Artificial intelligence (AI) is driving the most significant positive change for estate agencies in 25 years. Fact.

Across every part of the property journey, from search and discovery to transaction, AI is starting to transform how people find, filter and engage with property information online.

We’re seeing it in the US, with research suggesting that around 40% of property searches now start on AI platforms, rather than traditional portals or search engines.

That shift is happening and, in my opinion, the UK won’t be far behind.

For estate agents, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity. A challenge, because the traditional rules of visibility and discoverability are changing; but also an opportunity to be early adopters, making sure listings are optimised for the new generation of AI-driven search tools that millions of consumers are already experimenting with.

Until now, house hunters have typically relied on using pre-determined drop-down boxes, using location, price bands or similar to scour live listings. AI changes that.

It allows buyers and renters to also express what they truly want, in natural language, in a way that’s more human and more specific.

With AI, a user might ask a very specific request: “Find me a family home in Surrey within 10 minutes of an outstanding primary school, near a train station, with at least half an acre and space to work from home, for under £700,000.”

AI tools can interpret that request, search across large datasets and return tailored results that align precisely with their wishes. In this new world, listings that are clearly written, well-structured and data-rich have the potential to surface first, meaning the quality of data agents share has never been more important.

To appear in AI-driven search results, agents need to make sure their listings data is structured and complete. This includes clear property descriptions, accurate metadata and up-to-date information on local amenities, schools, outside space, transport links and energy performance.

In many ways, it’s like how search engine optimisation (SEO) transformed web visibility a decade ago.

The difference is that AI doesn’t just read keywords, it reads meaning, context and relevance. Listings written in natural, descriptive language helps AI engines to interpret them accurately and match them to what consumers are actually asking for.

Working with digital and AI-optimisation specialists can also help agents ensure their data is discoverable with the big AI search platforms – a small step now that could make a big difference later.

It’s important to note that AI isn’t here to replace estate agents. Far from it. In fact, it’s set to make their expertise even more valuable. While AI can process and analyse data at speed, it can’t replicate local knowledge, empathy or the trust that comes from personal relationships.

AI will handle discovery – finding and matching – but people will always handle decisions. Agents who understand how to combine these two strengths will be the ones who thrive.

Now is the time to incorporate AI into your overall listings strategy – and get your listings discoverable in the places buyers and tenants will be looking next.

Author bio: Giles Ellwood is CEO of Homesearch