Realay, a Michigan-based real estate referral platform, has launched a mobile application that combines voice-activated AI technology with comprehensive referral tracking for independent brokers and agents nationwide. The app allows agents to manage referrals through voice commands instead of typing, addressing the challenge of capturing opportunities during busy moments like driving between showings. John LeRoy, Founder and CEO of Realay, stated that agents no longer need to be tied to their desktops to capture opportunities, with voice activation enabling referrals as naturally as having a conversation. The mobile app makes the platform's existing network accessible anywhere, with voice activation powered by OpenAI integration.
The platform first gained traction among independent brokers with its web-based system that addresses how small brokerages compete with national franchises for out-of-market referrals. While large brokerages like Coldwell Banker can call sister offices across the country, independent brokers traditionally had to hunt for agents through Facebook groups. Realay built a vetted network of independent brokers across all 50 states, tracking referrals through a bidirectional communication system that eliminated the black hole problem where referrals disappeared without updates. The platform's newest feature addresses another broker challenge: managing contractor networks. Real estate transactions consistently require service providers like painters, plumbers, electricians, and locksmiths. Realay now allows brokers to organize their preferred contractor networks within the platform. When an agent needs to refer a contractor, they can access the broker's vetted list through the app via voice command. Contractors join through broker invitations and pay a subscription fee, creating a new revenue stream for brokerages.
LeRoy added that every real estate transaction involves contractor services at some point, with the platform streamlining those connections and helping agents provide even more value to their clients while creating new revenue opportunities for brokerages. The platform doesn't charge upfront fees or monthly subscriptions. Instead, it operates on a pay-at-closing model where Realay receives 5% of the referral commission while the originating agent receives their standard 25% referral fee. Julie Capron, broker-owner of The Collective Home Group in Buchanan, Michigan, explained how the platform changed her workflow. She had been managing high volumes of referrals through spreadsheets and struggling with the administrative burden. Realay reports that 81% of referrals on its platform are currently engaged, meaning the receiving agent is actively working with the client. This conversion rate significantly exceeds typical lead generation services, where conversion rates hover around 1-2%.
Ann Filippis, Realay's Operations Director, explained the company's approach, stating they don't just match referrals algorithmically and hope for the best. Their team reaches out to receiving agents to confirm they're available and ready to work with the client. If an agent is on vacation or dealing with a family emergency, they find someone else. That white-glove approach is what keeps engagement rates high. The Realay mobile app is available for download on the App Store, with Android support coming soon. Brokers and agents can register at https://realay.com to join the platform's growing network.
