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.
