Google has sent out invites to sign up for a free Google Voice account.
Formerly called GrandCentral, it’s the Google version of a unified messaging system for managing your calls from a single account. Users can publish a single phone number, then have incoming calls routed to your phone when, as needed be it a landline or your mobile. It also includes centralized voicemail services from a browser-based system and interface. That’s just a start.
If you didn’t get your invitation, you can sign up for one here
Friday, July 10, 2009
AgentWorx: A New iPhone App for, from a Real Estate Pro
AgentWorx is new specialty software developed specifically for iPhone users by broker Chris Larsson in Portland OR. He describes it as an iPhone contactmanagement/productivity application for real estate. Helps organize, retrieve and share essential information in an easily managed form. Requires iPhone OS 3.0 or later and is compatible with both the iPhone and iPod touch. Available for $9.95. You can learn more here , or download AgentWorx at iTunes
A Budget Buy on Netbooks
Looking for an an easily affordable way to get started with a netbook?
How does 99 cents sound?
That’s right for a limited time, Sprint is offering a Compaq netbook for less than a dollar....with a two year service plan. At this writing, Versizon and Sprint have the same package for $199 with a two-year plan, but time will tell how they respond to the Sprint offer.
To learn more about this offer through Best Buy, start there.(http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcmcat182100050001&type=category) .
If you’re not familar with netbooks, take a look. This, or any other model in this growing category may be just what you need if you want more than a smartphone for mobile computing, but less than a full-sized notebook.
How does 99 cents sound?
That’s right for a limited time, Sprint is offering a Compaq netbook for less than a dollar....with a two year service plan. At this writing, Versizon and Sprint have the same package for $199 with a two-year plan, but time will tell how they respond to the Sprint offer.
To learn more about this offer through Best Buy, start there.(http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?id=pcmcat182100050001&type=category) .
If you’re not familar with netbooks, take a look. This, or any other model in this growing category may be just what you need if you want more than a smartphone for mobile computing, but less than a full-sized notebook.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Briefly noted...
Here’s another compilation of announcements I’ve set aside, hoping at some point to devote some space to them. Rather than procrastinate further, here’s a rundown of some developments you may want to explore further. Just follow the links.
And by the way, the next buying guide I’ll be working on for Realtor magazine online is about Website enhancements. If you’ve found or developed any you think would be of interest/value to other realtors, feel free to email me with a link to the info.
For a long time ACT seems to have been the most popular off the shelf contact management system for Realtors. Early last month the company released the latest version of the program developed specifically for those in this trade. ACT! by Sage for Real Estate 11, $299 or $199 upgrade, adds a few new features, including a “related contacts” feature for defining relations among contacts like buyers and sellers; improved integration with Outlook for organizing emails and calendar functions with contact records; and streamlined search functions.
Uses of digital signatures, and those interested in seeing how the technology might streamline their workflow, should take a look at the new version of DocuSign just announced. new features in DocuSign v9.1 include electronic signature personalization, a screen guide to sending documents for signature; a proprietary “Intelligent Document Recognition” feature which recognizes the type of document , then tags and tabs it as defined by the user for signing or data entry; designation of a “Signing Host” who functions as a host and notary to coordinate use of electronic and in-person signatures in transactions involving multiple signers.
MobileAppLoader.com is trying to get a leg up as a developer and distributor of iPhone applications with its iPhone application Real Estate Real Easy. Initially available free for download and distribution, the company touts it as a tool to promote your business on the client’s phone. When they launch the application, the opening window invites them to call or email you. Subsequent pages allow them to search for properties, visit a webpage, learn about your services and company, or send you a location-based request for information about an area or particular piece of property. You can see samples at the Website or iTunes( http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?id=293197705&mt=8 )
Realtor.com continues to fine tune its marketing programs to the varied needs of members and company. Just announced is a deal with Long & Foster to increase marketing exposure for its sales associates and clients on the Realtor.com website. Long & Foster listings will display company branding, a virtual “lawn sign”, wherever they appear on Realtor.com, including on the search results page.
In another new marketing program, Realtor.com and broker members of The Realty Alliance announced plans to avail the Showcase Listing Enhancement package to Realty Alliance brokers and associates increase the appeal of select listings on Realtor.com.
The featured listings will contain a photo gallery of as many as 25 photos, neighborhood details, full motion videos and virtual tours(if available) and lead capture forms. Pilot programs will add home warranty and mortgage services info alongside participating brokers’ listings on Realtor.com
And by the way, the next buying guide I’ll be working on for Realtor magazine online is about Website enhancements. If you’ve found or developed any you think would be of interest/value to other realtors, feel free to email me with a link to the info.
