Part 1: Why AI Skills Are Now Essential in CRE—And Who’s Leading the Charge
The commercial real estate (CRE) industry has a reputation for being slow to embrace technology. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no exception—but that’s changing fast.
If you’re not actively learning about AI and integrating it into your toolkit, you risk falling behind. Most media coverage focuses on automation and job loss—but that’s just surface-level.
Here’s the reality: AI is reshaping how professionals at every level operate.
AI isn’t replacing CRE professionals—it’s redefining what makes them effective. Baby Boomers may not be fluent in AI, but they increasingly depend on younger professionals to bring it forward. AI competency is becoming a core skill across the industry.
What the Data Says
In a recent RETS LinkedIn poll:
– 51% of CRE pros said AI has had low impact on their role
– 26% reported a moderate impact
– 8% said high impact
– 14% said AI is already transforming their work
This gap signals opportunity. Those who upskill now will pull ahead.
AI Is Already Reshaping Roles
AI is affecting everything from underwriting and abstracting to portfolio performance and tenant engagement. CRE job functions are evolving, especially as firms consolidate roles due to retiring Baby Boomers. Hiring managers now look for predictive modeling, AI-driven market intelligence, and fluency in algorithmic tools.
What CRE Professionals Must Master Now
– AI Curiosity: Understand how it works and where it’s going. Foster a culture that expects curiosity.
– Adoption in Workflow: Use AI tools for lease analysis, risk modeling, and tenant engagement.
– Firm-wide Education: Upskill through workshops and training. Don’t silo AI to IT.
Who’s Doing It Right? Arden Logistics Parks.
Arden, a national industrial platform focused on value-add investments, is integrating AI from top to bottom. COO Barbara Rea uses AI for portfolio analytics, property management, marketing, and leasing.
By using AI to eliminate repetitive tasks, Arden empowers its teams to focus on high-value, relationship-driven work.
“Our goal isn’t to reduce hiring,” says Rea. “It’s to make sure our people are spending their time where it counts. AI gives us that edge—freeing up bandwidth and deepening human connection.”
AI is about giving people more time to do what matters most—not about replacing them.
Conclusion: Early Movers Are Winning
Firms that lean into AI now are gaining operational and hiring advantages. The shift is already underway. Leaders who embrace the change will shape the future of CRE.
