Tech me home tonight! 

Let's explore the top technology influencers within the real estate market.

Everyone wants to stay on the cutting edge of technology and breaking news in the real estate industry. Whether you are an old dog learning new tricks or still wet behind the ears, the following giants will keep you on top of the latest and greatest news, trends, and tech in real estate.

• INMAN:  If you’re not following Brad Inman’s website, you are missing out on the most up to date news in all facets of the real estate market. Though the dangers of Covid19 have cancelled most major public events, Inman Connect is one of the largest real estate conventions in the world. If we’re ever able to attend again, I will save you a seat.

• ZILLOW:  It wears a lot of hats in the industry as it is a data base for both agents and consumers. If you’re looking for quick stats like year built, square feet, etc., Zillow  has a no-nonsense approach to concise information. They offer market reports and forecasts, tips, trends, and even home remodeling inspiration. It is a great site for a new agent to become familiar with a wide array of real estate knowledge. Like most agents, my one qualm is that figure that breeds a love/hate relationship time and time again: The Zestimate. We’ll save that topic for another blog.

• THE PAPERLESS AGENT:   Chris and Garry host a free weekly training video series that is not only filled with insight from these two top producing agents but it’s fun to watch! If you are a new agent looking for the best templates and scripts to get you started, this should be your first stop. The irony of watching The Paperless Agent is that you’ll want to have a pad and pencil to write down all the tips and tricks they provide throughout the video.

• THE CLOSE:  This site is an incredible resource for agents who truly want to hit the ground running in their new career. All the best industry insights on lead generation, marketing, and tech (just to name a few of hundred) are presented from the perspective of top producing agents, social media experts, and actual real estate coaches. They know what works because they have been there. There is no price tag on the value of real-world experience. In this case, it’s priceless to us but they give it out for free.

• HOUSING WIRE:   Here is your one-stop-shop for breaking news in every aspect of the real estate industry. Politics, mortgage rates, market predictions, and current statistics affecting our industry are thoughtfully written and brilliantly delivered. Consider this like your morning paper to drink in along with your coffee. Staying abreast of changes in real estate is crucial and this website can be your edge.

In 2006 I became a licensed REALTOR ®. Zillow had only been around for a couple of years. Back then, many agents relied on paper lists of available properties and the directions to get there. Working in this industry for the past decade has made me realize time is a currency. Technology's role in real estate is to make your tasks smoother, sharper, faster, saving you precious time. It’s sharpening your axe. You can take some swings at it with a dull sense of knowledge or nail that listing presentation the first time by sharpening your skills in advance. Technically, it’s all about efficiency. It’s what you know that the other agents don’t know that will differentiate you from your competition. Top agents work smarter, not harder. Staying ahead of breaking news in your industry will make you in invaluable resource to both your colleagues and clients. Using this knowledge in concert with modern tools will create a tour de force in this dynamic industry.