Predictions for 2022 – how could automation change agency in the year ahead?

In recent years, the property market has benefited by making use of automation and technology in everyday processes. Advanced software and applications enable agents to work efficiently, effectively and carry out processes in a fast, efficient, timely way. 

Here, the cloud-based solution for the property industry – which recently partnered with Coadjute in a major tie-up - explores how agents can turn to automation during 2022 to make work processes and customer service better than ever.  

A faster process is a better use of time

Allowing trustworthy technology to handle repetitive tasks can save a vast amount of time. According to recent statistics, replacing manual tasks with automated tasks will save employees between 10% and 50% of the time taken to do labour-intensive duties. 

In addition to this, clients place a lot of value on the speed of transactions and services. In the PwC future of customer service survey, 80% of participants expressed that speed and convenience are the most important aspects of a positive customer experience. 

Creating a more efficient process for agents erases repetitive tasks for employees, allowing them to focus on other areas that require more skill. If implemented correctly, automation is capable of making work quicker and less stressful. 

Peter Grant, chairman and chief executive at Openview, explains: “Looking ahead to next year and understanding the ways in which technology and automation can continue to drive positive change in the property industry is more than necessary for agents. From sales to lettings, automation is proven to be a reliable time-saving solution.” 

“As a time-sensitive industry that is constantly changing, agents regularly have to meet deadlines. Potential delays, large volumes of clients, paperwork to complete, and complex transactions to process are just some of the challenges that agents will always face.” 

“However, through the use of automated processes, agents no longer must worry about the chances of error, potential delays, and losing valuable documents. Stopping these nuisances from happening by automating processes saves plenty of time, money and stress in the long-term.” 

Online communication is the norm

The number of people using automated processes and online systems to communicate effectively continues to rise over time. Openview predicts that this is not a trend but is here to stay. As a result, agents who implement automated processes properly will reap countless benefits.   

Grant continues: “Agents and clients want digital solutions that can be used 24/7 in any location. Real-time communication can happen with automation. For example, a simple automated follow-up text could prevent clients from missing out on crucial information. Losing track of what’s happening to properties is no longer an issue with automation.” 

“While the Omicron variant creates uncertainty about working in the office again, we predict that relying on the right software will support growth all year regardless of where agents choose to work.” 

Cut business costs next year and beyond

Automation has been proven to lower costs within businesses and boost the return on investment. Not only does automating tasks in the organisation increase productivity for everyone involved, but automated software significantly reduces labour and business costs. 

What’s more, automation increases the likelihood of being more compliant. Through automated software, there is less chance of natural human error, therefore less chance of losing money or important documentation. 

Grant concludes: “The market is always changing – and this has been supercharged by Covid. It will be those agents who adapt and evolve who profit the most. As we move firmly into 2022, the aim for agents should be to simplify processes and deliver ground-breaking services efficiently. With the help of readily available PropTech solutions, this is more than possible to achieve.”