Waterford Real Estate Agency Summit attracts over 200 profesionals
More than 200 estate agents, auctioneers and property professionals from across Ireland and overseas gathered in Waterford for the inaugural Real Estate Agency Summit, an event organisers say signals growing demand for collaboration, professional development and innovation within the property sector.
The one-day summit brought together industry leaders, technology providers and property professionals for discussions on the future of estate agency, emerging market trends and the challenges facing the Irish property market.
A key attraction was the first Irish speaking appearance of internationally recognised real estate expert Tom Panos, one of the best-known figures in global estate agency.
Addressing delegates, Panos warned that agents must prepare for changing market conditions after several years of exceptional growth.
“What the Irish market has had over the past number of years is not a normal market,” he said.
“Covid created a property boom, but that boom will come to an end. Over the next three years, rising interest rates, inflation and global conflict will create headwinds for the property sector.”
Panos also highlighted the importance of strengthening client relationships and maintaining a consistent approach to business development.
“Irish estate agents need to become better at vendor management and far more consistent at prospecting if they are going to thrive in the next phase of the market cycle,” he told delegates.
Throughout the day, speakers explored a range of topics including leadership, sales performance, buyer representation, business growth, technology adoption and evolving consumer expectations.
A panel discussion on the outlook for the Irish property market examined current trends, future challenges and opportunities for the sector.
The summit took place against the backdrop of ongoing supply shortages, affordability pressures and broader economic uncertainty, despite continued strong housing demand in many parts of the country.
Event organiser Regina Mangan said the strong attendance reflected the industry's appetite for learning and collaboration.
“The success of today's inaugural Real Estate Agency Summit has exceeded all expectations,” she said.
“To welcome more than 200 delegates from across Ireland and overseas to Waterford for our first event is a fantastic achievement and demonstrates the strength and ambition of the property profession.”
Event organiser Regina Mangan with keynote speaker Tom Panos and fellow summit speakers
Supported by MyHome.ie as platinum sponsor, the event also featured exhibitors showcasing products and services aimed at supporting the next generation of estate agency businesses.
Organisers have already begun exploring plans for future editions of the summit following strong interest from delegates, sponsors and industry stakeholders, suggesting the event could become a regular fixture on the Irish property industry's calendar.
