Forum: Property agents concerned about guidelines on using AI

I am writing on behalf of artificial intelligence (AI) vendors serving Singapore’s real estate sector. After the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA) released its message regarding AI photo editing (

Property agents should not alter or enhance photographs

, Dec 4), many confused and concerned property agents contacted me to ask what is actually allowed. This sudden volume of feedback signals a much deeper issue affecting the entire industry.

Singapore’s national direction is clear – the Government is strongly encouraging AI transformation across all sectors to improve productivity and competitiveness. However, the phrasing of CEA’s announcement has caused many agents to believe that all AI usage is unsafe or discouraged.

This interpretation runs counter to the broader national AI strategy, and risks slowing down innovation in one of the most important professional industries here. Regulatory wording may unintentionally discourage real estate agents from using AI tools entirely.

The consequences are significant. If agents misunderstand the guideline, some will avoid AI out of fear, while others will continue using it responsibly, leading to an unnecessary productivity divide within the industry.

This is not just a technical issue; it directly affects fairness, competitiveness and consumer experience.

AI vendors, including our team, have built tools that maintain a property’s original structure and condition while offering efficient, responsible improvements. These tools are aligned with consumer protection, not against it.

Given the scale of feedback from agents today and the importance of aligning regulation with national AI objectives, I believe this matter deserves broader public discussion.

Felix Gao
Founder
PostAI.sg