Bridging Innovation and Opportunity to Create Impact beyond Real Estate
Hispanic Wealth Project
Empowering Latinos to prosper through education, small business development, and sustainable homeownership.
Alex Lange | Head of Strategy and Innovation at the National Association of Realtors (NAR)
Alex Lange is Head of Strategy and Innovation at the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). His team is charged with researching trends and emerging technologies that impact homeownership and expose leaders to an action-based approach to manage, harness, and leverage the constant change around them. Before NAR, Alex was the former CEO of Forbes Global Properties, CEO of UpstreamRE and President of Home Captain. A Certified Foresight Practitioner (“Futurist”) and graduate of Harvard’s General Management Program, Alex got his start in technology as a U.S. Army paratrooper before entering the private sector and later being included in the Global Top 1,000 Chief Technology Officers (Bloomberg, S&P, The Global Leaders).
Alex Lange blends technological acumen, industry expertise, and a heartfelt commitment to empowerment at NAR and his role in spearheading the iOi Summit. His commitment to supporting Hispanic communities and fostering wealth among small business owners has set a strong foundation for his career, bridging innovation and market needs effectively.
Over the last six years, Lange has witnessed transformative trends in the real estate industry, notably the massive influence of artificial intelligence. “Honestly, it’s hard to avoid AI. It’s been the dominant trend,” he said, highlighting how this technology is reshaping the home qualification and payment processes. As household financial landscapes evolve, Lange noted a critical need for change, particularly for those with thin credit files, such as individuals in the gig economy paid via platforms like Venmo. “We just have to change the way we see that,” he urged, reinforcing that cultural factors often play a significant role in financial reliability.
While discussing current challenges, Lange pointed to housing inventory constraints and the potential for converting commercial properties to mixed-use spaces. However, he noted the barriers presented by outdated infrastructures. “If a commercial building is older and, say, built in 1985, it can be really expensive to retrofit,” he explained. Innovations such as 3D printing in construction have caught his attention, offering a glimpse into future possibilities. “I’m fascinated by 3D printed homes... They are just like building these things up as Lego blocks,” he remarked, suggesting that adjustable living arrangements could revolutionize real estate.
As Lange looks ahead, he eagerly anticipates the upcoming iOi Summit, where numerous sessions will delve into the nexus of technology and real estate. “AI drives a lot of what we’re seeing,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of understanding how technology affects consumer behavior. No longer will homebuyers search for homes online through traditional methods. Instead, he envisions a future where “your smart TV will say, ‘Hey, I know you were looking for homes in X community,’ and it will recommend options seamlessly.”
Lange's insights transcend industry trends; they reflect core beliefs about wealth and legacy. With a strong background in technology and finance rooted in his military experience, he sees wealth not merely as financial success but as creating value and fostering growth. “I think early in my career, I realized that wealth wasn’t just about financial success; it was really about making an impact,” he shared. As a first-generation U.S. citizen, Lange acknowledges the instilled values of hard work from his immigrant family, which ultimately shaped his views on prosperity.
In his vision of a wealth legacy, Lange aims to empower others. “Ultimately, it’s about empowerment—using resources and knowledge to create opportunities for yourself, your family, and others,” he reflected. “I hope my wealth legacy is one of creating opportunities for other people,” signaling a commitment to not just personal success but the uplifting of entire communities, particularly through technology.
As the conversation wound down, Lange expressed sincere anticipation for collaboration opportunities ahead. “I want to be known for driving growth and fostering environments where ideas flourish,” he concluded.
In an era where economic barriers often limit access, Alex Lange’s insights and initiatives stand as a beacon of hope, especially for the Hispanic community. He embodies a pioneering spirit crucial for navigating the future of real estate and wealth-building strategies. As the iOi Summit approaches, the industry eagerly awaits the innovative discussions that Lange will contribute, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and creating tangible pathways for growth and opportunity.
Disclosure: Please note that the information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.
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