Transaction Risks Surge as More Buyers Skip Professional Guidance

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Date:

21 Oct 2025

Despite the rush toward automation in real estate, having an experienced advisor remains critical for protecting both buyers and sellers, according to Anne Lakusta, President and Co-founder of iFinder Offers. Drawing on decades of industry experience, she argues that technology should enhance rather than replace professional guidance.

The Risk of Going Solo

“I don’t allow anyone that I know and love to go through a real estate transaction without an advisor,” Lakusta says emphatically. “I’ve seen too much, and there’s way too much misunderstanding, and people will take advantage of you if they’re allowed to.”

This stance might seem surprising coming from the leader of a technology platform that has facilitated $2 billion in real estate transactions. However, Lakusta argues that technology and professional guidance aren’t mutually exclusive, they’re complementary.

The Evolution of Advisory Services

According to Lakusta, the role of real estate advisors is evolving rather than disappearing. “Every seller has an advisor that is on their team. It’s their fiduciary,” she explains, describing how iFinder integrates professional guidance into its technology platform.

This hybrid approach appears to be working. The platform reports a 15% close rate on submitted properties, nearly double the 8% rate Lakusta says was typical for traditional iBuyers. She attributes this success partly to maintaining professional oversight while leveraging technology for efficiency.

Beyond Traditional Transactions

The scope of transactions requiring professional guidance has expanded beyond traditional home sales. “We’ve done deserted motels. We’ve done over 100 acres for a developer. We’ve done all kinds of transactions through iFinder,” Lakusta notes.

This diversity of transaction types, she argues, makes professional guidance even more critical. With nearly 300 pre-qualified investors on their platform, each with different geographical preferences and price points, having an advisor to navigate options becomes increasingly valuable.

The Future of Professional Guidance

While embracing technological innovation, Lakusta remains firm in her belief that professional guidance will continue to be essential. “It’s a listing tool for real estate agents, because I am one,” she explains. “I’ve spent my life that way.”

She sees the future as a partnership between technology and professional expertise, where platforms like iFinder enhance rather than replace the advisor’s role. “Having someone on your team is important,” Lakusta concludes, “and that’s really where iFinder separates itself.”

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