Are you facing complex real estate decisions and looking for data-driven assurance? The use of online services offers enormous opportunities, but also involves risks. This article shows you how to confidently use digital offerings to achieve your goals.
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The topic briefly and concisely
The use of online services in the real estate sector is widespread (70% of property seekers use the internet) and offers advantages in terms of efficiency and transparency.
Security and data protection (GDPR, DSA) are crucial when choosing and using online services; pay attention to encryption and server locations within the EU.
Automated online reviews offer an initial orientation, but for complex cases, expert knowledge is essential; a combination of AI and expertise is ideal.
Digitalisation has fundamentally transformed the property sector. Are you wondering how to effectively use the myriad of online services for your real estate transactions or valuations? From the initial market analysis to the final decision, digital tools now offer support to an unprecedented degree. This article highlights how, by strategically using online services, you can make quicker, more transparent, and better-informed decisions, and what aspects you need to be aware of in order to fully harness the potential while remaining secure.
In Brief: Opportunities and Challenges of Digital Real Estate Services
The use of online services in the real estate sector is already commonplace for many. According to Bitkom, in 2021, 70% of searchers used the internet for property searches.
Online services promise efficiency, transparency, and a broad data base for decision-making. They enable, for example, access to comparative data or automated evaluation approaches, which speed up the process.
At the same time, using digital offerings requires awareness of data protection and critical evaluation of information quality. This is crucial for making secure decisions.
Choosing the right service and understanding its methodology are critical to success. This article guides you through the key aspects.
Increasing efficiency with digital helpers: Save time and costs
Online services significantly reduce administrative workload, for example through digital tools. Connected data enables more efficient processes in property management, a clear advantage.
Chatbots handle simple inquiries and can reduce call volume by up to 20%, thus relieving staff.
Online portals provide access to important information such as consumption data or billing at any time. This accessibility saves an average of 2-3 hours of administrative time per week.
The efficiency of online platforms is a clear advantage. Automation of routine tasks through digital janitorial services is another step forward.
This leads to a focus on core tasks and can reduce operating costs by 5-10%. Correct selection and implementation are crucial for maximum benefit.
Market transparency and data-driven decisions: The power of online databases
The availability of market data online has revolutionised decision-making. Platforms provide access to comprehensive property and land information, including standard land value rates.
Through online listings, sellers can market their properties more efficiently. 96% of searchers value meaningful photos in online listings.
The use of online valuation services can give an initial orientation of the property value. Online valuation services use algorithms with thousands of comparative data points.
However, for accurate valuation, helpful tools and expert knowledge are essential. The challenge lies in assessing the quality and relevance of the data.
Security and Privacy: What You Need to Watch Out for When Using Online Services
The security of your data is of utmost importance when using online services. Since May 2018, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has provided the legal framework.
Providers must inform transparently about the storage and processing of personal data. Ensure you use encrypted systems and cloud hosting with servers located in Germany to protect sensitive data.
The Digital Services Act (DSA), valid EU-wide since February 2024, strengthens user rights and obligates platforms to quickly remove illegal content.
Use strong, different passwords for each online service. Familiarise yourself with the privacy policies before using a service. The reliability of online reviews also depends on the provider's credibility.
Key aspects of data security in online services:
Check the provider's privacy policy (usually linked in the footer).
Prefer services with servers located within the EU (often mentioned in the terms and conditions or privacy notices).
Use two-factor authentication if offered (an additional security layer alongside your password).
Be cautious about sharing personal information (only provide what is necessary).
Look for secure connections (HTTPS in the browser's address bar).
Keep your software up-to-date (browser, operating system) to close security gaps with regular updates.
Be cautious with public Wi-Fi networks (better to conduct sensitive transactions on a secure home network).
These measures help minimise risks such as identity theft or unauthorised access. A critical approach to data handling is essential.
Opportunities and Limitations of Automated Assessments: When Is Expert Advice Essential?
Automated online evaluations often provide free initial assessments within minutes. They are based on algorithms and market data.
They only partially capture individual characteristics of a property, such as specific levels of modernization or unique locational aspects. This is an important limitation.
For complex cases, inheritance matters, or atypical properties, expert evaluation is usually indispensable. This ensures an accurate assessment.
The property evaluation software is continually evolving. Nevertheless, it does not completely replace the experience and local market knowledge of an appraiser.
An Auctoa AI-assisted valuation combines technology with expert knowledge. It can provide a valuable, neutral assessment. The ImmoGPT chat answers initial questions quickly.
The role of the Digital Services Act (DSA) for increased security and transparency
The Digital Services Act (DSA) has been legally binding for all online services in the EU since 17 February 2024.
It aims to enhance user rights and create a safer online environment.
Platforms are required to remove illegal content like hate speech or counterfeit products more swiftly and act with greater transparency.
For users, this means better protection against unjustified bans. Breaches can be penalised with fines of up to 6% of the global annual turnover.
