AI-ttitude Shift
How Women-Owned CRE Firms Are Redefining Tech with Heart and Hustle
A quiet revolution is reshaping commercial real estate (CRE): women-owned firms are embracing artificial intelligence (AI) not just as a tool, but as a strategy, infused with empathy, ethics, and intentionality. AI is already transforming the industry, automating everything from lease analysis to market forecasting and site selection. But while many race to implement the latest tools, women-led firms are leading with purpose and redefining how innovation works by putting people first.
“Women leaders in CRE are at the forefront of this integration,” said Aline Zafirian, a broker and CREW Network member. “By blending technological advantages with collaboration and empathy, we ensure these tools serve the people, not just the market.” And the results are showing. A 2024 survey revealed that women-led brokerages had an 88% AI adoption rate, outpacing male-led peers. These firms are using AI not just for efficiency, but to amplify human skills, from better tenant communication to inclusive space planning and values-driven site selection.
Globally, this momentum is growing. In Europe, women in CRE are applying AI to improve sustainability and ESG outcomes. In Latin America, they are using predictive analytics to navigate volatile markets. And in Africa and Asia, women-led firms are leveraging AI for equitable infrastructure planning and smart city development.
The numbers are equally compelling:
AI-driven models now forecast rent trends, incentives, and location value with up to 95% accuracy.
CRE firms that invest in AI training have seen 14% lower maintenance costs and a 9% boost in rental income.
By 2033, the AI-enabled real estate services market is projected to grow from $2.9B to $41.5B—with women-owned firms poised to lead the charge.
Still, the focus remains deeply human. Women-led firms prioritize ethical AI use, transparency, and inclusivity, developing governance models that reduce bias and center on long-term community impact. In an industry where 65% of professionals express concern about AI's effect on privacy and transparency, this leadership style isn’t just refreshing, it’s essential. Whether they are advising on incentive strategies in Toronto, deploying ESG tools in Frankfurt, or driving site analytics in São Paulo, women in CRE are proving that technology with heart is a market advantage.
What Comes Next?
Upskill diverse teams in AI fluency.
Include women in AI implementation and decision-making.
Use AI as a complement—not a replacement—for human relationships.
This is more than a tech trend—it’s an AI-ttitude shift. In the hands of women leaders, it’s creating a smarter, more inclusive, and more resilient future for CRE.
Julie Ashmore, Ashmore Consulting LLC
Julie, President and CEO, is an expert in business tax credits, incentives, and location strategy with over 24 years of experience. She is known for helping companies identify opportunities that support growth and strengthen their bottom line. Julie works closely with business leaders to simplify complex processes and guide smart, strategic decisions.
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Sarah Rodgers, 92c Partners
As Director of Business Development at 92C Partners, Sarah leads growth initiatives and cultivates meaningful client relationships for our women-owned commercial real estate firm. With a background in project management and operations, she brings a strategic and creative approach to connecting clients with smart, functional spaces.
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