Switching AML software for real estate
Should I switch?
The right time to switch is when your provider can't support your compliance obligations or transaction volume.
Good reasons to switch
- Slow/non-existent support and help from your provider
- The platform can't handle complex entity verifications (eg. trusts, SMSFs)
- The platform doesn't match what you saw in the demo
- The platform can't handle multi-party property transactions
- The platform wasn't built to scale with your listing and transaction volume
- You can't reuse past verification when a vendor or buyer comes back
- Hidden costs that eat into thin transaction margins
- No local regulatory updates as AUSTRAC guidance evolves for real estate
- The platform hasn't kept up with the latest regulatory changes
Not-so-good reasons to switch
If your reason sits in this list, it's worth troubleshooting with your current provider first (switching won't fix a process or training gap).
-
"The conveyancer doesn't want to share their CDD outcome with us."
-
"It's the client who's slow, not us."
-
Verification is taking too long
-
Not knowing how to verify a particular entity structure
-
Compliance takes more effort than expected
-
A staff member made a mistake
-
A cheaper option exists elsewhere
Millions of clients are verified faster through thousands of companies with First AML.
What to look for when comparing AML software for real estate
AML software varies most on compliance depth, automation, and ease of use for agents and clients. Here's the full comparison.
First AML
Others
AML compliance
Built-in guardrails and rules
Built-in and configurable risk assessment, scoring and guidance
Manual, other system or spreadsheet-based
All-in-one AML: IDV, UBOs, PEPs/sanctions, risk scoring, monitoring, case management, global/local data
Multiple point solutions and manual processes
Configurable customer due diligence (CDD) workflows
Fixed workflows
Automated and fully configurable enhanced due diligence (ECDD)
Manual processes or outsource
Automated ongoing monitoring across individuals and entities
Reliant on manual reviews, calendar reminders or spreadsheet tracking
Automated in-platform record-keeping and audit trail
Manual collation and scattered storage across corporate drives or email
Automated, branded, customisable client communication and tracking
Limited communication options
Global data: 300+ registries, 180+ ID databases
Limited to AU/NZ or requires manual document upload
Experts on-call
ACAMs-qualified consultants available
Qualified consultants available
User-friendly
Intuitive and mobile-friendly for agents and clients
Requires an app or original documents scanned and emailed
No surprise costs
One platform fee and transparent data usage rates
Outsourcing charges and/or third-party add-ons
Handles complex cases in-platform: auto share classes, structure mapping, UBO thresholds, global data.
Manual processes or outsource
Integrations with your CRMs
Multiple global and local integrations (eg. Vault, Box + Dice, Eagle, REX, LockedOn and many more)
AI-powered intel, automation and support
Why First AML?
Here's why leading real estate networks choose First AML.
Built for real estate. Trusted by industry.
Recommended by REIA and designed for the fast-paced, high-volume world of property.
Best experience for you and your client.
Our Customer Success team is based in-market and works alongside you to help turn your policies into day-to-day workflows.
No delays at listing or sale.
A single AML system that runs in the background while deals continue as normal. Agents trigger checks in seconds, so listings and sales keep moving.
Secure and compliant by default.
ISO27001 certified and privacy-first, so your client data and verification records are protected at every step.
“We’d been told AML was so complex that outsourcing was essential, so I was nervous about switching to First AML. Now, although we aren't outsourcing, it almost feels like we are.
The system tells us exactly what’s required and requests it from the client. Approvals can take a minute, where our previous provider took days, sometimes weeks.
The right system makes a huge difference. The transition was so easy, and I'm really glad we made the switch [to First AML].”
Courtney de Vos, Office Manager , Ray White Brisbane City
What happens when I switch?
Once you've decided to switch, here's what happens next.
Step 1
Onboarding
We configure your platform workflows to match your agency specific obligations and compliance program, including vendor and purchaser verification, and transactions involving entities such as trusts, SMSFs and companies.
Step 2
Data migration
When you switch, your existing client records and verification history transfer across from your current provider, keeping all evidence of your client identity checks in one place.
Step 3
Platform access and training
Your team gets First AML access plus a range of training (incl. your own Onboarding Hub and live webinars). Training covers real estate-specific scenarios and obligations, and is regularly updated based on client feedback and regulatory changes.
Step 4
Ongoing support
After go-live, you have ongoing access to First AML's support team, whether there's a question about a specific verification or how to use a feature.
Ready to make the switch?
Get in touch by completing the form below - we'll get back to you as soon as possible.