The verdict in three sentences
Below 8 agents, a vertical real estate SaaS at EUR 40-120/user/month is unbeatable for a fast start. Beyond that, subscription costs climb linearly while your matching and multi-portal distribution processes grow too specific for the off-the-shelf tool. Custom software (EUR 45,000-130,000) makes sense when you want to industrialise the mandate-to-sale conversion rate and consolidate several branches.
What the software must cover
An agency director manages four critical flows: mandate intake, buyer/property matching, viewing scheduling and multi-portal distribution. Each can be standard or differentiating.
| Module | Vertical SaaS included | Custom recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Mandate management | Yes, fixed form | Yes, e-signature workflow |
| Auto matching | Simple rules | Weighted scoring per agency criteria |
| Portal distribution | 3-5 portals | Unlimited + auto removal on sale |
| Viewing calendar | Yes | Yes + automatic SMS reminders |
| Electronic signature | Paid option | Built-in, legally binding |
| Multi-branch reporting | Rare | Consolidated dashboard |
| Field mobile app | Limited | Custom, offline mode |
Legally binding e-signature (eIDAS) saves on average 3 to 5 days on the offer cycle, something entry-level SaaS rarely handles well.
SaaS vs custom: the switch-over threshold
The calculation rests on agent headcount and amortisation period. Here is a 2026 order of magnitude over 4 years.
| Headcount | SaaS at EUR 80/mo (4 yrs) | Custom EUR 90,000 + 12%/yr maintenance |
|---|---|---|
| 5 agents | EUR 19,200 | EUR 133,200 |
| 10 agents | EUR 38,400 | EUR 133,200 |
| 20 agents | EUR 76,800 | EUR 133,200 |
| 35 agents | EUR 134,400 | EUR 133,200 |
| 50 agents | EUR 192,000 | EUR 133,200 |
The crossover sits around 35 agents under this assumption. But custom is not justified by cost alone: a 2 to 4 point gain on mandate-to-sale conversion, on a portfolio of 300 mandates at EUR 6,000 average commission, means EUR 36,000-72,000 in additional revenue per year.
Mini case study
Stephanie runs a 3-branch network in Bordeaux, 22 agents, 280 active mandates. Her SaaS costs EUR 21,120/year (EUR 80 x 22). She switches to custom at EUR 95,000, amortised over 4 years, about EUR 24,000/year with maintenance. Weighted matching and automatic portal removal gain her 2.5 points of conversion: on 280 mandates at EUR 6,000, that adds EUR 42,000 in annual commissions. Net of the software overspend, the gain exceeds EUR 38,000 per year from the first full year.
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FAQ
What does a custom real estate platform really cost in 2026?
Budget EUR 45,000 for a targeted scope (mandates + distribution + matching) and up to EUR 130,000 for a multi-branch platform with a field mobile app and built-in signature. Annual maintenance is 10 to 15% of the build.
Can we keep our current portals and signature provider?
Yes. A custom platform integrates with major portals and eIDAS signature providers via API. You avoid a big-bang replacement and can migrate in batches.
What is the time to production?
Between 5 and 10 months depending on module count. A mandates + matching + distribution core often ships in 5-6 months; telephony, mobile app and multi-branch reporting add 2 to 4 months.
From how many agents does custom pay off?
Around 35 on subscription cost alone, but much earlier if your differentiation runs through conversion rate or consolidated multi-branch management.
How do we avoid vendor lock-in?
Require the source code, technical documentation and a standard architecture (REST API, documented database). You stay free to reinternalise or change teams.
Let's scope your project. Tell us your headcount, distribution portals and mandate volume, and we will price the priority core and your break-even point. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
