Performance Gap Widens, HX 2026 Sets Out to Close It

As listings rise and selling times stretch, Harcourts positions HX as a circuit-breaker for agent performance.

As a widening performance gap reshapes the real estate industry, the upcoming HX Conference is positioning itself as a circuit-breaker, bringing agents, property managers and business leaders together to focus on what is actually driving results in today’s market.

The HX 2026 series will begin in New Zealand on 25-26 May at Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre, before moving to Australia on 9-10 June at The Star Gold Coast, reinforcing Harcourts’ trans-Tasman focus on performance, leadership and growth.

With listings rising and days on market increasing by as much as 10-20% in some areas over the past year, the margin for error has tightened, placing greater pressure on agents to perform.

The 2026 agenda centres on productivity, conversion, leadership capability and consistency, with keynote presentations from Holly Ransom and Mushambi Mutuma, alongside senior Harcourts executives.

Mike Green said the event is being positioned deliberately in response to current conditions.

“The gap we’re seeing isn’t about the market, it’s about capability. HX is where we address that directly. It’s about giving our people a clear, practical edge they can take back into their business immediately.”

“In this market, average is exposed very quickly. HX is about making sure our people aren’t average.”

Green said that in a more disciplined market, execution, not intention, is what separates results.

“The fundamentals haven’t changed, but the standard required to execute them has. The businesses that are structured, consistent and focused on the client are the ones continuing to grow.”

The conference will include:

· Sales and property management workshops targeting conversion, retention and pipeline strength

· Leadership sessions focused on accountability, culture and team performance

· Practical insights into technology, AI and operational efficiency

· Networking with peers, suppliers and industry partners

Adding further depth, Karmen Costigan said property management is also seeing increased pressure to perform.

“Expectations have lifted across the board. Landlords want stronger returns and clearer reporting, while tenants expect faster, more transparent communication.”

“The businesses that are investing in people, training and systems are the ones protecting and growing their portfolios.”

A key component of HX 2026 remains the National & International Awards, recognising top performers across the Harcourts network.

“Recognition sets the benchmark,” Green said. “It shows what good really looks like in this market, and gives others something to aim for.”

With conditions expected to remain competitive, HX 2026 is designed to equip attendees with the clarity, capability and consistency needed to close the performance gap and drive results.