AI, PropTech and People Take Centre Stage at Proper Talk

Far from focusing solely on technology, much of the debate centred on people. One of the liveliest discussions asked whether organisations would achieve better service by investing an additional £500,000 in recruiting more property managers or by spending the same amount on AI and technology. The panel was divided, although there was broad agreement that the future lies in combining skilled people with intelligent technology rather than choosing one over the other.

Building safety also featured prominently, with panellists exploring whether AI could help manage increasingly complex compliance obligations, maintain the Golden Thread of information and ultimately contribute to safer homes. The concept of the "self-healing building" – where connected sensors identify and predict faults before residents even become aware of them – proved particularly popular with the audience.

The discussion also touched on AI "sycophancy", the growing geopolitical influence of large language models, and the environmental cost of increasingly energy-intensive AI infrastructure. One clear message emerged: the technology already exists, but the challenge is integrating it effectively into day-to-day operations.

An audience poll showed that almost everyone attending now uses AI every day in their work, underlining just how quickly the technology has become part of everyday professional life.

The event concluded with a series of humorous AI anecdotes from the panellists before attendees continued the conversation over coffee, with many agreeing that understanding AI is no longer optional for property professionals – it is becoming an essential part of staying relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.

Proper Talk is a collaboration between Earl Kendrick, Bridge Insurance Brokers and JC Property Consultancy, bringing together professionals from across the residential property sector to explore the issues shaping its future. The next Proper Talk is already being planned, and those interested in attending future events are encouraged to register their interest at www.proper-talk.co.uk.