SIMA: Living Conference & Expo

Real Estate Business Review | Monday, April 13, 2026

Madrid, Spain,SIMA – The Global Hub of Living is a leading international real estate event focused on the residential & living sector. It convenes the full value chain, including institutional capital, developers, investors, family offices, funds, operators, advisory firms, proptech companies, homebuyers, and public-sector stakeholders to support business connections, market insight, and innovation across housing.

“SIMA has become the place where global capital, innovation and new residential models come together to shape the future of living.” Santiago Herreros de Tejada, Managing Partner, SIMA

Housing remains one of the most pressing challenges across major markets, shaped by constrained supply, demographic pressure, evolving lifestyle preferences and affordability, alongside rising regulatory requirements, and accelerated technological change. This context is driving the evolution of the living sector and the growth of new residential models such as flex living, senior living and multifamily, reshaping how people live, invest and develop cities.

SIMA 2026 continues to strengthen its role as a leading European platform for the residential & living sector, bringing together investment, development and innovation, and turning industry dialogue into decisions that shape the market.

Figures that reflect leadership

The 2025 edition welcomed 21,000 attendees, including 8,500 professionals and investors, with 350 exhibitors and 5,000 represented companies, as well as 200 speakers and 70 content sessions, setting the stage for a 2026 edition expected to reach record international participation.

For 2026, the event takes a decisive step forward in its internationalization process, reaching record participation figures, forming partnerships with more than ten international associations and organizations (ULI, RICS, FIABCI, CEPI, the Miami Association of Realtors, among others), and welcoming the presence of leading pan-European living-focused funds and asset managers (Hines, PRAEMIA, LIVENSA, LAPITHUS, APOLLO, M&G, DEA Capital…).

This momentum is further reinforced by strong international participation, delegations from 35 countries, and a conference programme featuring speakers from multiple markets, positioning the event as one of Europe’s leading residential capital hubs, where key trends are analysed and cross-border opportunities explored.”

Within this context, the Dominican Republic will be the Guest Country, with more than 500 sqm of exhibition space and more than 40 companies participating, focused on residential and tourism investment. Its presence reinforces the Caribbean’s position as a strategic destination for international investors and opens the door to new discussions about geographic diversification, second-home investment, and emerging markets.

A model structured around market needs

SIMA is organised into complementary areas covering the broader ecosystem:

• SIMAPRO, the international professional forum for the living sector, bringing together pan-European investment funds, developers and public-sector leaders, together with private stakeholders, to analyse trends across residential and flex living. It includes the International Living Conference and the new SIMAPRO Lounge, a premium showcase and networking area designed to accelerate business connections.

• SIMA TECH, focused on innovation and the impact of technology on development, construction and asset management, reflecting the increasing importance of proptech solutions in transforming the sector.

• SIMA INVEST, designed for retail and individual investors, combining a project showcase with a conference forum offering market insight and expert guidance.

• SIMA EXPO, showcasing domestic and international residential supply and connecting projects with homebuyers and investors.

A key new feature for 2026 is a dedicated FLEX LIVING space, focused on emerging ways of living including co-living, senior living, student housing and flexible rental models, enabling attendees to explore solutions and connect with projects shaping the future of housing.

In addition, the ASPRIMA–SIMA Awards recognise quality, innovation and sustainability in real estate development.

A forum for dialogue and sector trends

From 20 to 23 May, SIMA will bring together stakeholders across the real estate ecosystem to address the issues shaping the residential and living agenda: housing supply in high-demand markets, international investment flows, opportunities in residential and tourism-related development, and innovation applied to construction and related services.

The International Living Conference is structured around five thematic tracks:

• Affordable Housing & Private Investment

• Living Investors Day

• Asset Class Insights

• Global Living Markets

• Technology & Innovation

More than two decades of evolution

With 26 years of history, SIMA has accompanied the real estate sector through multiple cycles, adapting to economic, regulatory and social change. Its evolution from a traditional property event into a comprehensive platform for investment, insight and networking mirrors the market’s transformation.

At a time of growing investor interest in Spain, SIMA acts as a bridge between domestic and international players, facilitating the exchange of specialised information, strategy benchmarking and long-term partnerships.

