Technology, Software, AI and Automation - What Do You Actually Need? with Curtis Thomson

Technology is moving fast, but speed alone is not the goal. What matters is whether the tools we adopt are genuinely reducing the low-value, repetitive work that keeps property managers stuck in constant reaction mode. This conversation explores the difference between software that simply creates more task lists and software that actually removes friction, automates decision pathways, and frees up time for the work that really matters – communication, strategy, relationships, and service.I’m joined by Curtis Thompson, CEO of Our Property, who brings decades of experience building and scaling software businesses. Curtis brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to the role of AI and automation in property management. Rather than replacing people, the real opportunity lies in repositioning them. When repetitive admin, follow-up, and workflow coordination are handled more intelligently, property managers can step further into advisory conversations, stronger landlord relationships, and better commercial outcomes. It is a thoughtful reminder that the future of this industry will not be built on busyness, but on better systems, better decisions, and a clearer understanding of where human value is best placed.There is also an important leadership lens woven through this discussion. As our industry faces increasing pressure on profit, staffing, and service delivery, agencies cannot afford to keep layering technology on top of broken processes. The smarter approach is to step back, rethink the ideal operating model, and then choose solutions that support that vision. For principals, BDMs, and department leaders, this is a timely conversation about change, mindset, and what it will take to build a more scalable, sustainable property management business in the years ahead.“Are we solving real operational problems or just layering technology on top of inefficiency?” - Curtis ThomsonWe cover:The role of technology, software, AI, and automation in property management.Challenges of repetitive administrative tasks in property management.The importance of automating busy work to enhance property manager efficiency.The potential of AI to support decision-making and improve operational processes.The necessity of human involvement in property management despite automation.Strategies for agencies to evaluate and adopt new technology effectively.The emotional journey of change management within property management teams.Continuous innovation and the importance of user feedback in software development.The concept of "moonshots" in proptech and ambitious strategic changes.Personal development and leadership strategies for effective problem-solving and team empowerment.Kylie’s Resources:Property Management Growth School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/TPM-BDMSchoolDigital Marketing School: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalschoolThat Property Mum Courses: https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/courses/The PM Accelerate Membership: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/accelerateBook a Strategy Call with Kylie: https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/coaching-call Kolmeo: https://kolmeo.com/Find out about our Done for You Lead Generation - https://calendly.com/kylie-tpm/done-for-you-leads-discovery-call35 AI Prompts to help you Grow your Business on Social Media: https://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/35-prompts-to-grow-your-property-management-business-on-social-mediahttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/5-misktakes-replayDigital Marketing and AI Academyhttps://courses.thatpropertymum.com.au/digitalmarketingyesConnect with Curtis Thomson:https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtisthomson/https://www.ourproperty.com.au/Connect With Kylie:Follow Kylie Walker on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thatpropertymum_/Follow Kylie on Facebook - https://web.facebook.com/thatpropertymumConnect with Kylie on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-wal...Explore Kylie's Website - https://www.thatpropertymum.com.au/Watch Kylie on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thatpropertymum