During a recent conversation I was reminded me of something I feel many of us are experiencing: in past years, we often had to explain the subtle differences and nuances that our clients did not fully understand or know, the inaccuracies of the Zestimate and other similar online do-it-yourself algorithmic-driven valuation tools designed to fuel connection, etc. These days, much of this inaccurate, useless or subtly skewed information overload is coming from A.I. Yes, we are now arguing with 'the machine' in many circumstances.

The internet has always been a mixed blessing. While it provides tons of information, some of that information is not pertinent, and worse, some of it is slightly-to-largely inaccurate. I have caught multiple errors in my use of A.I and I wonder which ones I did not catch. In real estate, the primary driver of inaccuracies is that we humans are the ones consumers trust most to enter their homes and by doing so, we will see things no computer can see. That is the key, pun intended.

While A.I will be enormously helpful in replacing lots of work, the job of a professional real estate advisor is now elevated once again. We have to meet this new, higher level, one that delivers real value to the consumer. It starts with earning and building trust. Then, it also requires real, specific, real-time, boots-on-the-ground knowledge, combined with people-skills to navigate the emotional complexities of all that real estate delivers. Lots of data and information is wonderful. Knowing what is accurate, meaningful, pertinent, current, appropriate, etc requires outstanding human skills.