T
echnology continues to reshape real estate, pushing both new entrants and established firms to innovate, expand, and form strategic alliances. Below are the latest highlights from the sector.
**Zillow’s Fall Launch Enhancements**
Zillow has added a built‑in messaging tool that mirrors a text‑thread, letting buyers share listing details directly within the app. CTO David Beitel says it “brings the collaboration that already happens across text messages directly into Zillow,” aiming to simplify the home‑buying journey. The launch also introduces a closing dashboard to track title and escrow tasks, and a Zillow Home Loans tool that guides buyers through digital pre‑approval, clarifying which homes fit their budget. Beitel notes the goal is to move users from browsing to closing with less friction and more confidence.
**Cloze Partners with Courted**
Cloze announced a new integration with brokerage‑retention platform Courted. Designed with input from Baird & Warner and Windermere, the partnership lets brokerage leaders identify recruits and plan personalized outreach through Cloze. Courted CEO Sean Soderstrom says the goal is “to help brokerages and team leaders recruit and retain more effectively, without creating more work.” Cloze co‑founder Alex Coté adds that the data flow will enable teams to act faster on insights and strengthen relationships with agents they wish to attract.
**Kai Launches AI‑Powered Renovation Platform**
Kai, an AI‑driven renovation solution, has officially launched in partnership with Home Depot. By converting photos and videos into SKU‑level material specs and cost estimates, Kai accelerates the renovation process for contractors. Co‑founder Or Agassi highlights that generative AI will “completely revolutionize the home renovation industry,” and that the Home Depot partnership demonstrates the need for a platform that can scale. Kai expects to serve tens of thousands of customers by the end of 2025, helping to address the housing supply gap by speeding up renovation timelines.
**Rayse Expands with SFAR**
The San Francisco Association of Realtors (SFAR) has partnered with Rayse, granting its 4,000+ members free access to a platform that showcases agent value to clients. SFAR CEO Walt Baczkowski says the collaboration “gives our members an edge in demonstrating expertise and earning client confidence.” Rayse’s recent alliances with Stellar MLS, IRES MLS, and California Regional MLS underscore its growing reach.
**REA Group Acquires Majority Stake in Planitar**
REA Group announced plans to buy 61.5 % of Planitar, the maker of iGUIDE, an AI‑driven camera and software that produces 3D virtual tours. iGUIDE already operates across North America and will expand into Australia by late 2025 following the acquisition. REA Group CEO Owen Wilson notes that spatial mapping technology “instills confidence and helps property seekers make more informed decisions while also providing agents and vendors a way to differentiate their property.” With less than five % of listings currently featuring a 3D tour, REA expects adoption to rise as technology improves and becomes more accessible.
