With attendance of 12,299, NAPE Summit in downtown Houston was abuzz with "cautious optimism" this year.

Exhibitors said they noticed the crowd was bigger this year which signaled to them, better days are ahead. Many mentioned they were still cautious but thankful to hear deals being discussed and made. In addition, attendees mentioned their excitement at the positive look on others' faces and the number of people walking the exhibition floor.

Take a look at reactions from this year's NAPE Summit held Feb. 5-9 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.

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