From April 7–9, 2026, more than 600 property managers and industry leaders gathered in Austin, Texas, for a sold‑out 2026 PropertyCon: An IREM® Education Experience, marking another milestone for the IREM member experience designed by, and for, property managers. Across three energizing days, attendees came together to sharpen skills, expand networks, and explore what’s next for the profession.
In just its second year, PropertyCon strongly reaffirmed the demand for practical, real‑world property management education. Attendees represented a wide cross‑section of the industry, ranging from experienced professionals from across the globe, to DISI and Student Leaders, all united by a shared commitment to growth and excellence.
In addition, for the first time ever, the event featured a completely sold-out expo of the real estate industry’s best product and service providers. PropertyCon’s second year also brought increased participation from sponsors and industry partners.
This year’s event delivered 45+ education sessions spanning leadership, financial operations, maintenance, sustainability, technology, and tenant experience. Over the course of the conference, participants attended 39 hours of professional development and education, reinforcing IREM’s commitment to learning that can be applied immediately on the job.
A highlight for many was the preconference Ethics workshop (ETH800), a live, in‑person certification course held the day before the conference officially opened with 16 participants. This session gave attendees the opportunity to deepen their understanding of professional ethics while fulfilling a requirement to earn any IREM certification before the main event began.
Two compelling keynote speakers anchored the conference experience. John Quiñones, ABC News correspondent and host of “What Would You Do?” John is from San Antonio, Texas, the son of a janitor and a housekeeper who worked as a migrant farm laborer as a child before earning a journalism degree from Columbia University and building a career as an Emmy Award–winning ABC News correspondent. He opened PropertyCon with a powerful message centered on integrity, ethical decision‑making, and believing in what’s possible, even in the face of adversity.
The conference closed with an equally moving keynote session from J.R. Martinez, U.S. Army veteran, author, and actor, whose story of resilience and leadership resonated deeply with attendees navigating change in their professional lives.
New and expanded networking sessions were a major success, reinforcing that some of the most valuable learning happens outside the classroom. From the opening party to informal peer conversations, attendees had multiple opportunities to build relationships, exchange insights, and strengthen their professional networks. These opportunities are often cited as some of the most meaningful takeaways from the event.
PropertyCon’s success would not have been possible without the support of our exhibitors and sponsors, who brought innovative tools, services, and expertise to the sold-out exhibit hall. Their presence ensured attendees could explore solutions ready to put to work immediately and demonstrated a shared commitment to advancing the dynamic world of property management.
PropertyCon 2026 proved that when property managers come together with a shared purpose, the impact extends far beyond two days. With strong attendance, robust education, inspiring keynotes, and meaningful connection, this year’s event reinforced PropertyCon’s role as a must‑attend experience for professionals at every stage of their careers.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Austin. We look forward to seeing you in Seattle April 13 – 15 for 2027 PropertyCon!