Committee News

Real Estate Round-Up

  • November 2024
  • By BOB OXNARD, REALTOR®


AI, EXPERTISE, AND THE FUTURE OF REAL ESTATE!

Last month we discussed a major change in the home-buying process: REALTORS® now must have a written agreement with buyers before showing homes. This is significant because 89% of buyers use an agent’s services. Brokers must clearly outline what they will do for their clients and what buyers are expected to pay if he efforts result in a closing.

Another momentous change on the horizon is Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is poised to play a huge role across the economy, and real estate is no exception. AI has already begun to streamline the home-buying process, with apps now recommending homes based on buyer preferences such as location, style, and budget. This helps narrow down options and saves buyers’ time. Additionally, AI helps agents forecast market trends using predictive analytics, analyzing historical data and market conditions to give clients accurate insights on when to buy or sell.

However, while AI offers valuable data, real estate transactions involve complexities that require more than just technology. This is where an experienced Realtor becomes indispensable. Realtors provide personalized insights, considering nuances like a home’s condition, market timing, and emotional factors that AI cannot capture. For instance, while AI may suggest comparable homes, a Realtor can provide a local perspective on key factors such as school districts, neighborhood culture, and future development plans.

Realtors also help navigate the legal side of transactions, from contracts to negotiating terms, ensuring every step meets legal and regulatory requirements. A seasoned Realtor offers crucial insights on pricing strategies, helping sellers set competitive prices and guiding buyers in making strong offers. As an attorney friend quipped, her value is, “Not just for time spent, but for the knowledge gained through years of experience.” This holds true for real estate professionals as well.

In fast-moving markets, having a Realtor provides access to off-market properties, insider knowledge, and connections to trusted professionals like inspectors and lenders. While AI can assist with data, the negotiation and decision-making process still benefits greatly from the human touch.

Though national trends and AI are shaping the future of real estate, when it comes to finding the right home, nothing beats local expertise. Whether navigating Whiskey Creek’s sought-after housing options or finding the perfect home in a neighborhood elsewhere, a knowledgeable and trustworthy Realtor remains a buyer’s greatest asset. The combination of a well-informed buyer or seller with the guidance of a skilled Realtor is the best formula for a successful real estate transaction.

If you have any questions or comments about this article or other real estate issues, please contact Bob Oxnard at [email protected].