which was underscored by both this event as well as our Housing Provider workshop hosted in Spokane Valley. Throughout the rest of the year, RHAWA will continue to host in-person LINK meetings in Spokane to bring members together and share our resources in a more collaborative environment.

For those who haven’t attended a LINK meeting yet, make it a priority to do so before next year's Legislative Session. These meetings are a great way to stay informed and involved in maintaining sound housing practices.

The Spokane office will also support regional communication and outreach, ensuring that RHAWA’s initiatives reflect the realities of both sides of the state. This balanced perspective helps inform RHAWA’s legislative priorities and enhances the association’s ability to advocate effectively for housing providers of all sizes.

The Spokane open house was not just about opening a new office; it was about strengthening community ties and celebrating the role housing providers play in maintaining stable, quality homes for Washington residents. The event highlighted RHAWA’s dedication to supporting its members and ensuring that multiple regions have access to the same level of professional resources and advocacy.

As guests mingled and shared experiences, it was clear that the Spokane community is ready to embrace RHAWA’s expanded role. The conversations and connections made during the event laid the groundwork for future collaboration and engagement.

A big thank you to all those who took time out of their busy schedules to join us! For members who were unable to attend, RHAWA invites you to visit the new office, meet the team, and explore upcoming classes and events. Whether you own a single rental or manage a large portfolio, the Spokane office is your new resource for information, support, and connection.