There are many experts, gurus, and consultants that tell us that we need some kind of gadget or program to run our business better. Well with so many gadgets and gizmos out there, real estate agents can go crazy trying to decide which ones to get. For the mobile agent, these are some of the gadgets that I think are worth getting.
As you review each item, think about how each gadget would (or wouldn’t) work in your market. Also, try to think of other types of gadgetry that could help. I’d appreciate if you left your thoughts by posting a comment.
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Smart Phone
Smart phones are cell phones that have additional functionality of a PDA. There are many different smart phones available, but I think the Treo’s have to be the most popular. With a typical smart phone, you can do everything from surf the web, browse MLS listings, and manage standard MS Office documents. You can even make normal phone calls! Recommended Smart Phone: Treo 700w.
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Tablet PC
A tablet PC is a portable computer, like a laptop, that runs a special Tablet PC operating system. In addition to its typically smaller size, a nice thing about a Tablet PC is that you can digitally write on the screen. There are many mobile real estate applications including:
- Marking up and faxing counter-offers.
- Mapping out floor plans or taking notes about a listing
- Having clients sign listing agreements
Recommended Tablet PC: RED Tablet
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Wireless Internet Card
I’m not referring to a WiFi card, here. I’m talking about a card, often called an “AirCard,” that you can plug into your PC that gives you a direct connection to the Internet. You’ll be able to check email or update listing information from just about anywhere. Here are a few of the main providers:
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Digital Camera
How can a real estate agent be without a camera? Even if you have a professional photographer, there are always shots that you’ll want to take. There are a wide range of cameras from point-n-shoot to Digital SLRs. Unless you’re doing high quality print work (and not using a professional), I’d use a simple 4MP+ point and shoot camera. Recommended camera: Any of the Kodak EasyShare or any of the Nikon CoolPix lines.
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Bluetooth Headset
You can stay truly wireless with a wireless headset for your phone. You can enjoy handsfree talking in the car or wherever you are (hey that rhymed!). Be sure you get one that works with your phone! Recommended bluetooth headset: Motorola HS850 / 98656 -
Thumb drive (a.k.a. flash drive, jump drive)
Thumb drives are today’s floppy disks. You can use it just like any hard drive by placing it into your computer’s USB port. Currently the largest thumb drives hold about 8GB of information. You probably won’t need one that big, but they’re available. Recommended thumb drive: 1 GB Drive or larger.
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Wireless keyboard for phone and Tablet PC
If you’re sending short messages a phone’s keypad will usually suffice. But if you want to do anything at length, a full-size keyboard is the way to go. Wireless bluetooth keyboards can connect to just about any bluetooth device whether it is your phone or your Tablet PC. There are also folding options that can fit in a jacket pocket or purse. So get just one keyword that fits all your devices. Recommended keyboard: Stowaway Keyboard or for the really techie
If I could, I’d probably by every gadget on the market. However, I’d just run out of money too fast. These gadgets are my suggestions for the on-the-go mobile agent. If you have other items that you think would benefit others, please let us know in the comments!
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