The ONE Thing AI Can’t Master (But Your Property Agent Can)

Let’s face it, most Singaporeans would rather brave the relentless midday sun (or a thunderstorm, to be honest) than strike up a conversation with a stranger. The mere sight of an insurance agent lurking near the interchange is enough to send shivers down our spines. So, when it comes to negotiating the sale of your most valuable asset – your home – are you truly confident in your ability to secure the best possible price?

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The indispensable role of a property agent in Singapore

This is where the indispensable role of property agents comes into play. In a digital age where technology seems to permeate every aspect of our lives, the art of negotiation remains a distinctly human skill. Artificial intelligence, for all its advancements, still falls short when it comes to navigating the complex dance of human interaction.

Limitations of AI in property transactions

Imagine trying to sell your HDB flat through an AI-powered platform. Sure, it might be able to crunch numbers and generate an indicative home valuation on which you can base your asking price, but can it truly understand the unique features of your home, beyond just the number of bedrooms and bathrooms? Can it empathise with a potential buyer’s hesitation or address their concerns with warmth and understanding?

An AI might struggle to comprehend the intangible qualities that make a house a home. It cannot appreciate the subtle emotional connection you have to your home, or the unique features that make it special.

Case study: An agent’s magic touch in action

Take, for instance, the case of Mr. Tan* (not his real name) who sought to sell his HDB resale flat with a unique layout and which has not been renovated in about 20 years. While these could be seen as issues that made the sale more complex than usual, Ohmyhome’s property agent saw the hidden potential of the unit. The agent highlighted the flat’s panoramic unblocked view, bright and airy ambiance, and the possibilities for expansion due to the spaciousness of the unit (the positive side of having a unique layout) – features that an AI might overlook. This strategic approach led to a successful sale that surpassed Mr. Tan’s expected price. 

A fresh coat of paint can go a long way when selling your home.

In another instance, a homeowner engaged Ohmyhome to sell their 4-room HDB flat in Pasir Ris. Built in 1995, the corner unit had a practical layout but could benefit from a refresh. The Ohmyhome team advised a fresh coat of paint and decluttering to enhance the property’s appeal for listing photos. This simple yet effective advice, combined with strategic listing on multiple platforms, led to three offers exceeding the seller’s ideal price within just five days, resulting in a $608,000 sale.

Both of these cases exemplify how a property agent’s experience and attention to detail can maximise a property’s potential, something an AI is incapable of right now.

The importance of cultural nuances

In the Singaporean context, where cultural nuances and unspoken cues play a significant role in communication, the ability to read between the lines is paramount. A seasoned property agent possesses the intuition and experience to gauge the motivations of both buyers and sellers, creating a win-win scenario for all parties involved. They can understand unspoken desires and concerns, and tailor their approach accordingly.

Navigating legal complexities

Moreover, negotiating the sale of a property often involves navigating legal complexities and unforeseen obstacles. A skilled property agent acts as your advocate, ensuring that your interests are protected throughout the entire process. They can provide invaluable advice on the hidden details of market trends, negotiate with potential buyers on your behalf, and handle the mountains of paperwork that inevitably accompany such transactions.

The human touch in property 

While technology undoubtedly has its place in the real estate industry, it cannot replace the human touch that is so essential to successful negotiation. So, the next time you’re contemplating selling your home, remember that the art of the deal is still very much a human skill. And in Singapore, where relationships and trust are valued above all else, there’s simply no substitute for the expertise and guidance of a seasoned property agent.

Your home’s full potential awaits

Don’t settle for less than you deserve. Partner with Ohmyhome and experience the difference a skilled and dedicated team can make. We will unlock your home’s full potential and achieve your real estate goals.

Contact us today for a free consultation and discover how we can turn your selling dreams into reality. Drop us a message on WhatsApp or chat with us via our Live Chat!

Stay updated on your home’s current value and get notified when your neighbours list their unit for sale

Homer AI is our home ownership management & e-Valuation tool that will provide an accurate estimation of your home valuation that’s updated every month, so you can track if it increased, stayed the same, or decreased.

With Homer AI, you can also know:

• What your home is worth based on the recent transactions in your area
• How much cash you get to keep after selling
• If you have enough to buy your next home