Searching smarter
Finding the right home online may have just become a whole lot easier.
That’s because realestate.co.nz has unveiled a major shift in how Kiwis search for property, launching a new AI-powered image search – the first of its kind in New Zealand. The technology is designed to help house hunters look beyond keywords and connect directly with the features that matter most to them.
Usually, property searches relied heavily on written descriptions. While effective, they often miss the finer details that can make a home stand out. The new image search changes that by allowing users to search for specific features – whether it’s weatherboard exteriors, timber flooring, a home gym, or even a particular interior style – with results drawn directly from listing photographs.
Behind the scenes, the system uses two layers of artificial intelligence. The first analyses every image uploaded to the platform, identifying features such as room type, design style, flooring, and standout elements.
The second layer focuses on how that information is used. Rather than relying solely on exact keyword matches, the search function is designed to interpret broader concepts and related ideas, helping buyers uncover homes they may not have otherwise considered.
For Sarah Wood, CEO of realestate.co.nz, the move reflects the company’s long-standing mission to make property searching more intuitive.
“In our 30-year history, we’ve developed a deep understanding of how people connect with property,” she says.
Sarah notes that traditional property searches have depended largely on how accurately a home is described and whether key features are included in the listing text. However, buying a home is often an emotional decision as much as a practical one.
“People respond to how a space looks and feels,” she says. “This tool connects people with homes based on what they’re genuinely drawn to, whether that’s a swimming pool, home gym, wine cellar, or walk-in wardrobe.”
The result is a search experience that places greater emphasis on imagery, helping buyers spend less time refining filters and more time discovering homes that truly match their lifestyle and aspirations.