Free ebook on Mobile Essentials for Real Estate

     Back in 2010 I put together an ebook, compiling all I knew on the various tools, services and software which Realtors use in their careers. As the name implies, Essential Mobile Technology for Real Estate provided a quick study on core technologies empowering your careers. 

     As fast as tech advances, I updated the book in 2012 to reflect the changes had taken place in those two years.  And again, I tried to focus more on the underlying technology than on any specific products to make the book a useful resource. It was a considerable undertaking in time and effort, for what has proven minimal ROI. 

     So rather than invest that time again, the 2012 version is available for free download, from here forward. I’ll use this space to update that information or expand the focus as needed, over time

     I still think the information there can be of some help to anyone who needs a good grounding the essential tech tools, and how they can serve you and your clients. 

     The biggest change of course, is the consolidation of many of these tools in the palm of your hand, in your smartphone or tablet. For a somewhat humorous perspective at just how much smartphones have changed things, take a look at this 1991 Radio Shack ad and article.

     At any rate, Essential Mobile Technology for Real Estate is now available in popular ebook format through Smashwords www.smashwords.com. Just click this link for the download. If you experience problems, please let me know.

When To Upgrade To A New PC?

As this year’s update of Realtor magazine’s computer buyer’s guide shows, there’s plenty to choose from if you’re in the market for a new computer. But, as most real state professionals already have a primary computer system--either notebook or desktop— the bigger concern may be deciding when and if it’s time to upgrade.

You still need a real computer, at least for the foreseeable future. While there’s abundant real estate apps for tablets and smartphones, real productivity software is still targeted at PCs, and most for Windows machines. The larger screen size, keyboard, and faster processors found on notebooks and desktops also make for a more comfortable user experience, whether running software or using cloud services.

So, if you’ve already got a computer, when does it make sense to trade it in for one of this year’s models. If any of the following rings true, there’s no better time than right now.

An older system—one bought three or more years ago—seems sluggish when browsing the Web or running programs;

Essential real estate software you use has been updated for a newer version of the operating system, and your present system doesn’t meet the recommended requirements for the OS;

You want to go fully mobile, and require a new notebook powerful enough to replace a desktop system;

You’ve finally decided to migrate to an iMac or Macbook after watching others successfully make the transition from Windows to OS X hardware;

You have the budget to re-invest and take advantage of the latest improvements in performance, features and functionality. 

Any system bought today should serve your needs for the next two to three years. By then, who knows, the technology may evolve in ways that stretch our present notion of a primary system. For now, though, your next PC should look and perform much like the one you’ve been using, albeit it much faster and sleeker.

Initially Screening Real Estate Tech Vendors

        Software or hardware, when you invest in any tech product or service, you’re entrusting part of your real estate career there. With companies claiming to offer a real estate solution, especially, you don’t want to end up with a vendor who won’t be there for you, when you need them most.

Before you ask for references or request a demo, you can quickly decide which companies to pursue, which aren’t worth your time. Simply contact or call them for more information and gauge response time.

As a real estate professional, responding to prospect and client queries is critical: ideally within hours; at least the same business day; at worst within 24 hours. Hold any potential vendor to the same standard. If they don’t address your query within a day, strike them from the list. Lack of response suggests both poor professionalism, and understaffing.

All kinds of problems can crop up when installing or using any tech product. Your business and the services you provide can depend on the real estate technology you employ. If a vendor can’t get back to when you are most attractive— as a potential sale— what’s to suggest support will be available, once they have your money?

As one who covers technology for real estate, I’m continually exploring and fielding pitches from companies with the next best thing. I’ve also been persistently surprised over the years, how some companies never respond to queries which could help them get the word out about their real estate solution.

I figure if they can’t get back to me, they won’t be there for you, and move on.