Author

Dario Rinaldi

Dario Rinaldi is an avid writer with a keen passion for all things real estate. Over the years, he has delved deeply into the industry, exploring its trends, challenges, and opportunities. His main interests include real estate marketing trends, home selling, and the intersection of real estate and technology. Dario’s writing is known for its clarity and depth, as he turns complex topics into engaging and insightful narratives.

AI in Real Estate

AI in Property Search: Smarter Recommendations for Homebuyers

by Dario Rinaldi April 29, 2025

written by Dario Rinaldi

House hunting can oftentimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With endless listings, competing priorities, and ever-changing market trends, buyers often find themselves overwhelmed by choice yet underwhelmed by options that truly fit their needs. Thankfully, AI-powered property search tools are stepping in, leveraging machine learning to sift through numerous listings and bring homes that match each buyer’s unique preferences.

By learning your preferences, analyzing market data, and predicting your future needs, AI makes finding the right home faster, smarter, and more personalized. Instead of endless scrolling, first-time home buyers can now rely on AI in property search to highlight the best options, like balancing budget, location, and lifestyle, and even uncover hidden gems they might have missed. In this blog, we’ll explore how AI is transforming the chaos of house hunting into a clear, confident path toward your dream home.

What Is AI in Property Search?

Artificial intelligence refers to computer systems capable of performing tasks that historically required human intelligence, like recognizing patterns, learning from data, and making decisions. AI in property search uses algorithms—step-by-step instructions for solving problems—to analyze data, spot patterns, and make decisions.

Here’s how it works for property searches.

Most real estate platforms integrate AI tools like machine learning and predictive analytics. When you browse listings, AI studies your clicks, saves, and search filters to figure out your priorities. Over time, it refines recommendations to match your tastes.

AI also crunches vast amounts of data, like neighborhood crime stats, price histories, and market demand, to predict which homes might rise in value or fit your budget. Some platforms even use AI-powered image recognition to scan property photos for features such as hardwood floors or granite countertops and flag homes that align with your preferences.

Alongside these innovations, a good property search tool can help users dig into detailed property histories and neighborhood insights, making it easier to narrow down options with solid, data-driven context. Major platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com use AI to personalize searches and streamline decisions.

How AI Provides Smarter Property Recommendations

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we search for homes, making the process faster, more personalized, and more efficient. Here’s how AI enhances property recommendations:

Personalized listings

AI analyzes user behavior, such as saved properties, search histories, and time spent on listings, to refine recommendations. Over time, it learns your preferences, ensuring that each suggestion is more relevant than the last.

Predictive insights

By tracking your past activity, AI in property search predicts what you, as a home buyer, may like before you begin the search. If, for example, you frequently view three-bedroom homes with gardens, the algorithm will prioritize similar properties.

More efficient listings

Artificial intelligence is redefining how listings are created in the first place. From AI-generated property descriptions that can be as general or detailed as you wish to superb, real estate photo generation and editing services, specifically AI virtual staging, that dramatically reduce the time and costs of preparing listing photos, AI has helped hundreds of agents amp up their listings and engage their audiences much more effectively.

Location matching

AI doesn’t just focus on matching homes. It matches you with your preferred neighborhood. It factors in your budget, lifestyle, workplace location, and neighborhood amenities, and suggests ideal areas you may not have considered.

Property alerts

Although the real estate market is fast-paced, AI rises to the challenge, tracking updates instantly. As a potential buyer, you will receive alerts when a home matching your criteria hits the market or drops in price, giving you an edge in competitive markets.

For instance, Joe, a first-time home buyer in Chicago, wants a modern townhouse close to downtown but keeps finding overpriced or outdated listings. After using an AI-driven real estate platform, the system learned his preferences: Open layouts, smart home features, and easy transit access.

Within days, AI narrowed his search to up-and-coming neighborhoods he hadn’t considered, predicting he’d like the artsy district. When a newly listed townhouse with a rooftop and a price drop hit the market, Joe got an instant alert. He toured the property the next day and made an offer before the competition knew about the listing.

Benefits for Homebuyers

Here are some benefits you enjoy as a homebuyer when you conduct property searches with the help of AI in property search:

Saves Time by Filtering Irrelevant Listings: No more scrolling through hundreds of mismatched homes. AI learns your must-haves and instantly weeds out properties that don’t fit.
Helps Discover Overlooked Properties: AI systems can identify properties that align with your preference but might not have been on your radar. By learning from your interactions and preferences, AI can suggest homes in emerging neighborhoods you hadn’t initially considered, expanding your options.
Reduces Decision Fatigue: Too many property listings can be overwhelming. AI in property search narrows your options based on what truly matters to you, reducing the mental burden of decision-making. While AI simplifies the search, consulting with a real estate attorney can help ensure that all legal aspects of the property transaction are properly handled.
Improves Confidence in Choice: With AI analyzing market data, price trends, and neighborhood insights, you make informed decisions, making you feel more confident in your choices, knowing your decision is backed by data-driven insights.

AI can help you feel more confident by presenting data-driven suggestions. But for long-term decisions, like buying a home that may be passed down through generations, it’s wise to speak with an estate planning attorney who can help align your purchase with your legacy goals.

Are There Any Downsides?

Although AI has revolutionized the property search experience, it has its limitations:

AI can’t read emotions: While it can crunch data easily, it can’t replicate that gut feeling you get about a property or the neighborhood during a walk-through. It won’t notice a home’s cozy feel or warn you about noisy neighbors.
Human judgment is still important: An algorithm can miss distinct features like future neighborhood development or local peculiarities. A seasoned realtor can spot these oddities, such as a street prone to overflooding, filling the gap that the AI tool can’t.
AI relies on your personal data to work: When sensitive data is not adequately protected, it can result in a vulnerable breach or misuse. Avoid oversharing your data, and ensure the platform uses encryption and has clear privacy policies.

The Future of AI in Property Search

The AI property search revolution is just getting started. As technology evolves, homebuyers can expect more intuitive tools to simplify the hunt without losing the human touch.

AI Chat Assistants: Future AI chatbots will handle complex queries in real-time, acting like friendly and patient assistants.
Voice-Activated Search: AI in property search enables a hands-free, efficient search by allowing you to search for property using voice commands, allowing you to multitask while refining your search.
Visual Property Discovery: Snap a picture of a house you like, and AI will find similar styles, layouts, and neighborhoods. This technology enhances the search by focusing on visual preferences, making it easier for you to find homes that match your aesthetic desires.
Supporting Human Decision Making: AI tools are designed to support, not replace, human judgment. Personal experience during property visits, emotional nuances, and complex decision-making processes still rely heavily on human insight.

Time to Integrate AI in Your Search

AI has simplified the home buying process, making it more efficient and personalized. AI-driven platforms analyze user preferences and behaviors to provide tailored property recommendations, saving time and reducing decision fatigue.

Look for features like smart filters, predictive alerts, or chatbot assistants to answer questions on the go. By exploring these technologies, you can navigate the real estate market with greater confidence and ease.

As voice search, visual discovery, and AI advisors evolve, the home-buying process will get faster and more intuitive.

April 29, 2025 0 comment

Real Estate

Social Media for Real Estate: Which Platforms Are Best for Realtors? Top Pages Introduced

by Dario Rinaldi March 27, 2025

written by Dario Rinaldi

Building a real estate social network is a demanding and, at the same time, a rewarding project that requires patience, consistency, and strategic planning. With millions of people tapping their way into social media sites every single day, these platforms offer business owners a unique opportunity to expand reach, personalize engagement, and directly influence consumer behavior through targeted campaigns and real-time interactions.

Top Social Media Platforms for Realtors

When choosing a real estate social network, most agents immediately think of the monthly or yearly number of users each platform has. They assume that the more users in a platform, the higher their chances of finding clients.

The table above lists these platforms in order of active users. However, that’s only one side of the coin! It’s equally important to consider engagement quality and specific demographics that frequent each social medium.

Here, we’ll introduce the top 5 real estate social media with the strongest potential for real estate social networking. We’ll have a look at how each platform works, how many users they have, what content they require, and more.

For each platform, we’ve included some top pages or communities that real estate agents can learn from.

1. Facebook: The biggest social hub for agents

Demandsage reports that as of 2025, Facebook remains the world’s leading social media with over 3 billion monthly users. The largest user group is between 25-34 years of age, comprising 31% of the user base. The gender distribution shows a 56.6% to 43.4% male-to-female ratio.

useful Facebook features for real estate networking

Every platform offers certain features to help its users find what they’re looking for, and Facebook has a bunch of these that are perfect for real estate social networking.

Facebook Feeds: By connecting with others, joining groups, and following other pages, readers will get curated content in their feeds. Even if no one follows you, there’s a chance they’ll see your content based on the pages and people they follow. Adding the proper hashtags to your content can get you into other people’s feeds.
Facebook Groups: A great way to create a real estate network on Facebook is to create a topic-based group where people can join and participate. Some groups are highly limited in terms of the topic, like real estate image enhancement or virtual staging. Others cover a broader range of topics, like real estate in general. Find your ideal group and share content, exchange ideas, learn, and so on.
Facebook Marketplace: Another unique Facebook feature is a marketplace where people can rent, sell, or buy all types of products, including houses. Property listings created on Facebook are directly shown to house hunters living in the vicinity. This hyper-local advertisement, aimed at the users of real estate social networks, combined with Facebook’s vast user base, offers real estate professionals an unparalleled opportunity to spot potential clients nearby.
Facebook Events: Events is a tool that allows users to create dedicated pages for virtual or in-person events. Agents can set up house visits, for example, providing details like the event name, date & time, address, and an eye-catching cover photo to attract interest. Attendees usually RSVP, comment, or share the event with their networks, increasing visibility and engagement.
Facebook Ads: Facebook Ads (now Meta Ads) is a powerful digital advertising tool that allows businesses to promote their content and products to a vast audience. Advertisers benefit from precise targeting options based on demographics, interests, behaviors, and multiple ad formats, such as images, videos, carousels, and stories.

Facebook real estate groups to learn from

Real Estate Humor

That’s right. Real estate, too, can be funny and humorous. Anyone can build on light-hearted tones to create a network of people who appreciate the more enjoyable side of buying and selling homes. By engaging in fun conversations, you can explain complexities, elaborate on technicalities, and provide tips to those selling or buying properties, turning them from critics to clients.

Let’s Talk Real Estate

Here’s another real estate group with highly active members where you can connect with like-minded individuals, real estate-wise! Whether you’re looking to connect with other professionals in the field or individuals needing help to sell or buy properties, this group can be a good start for real estate networking.

First Time Home Buyers

This is another active Facebook group where house hunters seek advice and rookie agents learn about the ins and outs of the business. Joining this group and participating in the discussions would help anyone gain insights into the market and establish a professional network.

Real Estate Referral Partners

The Real Estate Referral Partners is perhaps one of the best groups on Facebook. Agents from all over the U.S. gather here to create referral networks and help each other grow. So, instead of trying to find buyers, you can sometimes let others bring you clients, provided that you reciprocate and share your leads.

All Things Real Estate

This group discusses everything related to real estate; a wonderful place for agents, brokers, home appraisers, or even real estate photographers. Sellers and owners also share their concerns and seek advice from the experts.

2. Instagram: Showcasing properties visually

Instagram, with over 2 billion active users, is a visual platform that has helped countless real estate professionals grow their businesses. Its user base is predominantly young adults, with 61.1% of users falling in the 18-34 age range. The platform’s gender split is nearly even, with 51.8% male and 48.2% female users globally.

Instagram’s focus on visual content makes it ideal for showcasing properties, announcing open houses, sharing market insights, and providing home-selling/buying tips. The platform supports various content types, including photos, videos, and disappearing stories, allowing agents to create diverse and engaging content.

useful Instagram features for real estate networking

There are a couple of features that make Instagram an ideal choice for real estate networking.

