Real Estate Professionals Show Optimism Amid Shifting Market and Technology Trends

A newly released survey from Kaplan Real Estate Education offers a detailed look into the attitudes, challenges, and expectations of real estate professionals navigating today’s evolving housing market. Conducted between May and June 2025, the inaugural Real Estate Survey of Trends collected insights from 750 licensed agents across the United States, highlighting both confidence and caution in a landscape shaped by fluctuating mortgage rates, rising technology adoption, and shifting client expectations.

Client Growth Outlook

Nearly half of respondents (48%) anticipate an increase in their client base over the next 6–12 months, reflecting optimism that a gradual stabilization of mortgage rates may encourage more buyers to enter the market. Meanwhile, 44% expect their client numbers to remain steady, and only 8% foresee a decline.

“This shows that despite economic uncertainties, agents are still confident that housing demand will provide opportunities,” noted Kaplan’s VP of Real Estate Education, Toby Schifsky. “Agents are positioning themselves to meet buyer and seller needs proactively, rather than waiting for the market to dictate activity.”

Competition Concerns

Real estate professionals expressed mixed feelings regarding competition, particularly as potential economic downturns could attract new entrants to the field. About 32% of agents worry that an influx of new professionals could make client acquisition more challenging, while 41% feel unthreatened by this possibility. The remaining 27% are unsure.

“Competition is always present in real estate, but agents who differentiate themselves with market knowledge, client service, and innovative tools tend to weather market shifts better than those who rely solely on volume,” said Schifsky.

Career Longevity

The majority of agents remain committed to the profession over the next three to five years, with 42% saying they will definitely continue and 35% indicating they will probably stay. However, nearly a quarter of respondents are considering leaving, citing concerns such as income volatility, burnout, and uncertainty about the broader economy. Retirement accounted for a smaller portion of potential departures, emphasizing that systemic challenges, rather than age alone, drive industry attrition.

The AI Factor

While artificial intelligence (AI) is widely discussed as a transformative tool in real estate, Kaplan’s survey found that 46% of agents are not yet using AI professionally, potentially missing opportunities to streamline workflows and enhance marketing. Among those leveraging AI, the most common applications include social media content creation, email campaigns, and administrative support.

“AI has the potential to drastically reduce time spent on routine tasks, giving agents more bandwidth to focus on clients and deal-making,” Schifsky explained. “The key is education and integration—agents who understand how to incorporate AI effectively are likely to gain a competitive edge.”

Technology Adoption Lag

The survey revealed a significant gap in digital preparedness: 52% of respondents agreed that traditional brokerages are not doing enough to prepare agents for a technology-driven real estate future, while only 15% disagreed. The remaining 33% were neutral.

This digital deficit highlights a crucial area for growth in training programs, as tech-savvy agents can respond faster to market trends, generate leads more efficiently, and provide clients with real-time, data-driven insights.

Training and Professional Development

Kaplan emphasizes that continuous learning is no longer optional. The survey underscores that successful agents must not only maintain licensing requirements but also master tools, technologies, and market intelligence. “The industry is evolving faster than ever,” Schifsky said. “Agents need more than foundational knowledge they need ongoing education and strategic skills to thrive, including the ability to leverage AI, optimize marketing, and understand shifting buyer behavior.”

Market Outlook and Agent Confidence

Despite the uncertainties, the survey paints a largely optimistic picture. Real estate professionals are preparing for growth, exploring technology adoption, and focusing on client engagement strategies. By staying adaptable, continuously learning, and adopting new tools, agents aim to turn potential market volatility into opportunity.

“Kaplan’s survey shows that the path to success lies in a combination of professional expertise, innovation, and adaptability,” Schifsky concluded. “Agents who embrace these elements will not only survive but thrive, even in a fluctuating market.” For direct financing consultations or mortgage options for you visit 👉 Nadlan Capital Group.