Real estate agents optimistic but slow to adopt AI

Kaplan Real Estate Education has unveiled its inaugural Real Estate Survey of Trends, revealing a mix of optimism about client growth and hesitancy toward technology adoption in the industry.

Key Findings:

• Client Growth Expectations: 48% of respondents anticipate expanding their client base in the next 6-12 months, with many others projecting stable volume.
• Career Longevity: 42% of agents plan to stay in the industry for the next 3-5 years, while 35% are likely to remain. However, 25% may exit due to retirement, burnout, or economic uncertainty.
• AI Adoption: Despite buzz around AI in real estate, 46% of agents don’t use AI professionally. Those who do apply it to social media, email marketing, and administrative tasks.
• Brokerage Preparedness: Over half (52%) believe traditional brokerages aren’t equipping agents for a tech-driven future.

Industry Sentiment:

Toby Schifsky, VP of Kaplan Real Estate Education, emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptability:

"Success today demands more than passing exams — it requires market expertise, client skills, and leveraging tools like AI."

Competition Concerns:

Agents were split on whether an economic downturn could flood the market with new entrants:

• 32% worry increased competition would make securing clients harder.
• 41% aren’t concerned.
• 27% remain unsure.

Bottom Line: While optimism persists, the industry faces a technology gap that could shape its future trajectory.