AI, Blockchain & Beyond: 2026 Tech Trends Every REALTOR® Should Know

Posted by Sharon Love-Bates, NAR on 10/08/2025

Emerging technology—love it, fear it, or just plain resist it—doesn’t wait for permission. Of all the disruptive tools entering the market, artificial intelligence (AI) often stirs the most uneasiness, especially amid speculation about AI replacing human roles. But disruption doesn’t spell catastrophe—it signals opportunity.

By understanding and embracing new technologies, REALTORS® can unlock efficiencies, expand reach, and serve clients in new ways. Staying informed and proactive is key to remaining competitive and delivering the level of service today’s consumers expect.

And there’s no better way to stay ahead than by joining our brand-new REALTOR® Store webinar: 2026 Tech Trends for REALTORS®: Tools to Streamline, Scale, and Stay Ahead.
Learn how the next generation of AI, automation, and digital tools is transforming every corner of the real estate industry—and how you can leverage them for growth.

Meet the Next Key Member of Your Team: Agentic AI

Agentic AI brings autonomous intelligence to the real estate sector, empowering systems to make independent decisions and automate complex tasks. Unlike traditional AI, which typically requires prompts, agentic AI operates proactively—perceiving, reasoning, and acting on its own to achieve goals.

From analyzing market trends to generating leads, this technology can free REALTORS® to focus on strategy and relationships rather than routine tasks.

Learn more in Meet the Next Key Member of Your Team: Agentic AI.

And if you’re looking to start integrating AI into your workflow, don’t miss two RTRN member-exclusive deals this month:

The Little Pink Book: AI Rules to Live By For REALTORS® (5-Pack) — 20% OFF (Now $23.96, Reg. $29.95)
Brand to Expand: From Invisible to Invaluable With the Power of AI (Digital Download) — 25% OFF (Now $17.99, Reg. $23.99)

Both resources are packed with actionable insights for REALTORS® ready to embrace AI as a business partner—not a competitor.

Crypto: The New Frontier in Real Estate Transactions

Crypto is revolutionizing how properties are bought and sold—introducing secure, transparent, and efficient alternatives to traditional payment methods. Today, more clients are using major cryptocurrencies for down payments and purchases, with specialized escrow services facilitating the conversion to fiat.

Understanding these tools helps REALTORS® better serve tech-forward clients who expect modern, frictionless experiences.

Read the full article: Why Real Estate Agents Can’t Afford to Ignore Crypto Clients.

Blockchain: Driving the Next Wave of Real Estate Change

Blockchain is more than the backbone of crypto—it’s becoming a foundation for real estate operations. Its decentralized, tamper-resistant ledger enables innovations like smart contracts (automating transaction milestones) and tokenization (fractional property ownership through digital shares).

These advances could lower transaction costs, simplify documentation, and broaden property investment opportunities. According to Deloitte, blockchain-driven efficiencies could cut costs by up to 30%. REALTORS® who understand this space will be trusted advisors in a rapidly digitalizing market.

Read more in The Future of Real Estate Is on the Blockchain.

Maximizing the Benefits of Emerging Tech

Knowledge truly is power. Start by understanding what emerging technologies can do—and where they fit in your business processes. Invest in professional development, automation tools, and partnerships that help you leverage tech for productivity and client satisfaction.

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore these additional REALTOR® Store resources—each part of October’s Right Tools, Right Now offers:

Stay Future-Ready

AI, blockchain, and crypto aren’t just trends—they’re reshaping how REALTORS® operate, market, and connect with clients. Professionals who explore these innovations early will gain a lasting competitive edge.

Visit the REALTOR® Store to shop this month’s RTRN-exclusive deals and watch the 2026 Tech Trends for REALTORS® Webinar—your roadmap to staying informed, adaptable, and ahead of the curve.

About the Author

Sharon Love-Bates is the Director of Emerging Technology for the National Association of REALTORS®. With over twenty years of technology experience, including more than a decade in leadership roles, Sharon has a proven ability to leverage innovation to drive strategic initiatives and deliver impactful solutions. Her background as a real estate broker gives her deep insight into the industry’s evolving landscape. In her current role, she leads research and discovery efforts to assess emerging technologies with the potential to create lasting, positive change in the real estate ecosystem. Passionate about the transformative power of innovation, she is committed to equipping real estate professionals with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in a constantly evolving industry.