Inman News will be entering New York City this January for their next _Connect_ event. The west coast version has long proved to be a must-attend function for real estate professionals and the east coast versions is proving to be as important. I attended last year’s NYC conference and got a lot out of it, especially networking with others. As a panel member I learned that Brad will keep the show rolling, despite any snafus or delays. (Brad: I now know where you do your dry cleaning.)

_Useless observation: If the conference is held at the Marriott/Times Square, why does the photo banner look like its taken from Trump International Hotel on a low floor (too far north to be in [Time Warner/Columbus Circle](http://nymag.com/realestate/articles/04/timewarner/coolspaces/jazzcenter.htm))?_

But I digress.

This year I am moderating a panel which [as an appraiser and valuation consultant](http://www.realestateconnect.com/ny07/bios.aspx#Miller_Jonathan), covers a topic that is near and dear to my heart:

[VALUATION: New Tools to Set Buyer and Seller Expectations](http://www.realestateconnect.com/ny07/program.aspx)

The panelists are being confirmed now. So far we have:

* [Marty Frame](http://www.realestateconnect.com/ny07/bios.aspx#Frame_Marty), CIO, Fidelity National Real Estate Solutions
* Jeff Somers, Director of Partner Services, Zillow.com

Valuation is a real sensitive topic right now because of changing market conditions. [Feel free to forward questions or suggestions to me for the panelists, or names of panelists you’d like to see.](http://matrix.millersamuelv2.wpenginepowered.com/?page_id=72)

I am also really looking forward to meeting individuals whom I have admired their work from a distance plus reconnecting with friends and colleagues…hmmm.. “connecting” now I get it, Real Estate “Connect.”

I find that conferences like these are what make the lightbulb go off in my head. A lot of ideas are thrashed around. Its better than coffee.