Mobile apps have the lion’s share in revolutionizing the real estate industry in the past few years. They’ve become the first place people visit when looking for a property. Nothing beats real estate apps when it comes to convenience and the number of options available.
Real estate app development is a great opportunity for businesses to tap into and expand their reach. You open doors to increased user engagement and exceptional user experiences.
In this blog, we’ll cover the essential features you need to implement, the potential challenges you may face, and the cost of real estate app development.
So strap in and let’s go!
Essential Features for Real Estate App Development
Just implementing the basics won’t work in 2024 unless you already have a large audience. If you want to attract people and compel them to download your app, you need to offer some advanced features.
Let’s have a look at them:
Virtual Reality (VR) Walkthroughs
Images and videos don’t convey the actual size and dimensions of a property. VR can fix that.
VR technology has the ability to make you feel like you’re actually in that virtual space. It allows you to showcase your properties in an immersive way and stand out from the competition.
VR walkthroughs enable users to explore every nook and cranny of your properties and make a wise buying decision.
Metaverse takes this further with virtual open houses. It allows people to understand what their future property will be like before buying it in person.
Blockchain-Based Transactions
Real estate apps have to deal with sensitive user data and manage large transactions, making security a prime concern. You can address this concern with blockchain. The technology terminates intermediaries and paper-based processes, enhancing the security and transparency of the processes.
With blockchain, you can enable fractional ownership of properties so that investors can buy shares or tokens instead of entire properties. Smart contracts and self-executing agreements are also possible with blockchain.
AI-Powered Automation
Managing a real estate app is not an easy task. AI can help by automating many tasks and processes, such as property listings, search, marketing, management, etc. It can generate insights from various sources of data using machine learning algorithms that’ll facilitate your decision-making.
GPS-Based Map
This feature will help users get an idea of where the properties are located. With an interactive map view, you can allow your users to access the location virtually and check for directions to get there. You can use the Google Maps Platform or Apple’s MapKit + Core Location to integrate GPS functionality into your app.
Property Cost and Mortage Calculators
Property cost and mortgage calculators are extremely helpful features you can integrate into your real estate app. They use various factors, such as location, size, amenities, etc., to estimate the price of a property.
You can enhance the user experience by providing useful information people need in their property-buying journey.
Challenges in Real Estate App Development
Real estate mobile app development involves many technical and business aspects that need to be considered. You can negotiate through the real estate tech landscape smoothly by being aware of the potential challenges you’ll face. Here are some of them:
Data Security
As a real estate business owner, you’re going to have to deal with sensitive user data, such as payment details, property details, personal information, etc. You’ve got to protect this data from unauthorized access and cyberattacks. This can be addressed with blockchain, encryption, and backup mechanisms.
Data Accuracy
Real estate apps run the risk of presenting outdated data as market conditions are constantly changing. You need to implement real-time data updates to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the data in your app.
Standing Out in the Market
The real estate market is already saturated with multiple apps offering the same thing. You need to think of ways you can differentiate your app from others. It could be done with the properties you offer, your app’s design, features, user experience, or something else.
Third-Party Integrations
A real estate mobile app needs third-party integrations from banks, CRMs, and others to function. You’ll require a mobile app development team that knows how to integrate multiple APIs seamlessly.
Real Estate App Development Cost
It’s hard to throw a number as real estate app development costs depend on multiple factors such as the app’s complexity, design, technology, etc. However, we can provide you with a rough estimation of the cost.
| Stage | Description | Estimated Cost |
| Research and Planning | Market analysis, competitor research, and project planning | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| UI/UX Design | Designing the user interface and user experience | $10,000 – $30,000 |
| Backend Development | Server-side logic, database, and API development | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Frontend Development | Client-side logic, user interface development | $15,000 – $40,000 |
| Integration | Third-party integrations (e.g., payment, maps) | $10,000 – $20,000 |
| Testing | Quality assurance and testing | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Deployment | Deploying the app to the App Store/Play Store | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Post-Launch Support | Bug fixes, updates, and ongoing support | $10,000 – $20,000 per month |
Total Estimated Cost Range: $75,000 – $205,000
Keep in mind that this cost can also vary depending on your specific requirements, expectations, and the mobile app development company you partner with.
How WDI Helps You Develop a Successful Real Estate App
WDI is a top mobile app development company that has helped enterprises with digital solutions for more than 20 years. We have the resources and technologies you need to build an advanced real estate mobile app. From designing mockups to integrating APIs, we provide all-around real estate app development services.
Contact us today to get your real estate app developed!
