The real estate market is in a state of transformation, and the T3 Sixty Real Estate Opportunity Report dives deep into the trends shaping this moment. Designed as a resource for agents, brokers, and other stakeholders, this report isn’t just a guide — it’s a call to action.
Published in late fall, T3 Sixty offers strategic insights for our rapidly evolving market. Now is the time to leverage the actionable strategies and technological advancements identified in the report for success in 2025.
As Stefan Swanepoel, executive chairman of T3 Sixty, notes, “This is a rare, unparalleled opportunity to reshape the real estate landscape and transform the home-buying experience into a more efficient, digital, and transparent model centered on the consumer.”
Whether you’re refining your value proposition, embracing AI, or rethinking your commission model, this report equips you to plan thoughtfully and stay ahead of the curve.
10 surprising findings shaping the future of real estate
Let’s explore some of the standout insights from the report that can redefine how agents approach their business in 2025 and beyond.
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1. Decoupling listings and buyer’s agent compensation
A groundbreaking shift in how buyer agents are compensated will change the way transactions occur. With commissions no longer bundled and listed in multiple listing services (MLSs), buyers must now negotiate fees directly with their agents. This creates an opportunity for skilled agents to establish transparent value propositions, potentially commanding higher compensation for their expertise.
Brokers and team leaders have a unique opportunity to recruit buyer’s agents who prefer not to handle negotiating their buyer’s commission independently. By offering structured support, transparent compensation, and a strong pipeline of leads, brokers can attract talented agents who thrive in client-facing roles but want to avoid commission negotiations.
As the report states: “This is a Darwinian moment for real estate — many of the weaker players won’t survive the next few years, and those that remain will be stronger and more professional.”
2. AI is revolutionizing transaction management
AI isn’t just a buzzword — it’s already reshaping real estate. From streamlining client interactions to automating underwriting and personalizing services, AI offers endless potential to simplify the buying process.
However, slow adoption and fragmentation remain challenges. Agents who adopt AI tools early will have a significant competitive edge.
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3. Teams are redefining traditional brokerage structures
Real estate teams are becoming powerhouses, blending specialization with scale to deliver enhanced client experiences. This trend challenges the traditional brokerage model and encourages a reimagining of how brokers and teams can collaborate effectively.
Brokers who provide the tools, resources, and flexibility that large teams need to succeed will position themselves as the go-to choice, gaining a competitive edge in the recruitment war.
4. Consumers demand more transparency
High-profile lawsuits and regulatory changes have led to growing consumer skepticism about real estate services. To rebuild trust, agents must prioritize transparency in fees and practices while emphasizing their value as trusted advisors.
Campaigns like the National Association of Realtors’ “Got Representation?” can help highlight the critical role agents play in successful transactions. Real estate professionals need to consider working this or a similar message into their own marketing strategies.
5. Commission compression continues
As consumers become more educated about their options and technology reduces the reliance on traditional agent roles, downward pressure on commissions will persist. The report suggests exploring alternative compensation models, such as flat fees or hourly billing, to ensure long-term sustainability.
Buyer’s agent comp strategies
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6. There is a homeownership affordability crisis
Rising costs and housing shortages are creating barriers to homeownership, especially for first-time buyers. This presents an opportunity for agents to position themselves as advocates for affordability, working with local governments and developers to offer solutions.
Specializing or becoming an expert in a specific area allows brokers and agents to differentiate themselves in a crowded real estate market. By offering unique knowledge or services that others don’t, they can attract clients who value tailored expertise and build a reputation as a trusted authority. This focused approach not only creates opportunities to stand out but also fosters stronger client relationships, repeat business, and referrals.
7. The rise of new brokerage models
Digital-first and cloud-based brokerage models continue to gain traction as traditional setups face margin pressures. These leaner, tech-driven models prioritize flexibility and lower costs, offering brokers and agents innovative ways to differentiate themselves in the market.
These models are reshaping the real estate landscape, providing brokers and agents with innovative ways to adapt and stand out. These leaner, tech-driven setups reduce overhead by eliminating the need for traditional office spaces while prioritizing flexibility and cost-efficiency.
Agents in these models can leverage advanced tools, such as AI-powered lead generation, virtual transaction management systems, and sophisticated CRM platforms, to streamline workflows and enhance client experiences. With lower operational costs and access to cutting-edge technology, these models offer a compelling way to differentiate in a competitive market.
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8. Enhanced licensing standards could elevate the profession
With consumer trust in the real estate profession declining, the call to strengthen licensing standards is gaining traction. By raising the bar, the industry can reposition agents as trusted advisors rather than transactional facilitators, improving public perception and professional credibility.
Enhanced licensing requirements could shrink the pool of active agents, as stricter standards may deter individuals from entering or remaining in the industry. This reduction in competition creates an opportunity for well-qualified agents and brokers to stand out and capture a larger share of the market.
9. Consolidation among MLS organizations will drive efficiency
Fragmented MLS systems have long posed challenges to agents and brokers. Consolidation across MLS organizations could provide streamlined access to data, better tools, lower fees, and enhanced services, empowering agents to serve clients more effectively.
10. Advocacy for real estate professionals is a critical priority
With mounting regulatory changes and industry scrutiny, the report calls upon organizations like NAR to step up and be strong advocates for real estate professionals. It even goes so far as to recommend NAR decouple itself from MLSs. Agents and brokers could benefit from more competitive fee structures and the ability to choose MLS memberships based on the value provided, rather than mandatory affiliations.
This shift might also encourage greater transparency and efficiency in how MLSs operate, fostering a more dynamic and responsive real estate ecosystem. The bottom line is ensuring professionals’ voices are heard at the legislative level, which is crucial to safeguarding their interests.
Why it matters
The T3 Sixty Real Estate Opportunity Report underscores the importance of proactive adaptation. As technology, regulation, and consumer expectations evolve, so must the real estate industry. For agents and brokers, this means adopting a mindset of continuous learning and innovation to provide unparalleled service and maintain relevance.
This is your moment to lead. Whether by embracing AI, redefining your role as a trusted advisor, or adopting innovative business models, the opportunities are vast.
Luxury Presence: Your partner for success in 2025
Adapting to a changing real estate landscape requires the right tools, strategies, and support. At Luxury Presence, we equip agents with cutting-edge websites, expert digital marketing services, and innovative technology to help you stand out in a competitive market.
As the industry evolves, we ensure you’re positioned to not just navigate these shifts but to thrive. With our tools by your side, you’ll have the resources and expertise to attract clients, close deals, and grow your business with confidence.
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Learn how we can help take your real estate business to the next level. Schedule a time to speak with one of our branding experts today.
