Speaking on a panel alongside Sandra Brewer (Property Council Australia) and Sue Arena (MRI Software) at Realmark’s recent Evoke conference, Hart emphasised that in today's increasingly digitalised world, clients are seeking assurance that their chosen real estate firms have the necessary resources and expertise to safeguard their financial assets.
"Risk management is becoming a primary concern for consumers," she noted.
"Clients want to feel assured that whoever they're dealing with has the resources and expertise to ensure that their money and assets are safe during the transaction.”
Hart commended Realmark for its effective approach to cybersecurity and observed that smaller operators in the industry are finding it challenging to manage these risks and are often inclined to associate with established brands that can adeptly navigate this complex landscape.
Hart also mentioned that regulatory scrutiny is intensifying in this area.
"Policy makers are even contemplating the necessity of email in transactions, which signifies that the landscape is swiftly changing," she added.
Switching gears to the role of PropTech, Hart described the past 15 to 20 years as a 'golden age' where the industry saw a wave of digitisation.
According to her, the next frontier in PropTech is the streamlining of various technological platforms to improve efficiencies and preserve margins.
"This is not just a Western Australian phenomenon but a sentiment shared in CEO discussions across the nation," she said.
Hart's insights indicate a significant directional shift in the real estate industry, emphasising the importance of both technological adaptation and robust cybersecurity measures.
As the industry continues to evolve, it appears that partnerships with forward-thinking brands such as Realmark are becoming increasingly vital for stakeholders and consumers alike.