Important points:
AI is becoming a more important tool in the home buying process, often making searches more efficient and learning terms and trends easier. Redfin’s new conversational search tools understand language to help you find the perfect home based on your specific wants and needs. AI cannot replace the expertise and advice of a licensed agent and must be used carefully and strategically on a secure platform.
Buying a home can feel like a full-time job between scrolling through listings, comparing prices, and trying to find the right opportunity before everyone else does. But AI is rapidly evolving into a useful tool in the real estate world, and Redfin is right in line with that.
With industry-leading listing accuracy, real-time updates, and powerful filters, Redfin provides the foundation you need, and our AI tools help you refine, analyze, and migrate with confidence. Whether you’re looking for the perfect starter home in Richmond, Virginia, or looking at current mortgage rates for a move to Seattle, Washington, we’ll show you the best ways to use AI to your advantage.
What AI can (and cannot) do
When it comes to the home-hunting process, AI tools can help with many pre-decision and data-driven tasks, including:
However, there are still limits to what AI can do on its own. For example, in the house hunting process, AI cannot:
Replace Accurate MLS Data Tour Homes Negotiate Contracts Understand Local Market Nuances
The smartest way to use AI when searching for a home is to combine its insights with real-time property information, pricing tools, and agent expertise like the one you get with Redfin.
In fact, Redfin recently launched conversational search. It’s an AI-powered assistant that helps you find the perfect listings that fit your specific description.
Tips for finding a home using AI
1. Ask questions to clarify what you’re looking for
Not sure where to start? Ask your favorite AI tools about the benefits of different sectors, general market and cost trends, and anything else you’re curious about. As you narrow your search, use tools like our affordability calculator, home buying guide, and housing market page to understand where you stand.
2. Use Redfin’s conversational search
Instead of toggling filters to find the right one, Conversational Search lets you search Redfin with specific questions about how you want to live in your new home. Understand the language and details, and also be able to adjust results based on follow-up questions and parameters.
>>Try Redfin’s Conversational Search to see for yourself.
3. Analyze your list to make informed decisions
When you find a home you like, AI can help you find out more about the property. Asking questions is an important part of the home search, especially if you’re buying a home without a real estate agent. It’s important to understand that AI is not a replacement for the advice of a licensed agent, but it can be a useful tool that suggests questions to ask and things to investigate further.
4. We’ll help you find the right real estate agent
Searching the market for the right home is only part of the process. You’ll need to find the right real estate agent to help you get there. An agent can provide valuable advice, tour prime homes with you, and negotiate to get the best deal for you. Find the top Redfin agents in your area and use AI tools to ask the right questions to help you find your home.
5. Combine AI insights with real mortgage tools
AI can be a great starting point for exploring bigger concepts like mortgage options and down payment strategies. When you’re ready to dig deeper, you can learn all about mortgage pre-approval, down payment assistance, and more at Rocket Mortgage. Tools like the Rocket Mortgage Online Mortgage Calculator can also help you crunch real numbers and calculate your estimated monthly payments.
Bottom line: Use AI carefully and strategically with Redfin
AI can do many things, but it works best when combined with trusted data and real-world context. Whether you’re using our proprietary AI tools, checking out conversational search, or looking for more information to research during your home buying journey, keep Redfin by your side as your ultimate guide.
FAQ: Using AI to find a home
What is conversational search?
Redfin’s Conversational Search is a new virtual assistant that understands language and can suggest homes based on specific descriptions. Rather than being limited to preset filters and categories, Conversational Search lets you capture important details to narrow down your property options and find the perfect home.
Should I use a third-party AI tool to find a home?
While AI tools can help with research and strategy, the actual home search must rely on real data from platforms like Redfin.
Can AI replace real estate agents?
No, AI cannot replace real estate agents. Licensed agents provide local expertise, negotiation skills, and contract guidance that cannot be replicated by AI.
What information should I share when using AI to find a home?
AI can help you compare factors like neighborhoods and property details, as well as understand trends and larger housing market concepts. Tasks that involve personal information, such as bank account details or loan documents, are best done using secure platforms built specifically for that purpose.