Instagram Stories: Instagram stories disappear after 24 hours, making them perfect for temporary, instant updates.
Instagram Posts: For more permanent content, such as property info, market insights, listing intricacies, or client testimonials, you can use Instagram posts.
They remain on your profile and serve as an excellent portfolio of your real estate activities. Additionally, they periodically appear in your followers’ feeds, enhancing the likelihood that your content will be shared and reach a broader audience.
Instagram Reels: Reels are perhaps the best attention grabbers among all types of social media content. They create a dynamic way to engage with agents, brokers, buyers, sellers, or anyone related to real estate.
Instagram Highlights: Highlights provide another valuable tool for real estate agents to permanently showcase key aspects of their services and listings. Unlike Stories, which disappear after 24 hours, Highlights can be organized into thematic collections such as “Available Properties,” “Happy Clients,” or “Buying Tips,” allowing potential clients to easily access and browse through a variety of useful content.
IGTV: If you wish to go into details and discuss something in depth, you can use Instagram’s IGTV. A comprehensive property tour, a list of questions sellers should ask from their agents, things buyers must check before making an offer, or challenges novice agents are struggling with, make great content for your IGTV.

Instagram real estate accounts to learn from

Utahrealestatepage

Have a look at how this page has exploited Instagram for real estate networking. It’s filled with funny, educational, and amusing content related to real estate in one way or another. Still, the highlights each focus on one area of real estate in Utah.

homebuyingguys

Home Buying Guys is another example of using Instagram for real estate networking. Apart from separate highlights helping individuals with different aspects of real estate, it has a good collection of open houses, real estate workshops, listed or just sold properties, and client testimonials.

ideasforrealestate

There is a lot to learn here! Home buying/selling ideas, events, podcasts, marketing tips, and much more can be found in the Ideas for Real Estate Instagram account. What’s more, there are many other followers you can connect with in such a group to build a stronger network.

thekrishnateam

Another way to improve your real estate social network is to cover general topics. That is what the Krishna Team has done. The page is dedicated to providing neighborhood insights, discussing FAQs, and showcasing before/after samples of properties, among other interesting topics.

realtorssocialmediamarketing

This page isn’t directly related to real estate. Instead, it helps realtors promote their pages on Instagram and other media. You just need to watch a few reels here to get tons of fresh ideas for your social media content.

3. LinkedIn: A space for building professional relationships

With almost a billion active users, LinkedIn stands as a premier platform for professional networking and job seeking, commanding significant influence across the U.S., India, and Europe. LinkedIn specifically caters to professional and educational audiences, offering diverse content forms including text, images, documents, and videos.

As a potentially suitable real estate social network, the platform’s most engaged demographic consists of individuals aged 25-34, indicating its strong appeal to those early in their careers.

Recognized as the top networking site for academics and professionals, LinkedIn offers unmatched precision in targeting specific audiences, making it indispensable for real estate professionals.

useful LinkedIn features for real estate networking

LinkedIn has a bunch of features that agents can use for real estate social networking. Overall, these features are meant to help users, in our case, real estate agents, with:

Networking and lead generation
Content creation and engagement
Professional development

Here are the top four LinkedIn products and features, among others, that agents should consider when using this platform.

Sales Navigator: Sales Navigator is a premium product by LinkedIn that allows real estate agents to find quality leads and foster strong relationships. This tool enriches agents with enhanced search capabilities, allowing them to pinpoint specific demographics, industries, and job titles that match their real estate operations.
For example, using the Postal Code filter helps agents connect with active community members on LinkedIn, while the Title filter aids in identifying potential leads in certain demographics. Moreover, Sales Navigator offers timely updates on saved leads, informing agents of important changes such as job transitions and company updates.
LinkedIn Events: This feature empowers real estate agents to orchestrate and participate in professional gatherings within the platform, thereby reaching a wider audience and potentially capturing new leads. It is especially beneficial for real estate experts who wish to host virtual open houses, showcase properties, or conduct educational seminars.
Additionally, agents can enhance their networking efficiency by using tools like Expandi to gather lists of event attendees, allowing for tailored outreach campaigns that help forge stronger, more meaningful connections quickly.
Company Pages: Company Pages on LinkedIn provide a valuable platform for real estate agencies and individual agents to establish a strong online presence and engage with their audience. These pages allow professionals to create a dedicated business profile that serves as the central hub for their brand on the platform. For real estate agencies, a Company Page is a place to display expertise, listings, culture, and more.
LinkedIn Groups: LinkedIn Groups offer a good opportunity to connect, learn, and enhance their business by engaging with peers and potential clients who share similar interests. By joining or establishing groups focused on the real estate industry, agents can engage in discussions about market trends, share insights, and establish credibility.
For agents who initiate their own LinkedIn Group, the advantages are even greater. They can create a niche community centered on specific topics, such as local real estate markets or investment opportunities, attracting a focused audience, and somehow form their own little real estate social network.

real estate pages to follow on LinkedIn

PGIM Real Estate

PGIM Real Estate, a unit of PGIM under Prudential Financial, Inc., manages $212 billion in assets, offering a diverse range of real estate equity, debt, agriculture, and impact solutions. Their company page on LinkedIn boasts more than 60K followers, allowing them to get directly in touch with a large user base.

Today’s Real Estate Agent

Today’s Real Estate Agent group aims to provide valuable resources, expert content, and networking opportunities to real estate professionals and related businesses. This group is ideal for a wide range of professionals, including real estate agents, brokers, attorneys, stagers, etc.

Real Estate Agents in the US

This LinkedIn account is a networking and discussion platform designed for real estate agents and brokers across the United States, focusing on referrals, networking, industry information sharing, and collaboration.

RealtyPRO Network

This group is a select network for top real estate professionals in the U.S. and Canada, known as the “Pay It Forward” Insider Knowledge Exchange & Referrals Network. It is open to realtors, licensed agents, financing professionals, and industry-related vendors.

Real Estate, Mortgage, Title & Referral Network

This group is designed for motivated individuals in the real estate industry, providing a platform for professionals like agents, attorneys, and investors to exchange information and opportunities.

4. YouTube: The ideal place for video lovers

YouTube has 2.5 billion active users, with a broad age range and a nearly even split between male and female users (54% male, 46% female). The platform focuses on video content, primarily for educational and entertainment purposes. YouTube’s average engagement rate is 5.24%, and it’s used globally for video sharing, with particular popularity in the U.S. and India.

The platform’s massive user base spans all age groups, allowing real estate professionals to reach a diverse audience, from young house hunters to aged house flippers.

YouTube’s video-centric nature aligns with real estate marketing needs, as it allows agents to display properties, provide virtual tours, hold webinars, and share educational content about various aspects of the industry.

With its global reach and high engagement rates, YouTube helps real estate professionals build their brands, connect with clients, and market properties effectively.

useful YouTube features for real estate networking

All other social media platforms allow sharing of various content types such as texts, videos, images, etc., to attract a wider range of users. Yet, after Facebook, YouTube has the largest number of users, notwithstanding its focus primarily on videos.

Not only that, when Googling almost anything, you are likely to see a few videos from YouTube at the top of search results! This highlights the platform’s strength in delivering high engagement and maintaining a strong user base.

Here are YouTube’s main features that make it unique!

YouTube history: YouTube has a powerful capability to track viewing habits. Anyone who watches your videos, even without any engagement, may see your content in their YouTube feed. Based on watch history, YouTube also shows your videos to users who haven’t visited your channel before but are interested in content similar to yours.
YouTube shorts: The short reels we watch every day on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook have turned us into impatient individuals who are not eager to gamble more than a minute to get instant gratification.
This made YouTube less appealing compared to those platforms for a while. But since 2021, the “Shorts” feature has been added, and YouTube has reentered the race. So, for agents who are not into creating long-form content, YouTube Shorts offers a compelling alternative.
Unwatched and recently uploaded: The incessant desire to discover “The New” has always been an innate part of us humans. YouTube’s “Unwatched” and “Recently uploaded” features touch upon this feeling. YouTube fans have a higher tendency to check such fresh content first, as their home feed is usually loaded with previously-watched videos.
When you upload a new video, it will be listed in your subscribers’ recently uploaded section, and they’re more likely to check it the next time they visit. As for unwatched property, it stores the videos that you might have uploaded a while ago, but your subscribers haven’t watched yet. This means the content you upload to YouTube is stored where it should be, and it’s shown to those highly drawn to it.
YouTube Courses: This is another excellent feature of YouTube that you can’t easily find on other platforms. As a real estate agent, broker, appraiser, or home inspector, you sure have a lot to teach. Instead of randomly pointing out certain aspects of your profession and leaving many details unsaid, you can organize them into well-structured learning experiences.
This, on the one hand, helps you connect with many inner-circle industry professionals and real estate practitioners. On the other hand, it brings you passive income through YouTube ads. Last but not least, providing such educational content will define you as a trusted authority in your field, which encourages clients to reach out for their needs.

real estate channels to follow on YouTube

Freedom Agents

Marc Brenner has created a wonderful collection of educational and highly informative videos for novice and experienced real estate agents. Covering various aspects, Marc has created a strong real estate network for himself. Also, he has assisted many individuals in finding their paths within the industry and helped numerous house hunters find their ideal homes.

Aram Ghazaryan

Aram Ghazaryan is a former real estate agent and a current real estate investor providing invaluable tips to agents, investors, buyers, and sellers. Reading through the reviews clients and real estate aficionados have given tells us a lot about both his expertise and about how YouTube can help create a strong real estate network.

Tom Ferry

In this case, you might have already heard the name! Tom Ferry is the CEO of the well-known real estate coaching company, Ferry International, which has been coaching those in the business for over 26 years.

In the Tom Ferry channel, you can find educational podcasts, interviews with influential figures, real estate social media tips, one-minute marketing tips, and more. As an independent agent, you may not be able to do the same, but you can certainly track down one line of growth and build around it.

Nicole Nark

Nicole is a real estate broker who primarily focuses on different aspects of home buying. Since 2018, she has been guiding buyers, sellers, and agents through the complexities of the property market. Her channel is filled with market insights, home-buying tips, mortgage advice, and other financing options. Totally recommended for real estate professionals.

Audra Lambert

Audra Lambert is another good example of a successful real estate social networker. Audra has been working on her channel for 5 years, and she has delved deep into the intricacies of home deals. From preparing properties for shooting and common pre-listing renovations to working with first-time buyers and mistakes agents should avoid, her channel offers a wealth of advice and market insights.

5. Reddit: The most active real estate communities

Reddit is a social media platform with approximately 0.52 billion active users, primarily appealing to young adults aged 18-29. The user base is predominantly male, with about 67% of users identifying as male and 33% as female. The platform supports a variety of content types, including text posts, videos, hyperlinks, and images, which are often used for discussions and sharing news.

What distinguishes Reddit from other platforms is its community-driven nature, where users engage in discussions and share content across thousands of subreddits. While specific engagement rates are not widely published, Reddit is renowned for its high-intent users and strong engagement within niche communities, making it a suitable real estate social network. The platform is predominantly used in the U.S. and other English-speaking countries.

useful Reddit features for real estate networking

Reddit stands out among real estate social networks for its exceptionally engaged communities. The platform features numerous subreddits, each with hundreds of thousands of members who actively participate in discussions and share their perspectives.

To experience this difference, consider posting identical content across various social platforms. You’ll notice that the engagement on Reddit surpasses that of other platforms combined!

Here are the main Reddit benefits for real estate networking.

