Tuesday, May 6
Afternoon
Arrival
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Welcome Dinner
Olé Restaurant, Lobby Level
Wednesday, May 7
8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Networking Breakfast
Flagler, Lobby Level
Get the morning started with a hot breakfast and time to network with fellow attendees.
8:30 a.m. – 8:50 a.m.
Welcome & Introductions
Flagler, Lobby Level
Hear about the state of the industry and the importance of the strategic growth of LeadingRE within Latin America and the Caribbean and the plans to strengthen our presence in the region and support your success.
Speakers: Paul Boomsma, President/CEO, LeadingRE, Chicago, IL U.S.
Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Speakers: Paul Boomsma, President/CEO, LeadingRE, Chicago, IL U.S.
Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
8:50 a.m. – 9:05 a.m.
South America’s Real Estate Investment Opportunity in the Current Global Geopolitical and Economic Landscape
Flagler, Lobby Level
Amid global economic and geopolitical shifts, South America is becoming an attractive destination for real estate investors. The region’s growing urbanization, increasing foreign investment, and strategic position in global supply chain diversification create significant opportunities in residential, commercial, and logistics real estate. Importantly, South America is geographically distant from current world conflicts, providing a degree of insulation from geopolitical tensions. La Cite's Estela Alvarenga shares the trends driving the market, with a special focus on Uruguay — a prime investment hub in South America due to its proven financial, legal, and economic stability. The session concludes with an open discussion where audience members share how they are navigating these shifts.
Speaker: Estela Alvarenga, Partner and Architect, La Cite, Punta del Este /Montevideo, Uruguay
Speaker: Estela Alvarenga, Partner and Architect, La Cite, Punta del Este /Montevideo, Uruguay
9:05 a.m. – 9:20 a.m.
Buying Real Estate in Mexico: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Flagler, Lobby Level
Buying real estate in Mexico as a foreigner can be both an exciting and overwhelming experience. With insights from his book by the same name, Fletcher Wheaton shares his personal journey of helping international buyers navigate the unique challenges and rewarding opportunities of purchasing property south of the border – offering deep insights you can use when serving clients with international real estate aspirations.
Speaker: Fletcher Wheaton, Broker, REmexico Real Estate, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Speaker: Fletcher Wheaton, Broker, REmexico Real Estate, Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
9:20 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
The World of Real Estate
Flagler, Lobby Level
The World of Real Estate is our popular segment, featuring discussions with members from various markets to gain an understanding of opportunities for buyers, what is important in their market, how population shifts are changing how and where people live, and best practices for cross-market business.
Moderator: Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Speakers: Andrew Gilbert, Commercial Investment Advisor, IRG, George Town, Cayman Islands
Michelle Martinborough, COO, Bahamas Realty, Bahamas
Jacob E. Miles, Lic. Assoc. Real Estate Broker, Brown Harris Stevens NYC, New York, NY U.S.
Lyle Schmidek, Broker/Owner, Grace Bay Realty, Turks and Caicos
Moderator: Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Speakers: Andrew Gilbert, Commercial Investment Advisor, IRG, George Town, Cayman Islands
Michelle Martinborough, COO, Bahamas Realty, Bahamas
Jacob E. Miles, Lic. Assoc. Real Estate Broker, Brown Harris Stevens NYC, New York, NY U.S.
Lyle Schmidek, Broker/Owner, Grace Bay Realty, Turks and Caicos
10:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Break
Flagler, Lobby Level
10:15 a.m. – 10:55 a.m.
Trends with Luxury Buyers
Flagler, Lobby Level
Discover what was revealed in Luxury Portfolio's latest research, including the factors that are influencing luxury markets across the globe, what luxury experts are saying about transaction and price movement, and existing market desirability. You’ll also hear about the latest developments from Luxury Portfolio, including our newly redesigned website.
Speakers: Paul Boomsma, President/CEO, LeadingRE, Chicago, IL U.S.
Daniel Peros, Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International®, LeadingRE, New York, NY U.S.
Speakers: Paul Boomsma, President/CEO, LeadingRE, Chicago, IL U.S.
Daniel Peros, Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International®, LeadingRE, New York, NY U.S.
10:55 a.m. – 11:35 a.m.
The World of Real Estate
Flagler, Lobby Level
Our discovery of the World of Real Estate continues with first-hand insights from more exciting markets, including a global market overview.
