Seattle-based DocuSign, Redfin recognized for innovation

CNBC recently recognized two real estate companies-DocuSign and the real estate brokerage Redfin-on its Disruptor 50 list, which features companies whose “innovations are revolutionizing the business landscape.”

CNBC chose companies that it believes tap unexploited niches and that have the potential to become billion-dollar businesses.

DocuSign, an e-signature technology company founded by Tom Gonzer in Seattle, has paved the way for paperless transactions in real estate. The company appeared No. 29 on the Disrupter list, recognized for its ability to reduce transaction times, increase security, and reduce costs by eliminating the need for paper. Founded in 2003, DocuSign boasts 48 million users in 188 countries.

“All around me I saw companies leveraging technology to accelerate the speed of business,” Gonser told CNBC about how he came up with the idea for the company. “But when it came to … a contract for buying or selling a home, documents from my financial adviser, or signing in at the doctor’s office, there were no simple solutions.”

Redfin, a Seattle-based online real estate search and brokerage, appeared No. 34 on the list, recognized for its use of technology in helping buyers and sellers as well as for its non-commission pay structure for its agents.