Real Estate Tech on the Rise, But Agents Still Key in Complex Home Buying Process

• Sites like Zillow and Redfin have brought more technology to real estate, but agents still play a key role in purchases

• A recent legal settlement could lead to more changes, as buyers may now pay agents separately from sellers

• This may allow new tech to reshape agents' roles, similar to changes seen in finance and travel booking

• But real estate deals involve much more complexity and money than booking a flight, so full automation is unlikely

• Agents can shift to more of a consultant role, offering expertise and reassurance during a major financial decision