Moderator: Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Speakers: Aristides Carrera, Relocation Director / Chief Marketing Officer, Vida & Co. Ltd., San Ignacio, Belize
Marbel Lugo, Broker, Dominican Properties, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Mike Pappas, CEO, The Keyes Company, Miami, Florida, U.S.
João Reis, Residential Market Partnership Director, JLL Portugal Residential, Lisbon, Portugal
Moderator: Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Speakers: Aristides Carrera, Relocation Director / Chief Marketing Officer, Vida & Co. Ltd., San Ignacio, Belize
Marbel Lugo, Broker, Dominican Properties, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Mike Pappas, CEO, The Keyes Company, Miami, Florida, U.S.
João Reis, Residential Market Partnership Director, JLL Portugal Residential, Lisbon, Portugal
11:35 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Dynamic Drive Workshop, Part 1
Flagler, Lobby Level
In this interactive session we will explore how the principals of Molly Fletcher's bestselling book: “Dynamic Drive” can help all of us all achieve sustainable high performance and better quality of life. The engaging workshop was created exclusively for LeadingRE and originally presented during the 2024 Broker Forums. Through video presentations and exercises we’ll examine keys to greater fulfillment and purpose-driven success.
Facilitator: Paul Boomsma, President/CEO, LeadingRE, Chicago, IL U.S.
Facilitator: Paul Boomsma, President/CEO, LeadingRE, Chicago, IL U.S.
12:00 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Networking Lunch
Flagler, Lobby Level
12:45 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
LeadingRE Updates
Flagler, Lobby Level
Hear the latest on LeadingRE’s tools and resources, designed to support your success.
Speaker: Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Speaker: Lowis Valdivieso, Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE, Quintana Roo, Mexico
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
Dynamic Drive Workshop, Part 2
Flagler, Lobby Level
1:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
Making the Network Work for You
Flagler, Lobby Level
From referrals and marketing, to training and education – hear how members are tapping into LeadingRE to support the success of their companies, their agents and their staff – with specific strategies to help you make the most of your global network.
Moderator: Robin LaSure, Vice President, Global Communications, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
Speakers: Michael Monte, Director of Business Development & Relocation, Cervera Real Estate, Miami, Florida, U.S.
Christina Pappas, President, The Keyes Company, Miami, Florida, U.S.
Moderator: Robin LaSure, Vice President, Global Communications, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
Speakers: Michael Monte, Director of Business Development & Relocation, Cervera Real Estate, Miami, Florida, U.S.
Christina Pappas, President, The Keyes Company, Miami, Florida, U.S.
2:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Best Idea Sharing and Closing Remarks
Flagler, Lobby Level
Attendees will share best business ideas, as well as top takeaways from the Forum. Come ready to contribute to this informal, collaborative discussion by sharing a success strategy you have implemented at your company, whether in marketing, technology, or operations.
Facilitator: Daniel Peros, Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International®, LeadingRE | New York, NY U.S.
Facilitator: Daniel Peros, Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International®, LeadingRE | New York, NY U.S.
3:15 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Optional Property Tour
Meet in hotel lobby
Tour two spectacular Miami properties represented by our local members, Cervera Real Estate, Inc. and The Keyes Company. IMPORTANT: Please bring your ID, as it will be required to enter. The bus will depart promptly from the lobby at 3:15 p.m. and return at 5:00 p.m. The meeting concludes following the property tour; dinner on your own for those who stay.
The Residences at 1428 Brickell
Enjoy an early preview of one of Miami's most anticipated developments — The Residences at 1428 Brickell — with a tour of their breath taking showroom. A limited collection of 195 exclusive homes, fully finished and thoughtfully sequenced to follow the rhythms of life, are available in two- to four-bedroom plus den floorplans, providing 1,800 to 4,000 square feet. Each home faces east towards Biscayne Bay and features spacious and light-filled interiors with floor-to-ceiling glass throughout.
Represented by Cervera Real Estate. Learn more about the development here.
1000 Brickell Plaza, Penthouse 6002
This stunning corner penthouse unit in Brickell Flatiron features expansive terraces with panoramic views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay, fully furnished with elegant Italian minimalist design. Developer's private unit featuring spectacular high-end finishes and unparalleled luxury, this condo offers a Manhattan lifestyle 10 minutes away from Caribbean Beaches. Residents enjoy impressive amenities: a 64th-floor rooftop with a pool, restaurant, fitness center, steam room, and sauna, plus a lap pool, theater, and billiards room.
Represented by The Keyes Company. Learn more about the development here.