For a long time ACT seems to have been the most popular off the shelf contact management system for Realtors. Early last month the company released the latest version of the program developed specifically for those in this trade. ACT! by Sage for Real Estate 11, $299 or $199 upgrade, adds a few new features, including a “related contacts” feature for defining relations among contacts like buyers and sellers; improved integration with Outlook for organizing emails and calendar functions with contact records; and streamlined search functions.
Uses of digital signatures, and those interested in seeing how the technology might streamline their workflow, should take a look at the new version of DocuSign just announced. new features in DocuSign v9.1 include electronic signature personalization, a screen guide to sending documents for signature; a proprietary “Intelligent Document Recognition” feature which recognizes the type of document , then tags and tabs it as defined by the user for signing or data entry; designation of a “Signing Host” who functions as a host and notary to coordinate use of electronic and in-person signatures in transactions involving multiple signers.
MobileAppLoader.com is trying to get a leg up as a developer and distributor of iPhone applications with its iPhone application Real Estate Real Easy. Initially available free for download and distribution, the company touts it as a tool to promote your business on the client’s phone. When they launch the application, the opening window invites them to call or email you. Subsequent pages allow them to search for properties, visit a webpage, learn about your services and company, or send you a location-based request for information about an area or particular piece of property. You can see samples at the Website or iTunes( http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewArtist?id=293197705&mt=8 )
Realtor.com continues to fine tune its marketing programs to the varied needs of members and company. Just announced is a deal with Long & Foster to increase marketing exposure for its sales associates and clients on the Realtor.com website. Long & Foster listings will display company branding, a virtual “lawn sign”, wherever they appear on Realtor.com, including on the search results page.
In another new marketing program, Realtor.com and broker members of The Realty Alliance announced plans to avail the Showcase Listing Enhancement package to Realty Alliance brokers and associates increase the appeal of select listings on Realtor.com.
The featured listings will contain a photo gallery of as many as 25 photos, neighborhood details, full motion videos and virtual tours(if available) and lead capture forms. Pilot programs will add home warranty and mortgage services info alongside participating brokers’ listings on Realtor.com
Monday, May 4, 2009
How I bought a camera
My Canon digital camera finally died, forcing me back into the market.
What mattered? Price, for one thing. Since new cameras seem to be released every few months, I didn’t want to spend too much, knowing there could be good cause to step up to something else within a year or two. So, I didn’t want to spend more than $200.
Megapixel rating is a much touted and overrated feature. In reality, for typical real estate applications—posting to the web, images in flyers and brochures— a 3MP camera would do. But sensors have evolved well beyond that, except on phones and Webcams. So I knew any current camera would serve.
More important were the camera’s optics. As both a Realtor and avid photographer, I wanted a wide-angle lens, and a powerful optical zoom.
Versatility, too. I don’t shoot that much video but wanted that option so I would no longer need to carry a camera and camcorder. A determining requirement for me was that the optical zoom function when recording video. That’s not such a common feature.
For convenience, I wanted a compact that felt good in my hand. Internal memory and SD card. With everything else, it had to be durable: I carry my camera on a lot of hikes.
So what did I get?
Panasonic Lumix TZ-4, purchased in a bundle at Sam’s Club for $179. It’s one of last year’s models in the Lumix line, so the price break. It’s a compact with a stainless steel body. As far as the optics
go, it’s got a Leica (synonymous with quality optics to those of a certain age) 10X wide angle optical zoom lens. Optical zoom works in the video mode, and it can record high resolution video at 720p in the 16:9 aspect ratio. There’s a step-up model, the TZ-5 which records in true HD (1080 lines of resolution)for less than $50 more.
The only compromise I've discovered so far was giving up a through-the-lens-view finder. That takes some getting used to... I’ve also learned in some situations it’s best not to shoot in the camera's “intelligent” mode. That and carry a tripod for when I want to shoot with the full zoom.
This is not an endorsement, nor a glowing review. In fact, mine may not be the right camera for you. But that’s not my point. It’s this: when you think these things through before you start shopping. prioritize which features and functions matter. Computer, phone or camera you’ll end up happy with whatever you’re buying.
I am.
What mattered? Price, for one thing. Since new cameras seem to be released every few months, I didn’t want to spend too much, knowing there could be good cause to step up to something else within a year or two. So, I didn’t want to spend more than $200.
Megapixel rating is a much touted and overrated feature. In reality, for typical real estate applications—posting to the web, images in flyers and brochures— a 3MP camera would do. But sensors have evolved well beyond that, except on phones and Webcams. So I knew any current camera would serve.
More important were the camera’s optics. As both a Realtor and avid photographer, I wanted a wide-angle lens, and a powerful optical zoom.
