Unlocking Business Expansion with AI Collaboration
Oct 21, 2026
The Reality of Technological Evolution
I have a goal, a vision, and a "why" that has never changed since day one: I love helping appraisers become successful. Whether that means improving report writing, mastering human resources, or embracing new technology, my focus is always on increasing your efficiency and helping you make more money.
Those who think artificial intelligence is just a passing fad or something scary need a mindset shift. This is the biggest generational change we have ever seen in how the future looks, not just for real estate, but for every industry. The question people ask with a fear-based mentality is whether AI will replace them. You will only lose your job to AI if you are refusing to use it. If you have at least five years left in this industry, it is time to pay attention.
Shifting to Strategic Business Growth
We need to look at utilizing technology outside of standard report generation. This brings us to a fundamental concept: working on your business instead of just in your business. Working in your business is inspecting houses, taking comp photos, selecting comps, and writing reconciliations. Working on your business is stepping back from the immediate deadline, taking off the daily operational hat, and becoming the general. You are stepping back to figure out how to make your business better, solve systemic problems, and increase overall profitability. Dedicated time spent working on your business yields a higher hourly return than even the most expensive appraisal report.
Partnering with Modern Tools for Growth
Traditionally, I advised putting away laptops and phones during dedicated business-strategy sessions. My approach has changed. Your computer—specifically equipped with artificial intelligence models like Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, or specialized digital agents—is the one tool you should keep.
Instead of treating these tools like a simple search engine where you expect a quick answer, treat them as a trusted, highly intelligent expert for strategic collaboration. You can literally talk out loud to these tools during long drives or set aside strategy sessions. Ask high-level business development questions: "I do 85% AMC work and want to shift to 85% private client work. Where do I start? How do I get past gatekeepers at estate attorney offices?"
The Power of Iteration
Where most people fall short is asking one question, getting a generic response, and giving up. Modern AI works through iterations. You have to go back and forth, dig deeper, ask follow-up questions, and refine the ideas. That back-and-forth dialogue is pure gold for shaping the future of your business.
Check out The Appraiser Coach Podcast for more info on this topic:
