Conference Registration
2025 Southeastern Land Conference:
Level Up Your Land Business
October 23rd & 24th
Network, learn, and grow at THE event for land professionals in the Southeast. Join land brokers, industry leaders, developers, investors, and policymakers in Chattanooga to explore innovative approaches to land development.
Conference Registration ONLY $249!
Don't Wait! Secure your spot today!
Conference Partners & Speakers
Eddie Lee Rider
Founder, Publisher
The Land Report
The Land Report, "the magazine of the American landowner." A media specialist with more than 30+ years' experience, Eddie is responsible for developing publications such as Bass Pro Shops OUTDOOR WORLD, Cabela's Outfitter's Journal, Mossy Oak's Hunting The Country, Remington Country, Predator Xtreme, Advanced Bass Strategies, and PBR Professional Bullrider, to name a few.
Steve Roberson
Founder, CEO
Land id
Steve brings over 15 years of professional GIS experience and a master's degree in applied geography with a concentration in GIS from Texas State University. He shares his wealth of knowledge as an RLI Instruction of the Digital Mapping certification courses for the Realtors Land Institute.
Sam Bowers, ALC
Founder, Partner
Bowers & Burns
Real Estate
Sam Bowers, President of Bowers and Burns Real Estate Team, a seasoned real estate professional with a career beginning in 1988. His roots in agriculture run deep—he has been a farmer since 1976 and studied Agricultural Economics at the University of Georgia and Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College.
Sam served as National President of the Realtors Land Institute in 2024, representing land professionals across the country. Sam combines decades of real estate expertise with a deep knowledge of local land and market values.
Bobby Mink, CGB, GMB, CAPS, CSP, CMP, MIRM
Choice Consulting and Management, LLC
Bobby Mink, based in Atlanta, Georgia, brings over 35 years of experience in business management and residential development. He has held key leadership roles including VP of Operations, Sales & Marketing, and COO. From startups to turnarounds, Mink has led homebuilding companies to success through strategic planning and operational efficiency. His expertise extends to land development, where he has implemented effective processes to launch and grow new communities.
Chad D. Ettmueller
SVP
JCR Settlements
Chad is Senior Vice President of JCR Settlements, LLC. Chad specializes in both personal and commercial general liability, trucking/transportation industry claims, medical malpractice and workers' compensation claims. Chad possesses significant experience working with Medicare Set-Asides (MSA's) in both Workers' Compensation and Liability negotiations.
Brandon L. Bowen, Attorney
Jenkins, Bowen, & Walker P.C.
Brandon L. Bowen is a 2001 graduate of the University of Georgia School of Law, and a 1998 graduate of the University of Georgia. Mr. Bowen was admitted to the Bar in Georgia in 2001, and performed a one-year judicial clerkship with the Superior Courts of Bartow and Gordon County, Georgia. Mr. Bowen regularly speaks at continuing education seminars for the Georgia Bar and other professional organizations on the topic of local government land use regulation.
Eric SoHayda, Vice President
Independent Life
Eric SoHayda has spent nearly a decade in structured settlements in a variety of roles, including customer service, wholesaling and operations. Eric oversees Independent Life’s operations and underwriting and quoting support for settlement professionals.
Prior to joining Independent Life, Eric worked at Prudential Financial where he most recently led the quoting team supporting brokers and administrators. Prior to that, he was a data analyst and also part of their operations team.
Jennifer P. Pahl
Senior Principal
Corblu Ecology Group
Jenny is a Senior Principal with Corblu Ecology Group, LLC, where she specializes in the development of compensatory mitigation projects under a variety of regulatory programs. including the Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and the Food Security Act. Her role at Corblu includes analysis of mitigation markets and strategic planning, ecological and financial feasibility analysis, land entitlement, restoration design, and management of project implementation.
Brad Mock, MPA, RCE
CEO
Georgia REALTORS®
Brad Mock is the Chief Executive Officer of Georgia REALTORS®. Brad is a graduate of the University of West Georgia where he received both a Bachelors in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration. He is a long-time resident of Coweta County, where he actively contributes to community development through leadership roles in local organizations and continues to support his alma maters educational initiatives.