The Residences at 1428 Brickell
Enjoy an early preview of one of Miami's most anticipated developments — The Residences at 1428 Brickell — with a tour of their breath taking showroom. A limited collection of 195 exclusive homes, fully finished and thoughtfully sequenced to follow the rhythms of life, are available in two- to four-bedroom plus den floorplans, providing 1,800 to 4,000 square feet. Each home faces east towards Biscayne Bay and features spacious and light-filled interiors with floor-to-ceiling glass throughout.
Represented by Cervera Real Estate. Learn more about the development here.
1000 Brickell Plaza, Penthouse 6002
This stunning corner penthouse unit in Brickell Flatiron features expansive terraces with panoramic views of the city skyline and Biscayne Bay, fully furnished with elegant Italian minimalist design. Developer's private unit featuring spectacular high-end finishes and unparalleled luxury, this condo offers a Manhattan lifestyle 10 minutes away from Caribbean Beaches. Residents enjoy impressive amenities: a 64th-floor rooftop with a pool, restaurant, fitness center, steam room, and sauna, plus a lap pool, theater, and billiards room.
Represented by The Keyes Company. Learn more about the development here.
Speakers
Estela Alvarenga
Partner and Architect
La Cité Real Estate
La Cité Real Estate
Andrew Gilbert
Commercial Investment Advisor
International Realty Group Ltd
International Realty Group Ltd
Marbel Lugo
Broker
DOMINICAN PROPERTIES
DOMINICAN PROPERTIES
Michelle Martinborough
COO
Bahamas Realty
Bahamas Realty
Jacob E. Miles
Lic. Assoc. Real Estate Broker
Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales
Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales
Christina Pappas
President
The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
Michael Pappas
CEO
The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
João Reis
Residential Market Partnership Director
JLL Portugal Residential
JLL Portugal Residential
Lyle Schmidek
Broker/Owner
Grace Bay Realty
Grace Bay Realty
Fletcher Wheaton
Broker
REmexico Real Estate
REmexico Real Estate
Paul Boomsma
President & CEO
LeadingRE
LeadingRE
Lowis Valdivieso
Director, Global Business Development
LeadingRE
LeadingRE
Robin LaSure
Vice President, Global Communications
LeadingRE
LeadingRE
Daniel Peros
Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International
LeadingRE
LeadingRE
Estela Alvarenga
Partner and Architect, La Cité Real Estate
Partner and Architect, La Cité Real Estate
Estela is a partner at La Cité Real Estate and an architect with thirty years of experience in high end apartment buildings, starting with the design and conceptualization and following through to the building phases to preserve the details of personality imprints in each project. She participated as team leader in the uncovering of a historical underground construction that was part of the old city aqueduct. This award-winning project called El Zanjon is now a tourist attraction in Buenos Aires as one of the most important archeological site in town that brings in hundreds of local and foreign visitors every year.
Andrew Gilbert
Commercial Investment Advisor, International Realty Group Ltd
Commercial Investment Advisor, International Realty Group Ltd
Andrew Gilbert MRICS is a Cayman Islands-based investment advisor specializing in income-producing real estate. He advises ultra-high-net-worth individuals and family offices on asset acquisition, relocation, and the legal structuring of real estate portfolios. Andrew serves as Chairman of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) for the Cayman Islands and sits on the Caribbean advisory panel. Andrew’s work bridges private capital with local insight, offering strategic guidance in a jurisdiction known for its financial sophistication, political stability, and lifestyle appeal.
Marbel Lugo
Broker, DOMINICAN PROPERTIES
Broker, DOMINICAN PROPERTIES
Marbel Lugo with more than 20 years in Real Estate, Broker of Dominican Properties, specialist in tourist real estate investments and creator of the Club de Mujeres Inmobiliarias, specialist in development and sale of real estate projects and investment, Master in Business Administration, consultant, member of the board of directors of the Association of Realtors, has acted as a pioneer within the leadership of the Dominican Republic as the country's first Real Estate Coach, supporting thousands of agents in the growth of their businesses, writer of the Book and podcast Pisando Zapata, a guide for sellers with direction and strategies for success and growth, creator of The Box Method which focuses on three fundamental pillars: Emotional Intelligence, strategic planning, and sales.
Michelle Martinborough
COO, Bahamas Realty
COO, Bahamas Realty
Michelle is a BREA-licensed real estate professional and sales team leader at Bahamas Realty, one of the Bahamas’ leading full-service real estate firms. She joined the company in 2009, starting in the Commercial Department before gaining experience across all divisions. In 2019, Michelle assumed responsibility for the firm’s operations and in 2021 leadership of the sales team. Her diverse background, attention to detail, and passion for client service have earned her a reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.
