Tech Corner: The Future of Real Estate Technology

As we step into 2026, it’s an exciting time to reflect on the progress real estate professionals have made—and to look ahead at the innovations that will shape the industry in the coming year. In 2025, Tech Corner articles helped licensees navigate key topics like digital signatures, compliant advertising, professional social media use, and more. For those who stay informed and adapt thoughtfully, 2026 promises to bring new tools, efficiencies, and opportunities.

2025 in Review: A few topics shared this year

In April, we summarized a presentation from The North Carolina Real Estate Commission’s annual Educator’s Conference, which featured a session on how real estate educators and brokers can use artificial intelligence tools to improve advertising, marketing, and training. Presenters highlighted a variety of free and accessible AI resources like ChatGPT, Adobe Firefly, Google Gemini, and Canva. Presenters highlighted practical tips for using specific tools such as AI image generation and automated video editing while also encouraging users to verify AI outputs for accuracy. The presentation included ethical and safety considerations when working with AI, reminding the audience that tools like ChatGPT should be fact checked and understood in context.

In August, we noted that constant use of digital tools in real estate like emails, AI-generated listings, scheduling apps, and nonstop notifications can lead to “digital burnout,” with stress, fatigue, reduced focus, and a loss of personal connection. Simple strategies to avoid this include: setting clear boundaries and “offline” times, customizing notifications, using automation thoughtfully, and prioritizing real human interaction, keeping technology as a tool, not a source of constant pressure.

In September, we provided information about how digital signatures can speed up transactions and reduce paper use. Brokers must still comply fully with record retention rules, keeping copies of all transaction records for at least three years after the transaction ends, agency relationship terminates, and all trust funds are disbursed. Additionally, brokers are urged to choose reputable e-signature providers and maintain independent backups treating digital records with the same diligence as traditional documents.

In November, an article cautioned about the limits of AI in real estate. While AI tools can be incredibly useful, they should never be relied upon for facts or legal advice, as outputs can be inaccurate or outdated. Brokers are urged to avoid careless use, such as letting AI generate listing descriptions without reviewing or uploading confidential client data. AI can’t replace professional judgment—brokers must always verify and apply their expertise when using these tools.

What 2026 Could Bring:

Based on what’s trending across the real estate profession and tech sector, here are some areas that have potential to grow in 2026.

• AI Assisted Communication

AI powered chatbots, virtual assistants, and automated marketing tools are becoming more popular. Tools that automatically schedule showings, send follow-ups, and nurture and answer basic questions give licensees more time to focus on clients.

What This Means and What Licensees Should Do to Prepare

• Stay educated on tech and compliance: New tools are great, but legal and regulatory compliance remains mandatory. Understand when using AI, e-signatures, or virtual tours that all advertising, disclosures, and retention requirements must be met pursuant to License Law and Commission rules.
• Adopt tools intentionally: Not every tool fits every business. Before adopting certain AI tools, consider whether they serve your clients’ needs and align regulatory requirements.
• Leverage technology to deliver value, not just efficiency: Use automation where it helps efficiency but preserve human judgment, client relationships, and ethical decision-making.
• Monitor data privacy, fairness, and transparency: As AI and automation take on more responsibility, ensure you and your tools treat client data responsibly, comply with fair housing and advertising rules, and maintain trust.

With selective adoption of new technologies, real estate professionals can stay ahead of the curve while providing exceptional service and adhering to regulatory requirements. Here’s to embracing innovation with care, ensuring our profession continues to thrive and evolve in ways that protect licensees and the public.