Welcome back to Tech Pulse — a new weekly series rounding up the latest in technology, including tools, integrations and trends impacting mortgage and real estate.
Here’s what happened this week:
Robert Reffkin touts Compass’s AI platform, agent advocacy efforts
Compass is preparing to launch a new AI platform designed to automate tasks, find opportunities and give agents real-time support through voice or text. CEO Robert Reffkin previewed features like instant tour creation, comparative market analysis drafting, calendar integration and proactive client engagement.
Blue Sage Solutions adds rent payment data to Freddie Mac mortgage assessments
Blue Sage Solutions now lets lenders factor rent payments into mortgage decisions via Freddie Mac’s updated credit tool — an effort aimed at expanding homeownership access for renters with limited credit history.
FHA begins implementing multifactor authentication on Catalyst platform
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is rolling out phishing-resistant multifactor authentication for all Federal Housing Administration Catalyst users — with a July 28 deadline for adoption. The move aims to boost security, reduce credential sharing and protect sensitive data from cyber threats. Users are urged to act now or risk losing access to the platform.
Prudent AI debuts non-QM underwriting tool
Prudent AI has launched what it calls the first upfront automated underwriting system for non-QM loans, giving lenders early insight into loan viability. The tool applies investor-specific guidelines at submission — aiming to streamline operations, reduce exceptions, and support borrowers with nontraditional income or credit profiles.
Zillow vs. Homes.com: Experts speak on contrasts, agent benefits
Zillow and Homes.com are taking different approaches in the race for digital real estate dominance. While Zillow routes leads to Premier Agents, Homes.com gives them directly to listing agents. Industry experts say the contrast reflects deeper philosophical divides around agent control, consumer experience and how listings should be marketed.
Clear Capital integrates appraisal reviews with ICE
Clear Capital has integrated its automated appraisal review platform — ClearCollateral Review — with ICE Mortgage Technology’s Encompass Partner Connect. The move allows lenders to access review tools directly in their loan origination systems, aiming to streamline workflows, reduce risk and scale operations without the need for custom technical setup.
Newrez hires former Rocket CIO Brian Woodring
Newrez has appointed Brian Woodring as chief information officer. The former Rocket Mortgage executive will oversee technology strategy, including AI, digital products and IT infrastructure. His hiring follows other leadership changes at Newrez — including a new chief financial officer and regulatory head — as the lender focuses on platform growth and improvements to loan origination and servicing.
Goby Homes launches property transaction platform, founder honored by NAR
Goby Homes has launched a new platform to improve transparency and reduce cybersecurity risks in real estate transactions. Announced at the 2025 National Association of Realtors (NAR) Legislative Meetings, the rollout coincides with founder Terrence Nickelson being named NAR’s iOi Innovator of the Year for his tech-driven approach to reducing deal fallout and improving communication.
Partner Real Estate launches instant offers platform
Partner Real Estate has launched the Instant Offers Exchange, a platform that delivers multiple cash offers to sellers within minutes — with no obligation to accept. Designed to boost agent leverage and client flexibility, IOX aims to streamline sales and provide more options without showings, staging or upfront fees.