The Agency Leads Real Estate Talks at Inman Connect NYC

Lucía Torres · 2026-02-11

Inman Connect New York brought together the sharpest minds in real estate, and The Agency was right in the middle of it all. Over several days of panels and discussions, the conference offered a clear look at how top agents are navigating today's shifting market. It wasn't just about listening—it was about leading the conversation. ### Mauricio Umansky on Building Endurance The Agency's Founder and CEO, Mauricio Umansky, kicked things off with his session, "Success Isn't the Finish Line." He shared a personal perspective on moving past just hitting milestones. His message was simple: stop racing for the finish line and start building the endurance to run the whole race with purpose. It's a mindset shift that resonates deeply in a market that demands resilience.  ### Turning Listings into Experiences with AI Later, Mauricio joined a panel to discuss a hot topic: creative direction in the age of AI. The conversation, titled "Experience-Led Listings: Turning Homes Into Interactive Media," explored how The Agency uses technology to transform a simple property listing into an engaging story. The goal? To make every home feel like an experience, not just an address. ### The Tech Tools Changing the Game Zane Burnett, The Agency's EVP of Digital Strategy, continued the tech discussion. He talked about the growing need for agents to stand out by using the right tools. The panel covered everything from mobile apps to AI and smart CRM practices. The takeaway was clear: embracing new tech isn't optional anymore; it's how you find better leads and close more deals. Here are a few key technologies reshaping agent workflows: - **AI-Powered Marketing**: Creating personalized content at scale. - **Mobile-First Tools**: Managing clients and listings on the go. - **Smart CRM Systems**: Building stronger, more organized client relationships. ### Why Culture is Your Secret Weapon Juliet Clapp, SVP Managing Partner at The Agency New York, shifted the focus to people. She spoke on a panel about how strong leadership and a positive company culture are crucial for keeping great agents and helping them grow. As one panelist noted, "A great culture isn't just about perks; it's about creating an environment where people want to build their careers." This focus on culture directly impacts loyalty and long-term success. ### Connecting at the Highest Level The conversations extended beyond the public stages. At an exclusive CEO gathering, Mauricio connected with other industry leaders to discuss navigating the market's recent changes. These high-level collaborations are where big ideas often take shape. From the future of technology to the heart of company culture, The Agency helped steer the dialogue at Inman Connect. The event proved that staying ahead means constantly learning, adapting, and most importantly, contributing to the conversation that moves the entire industry forward.