Real estate isn’t just changing, it’s evolving fast. And the biggest shift? Proptech is no longer a niche – it’s the engine behind today’s new-home experience.
Proptech – or technology developed specifically for the real estate and home building industries – is streamlining the journey from browsing, buying, and closing. Homebuyers, not just developers, are reaping the benefits.
• AI-powered tools estimate home values with accuracy.
• Virtual tours now rival in-person walkthroughs.
• Blockchain transactions remove delays and red tape.
• Smart HVAC systems adapt to your lifestyle.
• Digital twins let you simulate renovations before move-in.
“As we think about building, we are seeing technologies that help with everything from designing, construction, material procuring, and financing,” said Raja Ghawi, partner at Era Ventures. “When it comes to transacting, that’s where a lot of traditional proptech within residential real estate has been built, such as brokerages, financial products related to cash offers, buy-before-you-sell products, and how you reimagine the brokerage.”
Customer Behavior is Changing
Since the pandemic, consumer demand for on-demand, self-service experiences has shifted from a preference to an expectation, said Tom Nelson, founder of UTour.
“Today’s home shoppers want to control their buying journey, access information whenever they choose, and expect self-directed tools like chatbots, interactive design and pricing platforms, home visualizers, and self-guided tours,” he said.
The company’s technology enables prospective buyers to access model homes independently, eliminating the need for an agent.
“Immersive virtual tours, 3D visualizers, and self-guided access have boosted buyer confidence,” Nelson said. “By the time buyers step into a model or inventory home, many have already explored designs, finishes, and community details online.
“This digital research often fuels their desire to see the home in person.”
Nelson said many shoppers choose self-guided tours, for a few reasons:
• Flexibility outside typical sales office hours
• To avoid salesperson pressure
• Private exploration and confirmation that the home lives up to its online presentation
Upcoming Proptech to Get Excited About
• Next-gen virtual tours: Gaming-engine visualizers offer lifelike walkthroughs with high-fidelity graphics, real-time lighting, and interactive elements.
• No more static photos: Browse homes with realistic textures, dynamic shadows, and physics-based rendering.
• On-demand reservations: Lock in a homesite or inventory home instantly. There’s no need to wait for a sales appointment.
• Real-time customization: “Design and price” tools let buyers personalize features and see updated costs instantly.
• Full control: Choose structural options, finishes, and upgrades with total pricing transparency.
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