Addison Russell, Assistant General Council
Tennessee REALTORS®
Addison Russell is an attorney and government relations specialist. She serves as assistant general counsel to Tennessee REALTORS®, and lobbies the Tennessee General Assembly on behalf of Tennessee REALTORS®, local government entities and additional business groups. Prior to joining RFRS Government Relations, Addison was legislative director for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. She also previously served as a research analyst for the Tennessee General Assembly’s Senate State and Local Government Committee.
Aubrie Kobernus, MBA, RCE CEO, Ex-Officio
REALTORS® Land Institute
As the CEO, Aubrie is responsible for the overall management of the Institute. This includes working with the Board of Directors to develop the vision, goals, objectives, and related policies for RLI. Within that framework, Aubrie organizes and directs staff, programs and financial performance, and activities. She is designated by the National Association of REALTORS® as a REALTOR® Certified Executive (RCE). Members may contact her if they have any questions or concerns. Aubrie has been with RLI since 2016.
Stanley Stouder II, Vice President
Dream Finders Homes
Stanley Stouder II is a highly accomplished leader in land acquisition, residential homebuilding, and sales, with over a decade of delivering exceptional growth and operational excellence across competitive markets. Currently, as Vice President of Land Acquisition at Dream Finders Homes in Nashville, Tennessee, he leads a strategic team focused on land sourcing and market expansion.
Stanley’s career spans multiple leadership roles in the homebuilding industry. At Ryan Homes, he worked closely with regional and divisional leadership to acquire over 2,500 lots in 2025, supporting operational efficiencies and driving profitability. He supported the division’s growth by fostering aggressive land position strategies, analyzing sales plans, incentives, and land opportunities, and helping implement better land acquisition practices nationwide.
Jay Bell, CEO, Owner, Developer
Bell Homebuilders & Tidewater Properties
Jay Bell is the owner of Bell Homebuilders and Tidewater Properties. He has over 30 years of experience as an accomplished residential developer and homebuilder. Jay manages the businesses and oversees the design and construction of the various developments. He is a licensed general contractor and a licensed real estate broker in Tennessee. He is the past president of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Chattanooga and has served in various roles at the Homebuilders Association of Tennessee. Jay received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. He is married to Shine and has two adult children, Carlos and Veronica.
Conference Overview & Opening Remarks:
Opportunities and Challenges
The Southeastern Land Conference is designed to address both the opportunities and challenges facing land development in the Southeast. Against the backdrop of Chattanooga's remarkable transformation, attendees will delve into innovative approaches, smart city initiatives, and strategic growth.
Geoff Hurdle, ALC
2026 REALTORS® Land Institute President
Geoff joined RLI as a member in 2018 and earned the elite ALC designation in that same year. His record of service to RLI includes most recently serving on the Board of Directors in 2020-21. He served as the Tennessee Chapter President in 2018-20. He has served on the RLI Education Committee and the NLC Planning Committee as well. Under his leadership, the Tennessee Chapter was awarded Outstanding Chapter of the Year in 2020.
Nick Manis (GRI, ABR®, SFR®, C2EX, MRP, AHWD) a 20-year REALTOR® and real estate developer, is NAR’s 2025 Public & Federal Issues Liaison. He is a licensed real estate broker in New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, and a licensed real estate instructor by the New Jersey Real Estate Commission.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with industry leaders, developers, investors, and policymakers during structured networking sessions and social events. Our exclusive matchmaking platform enables one-on-one meetings with potential partners and collaborators.
Educational Excellence
Level up your expertise while earning continuing education credits. Learn from industry experts about innovative financing structures, sustainable development practices, and emerging market opportunities through interactive workshops and panel discussions.
Deal-Making Success
Master proven strategies for identifying high-potential properties and structuring successful transactions. Gain practical insights into due diligence processes and risk management techniques that directly impact your bottom line.
Whether you're a seasoned land broker or new to the industry, this two-day immersive experience brings together the region's most influential voices in land brokerage and land development. Early registration is recommended as space is limited to ensure optimal networking and learning opportunities.
Thursday - Day 1: Immersive Experiences and Insights
Thursday, October 23, 2025 offers a full day of immersive learning and networking opportunities for land professionals. Our carefully curated agenda combines hands-on experiences, expert-led discussions, and strategic networking to maximize your professional development.