Strictly niche-based subreddits: Reddit communities adhere to stricter content guidelines, focusing discussions on specific topics. For instance, in a subreddit dedicated to real estate photo editing, sharing a post about drone photography would likely be considered off-topic and removed for violating community rules. This approach ensures that each subreddit, as part of the wider real estate social network, maintains its intended focus, and this allows real estate professionals to easily create a network of colleagues or clients.
Sorting Preferences: When checking any subreddit, users can choose which posts to see first. That is to say, they can decide whether to see the latest or the most engaging posts. Not only that. They can also follow threats in each discussion. Therefore, there are multiple ways for agents to directly engage with individuals, depending on their purposes.
Popular: This is another excellent feature of Reddit that gathers the most popular posts in each subreddit in one place. This allows professionals to discover trending topics, engage with a broader audience, and gain insights into what resonates with users across different communities.
Reddit Ads: Reddit ads also provide a good way to create a real estate social network. These ads appear in highly related communities, and moderators or users can’t close or remove them.

real estate communities to follow on Reddit

r/RealEstate

This subreddit has been active since 2008, and it now has over 2.3 million users. Though the community is meant for homeowners and investors, other professionals also drop by to learn and teach, making the community a nice spot for growth.

r/FirstTimeHomeBuyer

This is another good subreddit that discusses various aspects of home buying, from loans and mortgages to credit repair, negotiating the purchase of a home, and home repairs. The community is designed to support individuals through each step of becoming a homeowner, and you can be one of the individuals providing support.

r/Zillowgonewild

Zillow Gone Wild is all about listing photos that are too perfect or too faulty. Under any post here, you can see hundreds of comments made by agents, brokers, real estate photographers, photo editors, and casual users.

People may not seek your professional advice here. Yet, there is a lot to learn about individuals’ opinions on real estate trends, design preferences, market perceptions, etc.

r/RealEstateTechnology

Another hub for industry professionals, this subreddit is dedicated to trends and innovations that technology has brought to real estate. Here, professionals can learn about the ways cutting-edge tech helps with property management, marketing, client communication, and transaction processes through a vibrant real estate social network.

r/DesignMyHome

This subreddit covers topics related to home staging and design, making it suitable for sellers preparing their listings, buyers furnishing new homes, photographers looking to edit photos, and agents who prefer to stage and shoot properties by themselves. This is somewhat a hub of real estate DIYers interested in enhancing property appeal without breaking the bank.

How to Begin With Real Estate Social Networks?

No super-active agent can manage all aspects of their social media presence single-handedly. Even if you’re hiring a social media admin, you’d better start with one or two platforms and expand your online presence little by little.

Apart from this, do some research on the platforms you choose and see how other people in your business are effectively using them. This includes learning about real estate digital marketing strategies they use to promote their social accounts and how they engage with their audience through content creation.

Moreover, it’s important to have a well-organized yet flexible content calendar so that you know when and what content to post across each platform. Last, but not least, make sure to join and contribute to well-known communities to let others learn more about you.

In Closing

Building a real estate social network doesn’t happen overnight. Apart from being highly active in real estate communities, you have to build your own community and make it a source of learning and entertainment for those with whom you wish to connect.

Similarly, you can’t expect everything to work out right from the start. You’re probably in for some trial and error before finding the right approach. Overall, if you truly intend to build a real estate social community and network, you have to work hard for 1-2 years before expecting any significant results.

March 27, 2025 0 comment

AI in Real Estate

How Is AI Changing the Rental Property Market?

by Dario Rinaldi February 12, 2025

written by Dario Rinaldi

Using AI for rental properties is transforming the rental market in remarkable ways. With property costs rising and preferences shifting, particularly among Generation Z, renting remains an attractive option despite annual rent increases averaging 10%.

A strong job market, rising incomes, and the growing demand for smaller, efficient homes designed for modern living all contribute to this surge. These properties appeal to renters seeking affordability and investors looking for sustainable assets.

As more people choose to rent over buy, competition for prime properties has intensified. This shift has created a pressing need for innovative solutions, making AI tools essential for landlords and real estate agents to stay ahead.

Try: AI Real Estate Photo Editing

How is AI Reshaping Marketing for Rental Properties?

The real estate market has experienced significant changes in recent years, especially in 2021 when the number of homes for sale dropped by 42%, revealing a stark imbalance between supply and demand. This imbalance resurfaces when interest rates fall, making homeownership unattainable for many and pushing them toward renting.

Historically, rental properties have been overlooked by investors, but today, developers and property owners are recognizing the massive potential for rental income. With affordability still a key challenge, rental properties are becoming more attractive. AI for rental properties is playing a crucial role in reshaping this landscape by streamlining processes and enhancing overall market efficiency.

A key effect of this transformation is the changing expectations of tenants. Technology has always been a driver in real estate, and today’s innovations cater to the growing demand for convenience and automation. Modern tenants expect seamless, tech-driven experiences—from submitting rental applications to exploring virtual tours, all through user-friendly mobile apps.

Real estate professionals are responding by adopting AI for rental properties and CRM systems that streamline operations, personalize communication, and improve tenant relationships. This adoption of technology is transforming the rental market, offering both investors and tenants more efficient, convenient, and data-driven experiences.

Benefits of AI for Buyers and Agents

A survey by New Delta Media reveals that 75% of leading real estate brokerages in the United States have adopted AI technologies. This widespread integration marks a major shift in the industry, introducing innovative solutions that boost efficiency and elevate customer experiences. Real estate professionals who embrace AI will thrive in the competitive market, unlocking new growth and success opportunities.

AI allows real estate agents to analyze shifting demographics, urbanization trends, and market dynamics, giving them the insights needed to stay ahead of emerging developments. This strategic advantage helps agents remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. Now, let’s explore why AI for rental properties is a game-changer for both tenants and agents.

The value of AI for real estate agents

As mentioned earlier, AI offers a unique opportunity to transform the rental experience for real estate agents. By incorporating AI into property management, agents can optimize pricing, enhance energy efficiency, and predict maintenance needs—balancing profitability, sustainability, and tenant satisfaction. Let’s dive into the key benefits AI brings to agents.

listings that come at no cost!

When it comes to renting properties, agents cannot expect great commission rates as they normally do when selling. Therefore, they prefer more cost-effective solutions to market properties. One such solution is AI virtual staging which allows agents to quickly prepare listing photos without paying too much.

operational efficiency

By automating routine tasks like managing listings, scheduling viewings, or responding to inquiries, AI frees up time for agents to focus on strategic activities. It also predicts market trends, helping agents stay ahead of price fluctuations and demand shifts. This proactive approach reduces time and resources spent on manual tasks, increasing overall efficiency.

capitalizing on high rental demand

As house prices rise and fewer homes are listed for sale, rental transactions become increasingly attractive to property owners and agents. With rental rates soaring over 30% since 2000, investors are eager to enter this lucrative market. The rapid growth of single-family rental prices, as noted by CoreLogic, further adds to the appeal. Sellers can highlight the potential for steady rental income and high returns, making properties more attractive to investors. By leveraging AI to optimize property data, agents can effectively target investors and make their listings stand out.

building long-term relationships

Renters today could be your buyers tomorrow! For sellers, establishing strong relationships with potential renters is key to earning trust and closing sales. AI-driven algorithms make this process effortless by categorizing, targeting, and connecting with the right renters. By analyzing behavioral data and demographic trends, AI helps agents turn renters into loyal, long-term clients.

smart maintenance and risk management

AI for rental properties enhances predictive maintenance by analyzing data to predict when repairs or upgrades are needed, helping property owners save on costs and prevent issues before they arise. By effectively managing risks, AI also boosts the property’s value. Sellers can use these insights to showcase well-maintained, reliable properties, which enhances trust and reduces buyer concerns.

How does AI help buyers?

AI is not just a game-changer for agents—it’s also incredibly helpful for buyers. It reduces risks, simplifies decision-making, and confirms property values, enabling buyers to navigate the market with confidence.

simplifying transactions and fighting fraud

AI software for rental properties makes transactions smoother and more efficient. These tools go beyond simplifying the rental process—they can also detect fraudulent listings. By analyzing data, AI identifies suspicious activities, removing fraudulent listings from the market. This gives buyers peace of mind, knowing they’re paying for legitimate properties. Sellers also benefit, as AI helps showcase verified properties, boosting buyer trust and maximizing ROI.

revolutionizing property valuation

As previously discussed, AI is revolutionizing how we value rental properties. AI tools analyze property features, market trends, and economic factors to determine a property’s value. CAPE Analytics reports that AI has improved property appraisals by 7.7%, reduced manual inspections by up to 50%, and sped up decision-making. These improvements make the rental process more efficient and reliable for applicants.

market forecasting and risk assessment

AI-driven forecasting tools reveal patterns in market data that traditional methods may miss. By harnessing these insights, investors can better assess potential risks and predict market dynamics. Whether pinpointing emerging areas or evaluating possible risks, AI provides investors with the knowledge needed to make informed, data-backed decisions with confidence.

Final Thoughts on AI’s Marketing Impact…

Using tools powered by AI for rental properties is just the beginning, with immense opportunities on the horizon. As more businesses embrace this transformative technology, the early successes in cost reduction and operational efficiency point to a future where AI will redefine the industry.

However, this transformation requires a strategic, thoughtful approach. One that aligns AI adoption with long-term goals, adapts to market changes and ensures teams are well-equipped to navigate the evolving landscape. By seizing these opportunities now, real estate professionals can position themselves at the forefront of an AI-powered revolution, unlocking greater growth and success in the years to come.

FAQs

How does AI help real estate agents with rental properties?

AI enables agents to analyze market dynamics, shifting demographics, and trends to stay competitive. It automates routine tasks, reduces manual work, and enhances communication with tenants, improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Is AI useful for tenants as well as real estate agents?

AI benefits both tenants and agents. Tenants enjoy seamless, tech-driven experiences like virtual tours, virtual staging, and easy rental applications. For agents, AI helps streamline operations, improve communication, and provide a personalized experience for tenants.

Can AI predict rental property market trends?

Yes, AI uses predictive tools to uncover patterns in market data, helping investors and agents anticipate future trends. This allows them to make informed decisions about property acquisition, investment, and pricing strategies.

What role does AI play in property valuation?

AI improves property valuation by analyzing property features, economic factors, and market trends. AI tools like CAPE Analytics have been shown to make appraisals more accurate, cutting down manual inspections and speeding up decision-making.

What challenges do businesses face when implementing AI in real estate?

Implementing AI in real estate requires careful planning. Businesses must assess their team’s AI readiness, integrate reliable data sources, and build cross-functional teams to monitor and adapt AI tools. A strategic, thoughtful approach is essential to realizing the full potential of AI.

February 12, 2025 0 comment

Real Estate

Insights from NAR’s Five Years of Research on Home Buyers and Sellers

by Dario Rinaldi January 30, 2025

written by Dario Rinaldi

Since 1981, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) has been publishing its Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, an annual report on home buyers and sellers. Typically released every November, this report highlights information related to buyer demographics, home preferences, financing methods, search processes, seller experiences, pricing trends, and the role of real estate professionals.

Thanks to the rich and reliable data available in the NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, this information is obviously highly valued by real estate professionals, home buyers and sellers, policymakers, and financial institutions. NAR collects this data through online questionnaires, and national sampling, engaging 6,000 to 8,000 participants each year.

Each profile covers a wide range of topics including:

Characteristics of home buyers/sellers;
Characteristics of homes sold/purchased;
The home search process;
Home buying/selling and real estate professionals;
Financing the home purchase;
Challenges during the selling process;
Market trends; and
Use of technology

To offer a clear understanding of the U.S. real estate market and its various aspects, we have compiled the findings from the last five profiles (2020–2024). This consolidation provides valuable insights into long-term trends, shifts in buyer and seller behavior, and the evolving challenges within the real estate landscape.

The table below gives you an overall look at the U.S. real estate market through these 5 years. However, if you’re into details, we recommend you keep reading as various useful insights are given for each section.

Characteristics of Home Buyers

Marital status

Between 2020 and 2024, married couples consistently represented the largest group of home buyers, accounting for 59%-62% of purchases in the U.S.

Single females made up 18-20% of buyers, doubling the share of single males at 9-10%. Meanwhile, unmarried couples contributed 6-8% to annual home purchases.

