Jana Borer, strategy consulting, Deloitte LLP, sat down for a video interview at Nareit's REITwise: 2025 Law, Accounting & Finance Conference® in San Antonio, Texas.
Borer discussed recent advancements in artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI, and its practical implications across industries. She traced AI’s evolution from early computer chess programs in the 1970s to major breakthroughs in the early 2000s, emphasizing improvements in algorithms, processing power, and broader accessibility. Borer highlighted that the real shift has come with the democratization of powerful AI tools, enabling widespread use in both personal and professional contexts.
Focusing on real estate, Borer said generative AI is being used to streamline accounting and data processes. For example, it enhances lease abstraction by extracting and summarizing key contract details, leading to more accurate and data-driven decisions. Additionally, combining AI with machine vision and drone imagery allows companies to analyze infrastructure conditions, such as identifying rust on bridges, which can then guide maintenance prioritization.
Beyond real estate, generative AI is helping companies simplify repetitive, process-heavy tasks by accelerating workflows and improving accuracy—even interpreting handwritten notes in documents. However, Borer acknowledged that trust and reliability remain concerns and stressed the importance of a "human in the loop" approach.