Tech Bytes: Innovations Shaping the Real Estate Landscape
Editor’s note: Technology is a driving force in real estate. From startups to established players, tech companies are constantly innovating, growing, and forging partnerships. Here we highlight some of the latest news about the companies that help power the industry.
NextHome Embraces SkySlope Transaction Management
In a significant shake-up, NextHome has announced its partnership with SkySlope, a move aimed at providing enhanced transaction management and accounting tools for its franchisees. With a focus on adapting to evolving commission practices following recent National Association of Realtors (NAR) settlement changes, this strategic alliance brings innovation to over 600 NextHome franchisees across the country.
CEO James Dwiggins expressed the motivation behind this partnership: “We wanted to provide a streamlined solution for our members to manage varied compensation formulas. Our research confirms SkySlope is the ideal partner.” The suite of tools offered by SkySlope includes Forms, DigiSign, and Offers, alongside the updated Books feature, specifically designed for accounting and commissions disbursement. These tools are crafted to boost agent productivity and simplify compliance, ultimately enhancing the overall service provided to clients.
Redfin’s Rental Tools Go National
In an exciting development, Redfin has expanded its free rental listing tool to a nationwide audience. This platform is designed to help homeowners, property managers, and agents connect seamlessly with potential renters, simplifying both the application and screening processes.
Senior Director of Product at Redfin, George Perantatos, emphasizes the accessibility of the tool, stating, "Whether you’re renting your home out for the first time or you’re a seasoned investor or property manager, Redfin can help connect you with millions of people searching for their next place to call home across our network of sites." Initially launched in 13 markets earlier this year, the tool now syndicates properties to platforms like Rent.com and Apartment Guide. Furthermore, through a partnership with TurboTenant, property managers can invite renters to apply and conduct comprehensive background checks, credit reports, and more—all from a single interface.
More Proptech and Fintech News
REAI Launches AiMatch
Real Estate AI (REAI) has pulled back the curtain on AiMatch, a groundbreaking tool tailored to streamline the home buying process. By leveraging patented processing technology, AiMatch dynamically connects users with properties that fit their preferences, significantly accelerating the journey from browsing to buying.
Renovation Sells Partners with HouseAmp
In an innovative collaboration, Renovation Sells is teaming up with HouseAmp to enhance the connection between agents and homeowners seeking renovation resources. This partnership aims to empower agents to list more homes that are move-in ready—a strategy expected to elevate sale prices in competitive markets. Rick Hennessey, CEO of HouseAmp, says, "This partnership provides a seamless solution that empowers agents to list more move-in ready homes."
Restb.ai and Lundy Collaboration
Tech innovators Restb.ai and Lundy are making strides in voice-driven home shopping with their latest collaboration. By utilizing Restb.ai’s AI Advanced Tagging, multiple Listing Services (MLSs) will receive upgrades to Lundy’s Finding Homes Pro, setting a new standard for accessibility and tech-savvy home shopping. Lundy’s CEO Justin Lundy champions this as a breakthrough in user-friendly technology for the real estate market.
Sierra Interactive Integrates with Fello
In another creative move, Sierra Interactive has connected its Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system with Fello’s listing-based platform. This integration will enable real estate teams to efficiently generate seller leads from their existing databases, converting opportunities into actual listings, thus enhancing overall business potential.
Ruoff Mortgage Joins Forces with Calque
Ruoff Mortgage is the newest partner for Calque’s innovative buy-before-you-sell programs. These programs, dubbed the "Trade-In Mortgage" and the "Contingency Buster," provide homeowners with the ability to leverage their equity for non-contingent offers and binding backup contracts. This not only simplifies the selling process but also minimizes the financial risks associated with buying and selling homes simultaneously.
RealReports and Pearl Certification Integration
Lastly, RealReports has integrated Pearl Certification into its data toolkit. This collaboration aims to enhance visibility into home features that relate directly to energy efficiency and sustainability. By providing insights into factors such as heating and cooling systems, insulation, lighting, and renewable energy technologies, this partnership underscores the growing importance of sustainability in real estate transactions.
These innovations and integrations underscore an exciting era for the real estate industry, where technology plays a pivotal role in shaping how business is conducted, improving efficiency, and ultimately enriching the customer experience. The wave of change continues to empower both real estate professionals and consumers alike, building a more connected and informed market.