Builders Update, a national database for new construction, has introduced a new tool called Home Scout that allows agents and buyers to search for homes using voice commands in English or Spanish. The tool is designed for those who prefer speaking over typing, and it automatically switches between the two languages based on the user's speech.
Bill Gaul, CEO of Builders Update and chair of the RESO Data Dictionary New Construction Subcommittee, said the tool was created for people who don't like to type. Users can simply describe what they need, such as a three-bedroom, two-bath home in a specific zip code, and the tool responds conversationally. This feature is particularly useful for those on the go, as they can search while driving.
The bilingual capability has drawn significant interest in markets with large Spanish-speaking populations, including Miami, San Diego, and border regions. Gaul emphasized that the translation is natural-sounding, not mechanical, and that the tool does not ask users if they want Spanish; it simply responds in the language they speak.
Once a search is completed, the results, including floor plans, property details, and photos, are sent directly to the user's inbox. This allows agents to receive the information quickly and forward it to clients. The tool provides two versions of the results: a full agent view that includes the address and builder name, and a buyer-facing view that shows photos, floor plans, and pricing without the address or builder.
This two-version design reflects the platform's agent-centric model. Detailed listing information is reserved for licensed agents, and buyers register through their agent rather than around them. The platform also offers electronic buyer registration, which protects the agent's claim to a commission if the buyer later purchases. Gaul described this registration process as a way to keep the agent's role transparent and protected, and it is part of the company's patent.
Adoption of the tool is still in progress. Gaul noted that even where the tool has been available for a while, some agents have not tried it, and part of the effort now is encouraging them to use it. The platform currently serves more than 860,000 agents nationwide.
The introduction of Home Scout is significant because it addresses the growing demand for voice-activated technology and bilingual support in real estate. By allowing users to search in their preferred language and receive results instantly, the platform aims to streamline the home-buying process. Furthermore, the agent-centric approach and electronic buyer registration could help maintain the role of real estate agents in new construction transactions, ensuring they are compensated for their efforts. As the industry continues to evolve, tools like Home Scout may become more prevalent, offering a more natural and accessible way to search for new homes.