Morning Registration & Networking
8 - 9 AM
Check-in opens at 7:30 AM with a continental breakfast and early networking opportunities. Opening remarks at 9:00 AM from conference chair and keynote speaker addressing southeastern market outlook and emerging opportunities. At 10:00 AM, attendees will participate in a guided group walk to West Village, providing an introduction to Chattanooga's urban renewal success story.
Welcome & Opening Remarks
9 AM
Geoff Hurdle, ALC, 2026 RLI President
To kick off the Southeastern Land Conference, Geoff Hurdle, ALC and 2026 President of the REALTORS® Land Institute, will deliver the official welcome and opening remarks. Geoff will highlight the mission of RLI, the power of connection within the land industry, and set the stage for two days of high-caliber education, market insights, and deal-making opportunities. He will introduce some of our speakers & key sessions, including national economic updates, breakout tracks on development, agricultural, and recreational land, as well as special panels featuring industry leaders, legal experts, and top producers. Geoff’s message will energize attendees for a conference focused on collaboration, innovation, and advancing the future of land brokerage across the Southeast.
Update from NAR
9:15 AM
Update from NAR – Presented by Nick Manis
Nick Manis (GRI, ABR®, SFR®, C2EX, MRP, AHWD), a 20-year REALTOR® and seasoned real estate developer, will deliver a timely Update from the National Association of REALTORS® in his role as NAR’s 2025 Public & Federal Issues Liaison. Nick will share critical insights on national policy, legislative priorities, and federal issues impacting land professionals—from 1031 exchanges and tax reform to land use, infrastructure, and private property rights. Attendees will gain a front-line perspective on how advocacy at the federal level shapes opportunities in the land market across the Southeast.
Break
9:45 - 10 AM
From Raw Dirt to Vertical
The Developer's Playbook (Part 1)
10 AM
Bobby Mink, CGB, GMB, CAPS, CSP, CMP, MIRM
Choice Consulting and Management, LLC
At 10:00 AM, join Bobby Mink, as he opens From Raw Dirt to Vertical: The Developer’s Playbook. In this first segment, Bobby will walk attendees through the foundational stages of land development—evaluating raw land, understanding entitlement pathways, identifying risk, and building the framework for successful project execution. With decades of experience across residential and mixed-use development, he’ll share real-world strategies and decision points that every broker, builder, and investor should master before going vertical.
Development Tour: West Village Transformation & Fireside Chat w/Lunch - Pre-registration Required
10:00-1:00 PM

Sign Up Ends October 20th
Capped at 20 - Lottery Draw October 21st
(register below)
Explore West Village's remarkable transformation through an immersive guided tour highlighting innovative public-private planning approaches and mixed-use strategy implementation. Local developers and city planners will share insights on overcoming zoning challenges, securing financing, and creating vibrant communities that balance residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Participants will gain actionable strategies for similar projects in their markets.
Lunch on Your Own in Downtown
12:00 - 1:00 PM
Explore Downtown Chattanooga Eateries
During the lunch break, take the opportunity to explore a rich variety of dining options within walking distance of the Chattanooga Marriott. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern comfort cuisine, artisan sandwiches, global fare, or healthy bowls, downtown Chattanooga offers something for every palate and pace. Stroll through the nearby streets, discover local favorites, connect with fellow attendees, and enjoy a relaxed meal at your own pace before reconvening for the afternoon sessions.
Law, Land, & the Cloud: Policy Challenges in the Data Center Age
1 PM
Brandon L. Bowen of Jenkins, Bowen & Walker, P.C.
Brandon will explore the emerging legal and policy challenges shaping land use in the era of data center development. From zoning and permitting complexities to environmental impact standards and public infrastructure demands, this session will highlight how traditional land laws are being tested by high-capacity digital infrastructure projects. Attendees will gain critical insight into navigating local regulations, community concerns, and long-term compliance when land meets the cloud.
