It began in 1981 when leading members of Southwest Florida's commercial and investment real estate community banded together to establish a local organization that would provide:

• Practical Education
• Promote Ethical Standards
• Represent the Interests of the Profession within the local business community

Led by John States, the president of the Florida Chapter of the Real Estate Securities and Syndication Institute (RESSI), the group formed the state's first regional chapter of RESSI.

The Southwest Florida Chapter of RESSI developed an affiliate membership program that actively involved all professions involved in real estate investment and development. The organization flourished and became one of the most active chapters in the nation.

In 1990, the group sought to concentrate its energies and resources entirely on initiatives and educational programs that addressed local market conditions and investment strategies. Toward that goal, the Real Estate Investment Society was formed as an independent organization, dedicated to assisting members in the effective utilization of real estate through networking, education, public service and a common voice on pertinent issues.

Please view the list below of our Past Presidents: