UK real estate agents adopt AI to tackle skills shortage

Analysis by proptech provider Reapit shows UK real estate agencies are embracing AI and automation to combat industry-wide skills shortages.

Key Findings from Reapit's Property Outlook Report 2025:

• Hiring challenges:

  • Over 50% of agencies receive fewer than 5 qualified applicants per vacancy
  • Payrolled real estate employees grew by just 1% year-on-year (July 2024-July 2025) - the slowest growth since May 2021

• Technology adoption:

  • Over 50% of surveyed agencies increased use of time-saving technology
  • Nearly 80% believe automation is cheaper than increasing headcount
  • 69% say automation is more productive than hiring

• AI perception:

  • 41.5% believe AI will have net positive impact
  • Only 2.7% expect negative impact on jobs
  • 33% view proptech as central to profitability

Dr Neil Cobbold, Reapit UKI Commercial Director, notes: "Agencies aren't using AI to replace employees but to assist them, helping prioritize tasks needing human touch."

Industry Shifts:

1. Cultural change: Widespread recognition of automation/AI as strategic necessities rather than luxuries
2. Generational transition:
   • While 76% plan to stay in sector for 5+ years
   • Significant number intend to leave/retire, taking decades of operational knowledge
3. Compliance benefits: AI helps agents manage complex regulations like Renters' Rights Bill, anti-money laundering rules and EPC requirements

Cobbold concludes: "Automation and AI are no longer luxuries but strategic necessities...We'll see this cultural shift accelerate as technology improves."

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