Insights from 2020 Owners Conference

The Christie’s International Real Estate annual owners conference was hosted at the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach in Florida from 24 to 26 February. Over 100 owners from across the globe met for three days to learn from industry leaders, share best practices, and network with fellow brokers.

Speakers included Chris Downey, a sight-impaired architect who delivered a compelling presentation about the discoveries of architectural design beyond sight; Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist and senior vice-president of research of the National Association of Realtors, who presented an economic outlook for 2020; and Susan Magrino, chairman and chief executive officer of Magrino, who discussed leveraging public relations for the luxury market.

Panels and breakout sessions featured leading brokers who shared their insights and best practices on topics such as dealing with environmental phenomena, establishing market differentiation and adding value through event activations for clients.

In addition to these presentations, the conference included an educational session on wine and champagne and Michael Breed, PGA professional, delivered a powerful presentation on “moving your ceiling”. Later in the week he also took delegates to play a round of golf at a local course and provided one-on-one coaching tips. Delegates were also given the opportunity to tour several bespoke listings in Palm Beach.

The annual brokerage awards programme was hosted on the final night of the conference. Dart’s VP Marketing and Sales Sue Nickason, and VP Business Development Chris Duggan were on hand to accept an Affiliate of the Year award on behalf of the Provenance Properties team.

A first-ever win for the brokerage, the team was recognised for being an engaged member of the Christie’s International Real Estate network, working hard to promote properties from other brokerages, and sponsoring a number of Christie’s International Real Estate programmes, including the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach and the Children’s Activity Book, which benefits All Hands and Hearts.

In addition to receiving the award, an announcement was made that the 2021 Christie’s International Real Estate Owners Conference will be held in March at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. “We look forward to hosting the Christie’s International Real Estate team and our fellow affiliates here in the Cayman Islands in 2021,” said Dart’s President of Business Development Jackie Doak. “I truly believe that Grand Cayman sells itself, and once people are able to experience our islands’ natural beauty and our ‘Caymankind’ hospitality, they will understand why so many people enjoy having living here, whether as their primary or secondary residence.”