It feels like in just a few short years, artificial intelligence (AI) has gone from the stuff of science fiction movies to part of our daily routines. Voice assistants reminding us of appointments, tools for writing emails or creating marketing copy, and so much more, it’s clear that this technology is here to stay and more than that, is growing (exponentially) fast.

AI has been a hot topic at conveyancing conferences and events, as well as day-to-day watercooler chats. But for many conveyancers, you might wonder: What does this mean for me? And that’s a fair question. Conveyancing is a detail-oriented, highly regulated profession, and the idea of handing any of that over to a machine can feel… unsettling.

But AI doesn’t have to be scary or overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll explore what AI adoption looks like in the property and conveyancing space, how it might support your business, and what you need to consider when implementing it. Remember - the goal isn’t to replace people. It’s to make your job easier, more efficient, and ultimately more rewarding.

The rise of AI in real estate & conveyancing

While the property industry has traditionally been slower in adopting new tech, that’s changing, and AI is playing a growing role.

In real estate, we’re already seeing AI used to power chatbots on agency websites, predict market trends, automate email marketing, and pre-fill data in CRMs. These tools help agents manage more enquiries, nurture leads, and provide faster service. 

In the conveyancing space, early adopters are exploring AI-powered features like document generation, compliance checks, and client communications. These tools are designed to reduce admin, increase accuracy, and free up time.

Importantly, the goal of AI in this space isn’t to replace human expertise, but to support it. When you let the tech handle the repetitive or low-risk tasks, it frees you up to focus on the work that truly needs your knowledge, judgment and personal touch.

Where AI can help conveyancers right now

When we look at how AI can support conveyancers today, we are somewhat limited to the existing tools and products available for what is a fairly niche sector.  But, while we can’t yet use AI to quite the same capabilities as some other industries, there are certainly many practical ways you can wet your toes and get AI to start supporting your conveyancing business.

1. Automating repetitive admin

Tasks like appointment reminders and basic email replies are necessary, but time-consuming. With the right setup, AI can automate many of these, helping reduce your workload while keeping clients in the loop.

2. Smarter client support

24/7 support doesn’t mean you need to be awake at all hours. AI tools (for example, Ruby, our very own in-platform assistant) can help your clients and team members get answers instantly, even outside business hours.

3. Reducing human error

Mistakes in document preparation or workflow steps can be costly. AI-powered checks and automations can help flag missing information or inconsistencies, offering an extra layer of quality control.

4. Fast access to information

Need to quickly summarise a contract? Or answer a common client question? AI tools can surface answers from documents or your own knowledge base in seconds, saving you time and helping you respond with confidence.

Conveyancers aren’t going anywhere

We really want to drive home that AI isn’t here to make you redundant. It’s here to give you back time, reduce risk, and help you create a better experience for clients.  

Consider the role of bank tellers in the 2000s and earlier - this role no longer exists in the same format. Instead, today, bank staff work in more advisory and customer relationship roles, helping clients with complex financial needs, investments, and digital onboarding.  

Similarly, the traditional role of the travel agent has been replaced by online booking tools. But savvy agents have evolved into travel advisors and curators, offering personalised itineraries, luxury concierge services, and high-touch experiences that tech alone can’t provide.

Privacy, security & ethical considerations

With all the buzz around AI, it’s easy to forget that not all tools are created equal. For conveyancers, using AI responsibly is essential, because you’re dealing with highly sensitive information like client IDs, bank account details, and property contracts.

Before using any AI tool in your business, ask the following:

• Where is the data stored?
  Is it on Australian servers, or overseas? Data sovereignty matters when it comes to compliance with Australian privacy laws.
• Is the tool saving the data you input for training purposes?
  Some tools use the information you provide to train their models, potentially exposing client data. Look for platforms that give you control over what’s stored and shared.
• Is it hosted by a reputable provider that aligns with your security and compliance obligations?
  Trust matters. Work with providers who prioritise data protection and transparency.
• Is the tool integrated with your existing workflow, or does it sit separately?
  Disconnected tools can increase risk. Integrated, cloud-based platforms are generally more secure and easier to manage.

And finally: AI is not a “set and forget” solution. It needs ongoing oversight, training, and updates to remain effective and safe. Just like any staff member, AI needs direction and boundaries.

Choosing AI tools for your business

So you’re ready to dip a toe into the AI waters.  But where do you start? Here are a few tips for choosing the right tools…

• Look for transparency.

Your chosen provider should be able to explain how the AI works, what data it uses, and how it protects your and your client’s information.

• Choose tools that align with your workflow.

You shouldn’t need to overhaul your entire system to gain value. Assuming you have already taken steps to bolster the efficiency of your business and your workflow, look for AI that fits into your current processes.

• Invest in upskilling.

Make sure your team understands what the AI does (and doesn’t do), and establish clear guidelines for when and how to use it.  We have heard many stories of team members wanting to leverage AI.  They use free tools without the knowledge of the business owner, and without understanding the privacy and security implications.  Involve your team in the AI conversation and ensure they understand the risks.

When in doubt, start small.  Even a single AI-driven tool like your very own Ruby-esque Chat Bot can make a noticeable difference in your day-to-day and to your clients.

Here’s our final thoughts when it comes to AI adoption in conveyancing…

AI is already part of the future of conveyancing, and the good news is, you don’t have to jump in headfirst. Start small, ask good questions, and choose tools that support your team. The conveyancers who will thrive in the coming years aren’t necessarily the ones with the fanciest tools.  Instead, they’re the ones who use technology intentionally to create better outcomes for their business, their team, and their clients.

Want to see how Realtime’s in-platform AI assistant, Ruby, is helping hundreds of conveyancers work faster, smarter and more confidently? Book a demo and see the difference for yourself.