AI, Admin & The Agency Shake-Up with Alto CEO Ric Dawson

The property industry is changing fast. And according to Alto CEO Ric Dawson, many agents don’t even realise what’s coming.In this episode, we unpack one of the most overlooked but disruptive shifts in the UK market: major housebuilders moving into Build-to-Rent and quietly removing huge amounts of stock from traditional agents. Could this be an existential threat to the high street agency model?We also dive into the reality of AI in agency, cutting through the hype to explore how it’s already being used in lettings and valuations, the risks of algorithmic bias, and why some tenants could soon be locked out of entire neighbourhoods without anyone noticing.Ric shares his journey from property roots to tech entrepreneur, the story behind Alto’s turnaround, and what’s really changed since stepping into the business in 2025. And more importantly what's still to come.Plus, we tackle a challenge every agent feels but few fully understand: the hidden cost of admin. Why do so many agencies feel busier than ever—but not more profitable?If you’re an agent looking to stay ahead, adapt, and build a business that survives the next wave of change, this episode is essential listening.🏆 Nominations and tickets are now available for the first-ever Personal Estate Agency Awards!Join us on 22nd October 2026 in Birmingham as we celebrate the very best personal estate agents, brokerage businesses and brokerage teams from across the UK.Nominate yourself, nominate someone else, or book your tickets here: https://www.personalestateagencyawards.co.uk/ 📚Want a free copy of the ‘Your First £100,000 Estate Agency’ book?✅ DM me the word “BOOK” on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/estateagent.consultancy/ and I’ll send it straight over.📥 Want FREE materials to help get you your next instruction? Head to: https://www.estateagentconsultancy.com/freeintro💻 Want to launch or scale your own estate agency business?Book a free discovery call here: https://theestateagentconsultancy.as.me/sixty-consultation🎓 To access to our ‘Your First £100,000 Estate Agency’ video course. Head over to: https://www.estateagentconsultancy.com/your-first-100000-digital-course📅 Want to join our next free webinar?Get added to the VIP list to find out first: https://www.estateagentconsultancy.com/webinarAny questions? Just email: [email protected] or visit us at https://www.estateagentconsultancy.com