If you’ve followed me for a while, you know I’m always looking for tools that make real estate easier, more profitable, and let’s be honest, a little more fun. Whether it’s a shiny new AI tool, a marketing platform, or a CRM that finally plays nice with your workflow, I’m constantly researching what’s out there so you don’t have to.

Recently, I used Perplexity to investigate sources like ActiveRain, Keeping Current Matters, and several highly engaged Facebook groups where real agents swap tips, war stories, and tech recommendations. I wanted to get a clear view of what’s actually working in 2025—what tools agents are using right now to close more deals, manage clients more efficiently, and stay relevant in a hyper-competitive market.

The findings are eye-opening and, more importantly, actionable. So, grab your favorite beverage, because what follows is a curated breakdown of today’s must-have tools, direct from the trenches.

I’ll start by giving the prompt that I gave to Perplexity.  ChatGPT also has a research model, which I’m sure would give you comparable answers, so there is no need to fret if you don’t have a Perplexity account.  

Here is the prompt: Act as a deep researcher who is into trends in the residential real estate market.  You are trying to determine what tools real estate agents need to help them better serve the buying and selling public.  You should search websites like Active Rain, keeping current matters as well as Facebook groups for REALTORS.

Here is what came back.  It’s a long read, but well worth the time if you want to see what others are doing tech-wise.

Essential Tools and Resources Real Estate Agents Need in 2025

The residential real estate market is rapidly evolving, and agents who want to stay ahead must leverage a mix of technology, digital communities, and productivity tools. Research across ActiveRain, Keeping Current Matters, and leading Facebook groups reveals several key trends and actionable recommendations for agents to better serve buyers and sellers.

1. Core Technology Tools

Transaction Management and eSignature Platforms

• Tools for electronic signatures (e.g., DocuSign) and transaction management are now considered essential, with 81% of agents citing eSignature and 50% citing transaction management as highly impactful.
• Lockbox and showing technology (e.g., ShowingTime) are also critical for efficient property access and scheduling.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

• CRMs remain vital for lead management, nurturing, and client follow-up. 32% of agents report CRMs as a top source of quality leads.
• Popular CRMs discussed in agent groups include Follow Up Boss, LionDesk, and kvCORE.

Social Media and Content Creation

• Social media is the leading source of quality leads (52% of agents), with Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube being the most used platforms.
• Canva is widely used for creating professional marketing materials, with dedicated Facebook groups like “Canva Made Easy For Real Estate” supporting agents in mastering visual content creation.

Productivity and Collaboration

• Tools like Evernote (note-taking and organization), Slack (team communication), and HootSuite (social media scheduling) help agents stay organized and efficient.
• Password managers like LastPass and text expansion tools (TextExpander) save time and reduce friction in daily workflows.

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation

AI for Marketing and Client Service

• AI tools such as ChatGPT are increasingly used for:

• • Writing and optimizing listing descriptions
  • Drafting emails and social media posts
  • Generating market analysis reports
  • Automating repetitive admin tasks (e.g., scheduling, data entry)

AI for Lead Generation and Analysis

• AI can identify promising leads, automate outreach, and provide hyperlocal market statistics for more informed client advice.
• Agents are encouraged to blend AI efficiency with personal expertise for a competitive edge.

3. Virtual Assistants and Outsourcing

Virtual Assistant Services

• Many growing brokerages rely on real estate-specialized virtual assistants for:

• • Lead generation
  • Administrative support
  • Transaction coordination
  • Social media management
  • Top providers include MyOutDesk, Zirtual, Virtudesk, Summit VA Solutions, Transactly, and Task Bullet, each offering different blends of affordability, specialization, and scalability.

4. Community, Networking, and Knowledge Sharing

Facebook Groups and Digital Communities

• Active Facebook groups are invaluable for:
  • Peer-to-peer knowledge exchange
  • Staying updated on trends and best practices
  • Referral networking and business development

• Notable groups include:

• • Lab Coat Agents (tech and business strategy)
  • Real Closers (lead gen, marketing, referrals)
  • Real Estate Mastermind (problem-solving, inspiration)
  • Realtor Networking & Social Media Tips (marketing advice)
  • Agents are advised to join both national and brokerage-specific groups, as well as local “coming soon” groups for early access to listings.

Best Practices for Engagement

• Add value with helpful content, market updates, and success stories
• Avoid hard selling; focus on building trust and credibility
• Consistent participation keeps agents top-of-mind in their communities

5. Specialized and Emerging Tools

Photo and Video Tools

• High-quality photography and video (including virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs) are crucial for listings, especially for remote buyers.
• Tools like Google’s Picassa (for batch editing and sharing) and new video creation platforms are recommended.

Emerging Technologies

• Drones, AI, and even AR/VR are gaining traction for property marketing and analysis.
• While blockchain and metaverse applications are still early, a minority of agents are exploring these for future impact.

Conclusion

To better serve buyers and sellers, real estate agents in 2025 must embrace a robust technology stack, leverage AI and automation, outsource efficiently, and remain active in digital communities. 

The most successful agents blend these tools with personal expertise, consistent engagement, and a commitment to continuous learning.