Ethnic composition

From 2020 to 2024, the majority of home buyers were White/Caucasian, comprising 81%-88% of the market. Hispanic/Latino buyers consistently represented 6%-8%, while Black/African-American buyers ranged from a low of 3% in 2022 to 7% in 2023 and 2024. Asian/Pacific Islander buyers accounted for a smaller segment, varying between 2%-6%.

First-time vs. repeat buyers

The proportion of first-time buyers varied over the years, reaching a high of 34% in 2021 but declining to a record low of 24% in 2024, underscoring the difficulties faced by new buyers in the housing market.

Meanwhile, repeat buyers–those buyers who’ve made their second purchase–gained a larger annual share, driven by an aging demographic with established equity. The median age of repeat buyers rose significantly, from 55 in 2020 to a historic 61 in 2024, highlighting the increasing presence of seasoned buyers in the market. This could also imply that repeat buyers have a higher chance than first-time buyers when multiple offers are made on the same property.

Motivation for purchasing a home

The primary motivation for purchasing a home, the “desire to own a home of their own,” remained the top reason across all years, peaking at 28% in 2021 before declining to 22% in 2022 and 2024. Among first-time buyers, this motivation was especially significant in 2024, with 64% citing this wish as their main reason.

Other notable motivations included the desire for a larger home, proximity to family and friends, job relocation, and changes in family situations, reflecting the diverse needs driving home purchases during this period.

Characteristics of Purchased Homes

Another key component of NAR’s annual report focuses on the Characteristics of Homes Purchased, providing a detailed look at the types of homes buyers choose, their features, and the factors influencing their decisions.

This information is invaluable to scores of stakeholders, including real estate professionals, investors, house flippers, developers, and policymakers, as it highlights emerging trends, buyer preferences, and demographic shifts. This information enables them to tailor their services, build relevant housing inventory, and plan for community development.

Types of homes purchased

From 2020 to 2024, the majority of buyers consistently preferred previously owned homes, making up 85%–89% of purchases, though the share of new homes saw a slight increase, reaching 15% in 2024.

Detached, single-family homes remained the most popular choice, accounting for 75%–82% of purchases over the years, but their share declined slightly in favor of other housing types, such as townhouses and condos in 2024.

These trends reflect a steady demand for existing homes due to affordability and availability, alongside a gradual interest in alternative housing options. However, buying previously owned homes involves maintenance issues that buyers should look out for.

Home features

From 2020 to 2024, the median home size fluctuated modestly, starting at 1,900 square feet in 2020, dipping to 1,800 in 2022, and returning to 1,900 square feet in 2024. The typical space configuration remained consistent, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms being the norm across all years.

The age of homes showed a notable trend, with buyers favoring older homes between 2022 and 2023, as the median age reached 38 years in 2023. However, 2024 saw a shift back toward newer homes, with a median age of 30 years. These patterns reflect the balancing interplay between affordability, market inventory, and buyer preferences for space and functionality.

Environmental and neighborhood factors

From 2020 to 2024, neighborhood quality consistently ranked as the top factor influencing home buyers’ location choices, with 58%–60% of buyers prioritizing it. The importance of proximity to friends and family grew significantly post-2022, stabilizing at 45% in 2023 and 2024, reflecting a shift toward social and familial considerations.

Home affordability also gained prominence, with 33% of buyers citing it as a key factor in 2020, rising to a peak of 39% in 2023 before settling at 36% in 2024. This highlights buyers’ increasing focus on community, affordability, and social connections when choosing where to live.

Distance moved (from previous home)

From 2020 to 2024, the median distance moved by home buyers fluctuated significantly, reflecting shifts in market conditions and buyer preferences. This factor remained steady at 15 miles in 2020 and 2021 but surged to 50 miles in 2022, as buyers sought homes farther from their previous locations. This could partially be due to remote work opportunities, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2023, the distance decreased to 20 miles and stabilized around that figure in 2024, marking a return to more typical moving patterns.

Takeaway: The bottom line for home buyers

So, to put all of the above in a digestible, metaphorical nutshell, the question is, “What does an average American have in mind when looking for a home?”

The typical American homebuyer looks for a single-family property with 1,900 square feet of space, a maximum property age of 30-38 years, a desirable neighborhood, and a location within 10-20 miles of where they currently live.

The Home Search Process

The Home Search Process is another critical component of NAR’s annual profile of home buyers and sellers, offering valuable insights into how buyers search for homes, the tools they use, and the challenges they face.

Real estate agents can use these insights to enhance their services, while technology providers can optimize tools like mobile apps and online search platforms. Together, this data helps stakeholders improve the overall house-hunting experience.

Initial steps in the home search

From 2020 to 2024, looking online consistently dominated the statistics as the most common first step in the home search process, with 43%–47% of buyers starting their hunt this way. While it peaked at 47% in 2021 and 2022, online searches saw a slight dip to 41% in 2023 before rebounding to 43% in 2024.

At the same time, 18%-20% of buyers choose to contact a real estate agent instead of looking online first. This highlights the importance of clients’ trust in agents and their ability to provide personalized guidance, expert advice, and access to exclusive listings that may not be available through online platforms.

Duration of the search

The duration of the home search gradually increased over the years, reflecting tighter inventory and higher competition among buyers. The median search time rose from 8 weeks in 2020 to 9 weeks in 2021, peaking at 10 weeks in 2022, where it stabilized through 2024.

This steady increase highlights the growing challenges buyers face in finding the right home, emphasizing the need for efficient tools, professional guidance, and strategies to navigate the competitive housing market more easily and swiftly.

Methods and tools used

The Methods and Tools Used in the home search process evolved significantly from 2020 to 2024. In 2022, though much later than one would expect, the use of the Internet became nearly universal. 96% of buyers in 2022 relied on online resources, a trend that remained steady through 2024.

Similarly, the use of mobile devices for home searches saw continuous growth, increasing from 57% in 2020 to 69% in 2023 and 2024, reflecting the growing preference for convenience and accessibility.

These trends underscore the increasing reliance on technology to streamline the home-buying process and the importance of digital tools in shaping buyer experiences.

Potential challenges during the search

Buyers faced several challenges while searching for homes, with finding the right home consistently and quite naturally ranked as the most significant obstacle, cited by over 50% of buyers annually. Tight inventory, high demand, and affordability constraints contributed to this difficulty.

For first-time buyers, saving for a downpayment was another key hurdle, influenced by rising living costs, student loans, and credit card debt. Additionally, many first-time buyers struggled with understanding the home-buying process, highlighting the need for better education and support from agents and digital tools. These challenges underscore the complexity of navigating the housing market, particularly for more inexperienced buyers.

Satisfaction with the search process

Satisfaction with the search process improved from 89% in 2020 to 92% by 2023-2024, reflecting better tools and support for buyers. This growth in satisfaction can be attributed to better online tools, virtual tours, virtual staging, and enhanced real estate agent services, which together made the home-buying process more efficient and enjoyable.

Role of real estate agents

Real estate agents continued to play a vital role in the home-buying process from 2020 to 2024. The percentage of buyers hiring agents remained consistently high, starting at 88% in 2020 and remaining rather constant in subsequent years.

Buyers primarily sought agents for assistance in finding the right home, negotiating terms, and understanding the buying process. Interestingly, referrals from personal networks were the leading method of finding an agent, reflecting their reputation and trustworthiness.

Home Buying and Real Estate Professionals

The Home Buying and Real Estate Professionals section in NAR’s annual report provides critical insights into how buyers interact with real estate professionals during the home-buying process. This section of the data highlights trends in the use of agents, services provided, and the impact of professional guidance on buyer satisfaction.

Use of agents in the buying process

The use of agents in the buying process has remained a dominant trend from 2020 to 2024, with nearly 90% of buyers relying on professional guidance during this period. Buyers primarily sought agents for assistance in finding the right property, negotiating terms, and managing complex transactions.

Meanwhile, direct purchases from sellers or builders accounted for a much smaller share, consistently hovering at just above 10% over the years.

This contrast underscores the enduring importance of real estate agents in simplifying the home-buying journey. Obviously, both buyers and sellers are putting their best trust in agents and, as these reports tell us, have returned the favor by making the buying//selling process as effortless as possible for buyers and sellers.

Services buyers expect from agents

Homebuyers rely on real estate agents for a variety of crucial services during the buying process, emphasizing their integral role in successful transactions. The primary service buyers seek is help in finding the right home, which 49% of buyers identified as their top expectation.

Negotiating the terms of sale, aiding in understanding the home-buying process, and providing professional insights into market conditions are also frequently sought services.

For first-time buyers, agent support in understanding the process is especially invaluable, with 80% of responders highlighting it as critical. This reflects the trust placed in agents to streamline and demystify the often complex, daunting home-buying journey homes competitively and finding the right buyers.

The difficulty of pricing peaked at 25% in 2022 and 2023 before slightly decreasing to 24% in 2024. Similarly, finding the right buyer was challenging for 19% of sellers in 2020, rising to 21% in 2021 through 2023, before easing to 20% in 2024.

Seller satisfaction

In these 5 years, seller satisfaction with the home-selling process remained consistently high. In 2020, 89% of sellers reported their satisfaction with the selling process, increasing to 90% in 2021 and remaining steady through 2022. Satisfaction rose slightly to 91% in 2023 and held at that level in 2024, reflecting a positive trend in the overall experience of sellers during this period.

Pricing and timing of home sales

The pricing and timing of home sales across the 2020 to 2024 NAR profiles highlight consistent trends shaped by market conditions. Sellers typically priced homes competitively, often achieving 100% or more of the asking price, with one-third of sellers in recent years receiving offers above the asking price. Homes sold swiftly, with most properties being sold within two to three weeks of their listing date, reflecting high demands and limited inventory.

Home Selling and Real Estate Professionals

During the period in question, sellers most often cited 1) the desire to be closer to family and friends, 2) the need for larger or smaller homes, or 3) changes in personal circumstances as their primary reasons for selling a house. Common challenges included preparing their homes up to market standards, marketing them effectively, and timing the sale to achieve optimal outcomes.

Nearly 90% of sellers relied on real estate agents to price homes competitively, negotiate favorable terms, and attract buyers through professional marketing strategies like online listings and photography. Homes typically sold for the asking price, with about 30% receiving offers above it. Also, most properties were sold within three weeks, reflecting high market demands and limited inventory.

During the 5-year timespan, sellers consistently selected agents primarily through referrals, with approximately 40% choosing their agent based on recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors. Regarding repeat sellers, 21%-37% of them returned to agents they had worked with previously.

Most sellers, that is 70%-80%, interviewed only one agent before making their decision. Notably, almost 90% of sellers across these five years expressed satisfaction with their agents, with a majority stating they would recommend their agent or work with them again.

Financing the Home Purchase

From 2020 to 2024, financing trends for home purchases shifted significantly, reflecting changing market conditions. The share of buyers financing their homes dropped from 88% in 2020 to 74% in 2024, driven by an increase in repeat buyers paying in cash, which rose from 20% to 26% during this period.

First-time buyers consistently relied more on financing, with over 90% using loans annually, while repeat buyers’ reliance on financing fell notably from 83% in 2020 to 69% in 2024. Typical down payments also grew, particularly for first-time buyers with a slight increase from 6% in 2020 to 9% in 2024. This slight change, though, brought this factor to its highest level since 1997, as buyers needed stronger offers in competitive markets.

For repeat buyers, down payments rose from 16% in 2020 to 23% in 2024, the highest since 2003, supported by increasing home equity. These trends underscore rising financial barriers for first-time buyers and the growing role of equity and cash in the purchasing process.

In Conclusion

The NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers offers a lot to learn, especially when considering the past five years. Three findings stand out among the key takeaways.

First, The shrinking number of first-time buyers is a significant trend, likely driven by rising home prices and down payment requirements that many can’t meet.
Second, satisfaction with agents has steadily improved for both buyers and sellers. This suggests that agents have been delivering strong results and building trust with their clients.
Finally, the increasing wait periods to find the right home highlights the intense competition in the market, with buyers facing more challenges than before.

