First Timer Tips

First time attending a SAHMA Affordable Housing Conference? We have got you covered! Check out the information below to help you plan and make the most of your time at the conference! 

What to Expect
SAHMA is pleased to host the 2026 SAHMA Affordable Housing Conference: Florida in Jacksonville! Check out our What to Expect page to help you plan for time at the conference!


First Timer Tips:
Check out the tips below provided by the SAHMA community to help you have the best time at the SAHMA Florida Conference!

• Pack a Water Bottle - Hydration is important!
• Bring Business Cards - Network and connect everywhere, particularly with our Trade Show vendors!
• Have a Jacket/Sweater on Standby - The temperature in conference facilities and training rooms is difficult to control. We recommend dressing in layers!
• Phone need a quick charge? No worries - SAHMA will have you covered with a charging station in the prefunction space during session breaks. 
• Download the App! The App has everything you need in one place - schedules, handouts, FAQs, vendor information. It can save you time and help you travel lightly from session to session.

• Networking Lunch: The Networking Lunch on Wednesday is the perfect time to connect with familiar faces and create new connections. Enjoy a lunch buffet while networking with conference attendees. 
• Florida Conference Trade Show: Connect with leading industry vendors and professionals at the all-day Trade Show. Have your business cards ready, as you will have the opportunity to socialize with industry professionals during breaks and the Networking Lunch while also experiencing the SAHMA Trade Show, where you can move from booth to booth to connect with industry vendors.
• Breaks & Sessions: Never miss an opportunity to connect and network with professionals at the SAHMA Florida Conference. Sessions, while providing the latest industry knowledge you need, are also a great way to meet and interact with other industry professionals. The prefunction space also allows for opportunities to network while recharging in between sessions. 
• First Time Attendee or Flying Solo Meetup: Is this your first time attending? Or are you flying solo and looking to make connections right from the start? Join us for a casual and welcoming “First Time Attendee & Flying Solo Meet Up” meet-up designed especially for newcomers and solo attendees! A SAHMA Welcome Ambassador will be there to greet you during the 10:00 am break in prefunction on Tuesday. This is a great opportunity to:
  • Meet fellow first-timers and solo travelers in a relaxed setting
  • Start building your network before the sessions begin