Versatility, too. I don’t shoot that much video but wanted that option so I would no longer need to carry a camera and camcorder. A determining requirement for me was that the optical zoom function when recording video. That’s not such a common feature.
For convenience, I wanted a compact that felt good in my hand. Internal memory and SD card. With everything else, it had to be durable: I carry my camera on a lot of hikes.
So what did I get?
Panasonic Lumix TZ-4, purchased in a bundle at Sam’s Club for $179. It’s one of last year’s models in the Lumix line, so the price break. It’s a compact with a stainless steel body. As far as the optics
go, it’s got a Leica (synonymous with quality optics to those of a certain age) 10X wide angle optical zoom lens. Optical zoom works in the video mode, and it can record high resolution video at 720p in the 16:9 aspect ratio. There’s a step-up model, the TZ-5 which records in true HD (1080 lines of resolution)for less than $50 more.The only compromise I've discovered so far was giving up a through-the-lens-view finder. That takes some getting used to... I’ve also learned in some situations it’s best not to shoot in the camera's “intelligent” mode. That and carry a tripod for when I want to shoot with the full zoom.
This is not an endorsement, nor a glowing review. In fact, mine may not be the right camera for you. But that’s not my point. It’s this: when you think these things through before you start shopping. prioritize which features and functions matter. Computer, phone or camera you’ll end up happy with whatever you’re buying.
I am.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Five Questions About Smarter Agent
Most think of GPS as a navigation tool, but one company is using that technology as the basis for of location-based property searches on mobile devices. Smarter Agent is a carrier approved, GPS-powered tool which enables consumers to search and retrieve property information on their cell phone or other handset, based on where they are. It was developed by co-founders and brothers Brad(CEO) and Eric Blumberg ( CTO and president). The Blumbergs have an insiders’ understanding of how technology can best serve the needs of today’s mobile real estate professionals and clients. Their mother owned a brokerage office, and they have held real estate licenses since they were 18. They hold several U. S. patents for the use of technology in their system.(responses have been edited)
Questions:
Can you explain Smarter Agent?
Smarter Agent gives consumers a mobile application to search property listings anywhere, anytime from the convenience of their cell phone, iPhone or BlackBerry. Our application Homes for Sale pinpoints the users’ location then pulls up all properties for sale in the immediate area: IDX/VOW (publicly viewable listings) data with sales prices, property descriptions and neighborhood information. They can map the results, view photos and search by city, zip code or community name. When ready, they hit “call to see” and are connected with the broker or agent who provided the application, no matter whose listing it is.
How does this solution work (including integrating with IDX and MLS)?
Smarter Agent works as a vendor with the broker or agent’s MLS to take the IDX/VOW mobile, while maintaining the broker/agent’s brand just like their Web site. Consumers can search “all” properties in that region, and our Homes for Sale application lets them see all nearby homes for sale, based on their current location, as they travel through neighborhoods.
What's the cost and requirements for agents and brokers?
Agents and brokers pay to have our application branded, distributed to clients, and their calls routed to you. Standard pricing is around $40 per month, for unlimited distribution to consumers. We offer specials throughout the year so call for the most updated pricing.
For consumers?
For consumers, the download is free on the iPhone and BlackBerry devices. For other devices, the carrier may charge a fee to download Homes for Sale, comparable to the cost to download a game or a ringtone
What are the benefits to the real estate professional providing this solution?
Homes for Sale is a branded mobile application. It gives brokers/agents access to clients on their cell phone, whether they use it for text messaging, mobile web (WAP) or downloadable applications. Searches can be launched directly from a Web site, or as directed by a sign rider or printed advertisement. Calls placed from the branded application are routed back to you, regardless of who listed the property.
Questions:
Can you explain Smarter Agent?
Smarter Agent gives consumers a mobile application to search property listings anywhere, anytime from the convenience of their cell phone, iPhone or BlackBerry. Our application Homes for Sale pinpoints the users’ location then pulls up all properties for sale in the immediate area: IDX/VOW (publicly viewable listings) data with sales prices, property descriptions and neighborhood information. They can map the results, view photos and search by city, zip code or community name. When ready, they hit “call to see” and are connected with the broker or agent who provided the application, no matter whose listing it is.
How does this solution work (including integrating with IDX and MLS)?
Smarter Agent works as a vendor with the broker or agent’s MLS to take the IDX/VOW mobile, while maintaining the broker/agent’s brand just like their Web site. Consumers can search “all” properties in that region, and our Homes for Sale application lets them see all nearby homes for sale, based on their current location, as they travel through neighborhoods.
