Article by Maura Vance


I had an incredible time attending the Virginia Land Title Association (VLTA) Annual Convention in Richmond in October! Everything about the event, from the moment I arrived until I left, was top-notch. It was a perfect blend of professional development and enjoyable networking. The accommodations were fantastic. Staying right where the convention was held made everything so easy. It’s always a relief when you don’t have to worry about the logistics of commuting.

The opportunity to meet others in the industry was arguably one of the most valuable parts of the convention. It was great to finally put faces to names I’ve seen through email or phone calls. The organized networking sessions and casual breaks provided a nice time to exchange ideas, share current challenges, and discuss the future of the title business with peers from across the state. These connections are so vital for professional growth and support, and I left the conference with several new contacts.

I have to say, the catering was truly one of the highlights of the conference! Every meal was thoughtfully prepared and delicious. They really spoiled us with good food! The events organized by VLTA were so much fun. They provided the perfect setting to continue conversations and connect with colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere.

It wasn’t just about the formal sessions; the evening parties and informal opportunities were fantastic for building relationships and having a laugh. They really give you something to look forward to at the end of the day.

Beyond the social aspect, the educational content was incredibly helpful and highly relevant to the title industry today. The speakers were knowledgeable, the topics were timely, and I walked away with several practical takeaways I can implement immediately in my work. The sessions covered everything from regulatory updates to best practices. The investment of time was absolutely worthwhile for the quality of the learning experience.

Overall, my time at the VLTA 2025 Annual Convention in Richmond was a tremendous success. Great location, great food, valuable networking, fun events, and invaluable education. A huge thank you to the VLTA team for putting together such a polished and rewarding event! I am honored to receive the Ronald Donn Scholarship this year, such great encouragement to see how far I can go in this field! I’m already looking forward to next year!

Maura Vance
A Rockbridge County native, she married Ben Trimble in August, and she has a 11-year-old son, Asher. They enjoy kayaking, live music, and spending time with our large group of family and friends. “My passion for history and genuine interest in people naturally led me to the title and settlement field, where I am committed to ensuring clarity and confidence in property ownership, I look forward to serving my neighbors and supporting the growth and integrity of the local real estate market through diligent, client-focused service.”

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