The Top Tech that Changed Real Estate in 2016

Real estate industry insiders are finally cozying up to real estate trends and technology following a mind numbingly long, pothole laden journey. Now embracing technological advancements that break the mold rather than remaining stuck in it, the industry has seen a blinding array of game changers this year.

What tech driven real estate trends knocked real estate professionals onto a different course in 2016?

Smart homes

The home itself is changing: 82 percent of buyers are interested in increasingly affordable, convenient smart tech, from locks to thermostats and lights.

Drones

In June, the FAA finally made it easier for agents to legally fly drones without certifiable "air time," putting a whole new arsenal of weaponry in the hands of agents, sellers, and buyers.

Video

Video has gone viral, literally, offering a new way for buyers to get a feel for a property – sans-travel. Are you cashing in on this proven and effective real estate trend?

VR goggles

Taking video up a notch, VR goggles now allow Joe Buyer a virtual 3D, 360-degree tour of listings and neighborhoods from their local real estate office – or lazyboy.

Predictive analytics

While not new, predictive analytics made great progress this year, weaving deeper into the mainstream to personalize and streamline service for buyers and sellers.

Home selling automation

Venues like Opendoor have hijacked the reins from seller's agents. This type of seller-centered technology is driving big changes in the real estate selling marketplace.

Bots

Bots buzzed to the periphery this year via text, Facebook messenger, Inman, and more, promising to be the next frontier of customer service, though they have yet to have a direct impact on the realty business – yet.

The sharing economy

Collaborative ventures (Realtor + Airbnb, TaskEasy) offer possibilities for consumers that change the way real estate is sold.

To view the original article, visit the Properties Online blog.