Core Viewpoint - A significant transformation is occurring in the real estate transaction industry, driven by digitalization and the government's new policies aimed at promoting a more transparent and efficient market [1][3][10]. Group 1: Industry Transformation - The Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, along with other departments, issued a new policy in July to promote the digital transformation of real estate transactions, signaling a major restructuring of the traditional real estate agency industry [1][3]. - By the second quarter of 2025, the number of real estate agencies is expected to decrease by 17.3% year-on-year, with over 85,000 stores closing [1][3]. - In contrast, the user base of various real estate transaction service platforms has surged by 86% year-on-year, indicating a rapid shift towards platformization [1][3]. Group 2: Consumer Benefits - The new policies aim to create a unified national real estate information platform, which is expected to reduce transaction costs by 23.8%, saving approximately 168 billion yuan annually for homebuyers [3][11]. - Consumers are experiencing a more transparent and efficient transaction process, with one buyer reporting a savings of nearly 30,000 yuan by using an internet platform compared to traditional agencies [7][11]. Group 3: Challenges and Responses - The rise of platformization presents challenges, including ensuring service quality, managing transaction disputes, and protecting consumer data [7][11]. - The government plans to establish a credit evaluation system for transaction service platforms and requires them to set up mechanisms for resolving disputes and protecting consumer rights [7][11]. Group 4: Future Outlook - By the end of 2026, it is projected that over 75% of real estate transactions will be completed or assisted through digital platforms, potentially reducing total transaction costs by over 35% compared to 2024 [11][12]. - The transformation is expected to create approximately 1.5 million new jobs in related service industries, benefiting around 200 million potential homebuyers [11][12].