Redesigning the property manager role: What will it look like in 2030?

It’s 2030. You’re a property manager, but not in the way you are today.

You’re not buried in emails or chasing up late rent. Instead, automation has your back, AI helps you make smarter decisions, and you’re spending your time where it really counts – building relationships, delivering value, and thinking strategically.

The question is: are we ready for what’s coming?

From admin to advisor

The property manager role is evolving – from operational to consultative. In our latest survey of Australian real estate agencies, over 50.9% told us they’re seeing a shift toward landlord expectations for deeper investment insights and more transparent performance tracking.

Landlords are leaning on agencies for guidance – not just rent collection. And when it comes to tenants, agencies told us they’re seeing growing demand for a digital-first experience. No surprise there: 46.2% of agencies said tenants now prefer digital tools for tasks like paying rent or logging maintenance. By 2030, that expectation will be universal.

So, what’s next for property manager? You’ll be:

• A strategic advisor for landlords.
• A digital-first service provider for tenants.
• A tech-enabled, people-focused operator.

The expectation? Deliver value at every touchpoint, backed by smart tools and even smarter insights.

The rise of automation and AI

Already in 2024, nearly half of agencies we surveyed (49.1%) are using automation for everyday communication, while 39.6% use it to enhance customer service. Fast forward to 2030, and automation will be embedded across the full property lifecycle – from onboarding to lease renewals.

By 2030, automation will take care of:

• Onboarding workflows.
• Routine lease renewals.
• Maintenance updates and reminders. 

The goal? More time to focus on people, not paperwork.

Property management software is now essential

To keep up, agencies are already embracing property management software that simplifies workflows, centralises data, and enables real-time reporting. In fact, integrating automation with real estate workflows was one of the top opportunities we highlighted in our recent State of the Real Estate Market report.

By 2030, this software will evolve from helpful to essential. Expect AI-powered dashboards that:

• Recommend value-add improvements to properties.
• Monitor compliance in real-time.
• Provide instant insights into tenant satisfaction.

The tech won’t replace you – it will enhance you.

Expectations are rising – across the board

According to our survey, 32.1% of agencies said landlords are looking for help identifying new investment opportunities – not just passive updates. 

And with tenants, the pressure is on for speed, transparency, and convenience. Agencies reported a strong preference from renters for digital self-service tools, with expectations for real-time updates and fast resolutions on the ride.

If your systems aren’t meeting those expectations now, it’ll be even harder to keep up in the years ahead.

So…”will AI replace property managers?”

It’s a question we hear all the time.

Here’s the answer: No, AI won’t replace property managers. But property managers who use AI will replace those who don’t.

The property managers of 2030 will:

• Use automation to work smarter, not harder.
• Deliver insights landlords can actually use.
• Strike the right balance between efficiency and empathy.

Tech isn’t replacing the human touch – it’s creating more space for it.

The future of property management isn’t some distant vision – it’s already unfolding.

Agencies that embrace automation, adopt smarter tools, and stay focused on service will be in a better position. And property managers who evolve into strategic, tech-enabled partners will be the ones leading the charge.

The question is: are you getting ready now to be that property manager in 2030?

If you’re starting to explore how tech can support your next chapter, you can book a quick chat (or simply enter your details below) to see what’s possible with the right tools behind you.