AI emerged as one of the most critical topics at NAR NXT 2025, with multiple sessions emphasizing that artificial intelligence will fundamentally transform how real estate professionals' work. Matt Britton delivered a standout session on practical applications of AI for both careers and personal lives.
The message is clear: AI will evolve into a true executive assistant for real estate agents, managing client portals, workflows, and end-to-end transaction systems. While AI won't replace Realtors® and their fiduciary duties to clients, it will significantly change how agents deliver value and reshape ethics, arbitration, and risk management processes.
What You Should Do Now:
- Start learning AI platforms and educating yourself about their capabilities
- If you're a broker, consider enterprise AI solutions that integrate with your CRM and are compliant with industry standards
- Always approach AI with a specific goal in mind—whether creating a professional brand, advertising your business, or growing your client base
- Review and edit all AI-generated content based on your real estate experience
- Be cautious with public AI models like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini due to privacy and data security risks
- Review AI privacy and data settings to protect your clients' information
The industry is moving toward agent-trained or association-trained private AI models designed for compliance with the Code of Ethics, Fair Housing, MLS rules, and association governance.
MLS Policy Modernization: Reducing Risk, Increasing Clarity
At the NXT conference, the NAR Executive Committee approved 18 MLS policy and handbook changes following a comprehensive antitrust risk assessment—the first of its kind for NAR. These updates aim to better match how real estate professionals work today while reducing legal exposure.
Key Changes Include:
- Repealing policies that tie MLS access to REALTOR® membership, shifting authority to local MLSs
- Removing outdated or unenforceable policies related to service areas, reciprocal agreements, and naming conventions
- Clear Cooperation Enhancements with stricter timelines for listing submissions
- Data Transparency Rules with expanded requirements for public display of sold data
- Broker Attribution Updates establishing new standards for lead routing
- Virtual Office Website policy adjustments for greater consumer access flexibility
- Increased compliance enforcement penalties and streamlined dispute resolution
These changes support members in serving their clients' best interests while updating policies for the modern market.
Advocacy That Works
Minnesota Realtors® RPAC's "Club Purple" event was touted in several advocacy sessions by NAR leaders as an innovative fundraising idea, showcasing our state's leadership in grassroots mobilization and member engagement.
“Club Purple” was launched by MN-RPAC during the 2025 UNITE! Convention—designed as an exclusive event space for members who reach an investment threshold. The club featured complimentary cocktails, snacks, massages, games, and an opportunity to connect with fellow investors.
Federal legislative priorities that were discussed included housing supply legislation, property rights protections, and tax policy changes expected in 2026. Best practices for member engagement emphasized storytelling and digital advocacy campaigns to mobilize grassroots support effectively.
National Real Estate Market Outlook: Cautious Optimism
Sessions led by Dr. Lawrence Yun, Dr. Jessica Lautz, and other economists addressed ongoing market challenges including supply, demand, affordability, and economic shifts. While budgeting for a potential decrease in membership, forecasts suggest an increase in sales for 2026. “Next year is really the year that we will see a measurable increase in sales,” Yun told attendees.
Mortgage applications are trending higher; job gains remain steady, homebuilders continue to add supply, and the record-breaking 43-day government shutdown—that could have delayed some recent home sales—is finally over, Yun said.
Don’t miss NAR’s upcoming Real Estate Forecast Summit, which features our Director of Research, David Arbit, who will join a panel discussion related to regional trends.
Professional Development Continues
Minnesota's GRI Designation programming was re-certified at the conference, and our members participated in forums addressing education, broker engagement, and professional development. Discussions on diversity, sustainability, and fair housing through various advisory boards and committees reinforced our commitment to serving all communities equitably.
Looking Ahead
NAR NXT 2025 was a pivotal event for Minnesota Realtors®, offering strategic insights, well-deserved recognition, and inspiration for the road ahead. The focus on accountability, technology, advocacy, and community support positions our state to lead in a rapidly evolving industry.
As the market and profession continue to change, the lessons and connections from Houston will help Minnesota Realtors® drive progress, serve members, and strengthen the voice of real estate across our state. The overarching theme is clear: NAR and Minnesota must move faster, communicate more clearly, and better demonstrate tangible value to members, partners, and consumers.
The future of real estate is here—and Minnesota Realtors® are ready to lead the way.