How AI Can Already Negotiate Real Estate Deals for You (But There's A Catch) with Jordan Fleming
In this episode of The PETE Podcast, I sit down withJordan Fleming, founder and chairman of SmrtPhone, to talk about the evolution of communication technology in real estate and why AI-powered conversations are about to reshape the industry.
Jordan shares the origin story behind SmrtPhone, from the early Podio days to building one of the most recognized communication platforms in the real estate investing space. We dive into how the company grew organically by solving a massive pain point for investors: disconnected communication systems and inefficient workflows.
We also go deep into the future of AI agents, conversational platforms, and what it means to blend human employees with AI-driven workflows. Jordan breaks down the difference between traditional AI tools and “agentic AI,” explains why most businesses are not structured properly for AI adoption, and shares his vision for how AI agents will eventually handle conversations, negotiations, and operational tasks inside businesses.
From replacing outdated call center models to creating AI systems with memory and real-time context, this episode gives a fascinating look at where communication technology is heading—and how investors can prepare for it now.
If you’re interested in AI, automation, systems, or the future of real estate operations, this conversation is packed with insights that will change the way you think about business technology.
Episode Highlights
[0:05] – Introduction to Jordan Fleming and SmrtPhone
[1:08] – How Jordan and John connected through the real estate tech space
[2:17] – The origin story of SmrtPhone during the early Podio era
[3:06] – Building custom Podio systems before launching SmrtPhone
[4:06] – How SmrtPhone solved major communication problems for investors
[5:08] – The importance of integrated systems and seamless workflows
[6:27] – Why giving users choice matters in technology platforms
[7:10] – The problem with software companies trying to lock users in
[9:03] – Repositioning SmrtPhone from a “phone system” to a conversation platform
[9:50] – The three pillars behind SmrtPhone’s new direction
[10:13] – Expanding into AI-powered communication tools and agents
[11:13] – Why voice AI is one of the hardest forms of AI to build
[12:19] – How AI agents are evolving beyond simple automation
[13:06] – Defining “agentic AI” and what it actually means
[14:28] – Why businesses need workflows designed for AI and humans together
[15:26] – The concept of “bounded responsibility” for AI agents
[16:14] – Can AI negotiate real estate deals in the future?
[18:19] – Why poorly structured processes create chaos with AI
[20:23] – The future of call centers and AI replacement
[21:15] – Why consumers care more about results than whether AI is involved
[22:48] – Connecting AI conversations back to solving customer problems
[23:37] – New texting tools and marketing capabilities coming to SmrtPhone
[24:38] – Launching the new Real Estate Technology event: RE Tech Unlocked
[25:04] – Why hands-on tech training matters for real estate investors
[26:12] – Jordan’s upcoming book:Labor Architecture AI
5 Key Takeaways
Communication systems should remove friction, not create it.Integrated workflows and conversation tools make businesses faster and more effective.
AI is moving from information to action.“Agentic AI” is about AI systems that can perform work, make decisions, and operate within business workflows.
Most businesses are not structured for AI yet.Clear processes and “bounded responsibility” are necessary before AI can operate effectively.
Consumers care about outcomes, not technology.If AI solves problems quickly and effectively, most customers won’t care whether they’re speaking to a human or an AI agent.
The future of business will combine humans and AI together.Companies that learn how to blend AI workflows with human oversight will have a major competitive advantage.
Links & Resources
•Guest:Jordan Fleming
•Company:SmrtPhone
•Topics discussed:AI agents, communication systems, voice AI, real estate technology, automation, workflows
Closing Remark
Technology is changing faster than most businesses are prepared for—but Jordan Fleming makes it clear that the future isn’t about replacing people. It’s about building smarter systems where humans and AI work together to create better outcomes.
Whether you’re focused on real estate, operations, or scaling a business, this episode is a reminder that the companies willing to adapt early will have a massive advantage moving forward.
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure torate, follow, share, and review The PETE Podcastso more investors can learn how to build smarter real estate businesses.
