Michigan-based real estate referral platform Realay has launched a mobile application that combines voice-activated AI technology with comprehensive referral tracking, providing independent brokers and agents with hands-free management capabilities. The app, now available on the App Store, allows agents to speak commands instead of typing information during busy moments, with the AI-powered system capturing details, sending notifications, and automatically tracking everything. Founder and CEO John LeRoy stated that the voice activation feature enables agents to make referrals as naturally as having a conversation, making the platform accessible anywhere and anytime without being tied to desktops.
The platform first gained traction among independent brokers by addressing 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 mobile app makes this accessible anywhere, with voice activation powered by OpenAI integration.
Realay's newest feature addresses another broker challenge: managing contractor networks. Real estate transactions consistently require service providers like painters, plumbers, electricians, and locksmiths. The platform now allows brokers to organize their preferred contractor networks within the system. 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 this streamlines connections and helps agents provide more value to clients while creating new revenue opportunities.
The platform 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, with no upfront fees or monthly subscriptions. Julie Capron, broker-owner of The Collective Home Group in Buchanan, Michigan, explained how the platform changed her workflow from managing high volumes of referrals through spreadsheets. Realay reports that 81% of referrals on its platform are currently engaged, meaning the receiving agent is actively working with the client, significantly exceeding typical lead generation services where conversion rates hover around 1-2%.
Operations Director Ann Filippis explained the company's approach: "We don't just match referrals algorithmically and hope for the best. Our 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, we find someone else. That white-glove approach is what keeps our 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 Realay.com to join the platform's growing network.
