The Commercial real estate market continues to work through a reset with conditions across asset classes and regions shifting toward stabilization. With that in sight, REMAX Commercial® agents from the U.S., Canada, and multiple international markets gathered in Seattle for the 2026 REMAX Global Commercial Symposium in late April, leaning into execution, collaboration and growth strategies.
Conversations in Seattle addressed both network growth – REMAX® added more than 2,000 commercial agents last year, with annual sales and lease volume increasing by more than $2 billion – and the broader market forces shaping the business.
Agents also explored emerging technologies, including MAXReferSM, a referral system to connect brokers and drive deals, MAXEngageSM, a loyalty and rewards program that builds business through challenges, and MAXTech Commercial, a fully connected platform to help brokers close more deals in less time, designed to support commercial brokers well into the future.
As first-time attendee Evelia Marquez with REMAX Gold in Sacramento, California, noted, “These events help us stay current with trends and reinforce that REMAX Commercial is investing in us.”
A Global Market Perspective
Market sentiment among attendees was noticeably more optimistic than in recent years, with agents from around the world reporting stronger pipelines, increased deal flow, and renewed momentum as buyers and sellers adjust to the current interest rate environment and reset their pricing expectations.
A recurring conference theme was the importance of relationships, local expertise and creative problem-solving in navigating complex transactions. Artificial intelligence also emerged as a major area of interest, with brokers exploring practical applications to improve efficiency, marketing and research while remaining focused on responsible use.
REMAX Commercial Executive Director Kristie Kimnach noted that today’s commercial success requires more intentional decision-making from both owners and tenants.
“Industrial and well-located retail are still performing well, while office continues to be more challenging in many markets,” Kimnach said. “Owners can’t take a ‘build it and they will come’ approach anymore. They have to be more thoughtful about location, pricing and how space actually functions – especially with the flight to quality we’re seeing.”
These insights shaped Symposium discussions around valuation, leasing strategy, adaptive reuse and how agents deliver value in an increasingly complex environment.
Damon Conrad, who oversees REMAX Commercial for REMAX Canada, agrees.
“We’re coming out of a period of uncertainty to a period of more stabilization in the commercial market in Canada,” Conrad said. “And while it’s slower than we originally hoped, we’re definitely moving into a more positive environment. Events like the Symposium give agents the opportunity to compare what they’re seeing in their local markets, share strategies and better position themselves and their clients as the conditions continue to evolve.”
Agent Perspective: Why These Conversations Matter Now
For agents navigating the same macro pressures as their peers, the Global REMAX Commercial Symposium proved invaluable.
- “It’s very fulfilling to speak with other REMAX commercial agents,” said John Sanderson of REMAX Peak to Peak in Winter Park, Colorado. “To understand that they have the same trials and tribulations that I have. They also fully share the challenges that they faced and the successes that they’ve earned.”
- “One idea from this event could easily translate into seven figures over time,” noted Nathan Bragg of REMAX Time in Rancho Cucamonga, California, highlighting the ROI of shared insight.
- Jason Hepton with REMAX Hawaii in Honolulu said, “I get good feedback on ideas that work and helpful suggestions on things I can follow up on in the future.”
Common takeaways included:
- Identifying and owning specific niches rather than broad marketing
- Using AI to streamline prospecting and market analysis
Expanding co-brokering and referral relationships across the REMAX network
REMAX Commercial’s Expansion
The Symposium also underscored a broader shift: REMAX Commercial is expanding its role and visibility within the global REMAX network. Investment in commercial-specific education, technology and in‑person collaboration reflects a strategy to strengthen the brand’s prominence across property types.
For many agents, that investment is already tangible.
Surveyed attendees cited:
- Stronger referral pipelines across borders and specialties
- Greater confidence positioning themselves as commercial advisors
Practical use cases for AI, niche marketing and hyper-focused prospecting
From Symposium to Strategy
Kimnach says the energy in Seattle reflects a network that understands the moment – and is preparing for what’s ahead.
“The REMAX Global Commercial Symposium continues to be a powerful example of what happens when professionals come together to share ideas, build relationships and create momentum for their business. The energy in Seattle reflected a network that is engaged, growth‑minded and committed to elevating the REMAX Commercial brand together. It’s a privilege to support REMAX Commercial professionals across the U.S. and globally, working alongside so many markets, specialties and business models.”
As commercial real estate continues its recalibration, the conversations sparked in Seattle suggest that REMAX Commercial brokers aren’t waiting for clarity – they’re actively shaping it.
Written by REMAX News
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