Some Briefs:

     Alternative financing? In what it claims is a first for the lending industry, Money360 taps the reach of the Internet for a “ peer-to-peer (P2P) real estate lending marketplace,” matching qualifying residential or commercial real estate borrowers with its network of private lenders. 

     Site says, ”Borrowers find Lenders seeking to make loans based on their requested terms.  Lenders gain access to lending opportunities they would not otherwise see, and can conveniently review the opportunities that match their specified preferences.”  if you and clients have been frustrated with the traditional lending process, probably worth a look.... 

     If you’ve been considering other revenue streams until the market comes back, Picaboo.com might have a program for you. The digital book provider is targeting real estate professionals() with a program that allows them to capitalize on local market expertise as a local rep for its custom yearbook program. It might be a stretch, but if you’re feeling stretched, you might want to consider the program.

Smartphones and....

 Wrapped up the buying guide to smartphones recently and it should post on Realtor magazine online soon.

Even in the short cycle of online publishing it’s getting tougher to provide the most current information in a category like this. Smartphones are so hot, vendors seem to be talking up their next generation even as the most current products hit stores.

For buyers, this creates a real conundrum. The smartphone is a must have in real estate---but if you’re budget conscious when you choose your smartphone you’re making a commitment that typically runs two years. Computers and camera you can buy  a new model at will; most smartphones are sold locked to a service contract and can get very expensive when you buy outside that bundle.

So, the most important concern is getting a product you can live with that long. If you’re over 40, screen size and resolution should be a top consideration, as the display remains the biggest drawback to relying on the smartphones your primary PC in the field. Then you need to decide if that screen is worth the bulk that goes with it. Yes smartphones are thinner, sleeker lighter than ever before, but they are large compared to other types of cell phones.

But operating system trumps all other considerations....

Best Apps for Real Estate?

      It’s the apps which unleash the power of a smartphone.The June guide will take a look at this critical software category. What smartphone OS are you using, and in turn, which apps make yours a practical productive real estate tool?. I’m looking to talk to some Realtors about what they are using, and why, for this guide. If you’d like to be considered, send your thoughts to antoniakATdtccomDOTnet

Who should pay...

When putting together the 2012 latest buyer’s guide to digital cameras for Realtor magazine online I had an intersting conversation with Lee Jinks, Realtor and associate executive for the Greater McAllen(TX) Association of Realtors.

Whatever the cateogry, I seek out real estate professionals to interview who are knoweldgebale and passionate about that topic. For evidence of Lee’s expertise andskill behind the lens, take a look at his ActiveRain blog. You may also find some useful insights and tips there on making listings look their best.

He believes better photos start with a passion for photography, and the dedication to master the craft. If you don’t possess that, you might be better off hiring a professional photographer to convey all the appeal of a home.

That’s common sense advice; there are always times you and clients are best served hiring the pro. 

Where Lee breaks with the prevailing view, however, is in who should cover that cost.“Here's how I would love to change the industry,” he explained in an email to me. 

“When a home needs to be prepared for the market, the agent will suggest necessary improvements and the seller will complete them based on their importance and theseller's budget..... It would make sense that the seller would pay to have the home professionally photographed if they feel that would help sell the home.....”

He contends sellers should be willing to make a marketing investment which will directly benefit them(and spare the agent that expense), and then retain ownership of those photos, should they later decide to switch agents. 

While I see the sense of what he’s advocating, I’m skeptical this could ever become common practice where agents are agressivly competing for listings.If anyone has had much success convincing sellers to cover the costs of professional photo or video tours, everyone could benefit from hearing how and why you’ve made that work.