Mudiaga Onome Umunadi 1.0 Introduction The Fourth Industrial Revolution has led to the accelerated adoption/use of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud computing, blockchain, big data analytics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These emerging technologies no doubt have fundamentally transformed professional practice across every sector of the global economy. In the context of real estate industry, these technologies have led to revolution in terms of how property data are collected, analysed, interpreted as well as how they are applied in decision-making. AI has increasingly become particularly significant due to its ability to process large volumes of structured and unstructured data, identify hidden patterns, generate predictive insights, and automate repetitive tasks thus leading to improved efficiency, productivity as well as evidence-based decision-making (Russell & Norvig, 2021; Dwivedi et al., 2023; Vinuesa et al., 2020). As a result, AI is recognized more as an important driver of innovation, sustainability and operational excellence across industries. Artificial Intelligence refers to computer systems capable of performing tasks that ordinarily require human intelligence, including learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, language understanding, and decision-making. Unlike conventional software that follows predefined instructions, AI systems continuously improve their performance by learning from historical and real-time data through machine learning algorithms (Dwivedi et al., 2023). Advances in deep learning, cloud computing and predictive analytics have expanded AI applications beyond automation to intelligent forecasting, optimization, and decision support. These capabilities have transformed sectors including healthcare, finance, manufacturing, transportation, and the built environment, enabling organizations to improve productivity while reducing operational costs (Patil, 2024; Tsallis et al., 2025). Globally, estate surveying and valuation practice is undergoing rapid digital transformation through Property Technology (PropTech). AI-powered valuation models, predictive analytics, digital twins, smart buildings, drone-assisted inspections, and automated market analysis are improving valuation accuracy, investment appraisal, facilities management, and portfolio optimization (Baum, 2017; Braesemann & Baum, 2020; Ullah et al., 2018; Vigren et al., 2022). Beyond valuation, AI increasingly supports sustainable building management through intelligent monitoring systems, predictive maintenance, and energy optimization, improving the operational performance of commercial and residential properties (Hossain et al., 2023; Billanes et al., 2025; Aghili et al., 2025). These developments demonstrate that AI complements rather than replaces professional expertise by providing data-driven insights that strengthen professional judgment. In Nigeria, technological adoption within estate surveying and valuation has increased steadily over the past two decades. Estate surveyors and valuers now utilize Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Global Positioning Systems (GPS), smartphones, digital mapping, cloud-based applications and property management software to improve property inspections, valuation analysis, market research, and client service delivery (Aihie, 2020; Edovia, 2023). Recent developments in smart building technologies further demonstrate how AI can optimize energy consumption, automate facility operations, and improve building performance, thereby enhancing property value and sustainability (Iluyomade & Okwandu, 2024; Rojek et al., 2025). Nevertheless, AI adoption in Nigeria remains relatively low because of inadequate digital infrastructure, fragmented property databases, unreliable electricity supply, poor internet connectivity, limited technical expertise and weak institutional support. The increasing digitalization of the profession has also highlighted the need to strengthen digital competencies among estate surveying graduates and practitioners. Previous studies have emphasized the importance of integrating AI, data analytics, PropTech, and digital technologies into estate management curricula to prepare graduates for technology-driven practice (Oloyede et al., 2017; Oladokun & Gbadegesin, 2017). Such reforms would improve professional competence in valuation, investment analysis, facilities management, market forecasting, and sustainable property development. Furthermore, AI-enabled predictive systems are expected to support more efficient asset management, maintenance planning, and operational decision-making throughout the property life cycle (Patil, 2024; Tsallis et al., 2025). Despite its numerous benefits, several challenges continue to hinder widespread AI implementation within the Nigerian real estate sector. These include inadequate ICT infrast
Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.