The present study aimed to put together the findings of the past five years to provide a more inclusive picture of the US real estate market. As NAR continues reporting on home buying/selling every year, our market understanding deepens.

Thanks to these reports, we have learned a big deal about market shifts, clients’ preferences and expectations, marketing trends, agents’ strategies, and the role of technology in home selling or buying. By examining these evolving factors, stakeholders in the real estate industry should continue to refine their strategies and ultimately deliver better experiences for both sellers and buyers.

This article has been produced by AI HomeDesign based on the data and information gathered from the NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers below:

National Association of Realtors. (2020) 2020 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. National Association of Realtors.

National Association of Realtors. (2021) 2021 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. National Association of Realtors.

National Association of Realtors. (2022) 2022 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. National Association of Realtors.

National Association of Realtors. (2023) 2023 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. National Association of Realtors.

National Association of Realtors. (2024) 2024 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. National Association of Realtors.

January 30, 2025 0 comment

Real Estate

What Is a CMA in Real Estate, and Why Is It Important?

by Dario Rinaldi December 29, 2024

written by Dario Rinaldi

A comparative market analysis (CMA) is a study that estimates the suitable selling price for a property based on the prices of recently sold properties in the same area, AKA comps. CMA reports are usually created by real estate agents or brokers to let sellers come up with the right pricing for their property.

Buyers get similar insights from such reports by comparing the property they are buying with recently sold homes in areas that share similar features.

So, a thorough CMA real estate report is essential for both buyers and sellers to make informed decisions. One might say a CMA is more or less like a scale that weighs all factors to strike a balance and give a fair estimation of the property’s worth.

What is CMA in Real Estate?

The sole purpose of a CMA real estate report is to make sure that a property is priced accurately. Back in the day, you might have done this less technically. Perhaps you were at a weekend barbecue, flipping burgers with your neighbor, and you casually asked, “Hey, didn’t you sell your house last month? What did it go for?” Then, as you nibbled on some chips, you followed up with, “Do you know what the Johnsons down the street got for theirs?”

Equipped with that info, you’d then mentally calculate, “Well, if their place sold for $200,000 and ours has a bigger backyard, we could probably aim for $220,000.” Just like that, without spreadsheets or fancy tools, you’d do your very own CMA. The only thing that has changed today is the way we do this comparison, solely to make sure that our estimation is more accurate.

The Steps of a Comparative Market Analysis

As a real estate agent or broker, you might want to learn how to come up with a CMA real estate report to provide better services to your clients. To do so, you should first take note of all features of the subject property and then, look for similar properties that have recently been sold.

First, let’s see what those features are.

The neighborhood

One of the key factors in determining the value of a property is the location:

In which area/district is the property located?
What amenities are in its vicinity?
How crowded is the neighborhood?
How safe is the neighborhood?
What the local schools are like? and,
How accessible is public transportation?

After assessing these location-based features, you can look for nearby neighborhoods with similar features.

However, this is only half the picture. For the other half, you need to evaluate the property itself, and that entails the following features:

Square footage

Other factors aside, the bigger the property, the higher its price. And apart from the size, you should consider the number of rooms. The more spaces (bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.) a property has–provided that they have a notable size for their purpose–the higher its value.

The property condition

The age of the property and whether it’s been recently renovated should factor into your final evaluation. Generally, properties with fewer maintenance issues are valued higher as they present less hassle for potential buyers. The exception is properties with unique historical or architectural significance, whose value may increase despite potential maintenance needs.

Property taxes

A property’s annual tax bill is another key factor that can impact its value. Buyers often consider the tax burden when evaluating the overall cost of owning a property. In some cases, higher taxes deter potential buyers, while lower taxes make a property more appealing.

Special property features

Some properties have special features like outdoor pools, patios, fenced yards, high ceilings, open floor plans, and so on. Each of these features adds something to the overall value of the place, and you should consider them when making your final comparison.

Utility infrastructure

Another important factor is the quality of essential services like water, electricity, sewage, gas systems, etc. Properties with reliable and modern utility connections are often more appealing to buyers. Poor or outdated utilities can reduce a property’s desirability and affect its overall value.

Legal considerations

Legal considerations include factors such as zoning rules, land use regulations, and any disputes tied to the property. Buyers are often attracted to properties with no existing liens or unresolved legal issues, as these ensure a smoother transaction. Complications like boundary encroachments or restrictive easements can deter buyers and affect a property’s worth.

Select the Comps

After carefully evaluating the subject property, you should find at least three comparable properties, or comps, to estimate the right price for the property in question. Keep in mind that the properties you choose as comps must:

Have been sold recently (that is, in the last 3-6 months);
Be located in the vicinity of the subject property;
Be located in a similar neighborhood;
Be as similar to the subject property as possible in terms of size, age, accessibility, number of rooms, etc.;
Be in a similar condition regarding general upkeep, renovations, upgrades, etc.; and,
Have almost the same quality for both exteriors and interiors.

Also, be careful about basing your judgment on online listings where property descriptions might not be as detailed as they should and the attached photos/videos might have been edited.

Though the comps are ‘not expected to be exactly the same as the subject property,’ finding valid comps is easier said than done, as properties often differ in at least a few key factors. After making sure that the properties you’ve selected are the most similar ones to the subject property, you can make the comparison.

How to Calculate a CMA Real Estate?

To make a healthy comparison, start by adjusting the sales prices of comps to make them more similar to your property. If a comp is missing something your property has, like a bigger yard, lower its price to reflect that. Similarly, if it has something better, like a renovated bathroom, raise its price accordingly. This helps you figure out what the comp(s) would sell for if they were more like your property.

Next, find out the price per square foot for each comp by dividing its adjusted price by its size. Then, to estimate your property’s value, multiply the lowest price per square foot by your home’s size to get the lower value range. Do the same with the highest price per square foot for the higher range.

Finally, calculate the average price per square foot for all comps, and multiply it by your property’s size to get the best estimate of its value. So, to wrap up, this is a CMA real estate formula:

Another option you have is to use a CMA real estate calculator that considers the above-listed features and makes the comparisons. If you prefer this option, you’d better avoid free CMA real estate ads and use a trusted tool that provides verified data and in-depth analysis. Now that you’ve calculated the value of the property, it’s time for the report.

Preparing a CMA Report

A lot of details can and should go into a CMA report, and it’s important to present those details in a neat and orderly manner. To learn how to prepare your report and present the information, you can search the web and find CMA examples.

In doing so, you’ll come across lots of free CMA templates that provide a clear structure for organizing property data, adjustments, and comparisons in a professional format. Choose one of those templates and customize it to fit your specific property and market data.

Here’s a simple example that details all features of the comps and the subject property.

Based on the information presented, we can conclude that the subject property is worth something around $440,000. It’s similar in size to Comp #2, which sold for $433,000, but it has a few perks that bump up the value, like a finished basement and solar panels. The other two comps sold for slightly higher prices due to advantages such as larger size, a better location, a bigger garage, or an additional bathroom.

How Does a CMA Differ from Home Appraisal?

Both practices are related to real estate comparative market analysis, but they are done by different individuals and serve different purposes.

A CMA is done by a real estate agent or a broker to estimate the right price for a to-be-sold property. An appraisal, on the other hand, is done by a licensed home appraiser for financing purposes like when the owner wants to get a mortgage.

So, a CMA benefits the seller while an appraisal benefits the owner who intends to keep the property. Also, compared to a CMA, a home appraisal is more detailed and hence, more accurate.

How Much Does a CMA Cost?

Agents typically offer CMAs to help sellers determine a competitive listing price or to assist buyers in evaluating a property’s value. However, if you’re not working with an agent and want a CMA from an agent, you might have to pay $100 to $500, depending on the complexity and detail of the report.

In Closing

There are two important points to keep in mind when preparing a CMA report: Firstly, if you can’t find enough recently sold properties that are similar, you can use currently listed properties as comps. Secondly, always factor in current market conditions when setting the price.

For instance, if the market is stronger at the time of listing, you might aim for a higher price than what your comparison suggests. Similarly, if the market is weaker or in a recession, you may need to adjust the price downward.

FAQs

Can I do a CMA without the help of an agent?

Anyone following the steps described in this blog should be able to do a comparative market analysis. However, as agents are more familiar with this process and have access to reliable real estate CMA software, it’s better to leave the job to them.

What is the best CMA calculator?

There are a couple of real estate CMA calculators that you can use for your project. So, do your research and check product review pages. Cloud CMA, Toolkit CMA, and iCMALive are some of the most popular ones.

How reliable are CMA calculators?

The accuracy of such calculators highly depends on the accuracy of the provided data and the market status. Overall, some of these tools are highly reliable, but you should always leave some room for market fluctuations.

December 29, 2024 0 comment

Real Estate Photography

HDR Real Estate photography: Why Use It and How?

by Dario Rinaldi December 22, 2024

written by Dario Rinaldi

When high-tech cameras were yet to be invented and digital enhancements were mere concepts, capturing the true essence of properties through a lens was often marred by lighting challenges. Photographers struggled with the drastic differences in light within interiors, where dark shadows hid details and bright windows washed out the space. These early days saw many property images that failed to do justice to the actual environments, leaving potential buyers with a lot to imagine rather than see.

The solution was to combine multiple exposures of the same scene into a single, perfectly balanced photo, and the method was named HDR, or High Dynamic Range photography. If you want to learn more about this technique, you can read our guide to using HDR photography in real estate. In this blog, we examine a commonly-ask question regarding this technique. “Is HDR good for real estate photography?” Let’s find out.

Why Do Photographers Use HDR for Real Estate?

Photographers use the HDR technique in real estate to overcome the common challenges of capturing both very bright and very dark areas within the same scene.

This technique highlights details such as the texture of dark wood cabinets and the greenery in a sunny backyard, all within one balanced frame, which is difficult to achieve with standard photography or even advanced editing software alone.

Recent advances in HDR technology have made the resulting images appear even more natural, avoiding the overly processed look that was once typical of HDR photos.
Techniques like exposure fusion and careful tone mapping contribute to images that maintain a real-life aesthetic. However, care must be taken in how to employ this technique as, like any other technique, HDR photography follows certain risks!

HDR (High Dynamic Range) is a method of image editing that combines several exposures to create a more natural-looking image with balanced shadows and brightness. This blog will cover how to use HDR, when to use it, and the best HDR software for real estate photography.

Risks of Using HDR Photography in Real Estate

Using HDR photography in real estate has some risks. One such pitfall is ghosting effects where images do not align properly due to unpredicted or uncontrolled movements, leading to blurry or doubled visuals. Sometimes, it may also produce photos that look artificial, with very bright colors and sharp contrasts. This is a more common problem with novice photographers or photo editors using the technique for the first time.

The HDR process is also more complex and more time-consuming compared to standard photography methods. It involves taking multiple exposures and spending more time on post-processing. Beginners might find this challenging, and the need for extra equipment like a tripod increases the overall bulk and setup time.

Finally, HDR is not perfect for all scenarios. While it excels in environments with varying lighting, it’s less effective with fast-moving subjects or in conditions where the lighting changes rapidly. So, is HDR good for real estate photography? Yes, but not always.

This brings us to another discussion and that is when to use the technique and when to avoid it.

When to Use HDR Photography in Real Estate?

Understanding when to employ HDR can enhance the quality of your photos while knowing when to avoid it can prevent common pitfalls. Here’s a simple guide to follow regarding using HDR for your real estate projects.

Low contrast scenes

If a scene is naturally low in contrast, using HDR is unnecessary. Such scenes can be adequately captured with a single exposure, maintaining natural color and contrast without the need for HDR processing. Using HDR in such conditions might lead to flat, lifeless images that appear too processed or artificially enhanced.

Silhouettes and sunsets

The dramatic allure of the property at sunset or creating striking silhouettes can set a listing apart. However, HDR is not the ideal technique for these types of shots. When photographing homes during golden hour, or when aiming to silhouette a property against a vibrant sky, the high contrast between the darkened structure and the bright background is key.

Using HDR in these scenarios would flatten this contrast, softening the stark, eye-catching outlines that make silhouette images so compelling and potentially diluting the breathtaking colors of a sunset, thereby lessening the overall impact and appeal of your real estate photos.

Natural shadows

Effective real estate photos should use light and shadow to guide the viewer’s eye and emphasize the depth and contours of a space. That’s right, like light, shadows too play an important role in defining the atmosphere and character of a room.

Shadows are not just inevitable but essential for adding depth and dimension to images. When photographing a property’s interior, for example, the natural play of light through windows can cast soft shadows that highlight architectural details and create a welcoming, lived-in feel.>

Simple corrections

HDR should also be avoided to “fix” an image that can be corrected with basic adjustments in exposure or shadows. In certain cases, you might get the desired result just by enhancing the quality of your photos. Remember, over-relying on HDR can lead to unnatural results and may not improve an inherently poor photograph.

Is There an Alternative to HDR Photography?

In scenarios like the ones described above, where HDR may not be your best option you might look for alternatives.

Standard dynamic range

One such alternative is Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) which, compared to HDR, offers limited spectrum brightness levels. While SDR cannot capture the same range of light and dark as HDR, it often results in more natural-looking photos, making it suitable for scenes requiring less dramatic lighting effect.

Flambient photography

With other spaces, however, the natural light may be insufficient or unevenly distributed, necessitating the use of artificial sources to properly illuminate the space. That is to say, apart from the natural and artificial light sources, there is still a need for more lighting.

Combining the terms flashandambient, we get the word flambient. Flambient photography refers to a technique where flash and ambient light, whether natural or artificial, are combined to create images with balanced lighting. Most experts suggest using this technique in cases where HDR photography is not the safest option.

The two techniques, however, have some advantages over the other. So, you might want to learn the differences between HDR and flambient photography in real estate to make sure you choose the right method for each specific scenario.

In Closing

There is no one-size-fits-all solution in real estate that can address every challenge and HDR photography is no exception. Whether or not HDR is good for real estate photography depends on the specific lighting conditions, the property’s characteristics, and the desired outcome of the photographs.

The bottom line is factors such as the natural light available, the presence of high-contrast scenes, and the need to highlight intricate details all determine whether you should go for this technique or use an alternative.

FAQs

What equipment is necessary for effective HDR photography in real estate?

For effective HDR photography, you will need a digital camera capable of auto-exposure bracketing to capture different exposures of the same scene. A sturdy tripod is also essential to keep the camera stable and aligned during shots. Additionally, a remote shutter release can help minimize camera shake. For blending the exposures in post-processing, software such as Photomatix or Adobe Lightroom is recommended.

Can HDR photography be used in virtual tours or 360° showcases?

Yes, HDR photography can enhance virtual tours and 360° showcases by ensuring that all parts of the property are well-lit, detailing both brightly and dimly lit areas. This method is especially practical in spaces with a lot of light variations.

What are some common post-processing challenges with HDR images?

Common issues with HDR images include misalignment, ghosting from movement, and overly vibrant colors. These can be managed using software equipped with strong alignment and ghost removal capabilities. For unnatural colors and contrasts, careful tone-mapping adjustments are essential. Practicing with various settings and software options can help photographers improve their results.

December 22, 2024 0 comment

Real Estate

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Real Estate Agent?

by Dario Rinaldi December 18, 2024

written by Dario Rinaldi

“How much does it cost to become a real estate agent?” A question commonly asked by those who are weighing the potential return on investment against the initial costs involved.

Overall, the cost of becoming a real estate agent in the US can be as low as $410 in certain states; in others, though, it might be over $1,600. In this blog, we’ll discuss the costs related to becoming a real estate agent in every state. Let’s begin.

Becoming a Real Estate Agent

The promise of working flexible hours, the potential for substantial earnings, the independence of managing their own business, and the variety each day brings. These are just some of the exciting thoughts that make individuals consider becoming a real estate agent.

However, entering the real estate industry can seem overwhelming, too. The upfront commitment in terms of both time and finances seems truly a deterrent at first. Add to this the unpredictability of a commission-based income and the intensely competitive market. New agents must also face the challenge of building a client network from the ground up and mastering the art of effective self-promotion and marketing, which are essential for success in this field.

But, covering all these challenges in one blog seems a bit too much. So, let’s limit our discussion to real estate -cost-related aspects and leave other complexities to some other time.

Cost-Related Aspects of Becoming a Real Estate Agent

The cost to become a real estate agent depends primarily on the state in which one desires to operate. In some states, it’s simply more expensive to become a real estate agent than in others. Most of the regulatory bodies at the state level seem somewhat reluctant to reveal the costs related to fingerprinting, the exam, etc. Moreover, the pre-licensing costs vary not only from state to state but also among different educational providers.

Additionally, different schools might include various supplementary materials and resources, which can also affect the overall cost. Another factor in play is whether the course is held online or in a traditional classroom setting, which typically costs more than the former.

This makes it a bit difficult to come up with a concrete number that accurately represents the total investment required across all scenarios. So please, keep in mind that the table presented above serves as a general guide and aims to provide an estimated range of costs based on the most commonly encountered expenses.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to check directly with the relevant state’s real estate commission and selected educational institutions. With that being said, let’s take a look at the five main factors determining the cost to become a real estate agent.

The state in which you want to operate

In our discussion about the best places to be a real estate agent, we described how the choice of state influences agents’ opportunities to secure clients, their income, living costs, and more. Similarly, in some states, it costs more to get a real estate certificate than in others. This could be due to a variety of factors including higher licensing fees, more stringent continuing education requirements, and additional regulatory measures.

Pre-licensing costs: $140-$1,300

Though the exam itself has a rather steady cost across all states ($40-$100), the real difference lies in the pre-licensing education costs that, in some states, can go up to $1,300! While this may look like Hobson’s choice, by researching and comparing various approved educational programs within their state, candidates can lower the training costs to $600.

The duration of the course can vary from 45 to 180 hours, and the materials covered may vary in terms of depth and breadth. So, make sure that the school you choose will equip you with all the necessary knowledge needed to pass the exam. In other words, don’t risk sacrificing quality for cost!

Fingerprinting and background checks: $36-$103

Prior to taking the exam, candidates must go through fingerprinting and background checks. This process is essential for verifying a candidate’s identity and for ensuring that they have no disqualifying criminal history.

Candidates are typically directed to specific state-approved vendors or facilities where they can have their fingerprints taken. The results are then sent to the state real estate commission or the appropriate regulatory body to be reviewed as part of the licensing process. Here too the cost varies depending on the state and the vendor selected.

Some states have a fixed rate for all fingerprinting services, while others may see prices fluctuate based on the specific service provider or the location where the fingerprinting takes place. Additionally, the method of background checking, whether it includes only statewide checks or also federal checks, can influence the overall cost.

The exam: $39-$150

The exams usually taken for becoming a real estate agent typically include multiple-choice questions covering topics such as property laws, real estate principles, and ethics. Candidates must register and pay the fee through their state’s designated testing service, which provides specific instructions, locations, and times for taking the exam.

As for the fee, it’s typically somewhat between $39- $100 which is due to different regulatory bodies setting their own exam fees and potentially using different service providers to administer the tests.

Application fees: $100-$485

The application fee covers the cost of processing the application, reviewing the candidate’s qualifications, and other administrative expenses associated with the issuance of a real estate license. The amount can vary widely depending on the state’s real estate commission policies and the complexity of the application review process.

For instance, in some states, the application fee might be as low as $100, while in others, it could be upwards of $458 or more. This fee is typically paid when the candidate submits their application for licensure, following the successful completion of the required pre-licensing education and passing the real estate licensing exam.

Additional Costs to Consider

The cost to become a real estate agent extends beyond what has been presented above. What we talked about includes the mandatory payments one must make to become a certified agent. To legally operate as a real estate agent in a US state, certified agents must find a broker to sponsor them.

This brokerage affiliation is necessary for activating and maintaining their license. Beyond this requirement, agents often incur additional expenses related to marketing themselves, such as advertising, creating a website, and purchasing business cards. More on these topics here.

Furthermore, ongoing professional development courses contribute to the overall cost of being a real estate agent. Take the National Association of Realtors, for example. While joining this trade association is not obligatory, many agents prefer to pay the costs just to be recognized as members of this organization simply because it lends them professional development and credibility in the market.

Last but not least, renewing the license is a periodic requirement that involves both fees and the completion of continuing education courses.

Time to Take the Leap into Real Estate!

Becoming a real estate agent should not be determined solely by the initial costs and potential earnings. Though one should consider such aspects, evaluating personal compatibility with the career’s demands and lifestyle is equally important.

Real estate involves irregular hours, constant interaction with clients, and navigating stressful negotiations, which may not suit everyone’s temperament or work-life balance preferences. Moreover, success in real estate requires perseverance, a strong network, and a deep understanding of local markets, which are built over time and go beyond just financial considerations.

Therefore, those considering this path should take a holistic view of the profession, assessing both their financial goals and their ability to meet the day-to-day challenges of the job. In doing so, they can make a more informed decision that aligns with their long-term personal and professional aspirations.

FAQs

What is the typical duration required to complete real estate agent training?

The training hours vary from 60 to 180 hours. Depending on the school you choose, your course might take two to six months.

What is the legal age to become a real estate agent?

To be eligible for a real estate agent license, an applicant must be at least 18 years old.

How much does an average real estate agent make per year?

The income of an average real estate agent depends on several factors including the number of transactions they complete, the commission rates they negotiate, the property prices in their market area, their level of experience, and the economic conditions affecting the real estate market.

Typically, real estate agents in the United States can expect to earn anywhere from $40,000 to over $100,000 annually, with more experienced agents or those in high-value property markets potentially earning significantly more.

December 18, 2024 0 comment

Real Estate Photography

How Much Does Real Estate Photography Cost? A Complete Guide

by Dario Rinaldi December 11, 2024

written by Dario Rinaldi

Real estate photography costs vary depending on the company/person doing the job. Some companies charge per photo, $8.5-$11.6. Others charge per square footage, $129-$205 for properties under 2,000 square feet. Read through this guide to learn all you need about real estate photography costs.

Average Cost of Real Estate Photography

Before digging deeper, it’s better to take a quick look at the numbers. The table below shows the average cost of real estate photography offered by well-known companies in the US. However, they each have several different pricing packages like standard, plus, or professional real estate photography. For more information, you can check the full list of their pricing plans.

	Company	Price Per Photo/ Square
1	Pro Property Shots	$8.5 per photo
2	True Place	$9.95 per photo (HDR)
3	FotoSold	$10.9 per photo
4	Perfect Real Estate Visuals	$10.41 per photo (HDR)
5	HomeJab	$11.6 per photo
6	Shoot2Sell	$129/ under 2,000 sqft
7	154 Photography	$125/ under 1,300 sqft
8	95 Shoot	$149/ under 1,500 sqft
9	The Home Aesthetic	$225/ under 2,000 sqft
10	Square Foot Photography	$205/ under 2,000 sqft

Different Providers, Different Packages

Real estate photography costs are calculated using various methods, depending on the service provider and the specific needs of each project. Some companies charge per photo, while others base their pricing on the square footage of the property.

Additionally, costs can vary by state, meaning that photographing two identical properties in different states may have different price tags. Furthermore, the pricing structure can also differ between real estate photo editing companies and independent real estate photographers. In both cases, the experience of the provider also plays a role in determining costs, with more experienced providers usually offering their services at higher prices.

Understanding the Factors That Impact Real Estate Photography Cost

Knowing about the factors that influence real estate photography pricing can help real estate agents and homeowners to make more informed decisions. Let’s take a look at the key elements that could affect your budget.

Who’s behind the camera?

