Digitalization in the real estate industry has become increasingly important in recent years. Modern technologies enable more efficient processes, better data management and optimized customer service. Nevertheless, many companies face the challenge of successfully integrating digital solutions into existing processes. Digitalization in the real estate industry is not a sure-fire success - it requires strategic planning, a willingness to change and the right technical implementation.

Although digital technologies offer enormous advantages, the introduction of new systems often comes with hurdles. Especially in an industry where many processes are traditional and highly regulated, switching to digital processes can be challenging.

According to KPMG (2022), 50% of companies in commercial real estate management do not have a digitalization strategy, although 78% consider it to be essential. This strategic deficit shows that many companies are still not sufficiently prepared for digital transformation (KPMG, 2022).​

The switch to digital systems means a profound change for many companies. Existing processes have to be revised or even completely restructured. The introduction of new software is often associated with uncertainty, as not all employees immediately recognize the benefits they can derive from digitalization. In addition, different systems must be compatible with each other to ensure a smooth workflow.

Employees are often skeptical about change - especially if it affects their usual working methods. Uncertainty about new technologies or the fear that digital processes could jeopardize existing jobs often lead to resistance. Digitalization is not only a technological challenge, but also a cultural one that requires a rethink in companies.

New digital solutions usually require intensive training and a familiarization phase. This can be a considerable challenge, especially in companies with a large number of employees. Without a sound introduction and ongoing support, there is an increased risk that digital tools will not be used effectively or may even be rejected.

To ensure that digitalization in the real estate sector not only works on paper, but also creates added value in practice, the following measures are crucial:

Successful digitalization begins with a comprehensive inventory. Companies should precisely analyze which processes currently exist, where there are bottlenecks and which digital solutions can bring the greatest improvements. Employees can be involved at an early stage in interactive workshops and specific requirements can be developed.

 According to the study by the Institute of Real Estate Economics and Management (IIWM, 2024) , many companies are lagging behind their own expectations in their digital transformation. The discrepancy between the perceived level of digital maturity and the actual use of modern technologies is particularly striking.

• 60% of companies do not use technologies such as AI, IoT or blockchain at all.
• Only 25% use predictive analytics to analyze data patterns.
• 39% of companies have no clear digitalization goals.

These figures make it clear that the change is not only technical, but also cultural in nature. Companies need to invest not only in software, but also in the acceptance and training of their employees.

People are at the heart of every change. Well thought-out change management helps to reduce fears and create acceptance for new technologies. Open communication, regular information events and a transparent exchange about the benefits of digitalization can reduce resistance.

Digital solutions are only as good as the people who use them. It is therefore important to offer practical training - ideally with flexible e-learning programs that allow employees to learn at their own pace.

The introduction of new technologies is an ongoing process. Regular updates, technical support and continuous optimization of the digital infrastructure are essential to ensure long-term success.

A key advantage of digitalization in the real estate industry is the ability to automate work processes. This can simplify routine tasks, reduce errors and save valuable resources.

Helpdesk & Incident Management: Automatic ticket assignments or escalation mechanisms ensure a more efficient handling of requests.
Automated communication: Standardised email or SMS templates help to avoid errors and speed up workflows.
Workflow automation: Standardised processes such as contract renewals, reminders, or document management can be automated through smart systems.

Time savings: Employees can focus on complex and strategic tasks instead of carrying out manual processes.
Error minimisation: Defined workflows reduce human errors and make processes more consistent.
Better customer service: Faster response times and optimised processes lead to higher customer satisfaction.

The introduction of new technologies requires not only strategic planning, but also smooth integration into existing processes.

Before implementing new tools, companies should carefully analyze their current processes. Which systems are already in use? Where is there potential for improvement? Which workflows could be optimized with digital solutions?

Every company has different requirements. Digital tools should therefore be flexibly adaptable in order to fit seamlessly into existing structures. An “off-the-shelf” solution is rarely the best choice.

The introduction of new technologies should always be accompanied by transparent communication. Employees need to understand what added value digital solutions offer for their day-to-day work. This is the only way they can actively help shape the new processes and use them effectively.

Digitalization is changing the real estate industry not only through the automation of existing processes, but also through the increased use of artificial intelligence (AI). AI technologies are opening up new efficiency potential, particularly in process optimization and data management.

81% of companies expect significant progress through AI-supported automation (ZIA & EY Real Estate, 2024).

One decisive advantage is the reduction in the workload of skilled workers, especially in a tight labor market. 79% of companies see AI as a key technology for automating routine tasks and compensating for the shortage of skilled workers.

Practical fields of application for AI in the real estate industry

• Optimization of customer communication → 78% of companies already use chatbots or are planning to introduce them.
• Automated document processing → 68% use AI for contract review and document analysis.
• More efficient building management → 60% use AI for intelligent energy management.

Despite this progress, there are still challenges:

• Poor data quality and a lack of standardization make implementation difficult.
• Integration into existing systems remains a technical hurdle.
• Skills shortage in AI development delays innovation.

Nevertheless, the study shows that 89% of companies are convinced that AI will enable new business models and change the industry in the long term. Investments in data quality, digital infrastructure and targeted training measures are crucial for successful implementation. Only in this way can AI develop its full added value in the real estate industry.

Digitalisation in the real estate industry is a long-term process that needs to be strategically planned. SMARTBRIX offers customised digital solutions for the real estate industry and supports companies in efficiently automating and optimising their processes. 

Why SMARTBRIX?
 Individual Customisation: Our solutions are specifically tailored to the needs of your business. 
 Holistic support: From the initial analysis through implementation to continuous optimisation, we accompany you step by step. 
Usability: Intuitive operation and practical training ensure a quick acceptance of new technologies. Future-oriented development: We actively shape digital transformation and work to meaningfully integrate new technologies into our solution to make property processes even more efficient – this includes, among other things, the integration with ChatGPT.
If you want to prepare your business for the digital future, let our experts advise you!

Book a free consultation now 

Digitalization in the real estate industry offers enormous potential for more efficient processes, better customer service and sustainable corporate development. However, the digital transformation also brings challenges. Companies that rely on strategic planning, the right technology and strong employee involvement can successfully overcome these challenges. 

With an individual digitization strategy and the support of experienced partners such as SMARTBRIX, the transition to the digital real estate world is not only easier, but also sustainably successful.