More in News

FERMONT, CA: The traditional real estate sector of today enters a new, technologically enabled field.  At the heart of these developments are proptech companies that offer real estate firms individualized, high-value solutions.  Smart housing can now be produced by real estate companies using these digital technologies.  Because of the technical capabilities and innovative solutions presented by proptech companies, catering to Z-generation needs has evolved feasible. Today's technology will determine how housing projects will take shape. The present discussion illuminates how predictive approaches disturb conventional apartments and substitute them with modern, intelligent buildings. Check Out This :  Utilities Business Review Property technology (PropTech) services impact both commercial and residential land. Proptech causes waves in the residential segment of optional models of property management, landowner management, sales, and living facilities. Along with purchase, sale and leasing procedures, design and growth are continually changing. The rental sector is anticipated to grow greatly in the immobilizing industry and is mainly attractive to proprietors. Whether an individual property or a multifamily venture, proptech has the first step. Rent management is quite complicated in multifamily ventures. Je more housing units, maintaining a record of rent and services is more complex than it is for property owners. Proptech companies can use practical management capabilities for real estate companies by developing smart rental solutions. Likewise, another group of utilities and channels redefines consumer leasing methods. Everything is likely, from searching for properties to paying rent using online portals. Besides that, through on-demand services, proptech companies provide modern living spaces with high-tech amenities. Proptech participants are taking technology closer to living spaces, from presenting connectivity solutions to keeping reliable energy infrastructure in apartments and residential areas. IoT devices, integrated security systems, intelligent mobility choices, and creative service management tools all evolve as part of residential property, adding value to smart living. ...Read more
Through a 1031 exchange, investors can postpone paying capital gains taxes on their sale by reinvesting in a comparable property. Strict deadlines and thorough documentation are required, even if this effective tool aids in the growth of real estate holdings. Investors and facilitators stand to gain from these exchanges, becoming more effective, safe, and transparent. The digitization and automation of crucial procedures are the two most significant ways technology improves 1031 exchanges. Manual tracking and paperwork are necessary for traditional 1031 exchanges, which can result in mistakes and inefficiencies.  Digital platforms now streamline these workflows, providing centralized systems where all transaction details, deadlines, and documentation are easily accessible. Blockchain technology offers a revolutionary way to increase transparency and security in 1031 exchanges. By recording transactions on an immutable ledger, blockchain ensures that property titles, financial records, and other essential data are tamper-proof and verifiable. It minimizes the risk of fraud, which is a concern in high-value real estate transactions. AI-powered tools analyze market trends, property valuations, and investor preferences to identify the most suitable replacement properties. Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies further enhance the property search and evaluation process in 1031 exchanges. Investors can use VR to explore potential replacement properties remotely instead of physically visiting multiple properties within the tight 45-day identification window. AR applications can overlay additional information, such as property layouts and projected renovations, enabling a more interactive and informed evaluation process. Technology facilitates better collaboration and communication among the various stakeholders involved in a 1031 exchange, including real estate agents, qualified intermediaries (QIs), attorneys, and investors. The level of integration reduces misunderstandings, accelerates decision-making, and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements. For investors looking to scale their portfolios sustainably, PropTech innovations like IoT and smart building technologies can be integrated into replacement properties to increase their value and efficiency. Smart properties equipped with energy-saving systems, advanced security features, and predictive maintenance tools attract higher rental income and align with modern trends favoring sustainability and technology-enabled living. Incorporating such features in 1031 exchange acquisitions can lead to long-term appreciation and better asset performance. From blockchain-driven transparency and AI-based decision-making to VR-enabled property evaluations and smart asset management, these advancements streamline processes, enhance security, and improve outcomes. Embracing these tools will be essential for maximizing the potential of 1031 exchanges, ensuring they remain a valuable strategy in modern real estate investment. ...Read more