The expertise and reputation of your chosen photographer or company significantly influence pricing. Seasoned photographers with robust portfolios and years of capturing eye-catching photos tend to command higher fees. Likewise, well-established companies known for their exceptional results and reliability might also reflect their pedigree in their pricing.

Photo quantity and property size

How extensive is your project? The size of the property and the number of photos needed also matter in determining the cost. Naturally, larger properties or those requiring more photos carry a higher price tag. For example, a basic photo package for a compact apartment might cost something between $200 and $400. In contrast, capturing a sprawling luxury home with a premium package can run anywhere from $500 to $1,200 if not more!

Travel and location considerations

Location matters, not just for property values but also for the cost of real estate photography. Travel expenses can indeed affect the overall price. If your property is tucked away in a remote location and the photographer has to travel a considerable distance, expect an added fee for their time and mileage. This is an important aspect to think about when choosing a photographer, especially for properties that are off the beaten path.

Do you want a bird’s eye view?

Apart from shooting the interiors, some agents opt for drone photography to showcase their properties from unique aerial perspectives, which can greatly enhance a listing’s appeal. This advanced technique provides potential buyers with a comprehensive view of the property, including its layout, surrounding area, and landscape, which can be especially beneficial for large estates or properties with notable outdoor features, but as you may imagine, aerial photography entails added costs.

Turnaround time and pricing

The speed at which you need your photos can also play a role in how much you’ll pay. If you’re in a rush and require quick delivery, this urgency can increase the costs. Photographers often have varying schedules and priorities, and accommodating a fast turnaround might necessitate shifting their existing commitments.

As a result, they may charge more for expedited services. This is particularly true for projects with very tight deadlines, where photographers might offer specialized ‘rush’ options at an additional fee to meet your swift needs. It’s wise to discuss timing upfront to ensure the photographer can meet your schedule without hidden fees or surprises.

Details on post-processing edits

The complexity and extent of photo editing involved can also influence what you end up paying. Standard packages usually cover basic enhancements like color adjustments and correcting exposure to ensure the property looks inviting and well-lit.
But when it comes to more complex modifications such as advanced image enhancements, removing unwanted items, or adding virtual furnishings, these tasks require additional time and expertise, which means they cost more. Two highly recommended edits that most agents desire are virtual staging and 3D virtual tours.
Virtual staging is a preferred choice for many real estate agents because it allows them to present a property in its best light without the need for physical furnishings. This technique enhances the visual appeal of an otherwise empty space, making it easier for buyers to see themselves living in the home.
3D virtual tours are also popular among real estate professionals. They provide a virtual reality experience, enabling potential buyers to tour a property online as if they were walking through it in person. This type of editing is particularly useful for giving a comprehensive view of the property, showcasing every angle, and allowing for a detailed inspection without a physical visit. These specialized edits enhance the visual appeal of your listings but require skilled hands or advanced technologies which is reflected in their pricing.

In Closing

To save on their expenses, some may choose to photograph a property themselves, bypassing professional help. However, this approach carries certain risks as without professional training and equipment, it can be challenging to capture the property in the best light. Poor-quality images may fail to highlight the property’s best features and deter potential buyers which means the property will most likely remain on the market for a longer time.
Though we do not recommend this, if you want to take the risk, make sure to read our guide on how to take real estate photos to avoid the most common mistakes in this regard.

FAQs

Why is professional real estate photography important?

The majority of buyers begin their home search online. The quality of the photos utilized in your listing can make or destroy a potential buyer’s interest. High-quality images not only draw more views but also build a stronger emotional connection, which can result in quicker sales and higher offers.

What’s the ideal number of photos for listing a property?

Online property listings require at least one photo from each room plus a few shots for the exteriors. This means, with most properties, not more than 25 images are required unless your property is really big and has lots of rooms. Here’s more on preparing your property for multiple listings.

How much does drone real estate photography cost?

The cost of drone real estate photography also depends on the provider. It typically ranges from $150 to $500 per session. But, keep in mind that this pricing can vary depending on the location, and the level of detail required in the footage.

December 11, 2024 0 comment

Real Estate

How Do You Take Effective, Professional Real Estate Headshots?

by Dario Rinaldi December 9, 2024

written by Dario Rinaldi

Your real estate agent headshot is much more than just a photograph—it’s your first handshake with potential clients. In real estate, your photo isn’t just about looking good; it’s about making a lasting impression that radiates confidence, professionalism, and approachability.

The secret to a winning headshot? Hire a skilled photographer, dress the part, and let your smile do the talking. Practice poses, groom yourself impeccably, and remember: The eyes are the gateway to trust. Take multiple shots in various outfits, and involve trusted friends in choosing the best one. A polished headshot speaks volumes about your ability to deliver results and sets you apart from the competition. Dive into this guide for all the details you need to perfect your real estate agent headshot.

Real Estate Headshots That Talk!

It’s not just about your face on a glossy piece of paper that says “Hey, it’s me, and I’m an agent.” Your real estate agent headshot is arguably the first impression you make on potential clients. It’s completely up to you to make it a lasting one or just the last one!

While you’re eating, sleeping, or even bathing, it’s your headshot that markets you on business cards, billboards, or your social media. So, as an agent, you need to have a professional headshot that exudes confidence, builds trust, and sets you apart from others.

Learn from the best: See how others have done it

Seeing headshots of realtors will give you plenty of ideas to craft your unique look. The good news is that wherever you turn your head, you can find countless real estate headshot examples to learn from.

For instance, Google phrases like “realtor headshots” or “real estate agent headshot near me.” You can even narrow down your search and use phrases like “female real estate agent headshots” or “real estate agent headshots [city]” to find more related results.

Once you’ve found a good source, take your time and go through the samples. Take note of details that catch your eye. See how those agents smile or pose. Pay attention to their clothes as well as the background. Together, these details create the perfect real estate agent headshot.

Have a look below at these real estate agent headshots and see how they differ. Do they all leave the same impression on you? Which one would be your first choice if you were to buy or sell a property?

Trust the pros: Hire a photographer

Taking a good real estate agent headshot is no DIY project. You will only waste your time if you ask your friend or fiance to do the job using their smartphones. If you want to do it right, you need to find a professional headshot photographer with a high-tech camera that provides tips regarding how to pose, what to wear, where to take the shot, and so on.

It’s an investment, and you should look at it as one. Taking a headshot isn’t something you do every day, so there’ll be no recurring cost. Moreover, you’ll be using the same headshot for a considerable amount of time. So, lose those purse strings and get a headshot you’ll be proud of!

It’s all in the eyes of the subject!

Since your face will be the focal point of any headshot, it’s no wonder the eyes–the centerpiece–are among the first features to draw attention. If they shine with happiness, confidence, and warmth, anyone looking at your headshot will feel an instant connection.

So, how can you ensure your eyes make the right impression? For starters, don’t force them wide open as it won’t look natural! It’s sort of a given, but instead, keep them relaxed and avoid squinting when the flash goes off.

You could also use harmless eye drops so that your eyes look whiter and brighter. Another thing you can do is to wear contact lenses to add clarity and definition.

Last but not least, don’t look away. A real estate agent headshot isn’t a Vogue or a Met Gala photoshoot! Look directly into the lens or slightly above it so that your gaze appears confident and attractive.

Why so serious?!

A stern look in your photo might be perfect for facing off with a former debate opponent or silencing a particularly nosy neighbor, but definitely not for your real estate agent headshot!

As an agent, you’ll be constantly in touch with different individuals like sellers, buyers, tenants, photographers, and many more. So, you must come across as a likable individual who can quickly build trust and make others comfortable. In short, you must be approachable and easy to talk to.

And when it comes to that, nothing makes you more approachable than a nice smile that radiates friendliness and sincerity. In 2019, a study on the effect of smiling on perceptions of personas found that people feel a stronger connection to photos of individuals who smile, compared to those who don’t. So, never undermine your smile, especially one that shows a beautiful set of teeth.

It’s the best time to look your best

What you wear should reflect professionalism and align with your target market. Solid colors are a smart choice as they convey confidence and photograph well, while busy patterns often convey the opposite. If you work in a high-end market, a suit or formal blouse is ideal, whereas business casual may be more fitting for a relaxed, local market.

Also, keep in mind that you should prepare your outfit ahead of time. Iron your clothes and have them ready to prevent any last-minute stress. Bringing a couple of options to your shoot is a good idea, too, if you’re unsure about what will work best. Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel confident, as it will shine through in your headshot.

Finally, look sharp. As a real estate agent, you want to appear polished, so style your hair neatly and avoid bold accessories that might distract viewers. A well-groomed appearance and carefully chosen attire will ensure your real estate headshot reflects the trusted professional you are.

Don’t be yourself too much!

That’s right. Every photo should send a clear message to the viewer, and that message is conveyed through your posture. Don’t just stand rigidly in front of the camera and expect your photo to impress others. If you’re looking to convince others that you’re the one who can handle property transactions for them, you need to project confidence, professionalism, and trustworthiness in your shot.

But don’t take me wrong! You’re neither a bodybuilder to show off your chest line nor are you a novelist gazing wistfully into the distance to suggest that there are things only you see!

The right pose for a realtor isn’t that complicated. Just stand tall, maintain a poised stance, and let your body language communicate that you are capable, approachable, and ready to deliver results.

Take multiple shots, obviously!

As you can see, preparing your real estate headshot comes with a price. You have to take a day or two off, hire a photographer, groom yourself, and probably invest in some wardrobe choices. So, don’t be content with just one good shot. Now that you’ve come this far, why not make the most of your day?

After all, you’re going to update your profile sooner or later, and this means you have to have a variety of photos ready to go. Different angles, locations, lighting, clothes, and expressions can help you keep your profile fresh and adaptable for various contexts, whether it’s for social media, professional listings, or marketing materials.

Time to Get in Front of the Camera!

Four eyes see better than two, right? So, after getting the results, show them to others and ask for an honest opinion. This might take a day or two but it helps you make the right choice.

You can post your headshots on your social pages and ask people to tell you what they think of them or which one(s) they like more. Pick the most popular one and confidently use it to represent yourself, knowing it resonates well with your audience.

Done with your real estate headshot? Now, it’s time to learn about the best real estate advertising ideas to stand out in the market. Happy reading!

FAQs

How much do realtor headshots cost?

Real estate agent headshot pricing isn’t fixed. How much you’ll pay depends on the photographer you hire, the location, the complexity of the setup, the number of shots, and whether or not you want to hire a makeup artist. According to Headshots Inc., depending on those factors, you might have to pay anything between $89 and $1500.

What if I hate my headshot?

You’re not alone! Most individuals think they’re not photogenetic. In most cases, this is just a false impression rooted in poor lighting, awkward angles, or a lack of confidence. Follow the tips in this guide and rest assured that you’ll find some of your headshots appealing.

What are the best backdrops for real estate headshots?

The best backdrops for real estate agent headshots are the ones that are simple and neutral. That is to say, nothing in the background should steal your thunder. Never put luxury cars or fancy apartments around you. They distract viewers and send the wrong message.

December 9, 2024 0 comment

Services

The Great Home Makeover: AI Home Design vs. Virtual Staging AI—Which One Sparks Joy?

by Dario Rinaldi November 10, 2024

written by Dario Rinaldi

Gone are the days when virtual staging was seen as a gimmick that might deter buyers. With rising physical staging costs and major breakthroughs in virtual staging, more agents are embracing this powerful technology.

About a decade ago, virtual staging emerged as a faster, more affordable alternative to physical staging, though some agents were hesitant to switch. Now, thanks to AI integration, virtual staging is so efficient that agents no longer debate whether to use it—only which service to choose.

This blog aims to answer that very question and will pit Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign to help you decide.

Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign

So… Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign: Both companies are real estate photo editing service providers that help real estate agents with various visual marketing and property listing needs. For this purpose, they both leverage the power of AI and thus, have much in common.

However, among all the commonalities, there are notable differences in pricing models, user interface, additional features, and complementary services that set them apart.

To begin with, let’s see how user-friendly each platform is.

