Top 5 events for networking in real estate
Thinking about the cities of the future and networking?
Neighbourhoods and cities are changing, with new urban lifestyles shaping an increasingly sustainable future. Real estate has a determining role in the development of this environmentally positive urbanism which includes several varying factors that require reflection, analysis, monitoring and a lot of knowledge. Between soft mobility, smart cities, urban regeneration and sustainable transition, there are many promising avenues to explore.
Thinking about the cities of the future and networking?
And because to talk about transformation is to talk about synergies, exchanges and endless connections of data and concepts, sharing insights in the industry is key, for example, through dedicated events. Only by doing so can we envisage the cities of tomorrow as a whole and network at the same time.
5 essential real estate events to discuss innovative solutions
These are 5 of the best national and international events where you can exchange ideas on urban transformation and the future of real estate. Will you join us there?
1. COPIP – PORTUGUESE REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
Organised by the Portuguese Association of Real Estate Developers and Investors (APPI), COPIP, the Conference on Real Estate in Portugal takes place annually (usually at the end of the first semester) and is one of the main venues for discussion in the real estate sector.
This conference with a very complete programme with players from the public and private sector promotes direct contact between the members and decision-makers and potential drivers of projects and solutions with a vision to developing the cities of the future.
In addition, APPI works closely with foreign investors in Portugal, which means that this event can represent serious business opportunities.
A tip: at this event the Guia Exclusivo dos Promotores e Investidores Imobiliários (Exclusive Guide for Real Estate Developers and Investors) is distributed, a publication full of thought-provoking articles and contacts of many potential business partners.
2. PORTUGAL REAL ESTATE SUMMIT
The Portugal Real Estate Summit is organised annually by Iberian Property, part of the IBERINMO Group – the largest communication platform for the Iberian real estate sector.
It is a leading international event that brings together top international investment leaders to discuss the best business opportunities across sectors and regions. The panel of speakers features renowned experts and attracts key players and decision-makers from the real estate sector, thus offering valuable information on how to drive new investment opportunities and strategies.
3. REAL ESTATE AWARDS
Expresso newspaper and SIC Notícias TV channel are responsible for setting up the Prémios do Imobiliário – Real Estate Awards, an initiative that aims to reward the year’s best achievements in the sector, sponsored by Nhood Portugal, among others.
By recognising good work, the Real Estate Awards give an up-to-the-minute insight of the various categories: Best Development – New Construction; Urban Rehabilitation and Renovation; Public Space; Interior Architecture; Sustainability; Innovation in Mediation and Prestige.
This is an unmissable event for all professionals in the sector, mainly because celebrating achievements is also a way to build collectively towards a more resilient, united and dynamic industry, in addition to allowing unique insights into each of the nominated projects. Listening to the masterminds behind the winning projects imbues us with knowledge and stimulates our ambition to succeed, inspired by a vision of a more innovative and resilient future, with more sustainable neighbourhoods and cities.
4. MAPIC
This is the leading international event for the commercial retail property market. It contributes to the debate and knowledge-sharing that is crucial to building vibrant, innovative urban and retail spaces.
Throughout the event, more than 80 countries will be represented in Cannes, bringing together property owners and experts in retail, catering, leisure, and others. The latest technological solutions and trending concepts will be available to you.
To participate in MAPIC is to join a more than 8200-strong group of attendees! It will multiply your opportunities a thousandfold. And you will be attending one of the highlights of the year for international retail real estate: the MAPIC AWARDS – an award that honours best practices in the sector.
Good to Know: Alegro Setúbal Shopping Centre, managed by Nhood Portugal, received a MAPIC in the Best Redeveloped Shopping Centre category in 2015.
5. MIPIM
MIPIM is the world’s largest property investment event and takes place in Cannes, usually during March. Meet the most influential players in all sectors of the international real estate industry over the course of 4 days! Here, the entire value chain comes together and enjoys unrivalled access to the largest number of development projects and investment sources in the world.
Here are some figures that illustrate MIPIM’s scale: 20.000 m² of exhibition space and more than 130 conference sessions, in a unique exchange of knowledge. Also, the Awards presented at MIPIM give insight into international best practices.
Make sure to bring your business cards, be it physical or digital, because this event is the ultimate, exclusive platform for participants to connect, build partnerships and do business!
IN SHORT…
Attending these real estate events is a good way to network, acquire different perspectives and gain insights. And see the industry with fresh eyes, so be sure to:
- Prepare in advance, either look for opportunities to get involved in the event itself (stands, programme panels), or set up meetings with potential partners. Schedules fill up fast!
- Think strategically during the event as there is a lot going on and it is important to keep focused on your goals. Explore the best opportunities to find inspiration, reach potential business partners and generate leads. Have an organised approach to achieving these different objectives.
- Follow up with contacts, as networking does not end with the event. It is crucial to continue networking (always personalise the approaches) and remember that close relationships and the human touch are still major drivers in business. The conversation by no means ends at the event.
