Fundamentals for automating due diligence processes in property transactions

Abstract

PurposeThis research provides fundamentals for generating (partially) automated standardized due diligence reports. Based on original digital building documents from (institutional) investors, the potential for automated information extraction through machine learning algorithms is demonstrated. Preferred sources for key information of technical due diligence reports are presented. The paper concludes with challenges towards an automated information extraction in due diligence processes.Design/methodology/approachThe comprehensive building documentation including n = 8,339 digital documents of 14 properties and 21 technical due diligence reports serve as a basis for identifying key information. To structure documents for due diligence, 410 document classes are derived and documents principally checked for machine readability. General rules are developed for prioritized document classes according to relevance and machine readability of documents.FindingsThe analysis reveals that a substantial part of all relevant digital building documents is poorly suited for automated information extraction. The availability and content of documents vary greatly from owner to owner and between document classes. The prioritization of document classes according to machine readability reveals potentials for using artificial intelligence in due diligence processes.Practical implicationsThe paper includes recommendations for improving the machine readability of documents and indicates the potential for (partially) automating due diligence processes. Therefore, document classes are derived, reviewed and prioritized. Transaction risks can be countered by an automated check for completeness of relevant documents.Originality/valueThis paper is the first published (empirical) research to specifically assess the automated digital processing of due diligence reports. The findings are helpful for improving due diligence processes and, more generally, promoting the use of machine learning in the property sector.