Ease of use: AI virtual staging in action

Using both platforms is quite straightforward: The user uploads a photo, selects the room type, chooses a design style, and clicks ‘generate’ or ‘process photo.’

However, with AI HomeDesign, you need to create an account before using the service. In contrast, Virtual Staging AI allows you to generate photos without signing up, though an account is required if you wish to download the image without a watermark or unlock certain features.

Both services offer you a free trial. When using free credits on AI HomeDesign, users are free to fully explore all services, including AI virtual staging, and try out all available room types and design styles.

However, with Virtual Staging AI, free stagings are restricted to bedrooms and living rooms, as other room types are locked. So, if a user wants to see how Virtual Staging AI handles a home office or kids’ room, they’ve no other option but to purchase a plan first.

Turnaround: How much time do they take?

Virtual staging done by humans takes 1-2 hours per photo, but, thanks to the head-spinning power of AI, these two platforms do the job in less than 30 seconds! Yep, that’s about two sips of coffee or a few stretches behind the desk.

Not only that, they both generate not just one but three different results for every virtual staging request. So, as far as turnaround time is concerned, the two platforms are equally matched and highly reliable in delivering rapid results.

Pricing: Considering the necessary budget

Considering Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign in terms of service prices, both platforms offer monthly and yearly subscription plans with the latter being more affordable.

Virtual Staging AI offers four different pricing plans from which the users can choose depending on their needs. These plans include:

Basic;
Standard;
Professional; and,
Enterprise.

Similarly, AI HomeDesign has four different pricing plans which are:

Standard;
Pro;
Pro Plus; and,
Enterprise.

Nevertheless, the difference in pricing becomes quite distinct when you consider the costs for each single virtually staged photo:

To stage one room using AI HomeDesign, one has to pay something around $0.24 – $2.50 depending on the chosen plan. Staging the very same room with Virtual Staging AI, however, will cost you anywhere around $0.46 – $4.17. That’s double the price offered by AI HomeDesign.

So, for active users like real estate agents who’ll be generating hundreds of photos in a year–including different rooms using various staging styles and from different angles–there is a tangible difference in choosing AI HomeDesign as the more affordable option. When talking budget-wise about Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign, the latter offers a more cost-effective solution.

Consider both companies’ pricing plans below for yourself.

AI HomeDesign’s pricing plan vs Virtual Staging AI’s pricing plan

Styles and room types

Regarding room types, AI HomeDesign’s virtual staging gives you complete control over staging:

living rooms;
dining rooms;
single bedrooms;
double bedrooms;
home offices;
foyers; and,
outdoor spaces.

Virtual Staging AI will allow users to stage:

living rooms;
dining rooms;
bedrooms;
bathrooms;
kitchens;
home offices;
kids’ rooms; and,
outdoor spaces.

Though staging kitchens and bathrooms are additional options in Virtual Staging AI, it’s important to note that, when listing a property, most agents typically tend to declutter rather than stage the bathrooms and kitchens. Contrary to living rooms and bedrooms, house buyers usually prefer to perceive the spaciousness of these two areas rather than their being filled with items.

As for staging kids’ rooms, AI HomeDesign offers that under the “AI Interior Design” section. So, except for the slight variation in how certain areas are categorized, there isn’t much difference between the two platforms regarding space types.

As for design styles, AI HomeDesign offers the following:

Modern;
contemporary;
Scandinavian;
industrial;
farmhouse;
Hampton; and,
traditional.

Virtual staging AI claims–quite boldly, shall we say–to offer “+50 styles” but when you actually want to use their service, the design styles available are:

standard;
modern;
Scandinavian;
industrial;
midcentury;
luxury;
costal; and,
farmhouse.

So, when it comes to staging styles regarding Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign, both platforms share four styles, with each offering a few unique ones: Standard, midcentury, luxury, and coastal for Virtual Staging AI, and contemporary, traditional, and Hampton for AI HomeDesign.

Photo quality: How well do they fare?

Another key consideration for agents is how well each tool furnishes a space. To assess this, we staged a few rooms using both platforms to see if the results met the expectations. To avoid any bias, we used Virtual Staging AI’s gallery to find the original photos, which include a variety of staged and unstaged rooms.

To compare the output image quality of Virtual Staging AI vs. AI HomeDesign, we selected three room types: A living room, a bedroom, and a dining room. We then staged them using AI HomeDesign and Virtual Staging AI.

Scroll below to see the results.

living room

One of the main concerns real estate agents have when using AI virtual staging tools is ensuring the dimensions are accurate. As shown here, both AI HomeDesign and Virtual Staging AI demonstrate a good understanding of room dimensions and select appropriately sized furniture.

Additionally, in both cases, no extra fixtures were added nor the available ones were removed. Moreover, the view beyond the windows remained unchanged.

The only issue with the photo generated by Virtual Staging AI is that the carpet pattern appears on the lounge chair to the left.

bedroom

Next is a bedroom designed once by Virtual Staging AI and again by AI Homedesign. Coming up with favorable results, both tools have done a good job of staging this space as well. Nightstands, dressers, rugs, and the artwork are all in the right place, contributing to a nice charming decor.

dining room

Down below is a dining room staged in a traditional style using both platforms.

AI HomeDesign’s virtual staging service managed to come up with another satisfactory image. The image produced by Virtual Staging AI, though, has a few minor issues. For example, the number of chairs placed on either side of the table is not equal, and one on the right seems to be missing a backrest.

In such cases, generating a few more samples might resolve the problem, but when dealing with low-quality photos, rooms with unusual layouts, or a persisting generation error, human intervention could be the solution.

In such cases, you can easily rely on AI HomeDesign’s Human Virtual Staging service, which takes a little more time but is bound to deliver %100, perfectly accurate results.

Complementary services: What else is in the box?

Agents and other real estate players take and stage property photos to use on online multiple listing services (MLS), where house hunters search for homes. The intention behind standard AI virtual staging services, thus, is to create MLS-ready photos in one click.

However, a perfect virtual staging platform is one that also helps agents with other tasks such as:

In some of the examples provided above, removing one item or replacing it with another would add to the overall look and charm of the place. That’s why, apart from virtual staging, AI HomeDesign offers the following complementary services to ensure that agents have everything they need.

In contrast, the only other service offered by Virtual Staging AI is furniture removal.

AI Photo Editing Toolbox: Which One Offers a More Complete Package?

While Virtual Staging AI does a good job of furnishing empty spaces, compared to AI HomeDesign, it lags behind in certain aspects. As we just mentioned, Virtual Staging AI doesn’t offer other necessary services such as AI day-to-dusk, AI photo enhancement, or furniture restyle. What’s missing most in Virtual Staging AI is item-by-item item removal, which is an essential feature for creating MLS-ready photos.

What’s more, in cases where photos originally have low quality or certain items in a photo are misplaced, Virtual Staging AI can’t be of much use to agents. AI HomeDesign, however, has a team of professional virtual stagers available to help agents with those pesky, persistent errors or modifications where automated tools fall short.

Lastly, AI HomeDesign is much more affordable, and this goes beyond the $0.22 price difference of a single photo. For large-scale projects, where agents or photographers need to edit hundreds of photos and the costs can painfully add up, using AI HomeDesign’s virtual staging service will make a dramatic difference.

Imagine an agent using AI HomeDesign to enhance the quality of a photo, stage a space, remove a few items, and finally restyle the furniture all within the same image. Technically, they’d be using four different services, but in practice, they’ll only pay for one.

The reason is that, unlike Virtual Staging AI and similar tools, AI HomeDesign charges per photo, not per service. So, no matter how many services the user applies to a single photo, they’ll only use one single credit and nothing more! Now that’s a sweet deal you can’t pass…

Virtual Staging AI vs. AI Homedesign: Which Is It Then?

Perfect AI virtual staging requires using the perfect service provider that has a rich database and is well-trained for all room types and design styles. Moreover, such a tool must have complementary features that are very often needed when virtually staging a space. Finally, a reliable AI service provider must have a robust support system; a group of professionals who could assist agents with staging unique spaces or poorly captured photos.

While Virtual Staging AI seems to meet the first criteria, it falls short in the second and third. It lacks the complementary features needed for fine-tuning images and doesn’t offer the professional support required for more complex projects or low-quality photos.

FAQs

Is virtual staging expensive?

Virtual staging is generally more affordable than traditional staging. Costs vary depending on the service provider and the number of rooms staged, but platforms like AI HomeDesign offer single photos for as low as $0.24. This makes virtual staging an economical choice, especially for agents who need to stage multiple properties quickly.

What is virtual staging in real estate?

Virtual staging is a technology-driven method of digitally furnishing empty rooms to help buyers visualize the potential of a space. Using AI, virtual staging platforms can add realistic furniture, decor, and other elements to photos of empty rooms, making them more appealing for online listings and enabling buyers to see how the space might look furnished.

Can we use Canva for virtual staging?

While Canva can be used for basic graphic design, it lacks the specialized tools and AI technology needed for effective virtual staging. Dedicated virtual staging platforms like AI HomeDesign offer advanced features like room-specific furnishings, multiple design styles, and realistic renderings tailored specifically for the real estate industry and property listings.

What other services does AI HomeDesign offer?

Apart from AI virtual staging, AI item removal, AI photo enhancement, and AI day-to-dusk, AI HomeDesign offers:

AI interior design;
AI furniture restyle;
AI floor change;
AI wall change;
AI ceiling change;
AI backsplash change; and,
AI under-construction (showing the final look of an under-construction site).

Which businesses can benefit from AI HomeDesign’s services?

Real estate agents, real estate photographers, brokers, platforms for short-term rentals, interior designers, real estate associations, and construction companies will find our services helpful to their business.

November 10, 2024 0 comment

Newer Posts

Older Posts

AI Virtual Staging

Human Virtual Staging

AI Day to Dusk

AI Item Removal

AI Image Enhancement

Interior Design

AI Interior Designer

Furniture Replacement

Full Set Replacement

Home Renovation

AI Wall Change

AI Floor Change

AI Ceiling Change

AI Backsplash Change

AI Under Construction

MLS & Real Estate Agencies

Affiliate Program

API

Dario Rinaldi

What Is AI in Property Search?

How AI Provides Smarter Property Recommendations

Personalized listings

Predictive insights

More efficient listings

Location matching

Property alerts

Benefits for Homebuyers

Are There Any Downsides?

The Future of AI in Property Search

Time to Integrate AI in Your Search

Top Social Media Platforms for Realtors

1. Facebook: The biggest social hub for agents

useful Facebook features for real estate networking

Facebook real estate groups to learn from

2. Instagram: Showcasing properties visually

useful Instagram features for real estate networking

Instagram real estate accounts to learn from

3. LinkedIn: A space for building professional relationships

useful LinkedIn features for real estate networking

real estate pages to follow on LinkedIn

4. YouTube: The ideal place for video lovers

useful YouTube features for real estate networking

real estate channels to follow on YouTube

5. Reddit: The most active real estate communities

useful Reddit features for real estate networking

real estate communities to follow on Reddit

How to Begin With Real Estate Social Networks?

In Closing

How is AI Reshaping Marketing for Rental Properties?

Benefits of AI for Buyers and Agents

The value of AI for real estate agents

listings that come at no cost!

operational efficiency

capitalizing on high rental demand

building long-term relationships

smart maintenance and risk management

How does AI help buyers?

simplifying transactions and fighting fraud

revolutionizing property valuation

market forecasting and risk assessment

Final Thoughts on AI’s Marketing Impact…

FAQs

Characteristics of Home Buyers

Marital status

Ethnic composition

First-time vs. repeat buyers

Motivation for purchasing a home

Characteristics of Purchased Homes

Types of homes purchased

Home features

Environmental and neighborhood factors

Distance moved (from previous home)

Takeaway: The bottom line for home buyers

The Home Search Process

Initial steps in the home search

Duration of the search

Methods and tools used

Potential challenges during the search

Satisfaction with the search process

Role of real estate agents