Technology
What will be the most valuable trend in real estate technology?
Broude: The most valuable trend in real estate technology for agents will be the true implementation of artificial intelligence, creating automation of administrative tasks through the use of machine learning and bots, so that agents can purely focus on the client relationships. Our company has already formed partnerships in this space, and we feel strongly that this will support an agent in running his or her business in the most efficient, client-centric way possible. Looking further into the future, blockchain technology has the potential to dramatically alter the way that all transactions are managed and tracked, not just in real estate.
Lemons-Ryhal: Implementing live streaming video and repurposing the content to meet consumers’ desired format will be crucial, all while adhering to licensing rules and regulations.
What new technologies will your company be adopting or using?
Alter Warden: Baird & Warner will unveil a new version of our award-winning website with enhanced lifestyle search functionality and robust inquiry response and lead generation tools — all accessible with even easier navigation. Our agents will also leverage a new transaction management system that will make the real estate closing experience easier. And look for advances in our Listing Leader property retargeting advertising program, where we’ll be helping sellers reach buyers based on their lifestyle habits.
Golden: We will continue to use our digital CMA that provides agents with an excellent tool that helps their clients understand the marketability and the value of their home more clearly. We have also begun an exclusive partnership with RealScout, which provides information to the consumer similar to the MLS, but with superior presentation. The key is adoption: We don’t want to overwhelm agents. Without successful adoption, new forms of technology have zero value to us. We have a whole team dedicated to training, coaching and education so that agents learn how to utilize and maximize these tools to allow them to increase their reach and provide better service for their clients. This team works one-on-one with agents to show them how to use new tools and how to integrate them into their daily business.
Sato: We have had an exciting 2017 ramping up our technology and offering our agents even more tools for success for 2018 and beyond. Our proprietary intranet platform, JSIRConnect, allows our agents to execute every aspect of their business transaction behind the scenes from their comfort of their desk to the convenience of their phone. Ensuring that our agents win more listings and offer their clients an elevated experience through technology also remains a high priority — our newly launched company site expands our digital lead platform, and our Chicagoland-exclusive launch of Trendgraphix allows our agents to effectively share market data and analyses to better arm their clients in the competitive housing market.