Coffee & Snack Break
2:15 pm
Understanding Structured Installment Sales under IRC Section 453
2:30 PM
Chad Ettmueller, SVP, JCR Settlements
Eric SoHayda,Vice President,
Independent Life
Join Chad Ettmueller, SVP of JCR Settlements, and Eric SoHayda, Vice President of Independent Life, for an in-depth look at how structured installment sales can be used as a powerful tax-deferral strategy under IRC Section 453. This session will break down how land sellers can defer capital gains, create predictable income streams, and strategically structure transactions for long-term financial benefit. Ideal for brokers, advisors, and investors, this discussion will clarify the mechanics, benefits, and compliance considerations of installment sales in today’s market..
Break
3:50
Spotlight Panel - The State of Commercial Land Development in the Southeast - Regional Land Use Planners - E&D Leaders - Utility/Infrastructure
4 PM
Moderator - Sam Bowers, ALC,
Immediate-Past President RLI,
Broker-Partner, Bowers & Burns Real Estate
Panelists - Ed Lane - SPG Engineers E&D Jenny Pahl - Corblu, Environmentalist, Brandon Bowen - Jenkins, Bowen & Walker P.C
Evening Networking, Cocktails & Deal-Making
"Let's Make A Deal"
Moderator - Raborn Taylor III, ALC, CCIM
5:30 - 9:00 PM
The day concludes with an exclusive cocktail reception with conference sponsors and speakers, providing informal networking opportunities in a relaxed setting. Dinner begins at 7:00 PM and features our signature "Let's Make A Deal" session where attendees can make 2-minute deal pitches and participate in facilitated market matchmaking. Previous conferences have resulted in numerous successful partnerships and transactions initiated during this high-energy evening session.
All sessions on Day 1 are designed to provide practical, actionable insights that attendees can immediately implement in their business practices. Bring business cards and be prepared to share your current projects and opportunities during structured networking breaks.
Development Tour: West Village Transformation & Fireside Chat w/Lunch (10:00-1:00 PM)
Sign Up Ends October 15th
Capped at 20 - Lottery Draw October 16th
Learn about Chattanooga's remarkable transformation and how it serves as a model for other cities in the Southeast. At 10:00 AM on Day 1 of the SELC, attendees will participate in a guided group walk to West Village, providing an introduction to Chattanooga's urban renewal success story.
Revitalized Downtown
Historic buildings blend seamlessly with modern developments, creating a vibrant urban core that attracts both residents and visitors.
Innovative Public Spaces
Thoughtfully designed public spaces foster community connection and provide recreational opportunities for all residents.
Sustainable Development
Forward-thinking sustainable initiatives showcase Chattanooga's commitment to environmental stewardship and smart growth.
Economic Growth
Strategic development has attracted diverse businesses and investments, driving economic prosperity throughout the region.
Commercial Development Strategies:
Driving Economic Growth
Discover innovative strategies for commercial development that drive economic growth and create vibrant community spaces.
1
Adaptive Reuse
Repurposing existing buildings for new commercial uses, preserving historical character while stimulating economic activity.
2
Mixed-Use Developments
Combining commercial, residential, and recreational spaces in a single development to create dynamic and walkable environments.
3
Technology Integration
Incorporating smart technologies to enhance the customer experience and improve operational efficiency.
Evening Networking & Cocktail Hour: Where Connections Become Opportunities
Unwind and connect with fellow attendees, speakers, and partners during our exclusive cocktail reception. Forge valuable relationships and explore potential collaborations in a relaxed atmosphere before transitioning to a formal dinner.
Cocktail Reception & Networking
5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and light appetizers while engaging in informal discussions. This is your chance to expand your network and identify new avenues for growth.
Gala Dinner & Deal-Making
7:00 PM onwards
Join us in the ballroom for a delightful dinner. Continue your conversations and participate in our signature "Let's Make A Deal" session, fostering connections that drive success.
7 PM - Thursday Evening
Let’s Make A Deal – Evening Networking & Deal-Making
Join us for one of the most anticipated sessions of the conference — “Let’s Make A Deal”, an evening of high-energy networking, deal-making, and collaboration! This interactive session brings together brokers, agents, developers, and investors for 1-minute “Haves & Wants” pitches, showcasing active listings, buyer needs, and investment opportunities.
Whether you’re marketing land, looking for development sites, or matching clients with available properties, this session is designed to spark connections and real transactions.
