The Tribune

HG Christie realtors recently joined their counterparts at the 2026 Christie’s International Real Estate (CIRE) Masters Circle and Agents Summit in Chicago to explore emerging technology and evolving market demands.

Held at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, the event brought together members of the global Christie’s International Real Estate network for two days of education, discussion and networking. HG Christie was represented by John Christie, president and managing broker; agents Frank Knowles and Patrick Maura from Hope Town; and Dylan Christie, Anya Mousis and Phillip Hillier in Nassau.

Artificial intelligence (AI) was a major focus, with sessions examining how technology is changing the way consumers discover and evaluate real estate professionals, plus how agents can use emerging tools to improve their marketing, visibility and efficiency.

Discussions also explored personal branding, client relationships and the importance of understanding the individual circumstances that shape property decisions. “AI was a major focus of the summit this year, and it’s clear that it will continue to change the way we work in real estate,” Mr Christie said.

“The opportunity is not to replace the personal relationships and local expertise that are at the heart of our business, but to use these tools to make us smarter, more efficient and ultimately better at serving our clients. Being able to exchange ideas with other Christie’s International Real Estate affiliates, and see how they are approaching these changes, was incredibly valuable.”

Mr Knowles, who represents HG Christie in Hope Town, added: “The Christie’s Summit is always a wonderful experience filled with so many opportunities for networking and education on what’s new in our industry.

“It can sometimes be challenging to take it all in, but I have always believed that if you can come away from an experience like the Christie’s Summit with one key takeaway that you can implement to improve your business and how you provide your services to your clients and customers, it is well worth it. This year, the discussion on AI was definitely that takeaway subject.”

Beyond technology, the event explored the advantages of belonging to a global real estate network, including opportunities to build relationships with experienced professionals in other markets, share knowledge and connect clients with properties and expertise beyond their home country.

The programme also highlighted the relationship between real estate, art, design and collecting, reflecting the wider Christie’s brand and its connection to the Christie’s auction house. Sessions and networking opportunities encouraged agents to look beyond the physical features of a property and consider the lifestyle, design and individual interests that can influence a client’s decisions.