In Germany, the Federal Network Agency is the coordinating supervisory authority. This is an important step towards the revolution through online evaluations.
The DSA regulations also apply to online marketplaces and search engines. They enhance safety for all users.
Key Points of the Digital Services Act (DSA):
Obligation to promptly remove illegal content (e.g., within 24 hours for hate speech).
Greater transparency in algorithmic recommendation systems.
Ban on certain types of targeted advertising (e.g., based on sensitive data of minors).
Clear procedures for user complaints and out-of-court dispute resolution.
Special due diligence obligations for very large online platforms (VLOPs) regarding risk management.
Designation of contact points for authorities and users.
These measures are intended to increase trust in the use of online services overall. Safety and transparency are key objectives here.
nutzung-online-dienste
Online services accompany the entire lifecycle of a property. According to Bitkom, 70% use the internet for their search, with portals dominating.
For valuation, numerous online appraisal services exist. They provide initial assessments, but are often not comprehensive.
In the management phase, smart services help reduce costs and optimise processes, for example, through remotely readable meters and digital tenant communication.
Chatbots can automatically respond to up to 80% of standard enquiries here. This significantly relieves administrative personnel and saves time.
In marketing, online platforms enable targeted audience engagement and efficient processing. This significantly optimises the sales process.
Even technology trends in the real estate sector such as virtual viewings are driven by online services. The challenge is to integrate the right services.
Future Outlook: AI and Augmented Reality in the Online Real Estate World
How do I find reputable online services for real estate?
Look for transparent provider information, clear privacy policies, positive user reviews (examine critically!), and whether the service adheres to established standards. For review services, methodology is often a quality indicator. Auctoa, for example, offers AI-driven, neutral reviews.
Can online services completely replace an estate agent?
Online services can take on many tasks of an estate agent, such as marketing or initial evaluations. However, in complex negotiations, specific local market knowledge, or personalised advice, an experienced agent or advisor can still be very valuable. Often a combination is ideal.
What does it cost to use online real estate services?
Costs vary significantly. Many basic pieces of information or simple online assessments are free. Specialised data analysis, premium listings, or comprehensive management software are usually subject to charges, often in subscription models or per transaction.
How up-to-date is the data in online real estate evaluations?
The freshness of the data is a key factor. Reputable providers update their databases regularly, often monthly or even more frequently. When in doubt, contact the provider or check the information regarding the data basis.
What role will AI play in future online real estate services?
AI will play a central role, from more accurate, dynamic assessments and market forecasts to personalised recommendations, including intelligent chatbots for customer service, like Auctoa's ImmoGPT. The aim is an even more efficient and user-friendly experience.
What should I do if I fall victim to fraud by an online service?
Secure all evidence (screenshots, emails), contact the provider, and report it to the police. Also inform consumer protection agencies. In the event of breaches against the DSA, you can contact the Federal Network Agency.
Additional useful links
Statistisches Bundesamt provides data on construction prices, property price indices, and land prices.
Deutsche Bundesbank offers an indicator system for the residential property market.
Grundbuch-Portal is the official portal for German land registry information.
Bundesinstitut für Bau-, Stadt- und Raumforschung (BBSR) presents a research programme for transparency in the real estate market.
Bundesamt für Kartographie und Geodäsie (BKG) provides access to its geoportal.
Bundesverband der Deutschen Volksbanken und Raiffeisenbanken (BVR) publishes a press release on the decoupling of housing prices from income in German metropolises.
Transparenzregister provides information on the German transparency register.
FAQ
How do I find reputable online real estate services?
Pay attention to transparent provider information, clear privacy policies, positive user reviews (critically evaluate!), and whether the service adheres to established standards. For review services, the methodology is often a quality feature. For example, Auctoa offers AI-based, neutral reviews.
Can online services completely replace a broker?
Online services can take on many tasks of a broker, such as marketing or initial assessments. However, in complex negotiations, specific local market knowledge, or individual advice, an experienced broker or consultant can still be very valuable. Often a combination is ideal.
What is the cost of using online real estate services?
The costs vary significantly. Many basic pieces of information or simple online reviews are available for free. Specialized data analytics, premium ad placements, or comprehensive management software usually incur charges, often on a subscription model or per transaction.
How up-to-date is the data in online property valuations?
The recency of the data is an important factor. Reputable providers update their databases regularly, often monthly or even more frequently. If in doubt, ask the provider or check the data source information.
What role does AI play in future online real estate services?
AI will play a central role, from more precise, dynamic assessments and market forecasts to personalised recommendations and intelligent chatbots for customer service, like Auctoa's ImmoGPT. The aim is to provide an even more efficient and user-friendly experience.
What should I do if I become a victim of fraud by an online service?
Secure all evidence (screenshots, emails), contact the provider and file a report with the police. Also inform consumer protection agencies. In case of violations of the DSA, you can contact the Federal Network Agency.
