Looking Forward to the Future

Jason Voelpel
1/17/2023

As I write this, I’ve recently returned from the VRMA International Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada. It’s so exciting to see our industry come together again after being apart for so long. The energy, passion, and positivity of VRMA members is unmatched, and I’m glad I was able to experience it with you all. We broke records by welcoming over 2,600 industry professionals to the event this year.

The International Conference always signals the year is coming to a close, and while true again this year, it also marked for me an exciting start of a new adventure. I am extremely proud to accept the role as VRMA president and continue the charge of my predecessors on behalf of the members of this great organization.

I’ve worked in the vacation rental industry since 2004, and I’m currently the chief marketing officer of Emerald Isle Realty. Since 2010 when I first got involved with VRMA, I served on the Executive Committee as board treasurer for three years and as president-elect. I also chaired the Finance Committee and am currently chair of the Event Strategy Committee and a member of the Advocacy Fund Committee.

Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank Miller Hawkins, VRMA’s immediate past-president. What he and the board were able to accomplish in the past year—establishing our 2022-2024 strategic plan and hitting our highest membership number to date, among other accomplishments—have really helped move VRMA forward.

Our industry changes at a rapid pace, and VRMA aims to stay on top—and often ahead of—those changes to provide members with the resources and support you need to run your businesses. The pillars of our strategic plan are the VRMA board and committee’s guideposts in accomplishing our goals. We are focused on increasing our advocacy and government relations efforts to protect and grow the industry; we are collaborating to set professional standards to keep the industry strong; and we will continue to communicate our value proposition with you so you’re aware of what VRMA can do for you.

We’ve already made some great strides this year on our goals, including launching our advocacy toolkit—a collection of resources for short-term rental property owners to use in making a difference locally—and updating our Public Policy Guide, which members can use as reference when meeting with elected officials.

It’s a great starting point for what is sure to be an eventful 2023. This industry is made up of incredible people, and I’m excited I get to be a part of VRMA’s future.