Property Highlight Card Submission Instructions
  • 📸 High-quality property photos or short video clips (drone footage or stills preferred)
  • 📍 Property name, address, or location
  • 📏 Acreage / size
  • 🏞️ Property type (development, farm, timber, recreational, commercial, mixed-use, etc.)
  • 💲 Price or price range (if applicable)
  • 🧑‍💼 Contact information (name, company, phone, and email)
Please email your materials to info@letsmakeadeal.info or reach out to our marketing expert, Jerrod Trainer, and he will provide you with a link to upload large files directly.
Submit Properties no later than October 15th, 2025.
All submitted materials will be used to create your Property Highlight Card, displayed during the live “Let's Make A Deal” session and available for post-event networking follow-up.
Friday - Day 2: Morning Breakfast & Networking
8 - 9 AM
Start your second day at the conference with a delicious breakfast buffet, designed to energize you for a day of insights. This informal session offers a prime opportunity to network with fellow professionals, speakers, and partners in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Connect over coffee and a meal, fostering new relationships and strengthening existing ones before the main sessions begin. Business casual attire is recommended.
Friday - Day 2: Residential Development Insights
Continue your professional growth on Friday with specialized development sessions and valuable networking with regional industry leaders.
Networking Breakfast
8 - 9 AM
Sponsor: Brumlow Corwin & Delashmit P.C.
Reconnect with industry peers while enjoying a catered breakfast at the Chattanooga Marriott Downtown. Take advantage of this opportunity to engage with land focused exhibitors showcasing the latest land valuation software, development financing options, and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
Land Banking 101:
Turning Today's Inventory into Tomorrow's Opportunity
9 AM
Jenny Pahl - Senior Principal, Corblu Ecology Group
Jenny will lead an insightful session on land banking as a strategic tool for long-term value creation. Attendees will explore how holding and positioning land assets today can unlock future development potential, mitigate risk, and capitalize on emerging market shifts. Jenny will share practical frameworks for evaluating environmental factors, timing, and regulatory considerations—equipping land professionals with a forward-looking approach to building tomorrow’s opportunities.
Break
10:20 - 10:30 PM
From Raw Dirt to Vertical
The Developer's Playbook (Part 2)
10:30 AM
Bobby Mink, CGB, GMB, CAPS, CSP, CMP, MIRM
Choice Consulting and Management, LLC
Comprehensive presentation covering financial modeling for mixed-use developments, infrastructure cost management, and securing municipal partnerships. Bobby Mink, CHOICE CONSULTING AND MANAGEMENT, LLC, will provide actionable due diligence insights and pro forma overviews for attendees to implement immediately.
Lunch on Your Own in Downtown
12 - 1 PM
Explore Downtown Chattanooga Eateries
During the lunch break, take the opportunity to explore a rich variety of dining options within walking distance of the Chattanooga Marriott. Whether you’re in the mood for Southern comfort cuisine, artisan sandwiches, global fare, or healthy bowls, downtown Chattanooga offers something for every palate and pace. Stroll through the nearby streets, discover local favorites, connect with fellow attendees, and enjoy a relaxed meal at your own pace before reconvening for the afternoon sessions.
Residential Land
Panel Discussion Q & A
1 PM
Moderator - Bobby Mink
Panelists - Jay Bell (Bell Home Builders), Geoff Ramsey (Real Estate Partners), Stanley Stouder (Dream Finders Homes)
Distinguished developers from the southeastern United States, discuss emerging subdivision trends, recent zoning amendments, and increasing rural market demand across the Southeast. Panel will address density bonuses, conservation easements, and strategies for navigating community opposition to new housing developments.
Fireside Chat
2:15 PM
RPAC, Affordability, Child Care
Brad Mock, CEO Georgia REALTORS®
Addison Russell, Assistant General Counsel to Tennessee REALTORS®
Steven Walker, 2025 Georgia REALTORS® President
This dynamic conversation will explore the impact of RPAC advocacy, the challenges of housing affordability and childcare in today’s market, and emerging initiatives such as the Georgia Accredited Commercial Specialist Certification. Attendees will gain valuable perspective on how policy, professionalism, and leadership are shaping the future of the real estate and land industry across state lines.
