Are Real Estate Agents in Demand? Here’s What the Trends Say
Robert Jones • February 19, 2026
Are Real Estate Agents in Demand? Here’s What the Trends Say
If you’re wondering whether real estate agents are still needed in this changing market — especially with all the online tools and AI-powered platforms — the short answer is: yes,
but the nature of demand is evolving. Agents are not going away; their role is just shifting. Let’s explore the dynamics behind their current demand.
Why Agents Still Matter
Even in 2025, many buyers and sellers prefer working with a real estate professional. According to recent data, 90% of home sellers believe having an agent is important,
and 63% say agents are inherently necessary
to navigate the sales process. Agents offer more than just listings — they bring market knowledge, negotiation skills, contract management, and the ability to guide clients through inspections, appraisals, and closing.
Moreover, specialized expertise is increasingly valuable. Agents who focus on niche markets — luxury property, first-time buyers, commercial real estate, or investor clients — are seeing particular demand. Their domain knowledge and local connections remain irreplaceable, especially for clients who don’t want a purely DIY experience.
What’s Driving Current Demand
Several larger trends continue to fuel demand for real estate professionals:
1. Market Activity & Economic Conditions
After a slower period, there are early signs of market stabilization. According to Real Brokerage’s January 2025 agent survey, many agents are optimistic about a rebound, with plans to increase marketing spend. Meanwhile, a June 2025 survey showed 58% of agents are now using AI tools
daily,
particularly for content creation and marketing — a clear signal that technology adoption is reshaping how they operate.
2. Regional & Industry-Specific Growth
Some sectors are particularly active. For example, demand in commercial real estate continues in industries like technology, logistics, and data centers. Agents who understand zoning, sustainability, and land-acquisition strategies are valuable to developers and large corporations. Even short-term rental markets (like Airbnb) are pushing for agents who know how to price, manage, and market such properties.
3. Home Seller Expectations
According to the 2025 NAR Home Buyers & Sellers report, sellers most often want agents to help them market their home and price it competitively. For many, that hands-on guidance makes all the difference in a complicated transaction.
Challenges & Risks Facing Agents
Demand isn’t guaranteed, and the profession isn’t without its hurdles:
- Economic Uncertainty: Many agents are cautious because affordability issues and rising interest rates could suppress buyer activity.
- Market Saturation & High Competition: While demand persists, the number of agents remains high, and not all of them perform equally well. According to some analyses, only a fraction of agents make the bulk of commissions.
- Tech Disruption: Agents who don’t embrace technology risk falling behind. But for those who do, AI tools are becoming everyday aids.
What This Means for Aspiring or Current Agents
If you’re thinking about becoming a real estate agent now — there is opportunity,
but you’ll need to differentiate yourself. Here’s how:
- Embrace technology. Use AI, CRM systems, and digital marketing to stay competitive.
- Develop a niche. Specialize in a particular market segment, whether it’s luxury homes, commercial real estate, or investment properties.
- Build relationships. Referrals, strong networks, and local reputation remain the most effective ways to find clients.
- Focus on education. Knowing legal contracts, pricing strategies, and market trends is more important than ever.
Final Thought
Real estate agents are still very much in demand, but the bar is rising.
Those who leverage technology, specialize strategically, and offer real value to clients will continue to thrive — while others may struggle in this more competitive, digital-first era.