Jacob E. Miles
Lic. Assoc. Real Estate Broker, Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales
Lic. Assoc. Real Estate Broker, Brown Harris Stevens Residential Sales
Jacob E. Miles brings years of professional and personal property experience—as a real estate agent, condominium investor, landlord, property manager, and corporate relocation expert—in New York City and its metropolitan area, where he has lived for over 25 years. Skilled in management and finance, Jacob is a relationship builder passionate about connecting sellers with buyers and landlords with tenants to create ideal outcomes. Jacob has represented a wide array of clientele in the sale, purchase, lease, and rental of their homes, including lifelong New Yorkers, relocating executives, foreign buyers, and first-time homeowners. He has served as a trusted advisor to over 50 executives who have successfully relocated and settled-in to the NYC area.
Christina Pappas
President & The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
President & The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
Christina Pappas is the dynamic President of The Keyes Company, bringing a rich legacy as a third-generation real estate broker and a passion for the South Florida real estate community. With a focus on innovative strategy and empathetic leadership, she prioritizes both Realtor and customer experience in every company endeavor. Since joining her family's company in 2011, Christina's leadership has not only propelled her to receive numerous awards but also to drive significant charitable contributions in the community. Her commitment to excellence and community service has established her as a prominent figure in the real estate industry.
Michael Pappas
CEO, The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
CEO, The Keyes Company/Illustrated Properties
Christina Pappas is the dynamic President of The Keyes Company, bringing a rich legacy as a third-generation real estate broker and a passion for the South Florida real estate community. With a focus on innovative strategy and empathetic leadership, she prioritizes both Realtor and customer experience in every company endeavor. Since joining her family's company in 2011, Christina's leadership has not only propelled her to receive numerous awards but also to drive significant charitable contributions in the community. Her commitment to excellence and community service has established her as a prominent figure in the real estate industry.
João Reis
Residential Market Partnership Director, JLL Portugal Residential
Residential Market Partnership Director, JLL Portugal Residential
João Reis is experienced in sales and has a strong business development background with multichannel commercial responsibilities in large-scale distribution, product launches, logistics and integrated solutions. He has seven years of experience in the real estate market, with more than four years developing relationships with partners from all over the world.
Lyle Schmidek
Broker/Owner, Grace Bay Realty
Broker/Owner, Grace Bay Realty
Lyle, a native of Alberta Canada first arrived In TCI from Grand Cayman to scout Turks and Caicos Islands prime real estate for his clients in 1990. In 2000 he started offering luxury real estate services here and founded Grace Bay Realty as a triple bottom line company in support of the People and Planet before Profit concept. Lyle loves to assist international individuals from around the world in an untouched paradise with the bragging rights of “The World’s Best Beach”.
Fletcher Wheaton
Broker, REmexico Real Estate
Broker, REmexico Real Estate
Fletcher Wheaton started out in real estate by buying and renting investment properties in his hometown of New Orleans, LA in 2008. In 2015, he fell in love with Baja on a real estate scouting trip to Los Cabos and has lived here ever since. He specializes in pre-construction, vacation homes and investment rental properties - he also owns multiple rental properties here in Los Cabos. Fletcher enjoys the outdoors where you can find him mountain biking, fishing or golfing when he isn’t doing real estate. He is the broker of REmexico Real Estate and Founder of Cabo Real Estate Summit, Cabo's premier real estate conference connecting buyers, agents and developers. His new book "Buying Real Estate in Mexico: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly" is coming out soon.
Paul Boomsma
President & CEO, LeadingRE
President & CEO, LeadingRE
Paul Boomsma is President and CEO of LeadingRE, working closely with the Board of Directors and leadership team to deliver programs that support the success of our members. He created the highly-successful Luxury Portfolio International®program, previously serving as its president. Paul began his career marketing luxury office towers and later joined a top residential real estate firm, before becoming the National Marketing Director for a major franchise. He is a frequent industry and, among his distinctions, has been named to RISMedia’s Newsmakers Hall of Fame, the Swanepoel Power 200, REAL Trends’ Game Changers, and Inman News’ Real Estate Influencers.