Update REALTORS® Land Institute
3:15 PM
Aubrie Kobernus, MBA, RCE, CEO REALTORS® Land Institute
John McAllister, ALC - Land Education Foundation Chair
Aubrie Kobernus, MBA, RCE, CEO of the REALTORS® Land Institute, will lead an important update on RLI’s strategic direction—highlighting advancements in member services, land education initiatives, national advocacy efforts, and the organization’s vision for strengthening the land profession. Following Aubrie, John McAllister, ALC, Chair of the Land Education Foundation, will share updates on LEF’s mission, scholarship goals, and future investments in land education and professional development. Together, they will outline how RLI and LEF are partnering to build the next generation of land leaders.
Final Remarks
3:45 PM
Geoff Hurdle, ALC
2026 RLI National President
GA Chapter
REALTORS® Land Institute
4 PM
Raborn Taylor III, ALC, CCIM
2024-2025 GA Chapter President
Land Broker of the Year Award
Bob Hatcher Service Award
Installment of New GA Chapter RLI 2026 Officers & Directors
2026 GA Chapter RLI Officers
Charles Davis, ALC - President
Kyle Cato, ALC - Vice-President
Sam Bowers, ALC - Treasurer
Greyson Fernandez - Secretary
GA Chapter RLI Directors
Raborn Taylor III, Director - Immediate Past President
Elena Stanfield, ALC
Mike Garrett, ALC
Bob Hatcher, ALC - Advisor Director Emeritus
Dan Crocker, ALC - Advisor
Announcements, Awards &
Passing the Gavel: 2026 Georgia RLI Annual Meetin & Leadership
4:00 PM
Raborn Taylor, ALC, CCIM
GA Chapter President 2024-2025
Raborn is a graduate of The University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business with a Real Estate degree. Raborn is originally from Sandersville, Georgia and has served as the Education Chair, Secretary, Vice President, and President of the Georgia Chapter of the Realtors Land Institute and teaches the Land 101 course, Recreational Land, and Land Investment Analysis. He has over 20 years of real estate sales experience in land sales and commercial properties. Raborn has an extensive background in land sales including timberland, farmland, and recreational property. Raborn is an ALC (Accredited Land Consultant) and currently serves as the Past President of the Georgia Chapter of the Realtors Land Institute. Raborn, also holds the CCIM (Certified Commercial Investment Member) Designation. Raborn holds real estate licenses in Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, & North Carolina.
Celebrate the formal transition of leadership and welcome the dedicated professionals who will guide the Georgia Chapter of the REALTORS® Land Institute into 2026. This pivotal moment signifies continuity, growth, and renewed commitment to excellence in our land profession.
Smooth Transition
Witness the symbolic passing of leadership, ensuring seamless continuation of our chapter's mission and strategic initiatives for the coming year.
Visionary Officers
Meet the incoming slate of officers, bringing fresh perspectives and a commitment to advancing the Georgia Chapter's goals and member value.
Dedicated Directors
Our new Board of Directors comprises experienced industry leaders, poised to provide expert guidance and ensure the chapter's continued success.
Future Forward
The Georgia Chapter of the Realtors Land Institute is set for another year of fostering education, networking, and professionalism among land specialists.
Book Your Room:

Chattanooga Marriott Downtown
Two Carter Plaza, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA, 37402
Staybridge Suites Chattanooga Downtown Convention Center
1300 Carter Street Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402
Sponsored Cocktail Reception & Dinner
Exhibitor Booths Sell Out Fast!
Network in style during our sponsored cocktail reception and dinner. Mingle with fellow land professionals, industry leaders, and speakers in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Enjoy delicious food, refreshing drinks, and insightful conversations.
100+ Attendees
Connect with hundreds of land professionals in a relaxed setting
24+ Sponsors
Meet our amazing sponsors and industry leaders
16 Expert Speakers
Engage with thought leaders in land development
Special Thanks to Our Speakers & Sponsors!
For Additional Information
Email Us
Contact our team for general inquiries:
info@southeasternlandconference.com
Call Us
Reach our support team during business hours:
FD Bell - 407-754-6495
Beth Moriatakis - 404-400-2622
Geoff Hurdle - 615-815-9364