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What Specific Problem Am I Addressing?
In the vast realm of real estate and property management, identifying a specific pain point or inefficiency is crucial. Start by asking, “Am I solving a genuine problem faced by property owners, renters, or real estate professionals? Or “Is my solution significantly better, faster, or more cost-effective than existing solutions?” When you have a clear, focused problem statement, you’ll have laid out the foundation for a successful startup.Is There a Market for My Solution?
No matter how innovative your idea might be, it’s futile without a market. Understand the size and characteristics of your target audience by answering questions like, “Are there enough potential customers willing to pay for my solution?”, “How are current solutions addressing this issue, and what gaps exist?” and so on. Carry out thorough market research and think about launching a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) to decipher the market’s enthusiasm for and perception of your offering.How Scalable Is My Business Model?
PropTech, like many tech sectors, holds vast growth opportunities, which can only be exploited if your business is scalable. So, make certain that your solution is replicated in different regions or markets without substantial modifications. Also, have a clear strategy for growth that can be sustained in the long run.Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
What is My Competitive Advantage?
Although it’s still in its infancy, Nigeria’s PropTech industry is already starting to see a fair bit of competition amongst its growing number of players. If you’re going to stand out in what is an increasingly crowded space, you’ll need to define and emphasize your Unique Selling Proposition (USP). Do this by noting what characteristic differentiates your solution from others in the market, and outlining whatever proprietary technology, partnerships, or insights that give you an edge. With your competitive advantage clearly visible, you’ll be better able to attract investors and customers alike.What are the Regulatory Implications?
Real estate is an industry often laden with regulations, and it’s essential to be well-versed in them. Therefore, ascertain what permissions or licenses you might need, and whether there are data privacy and security regulations that your solution must comply with, especially if you’re dealing with personal and property data. Taking a proactive approach to understanding and complying with regulations can save you from future hurdles and potential legal issues.Do I Have the Right Team?
Finally, but most importantly, evaluate your team’s composition. The challenges in PropTech can be diverse, ranging from understanding real estate nuances to technological hurdles. A couple of questions you should answer: Do you have a blend of real estate expertise and tech prowess in your team? And, is your team adaptable and resilient, equipped to handle the complexities and rapid changes in the sector? A well-rounded team can be the difference between your startup succeeding and struggling to find its footing.Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Final Words
The propTech sector offers exciting opportunities. But it’s important for entrepreneurs to do their due diligence before taking the plunge. If you take the questions we’ve talked about here as a guide, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of the PropTech world and position your startup for great wins. Featured Image Source: TechCabalGot a suggestion? Contact us: editor@connectnigeria.com