Lowis Valdivieso
Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE
Director, Global Business Development, LeadingRE
As Director of Global Business Development for the Latin America and Caribbean region, Lowis Valdivieso works with members to foster engagement and collaboration and will be instrumental in helping LeadingRE grow its presence in the region. A Venezuela native now based in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, Lowis has valuable experience in the real estate industry, having worked as a manager for a LeadingRE member firm in Mexico, where he focused on business development and strategic alliances. His experience extends to the hospitality industry, where he headed business and operations for an independent property group and worked as service supervisor for a leading hotel.
Robin LaSure
Vice President, Global Communications
Vice President, Global Communications
As Vice President, Global Communications for Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®, Robin LaSure oversees the company’s public relations and leads select strategic marketing initiatives, including industry relations and global communications. Working closely with LeadingRE’s global team serving member firms in 70+ countries, she is experienced in marketing to a diverse international audience. Named a 2024 Inman Marketing All Star, she has been with LeadingRE (and its legacy networks) for 30 years, working in various roles relating to marketing, public relations, events, and vendor relations.
Daniel Peros
Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International
Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International
Daniel Peros is a highly accomplished real estate sales executive with over 20 years of experience driving revenue growth and cultivating strategic, high-profile client relationships, specializing in the luxury market. In his role as Vice President, Global Operations, Luxury Portfolio International®, he is dedicated to supporting the success of global Luxury Portfolio members and growing LPI outside the U.S. Before joining LeadingRE, he served as the Vice President, Business Development Manager for a luxury real estate network for more than 13 years, where he was responsible for managing key clients and affiliates across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, as well as overseeing business development and franchise sales, expanding the brand’s global presence, and managing affiliate services and auction house relationships. Daniel also has experience delivering global training programs for agents and recruiting top talent and high-performing teams within the real estate industry.
Visa Invitation Letter
If you need a Visa Invitation Letter, please complete the request form here. Please allow 3 business days for processing. Contact events@LeadingRE.com if you have questions.
Cancellation Policy
A full refund is available for cancellations received in writing to events@LeadingRE.com by 11:59 p.m. CDT April 14, 2025. Cancellations received in writing from April 15, 2025, through April 29, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CDT will incur a $100 cancellation fee. No refunds after April 30, 2025.
Payment Options
A full refund is available for cancellations received in writing to events@LeadingRE.com by 11:59 p.m. CDT April 14, 2025. Payment for the 2025 Latin America & Caribbean Forum should be made by credit card online or via wire transfer. Please contact events@LeadingRE.com to receive complete wire transfer information.
Hotel and Travel
InterContinental Miami
Our host hotel for the meeting is the InterContinental Miami, where you can enjoy unparalleled service while beholding commanding views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and the Port of Miami. The hotel's 652 newly renovated luxurious guest rooms, present luxury paired with Miami charm.
In 1982, InterContinental Miami was built in an untraditional way. Instead of building the hotel, then decorating it, developers started with an art sculpture. Henry Moore's 18-foot, 70-ton Spindle sculpture, made of travertine marble, was the focal point our lobby was created around. Pietro Belluschi, the world-famous architect who designed the 34-story hotel created the Grand Lobby to be an elegant entrance, with its Italian marble slabs and precious African wood complementing The Spindle.
Luxurious Rooms
Luxury has been re-imagined at InterContinental Miami. Their $40 Million makeover is complete and the newly redesigned Miami hotel rooms feature stunning views whichever way you look. At night, gaze at the moonlight on the water or the city's lights, then wake up to sunrise over Biscayne Bay. The elevated rooms feature modern décor with design inspired by the Atlantic Ocean and dazzling Miami skyline which feature plush bedding and an array of elevated amenities & tech upgrades.
Room Rates & Reservations
Single/double city view: $299, plus taxes and daily hotel service fee of $25 per room, per night
Rooms are available in our block for May 6. If you wish to extend your stay, book first using our group rate; then call the hotel to extend your reservation at the current room rate.
When you register, you will receive an email confirmation that includes a link to reserve your hotel room.
Reservation Deadline: Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Transportation
The Miami International AirportMiami International Airport (MIA) is approximately 8 miles from the InterContinental Miami.
InterContinental Miami
100 Chopin Plaza
Miami, FL 33131
Contact
Please contact us if you have any questions about the 2025 LeadingRE
Latin American & Caribbean Forum: events@LeadingRE.com.
Chicago
161 N. Clark St.
Suite 1200
Chicago, IL 60601 USA
+1 312 424 0400
London
8 Duncannon Street
The Strand
London WC2N 4JF UK
+44 20 7872 5525
Singapore
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#20-61 Tower 2
Singapore 048616
+65 6808 6984