Agents who ignore AI are falling behind – warning
Summary
The article argues that letting agencies that are not adopting AI are falling behind competitors, with AI increasingly used to reduce admin and free up staff time. Sally Lawson, former ARLA president and founder of Agent Rainmaker, says AI cannot replace leadership or relationship-building, but can support agencies as rental reform changes the sector.
Why it matters
Residential property surveyors working alongside letting and agency businesses should note the growing operational role of AI in the sector. The piece also highlights the pressure of rental reform, which may affect how agencies manage compliance, communication and service delivery.
Key points
- AI adoption in lettings is described as accelerating faster than previous technologies.
- The main benefit cited is reducing routine admin such as queries and appointment booking.
- Lawson says AI cannot replace trust-building, leadership or human relationships.
- Agencies not engaging with AI now may struggle to catch up within 12 months.
- Rental reform is referenced as a major change requiring agency leadership attention.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
