A new global study from Vistra Fund Solutions, in partnership with Funds Global Intelligence, the research arm of Funds Europe, reveals that real estate fund managers face significant ongoing challenges tied directly to data quality, data standardisation, and the adoption of technology.
Based on a survey of more than 165 professionals in real estate investment worldwide, the report – Data at the Crossroads: How quality, governance and AI are reshaping real estate investment management – highlights how poor data is becoming a critical obstacle to success in fundraising and strategy execution. Nearly two-thirds of respondents admitted that weak data quality had either forced them to abandon strategies or restricted their ability to raise capital.
Despite 90% of firms rating their internal data as “good” or “excellent,” key operational issues persist. A lack of data standardisation is a major concern, with inconsistencies in charts of accounts, fragmented systems, and incompatible data formats causing costly delays, errors, and undermining investor confidence.
Financial and performance reporting emerged as the top area in need of high-quality data, particularly among larger asset managers, reflecting investor expectations for transparency and accountability.
Technology is also playing a pivotal role. Tools such as AI and predictive analytics are being adopted across the real estate value chain, from valuation modelling to risk assessment and operational optimisation. However, their effectiveness depends entirely on the quality and governance of the underlying data.
Abdel Hmitti, president of Vistra Fund Solutions, commented: “Poor data quality is a systemic risk in our industry that is undermining fundraising, eroding investor trust, and jeopardising compliance. In this environment, high-quality data is no longer just an operational need; it’s a decisive competitive advantage. That’s why Vistra is leading a cross-industry initiative to establish a universal chart of accounts for real estate. We are committed to providing our clients with the clarity they need to adapt, and lead.”
The report also highlights regional differences in technology priorities. European firms are focusing on ESG-related data and AI tools, North American firms prioritise risk management and financial reporting, while APAC and Middle Eastern managers focus heavily on performance data for cross-border capital flow transparency.
To download the full report, click here.