The research aims to better understand what separates organizations that are successfully embedding AI into their day-to-day operations from those still experimenting with isolated pilots Keyway, in partnership with The Appraisal , has launched a new industry survey exploring the next stage of AI in the industry: AI Maturity in Real Estate . The goal of this survey is to gain deeper insights of what it takes for organizations to move from AI experimentation to real enterprise-wide deployment. The survey is open to all professionals across acquisitions, lending, asset management, finance, legal, property management, and executive leadership. Participation is confidential, takes approximately 5–10 minutes , and all respondents will receive the final report , including key findings and actionable insights. Take the Survey HERE Building on the Industry's First Benchmark The new survey builds on the findings of The State of AI Adoption in Real Estate Survey Report published earlier this year. That research surveyed more than 150 U.S. real estate professionals and found that while AI experimentation has become widespread, enterprise-wide deployment remains limited. Among the report's key findings: •  45% of firms reported actively running AI pilots, while only 9% had achieved enterprise-wide deployment. • Just 8% considered their data infrastructure fully prepared to support AI at scale. • Trust, data readiness, and system integration emerged as the primary barriers preventing broader adoption. •More than half of firms expect to significantly increase AI investment over the next two years, signaling that AI has become a long-term strategic priority. Those findings revealed an industry moving beyond experimentation but still facing meaningful operational challenges before AI can deliver enterprise-wide impact. Building on those conclusions, this new research examines the current state of AI maturity, including where AI is being deployed, which workflows and business functions are seeing the greatest adoption, what models firms are using, and what separates organizations that are successfully scaling AI across the business. Take the Survey HERE ...Read more
Property management is a demanding field that requires balancing multiple responsibilities, including financial oversight and legal compliance. While technology has improved many aspects of property management, several challenges continue to impact landlords, property managers, and real estate investors. Rising operational costs, tenant disputes, maintenance issues, regulatory compliance, and security concerns are among the most significant hurdles. Addressing the challenges requires proactive strategies, efficient management tools, and a customer-centric approach.  Tenant Relations and Retention  The biggest challenge in property management is maintaining positive tenant relationships. Ensuring tenant satisfaction while enforcing lease agreements can be difficult. Unresolved maintenance requests, poor communication, and conflicts over rent payments often lead to disputes. High tenant turnover increases costs, as vacant units require advertising, cleaning, and repairs before new occupants move in.  Property managers must implement clear communication channels, respond promptly to tenant concerns, and offer incentives for long-term leases. Using digital platforms for rent payments, maintenance requests, and feedback surveys can improve tenant satisfaction and reduce turnover rates. A proactive approach to addressing tenant needs ensures better occupancy rates and long-term stability.  Maintenance and Repairs  Regular maintenance and emergency repairs present significant challenges in property management. Aging infrastructure, plumbing issues, HVAC failures, and electrical problems require timely intervention to prevent property damage and tenant dissatisfaction. Innovations Building Maintenance supports property operators with maintenance services that help address building needs and improve tenant experiences. Delayed repairs can turn minor issues into major expenses, creating financial strain for property owners..  Property managers should implement preventive maintenance schedules and conduct routine inspections. Innovative building technology, such as IoT sensors, can help detect leaks, monitor HVAC performance, and identify structural weaknesses before they become costly problems. Partnering with reliable contractors and maintaining a reserve fund for unexpected repairs ensures smoother property operations. Loughridge Company provides construction and development expertise that supports aging infrastructure, property reliability, and long-term asset value. Financial Management and Rising Costs  Balancing budgets while managing operational expenses is a constant challenge in property management. Rising utility costs, property taxes, insurance premiums, and maintenance expenses can strain profitability. Late rent payments and tenant evictions further impact cash flow, making financial planning essential.  Property managers must implement transparent budgeting, track expenses, and enforce rent collection policies. Offering multiple payment options, setting up automated reminders, and introducing online payment platforms can improve rent collection efficiency. Adopting energy-efficient solutions such as smart thermostats, LED lighting, and water-saving fixtures can reduce operational costs.  Technology Adoption and Data Management  While technology has streamlined property management, adopting new systems and managing data remains challenging. Many property managers struggle with outdated systems, manual paperwork, and inefficient processes. Handling large amounts of tenant and financial data requires robust cybersecurity measures.  Investing in property management software that automates lease tracking, maintenance requests, and rent collection can improve efficiency. Regular cybersecurity training and data protection protocols ensure sensitive information remains safe.  Property management comes with various challenges, from maintaining positive tenant relations to handling financial, legal, and security issues. Rising costs, regulatory compliance, and technological adaptation add to the complexity of managing properties efficiently. Proactive planning, innovative technology, clear communication, and strong financial strategies can help property managers overcome these obstacles.  ...Read more