TPFG, one of the UK’s largest property franchise groups, is deploying artificial intelligence technology across its network of 1,900 branches operated by franchisees, according to chief executive Gareth Samples.
The company reports that 14 franchisees operating approximately 25 branches have already adopted the AI package, with another 50 franchisees in the pipeline. The technology targets both sales and lettings operations, though initial results have been most significant in the sales sector.
Performance data
Trial implementations of AI sales agents have generated 25% more valuation appointments compared to traditional methods, according to the company. Additional AI applications are being developed for inbound lead handling and lead progression for the group’s financial services division.
Samples stated that the technology addresses a significant operational gap, noting that approximately 4,000 leads across the network go unanswered daily due to capacity constraints. The company is positioning AI as a tool to process leads that currently remain unhandled rather than as a replacement for existing capacity.
The deployment comes as estate agents face operational challenges in managing client expectations and service delivery. Meanwhile, buyer demand has increased 5% in recent months, potentially adding to lead volume pressures.
Data utilisation
Samples indicated that TPFG’s database contains 18.5 million data points, which he described as previously inaccessible in a cost-effective manner prior to AI technology. The company is working with franchisees to develop applications that aim to increase turnover whilst reducing staffing requirements or enabling staff redeployment.
The lettings sector implementation is expected to take longer than sales, with Samples noting that products for landlord and vendor leads will require additional development time before reaching parity.
Industry implications
The rollout represents one of the larger-scale implementations of AI technology in the UK estate agency sector. TPFG is conducting ongoing trials with plans to adopt additional AI solutions in the following year, subject to trial outcomes.
The company has not disclosed specific investment figures or detailed timelines for the full network deployment. The technology’s impact on staffing levels and operational costs will be assessed through the current trial phase before broader implementation decisions are finalised.