What's the cost and requirements for agents and brokers?
Agents and brokers pay to have our application branded, distributed to clients, and their calls routed to you. Standard pricing is around $40 per month, for unlimited distribution to consumers. We offer specials throughout the year so call for the most updated pricing.
For consumers?
For consumers, the download is free on the iPhone and BlackBerry devices. For other devices, the carrier may charge a fee to download Homes for Sale, comparable to the cost to download a game or a ringtone
What are the benefits to the real estate professional providing this solution?
Homes for Sale is a branded mobile application. It gives brokers/agents access to clients on their cell phone, whether they use it for text messaging, mobile web (WAP) or downloadable applications. Searches can be launched directly from a Web site, or as directed by a sign rider or printed advertisement. Calls placed from the branded application are routed back to you, regardless of who listed the property.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Quick Takes:
For Mac Users
If you’ve got a G5 or better, and have experimented with past versions of iLife for building/managing a Website via iWeb, or creating video tours with iMovie I’d highly recommend the latest version of the suite, iLife 09.
Both simple to use, but they’ve opened up on the creative end to deliver that combination of ease of use and sophistication that is the Mac experience. New version of iPhoto can geo-tag your photos too, and post them on a map, if you’ve got one of the few GPS-enabled cameras like the Nikon Coolpix P6000. If not, you can enter addresses as you upload them to take advantage of the mapping feature.
Netbook?
Rumor of the week : Apple is prepping its version of a Netbook, with speculation based on orders for 10 inch-touchscreen panels placed with Taiwanese manufacturer. A hybrid iPhone/iPod Touch/tablet for the netbook class? We’ll have to wait and see
Regardless of Apple’s plans, a netbook is something t to consider. Just got one of the Dell netbooks in my house...for one of our kids who wants nothing but quick on for Facebook, IM, etc. First hands-on impression are these could be great solutions for the mobile Realtor who wantsmore from the Web than a smartphone can deliver but finds a full-sized notebook a little cumbersome to haul around. Keyboard a bit cramped, but more than enough screen. And the price: under $300.
But is any netbook a good choice for you? Think about what you need in the field. If it’s mostly Web, comfortably viewed, they make sense. And you don’t have to worry about loading it with all your software. With Web based-apps like Google Apps, Top Producer and the like, as long as you can connect, you’re in business.
Design Center
Here’s how practical and productive Web-based apps can be.
For a mailing , I didn’t have the right template for the labels. No problem. With the Avery Design and Print Online center you can build then print whatever you need to print on Avery’s paper products--labels, business cards, postcards, etc. All done right there, via your Web browser, perfectly formatted for your printer in a few steps--even addressed using your mailing list.
Create a free account you can save your projects, return revise and edit as needed. Just another example of potential for Web-based apps.
If you’ve got a G5 or better, and have experimented with past versions of iLife for building/managing a Website via iWeb, or creating video tours with iMovie I’d highly recommend the latest version of the suite, iLife 09.
Both simple to use, but they’ve opened up on the creative end to deliver that combination of ease of use and sophistication that is the Mac experience. New version of iPhoto can geo-tag your photos too, and post them on a map, if you’ve got one of the few GPS-enabled cameras like the Nikon Coolpix P6000. If not, you can enter addresses as you upload them to take advantage of the mapping feature.
Netbook?
Rumor of the week : Apple is prepping its version of a Netbook, with speculation based on orders for 10 inch-touchscreen panels placed with Taiwanese manufacturer. A hybrid iPhone/iPod Touch/tablet for the netbook class? We’ll have to wait and see
Regardless of Apple’s plans, a netbook is something t to consider. Just got one of the Dell netbooks in my house...for one of our kids who wants nothing but quick on for Facebook, IM, etc. First hands-on impression are these could be great solutions for the mobile Realtor who wantsmore from the Web than a smartphone can deliver but finds a full-sized notebook a little cumbersome to haul around. Keyboard a bit cramped, but more than enough screen. And the price: under $300.
But is any netbook a good choice for you? Think about what you need in the field. If it’s mostly Web, comfortably viewed, they make sense. And you don’t have to worry about loading it with all your software. With Web based-apps like Google Apps, Top Producer and the like, as long as you can connect, you’re in business.
Design Center
Here’s how practical and productive Web-based apps can be.
For a mailing , I didn’t have the right template for the labels. No problem. With the Avery Design and Print Online center you can build then print whatever you need to print on Avery’s paper products--labels, business cards, postcards, etc. All done right there, via your Web browser, perfectly formatted for your printer in a few steps--even addressed using your mailing list.
Create a free account you can save your projects, return revise and edit as needed. Just another example of potential for Web-based apps.
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