In a significant development for the U.S. residential real estate market, homebuyers in Florida are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to navigate the complexities of home purchases while saving on traditional buyer agent commissions. This shift, driven by changing consumer behavior and the growth of real estate technology, is disrupting long-standing industry models and empowering a new generation of tech-savvy buyers to take more control over the homebuying process.
Leading the charge is Homa, a Florida-based proptech startup that has developed an AI-powered platform designed to guide users through every stage of buying a home, from property searches to offer generation and contract management. Homa’s model offers an alternative to the traditional real estate agent approach by allowing buyers to handle much of the transaction themselves, supported by intelligent systems capable of analyzing pricing trends, market comps, and contract nuances.
The first AI-assisted home sale through Homa closed in Florida in late 2025, marking a milestone not only for the company but for the broader industry. Buyers who used the platform were able to avoid paying traditional buyer agent fees, typically between 2.5 to 3 percent of the home’s purchase price. Instead, they paid a lower flat fee through the platform, saving thousands of dollars in commissions that were often redirected toward closing costs or applied to upgrades in their new homes.
The success of these early transactions has led Homa to announce plans to expand its services to Texas and California in early 2026. These markets, known for their high property volumes and tech-forward populations, represent fertile ground for further adoption of AI in residential real estate. Homa’s leadership believes that as housing affordability becomes an increasingly critical issue, platforms that reduce transaction costs will become more essential, especially for first-time buyers navigating tight budgets and competitive markets.
At the core of Homa’s appeal is the promise of transparency and independence. Users of the platform gain access to real-time market data, valuation tools, legal contract templates, and offer submission systems—all functions that traditionally required the involvement of a licensed real estate agent. For many buyers, this approach not only reduces fees but also offers a more efficient and direct path to homeownership. Buyers can submit offers within hours of identifying properties, accelerating a process that can otherwise be delayed by scheduling and agent availability.
The rise of AI in real estate has been years in the making, but its adoption has been hastened by broader shifts in consumer expectations and legal changes within the industry. A major legal settlement involving the National Association of Realtors (NAR) in 2024 brought increased scrutiny to the way agent commissions are structured and disclosed. As a result, many consumers became more aware of the true costs associated with using agents, leading some to explore alternatives that offer similar services at a reduced price.
While the AI-assisted model appeals to many for its cost savings, some industry professionals have expressed caution. Real estate transactions are complex, often involving negotiations, inspections, and local legal considerations that may not be easily automated. Critics argue that technology, while useful, cannot fully replicate the insights and advocacy that experienced agents bring to the table, especially in unusual or high-stakes scenarios. There is also concern that inexperienced buyers relying solely on AI might overlook key aspects of a property or community that a seasoned professional would spot.
Still, many in the industry see the rise of platforms like Homa as part of a broader evolution rather than a complete replacement of traditional methods. Some real estate agents are already incorporating AI tools into their own services to enhance speed and data accuracy, seeing technology as a partner rather than a threat. Others are re-evaluating their commission structures in response to consumer demand for flexibility and price transparency.
For buyers, especially those comfortable navigating digital tools, the benefits of AI-assisted homebuying are compelling. The process offers flexibility, eliminates delays tied to agent availability, and provides greater insight into property data and pricing strategy. In an era where technology is increasingly woven into everyday financial decisions, it’s not surprising that real estate—a sector long resistant to disruption—is finally seeing more rapid transformation.
Homa is not alone in this movement. A growing number of startups and legacy firms are investing in AI-driven platforms that promise to reshape everything from listing discovery to mortgage pre-approval. As these technologies evolve and regulations adapt, the role of the real estate agent may shift from being a gatekeeper to becoming a consultant or coach, helping buyers make informed decisions while allowing them to maintain a higher degree of autonomy.
Looking ahead, the expansion of AI-assisted homebuying into major markets like Texas and California will serve as a key test of the model’s scalability. If successful, it could signal a widespread rethinking of how Americans buy homes—and what services they are truly willing to pay for in an increasingly digital marketplace.
For now, Florida’s early adopters are proving that with the right tools and information, it is possible to buy a home with less overhead and more confidence. As the housing market continues to adapt to new technologies, AI’s role in real estate transactions appears not only viable but poised for rapid growth in the years to come.