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In an evolving real estate landscape, a new study indicates that artificial intelligence is becoming a primary tool for Americans seeking housing market insights. However, amidst this technological shift, the human element—specifically, real estate agents—retains its status as the most credible information source. The emergence of AI-powered search experiences and the prevalent use of social media platforms for real estate content signal a transformative period in how individuals engage with the housing market, blending innovative digital tools with traditional, trusted advice.

Artificial Intelligence and Human Expertise Intersect in Real Estate Search

A recent comprehensive survey conducted by Realtor.com has unveiled a fascinating dichotomy in how Americans approach the housing market. An overwhelming 82% of respondents are actively leveraging artificial intelligence for real estate insights, marking a significant embrace of digital innovation in a traditionally human-centric industry. Leading AI platforms such as ChatGPT, utilized by 67%, and Gemini, favored by 54%, are at the forefront of this digital adoption. Many users express enthusiasm for AI's capacity to deliver personalized home search experiences, prompting Realtor.com to introduce its own AI-driven search functionality, designed to understand and respond to natural language queries.

Despite the growing reliance on AI, the survey emphatically underscores the sustained importance of human expertise. Real estate agents are consistently regarded as the most accurate and trustworthy source of information, with 62% of participants identifying them as making them feel 'smarter' about the market, closely followed by AI at 61%. This perception holds true even as social media platforms, including YouTube (73%) and Facebook (57%), become prevalent channels for real estate content, particularly among Generation Z, where TikTok serves as a primary information source for 76%.

Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com, noted that these trends reflect how consumers adapt to market challenges by adopting new tools and perspectives. While digital platforms offer vast amounts of information, many respondents found that much of this content, especially from social media (29%), TV shows (40%), or even friends and family (24%), often lacked applicability to their specific local markets or presented unrealistic scenarios. These findings highlight a critical need for localized, expert guidance, particularly in a market where affordability remains a significant challenge, with only 28% of homes accessible to the typical household.

The Future of Real Estate Information: A Collaborative Approach

The convergence of advanced AI technologies and the unwavering trust in human real estate professionals paints a clear picture for the future of the housing market. It suggests a collaborative ecosystem where AI efficiently processes vast datasets and personalizes search results, while skilled agents provide the nuanced, localized, and empathetic advice crucial for making informed decisions. This blend of innovation and human connection can empower both buyers and sellers, helping them navigate complex market conditions with greater confidence and clarity, ensuring that while technology evolves, the human touch remains indispensable.