REAL ESTATE FUTURIST: FROM HOME MORTGAGES TO COMMERCIAL, THE INDUSTRY IS CHANGING

Real estate futurists and keynote speakers are abuzz about how the industry, once viewed as a slow-moving behemoth, has experienced rapid evolution in recent years. Countless new developments are effectively transforming the sector, leveraging advanced technology to create more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly experiences for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Frequently called on to serve as real estate futurists and keynote speaking presenters, we figured we might provide a little crash course in recent happenings here.

Case in point: In recent years, a significant shift in the real estate industry has been the rise of Proptech—technology used in the real estate market. Companies are increasingly employing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to make property searches more intuitive. For instance, AI can now predict a potential buyer’s preference based on past searches, making the hunt for the ideal home or commercial property more efficient. This personalized experience is reshaping traditional property search mechanisms, moving away from broad search terms to highly customized recommendations.

Virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) are likewise playing crucial roles in the industry’s metamorphosis. With ongoing global uncertainties and the increasing popularity of remote working, potential buyers and investors can now take virtual tours of properties, all from the comfort of their homes. This not only saves time and costs but also broadens the potential market for real estate professionals, as geographical boundaries become increasingly irrelevant.

That said, the digitalization of the real estate market also extends to blockchain technology. The advent of tokenization – dividing real estate into tokens that represent a share of the property – is making the market more accessible to a broad array of investors. By lowering the entry barrier, blockchain technology is opening up opportunities for micro-investing in real estate.

In addition, per recent comments by real estate futurists, smart buildings are becoming an expected norm rather than a luxury. Buildings equipped with IoT (Internet of Things) devices that automate lighting, heating, and security systems are attracting buyers who seek convenience and efficiency. These ‘green’ buildings, with energy-saving features, also appeal to the environmentally conscious generation, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon footprints.

Sustainable development is another trend to look out for. The real estate industry is becoming increasingly committed to constructing buildings that minimize environmental impact and promote health and wellbeing. LEED-certified properties and the inclusion of green spaces are now key selling points.

A rising focus on community-centered living is also evident. Instead of isolated, independent living units, the real estate industry is seeing a demand for properties that foster a sense of community. Shared amenities, co-living spaces, and properties designed to encourage social interaction are gaining popularity.

And last but not least (phew!), data is quickly becoming the cornerstone of the industry. Predictive analytics is being used to forecast market trends, property values, and investment returns. This use of data is making the market more transparent and enabling smarter, data-driven decisions.