MarketSource: The Close
NAR data: most agents spend $500 a month or less on tech, and only 46% use a CRM
Original headline: “Most Realtors Spend $500 or Less a Month on Tech, NAR Finds” — The Close, Oct 6, 2026
NAR's 2026 REALTORS Technology Report, based on 1,165 member responses, found the largest spending band is $50 to $250 a month at 36%, with 55% of agents spending $500 or less overall; cost remains a top adoption barrier at 59%. AI use keeps climbing — 48% now use it daily or weekly, led by listing descriptions at 75% — but 34% still say it has had no impact on their business.
Our take (opinion & analysis, not reporting)
The data argues for spending discipline over stack sprawl — a CRM and automation that save real time beat three subscriptions you never open, and MLS access at 96% use still beats everything. If you're among the 54% without a CRM, start with a simple one and a next-follow-up date on every contact.
Online discussion: no notable public discussion found yet (checked Oct 12, 2026).