What fairly recent technology trend affects real estate brokers?

The increased use of virtual tours and online platforms is a pivotal trend in the real estate industry, particularly following recent advancements in technology and changes in consumer preferences. This trend has enabled brokers to showcase properties to potential buyers from the comfort of their own homes, increasing accessibility and convenience. Virtual tours allow clients to explore listings in greater detail and have become a valuable tool for marketing properties effectively.

Moreover, the rise of online platforms enhances the efficiency of real estate transactions and expands the market reach for brokers. These platforms facilitate communication, streamline processes, and provide valuable data and analytics that help brokers better understand market trends and consumer behavior. As a result, embracing these technologies can significantly enhance a broker's competitiveness in the marketplace, making it easier to connect with clients and close deals.

The other options reflect outdated considerations that do not align with current industry dynamics. For instance, decreased communication methods and reduced need for networking would hinder rather than enhance a broker's effectiveness, while more reliance on traditional media does not take full advantage of the digital transformation occurring in the industry.