On September 28 and 29, over 1,000 real estate professionals from across Canada attended PacificWest, presented by Constant Contact, in Vancouver to learn how to drive their momentum forward amid rapid advances in AI and ongoing economic uncertainty.
During the two-day event, there were 40 panel sessions – delivered by leading minds in real estate, business, marketing, and technology – as well as a large trade show featuring some of the biggest names in real estate.
AI and emerging technologies
In the inspiring opening address, world-renowned futurist Nikki Greenberg explained how AI is revolutionizing the industry by helping REALTORS® summarize data and long documents, brainstorm, improve their communication skills, and automate mundane tasks. Looking ahead, she said AI could further shape society by lowering construction costs through automation and influencing building designs as delivery drones take to the skies.
She also warned about technology’s risks and limitations. She cautioned that AI shouldn’t be used to create staging photos that don’t accurately depict spaces, while also emphasizing that 3-D printers require significant time to set up, are costly, and struggle to create diverse types of housing.
Economic reconciliation
The Indigenous-led development panel was timely with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on the horizon. During the discussion, four leaders in the space highlighted how Indigenous-led projects are strengthening cross-cultural partnerships, boosting First Nations’ capacity, and helping to drive economic growth in Canada’s largest cities. They also discussed three important qualities – trust, collaboration, and resiliency – needed to build strong partnerships with First Nations.
Economic uncertainty and resilience
After the Indigenous panel, the CEOs of Greater Vancouver REALTORS®, the BC Real Estate Association, and the Association of Interior REALTORS® took to the stage, highlighting the importance of Realtors providing strong value to clients during uncertain economic times. Whether it was demonstrating professionalism and respect, providing strategic personal advice, or offering innovative products that help before, during, or after the home search, they provided strong examples of how real estate professionals can meaningfully support clients.
On the last day of the conference, political commentator David Frum discussed Canada’s economic challenges and potential solutions. The pain points included economic tensions between it and the United States, rising interest rates and the high cost of living, and changes to the world order that are creating fear, uncertainty, and anxiety.
Despite these challenges, Frum sprinkled glimmers of hope into the conversation, saying Canadians have significant sway over their political system and the direction it takes. One example he cited was Canadians rallying around Mark Carney and electing him as Prime Minister to protect the country’s national interests. He also noted that Canada remains a relatively strong place for investment, a feature that could help grow its economy as it faces a growing trade dispute with its southern neighbour.
Trade show
Between sessions, attendees packed into the trade show, where almost 90 exhibitors showcased their latest real estate products, services, and initiatives. Visiting each booth, attendees learned how tech companies are boosting visibility for Realtors and improving the selling and buying experience, how real estate charities are uplifting vulnerable populations, and how real estate boards are providing increasing value for the Realtors they serve.
Thank you to all the real estate professionals who attended this year’s conference. It was a fantastic opportunity to make new connections, find ways to improve your services, and learn how to prepare for what’s to come in 2027. We also extend our gratitude to all the speakers for providing rich perspectives, the organizers who made the conference a reality, and our sponsors for supporting the event at every level. We also extend a special thank you to Constant Contact for acting as our presenting sponsor.
We can’t wait to see you at next year’s conference and continue the conversations that will shape the future of real estate.