Technology is allowing agents all over the country to better their systems, improve their business, grow exponentially and even give back. There are hundreds of real estate apps out there, and it can be overwhelming to figure out what’s worth your time. So here are my top three brand building apps that will help you expand your reach.
1. PowerAgent
I chatted with my friends at NestBuilder who just launched a new app called PowerAgent. PowerAgent pulls listings from the MLS and lets you edit and post them across a variety of social media platforms in a matter of seconds.
In addition to organizing and promoting listings, PowerAgent has an EzFlix app that can save thousands of dollars in video production costs — and because video and lifestyle tours are the latest rage in real estate marketing, this is a massive selling point.
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This video tool automatically converts listings into virtual video tours. You can shoot and then convert them in the PowerAgent system (and on all social outlets) in a matter of minutes.
PowerAgent also allows agents to stay on top of their clients and communications through its built-in contact relationship management (CRM) and email marketing component. Basically, PowerAgent acts like your social media personal assistant, and let’s face it, we all need one of these.
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2. Doorsteps
Being a first-time homebuyer can be scary — especially when you don’t know what to expect and how to educate yourself appropriately. A real estate agent can tell his or her buyer everything, but with many buyers trying to DIY and learn online, what is the best information to provide step-by-step processes and procedures for the future purchase?
Doorsteps, owned and operated by Move.com, not only assists future homeowners in making the right choices with the homebuying search but also keeps the agent involved every step of the way and opens the lines of communication.
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Although Doorsteps has systems in place to direct buyers, it still allows agents to customize and add their own tips and tricks.
Think of it as a bonus for buyers when they first begin working with an agent — one that extends all the way to the end of the deal.
The fact that an agent can personalize the process is one of my favorite features. You’re not just handing off the client to a site — you will be involved in the learning process mentioned above.
3. Propy
“International buyers” is one buzz phrase that so many agents use, but few have connections and relationships with those buyers.
Connecting with international buyers is no easy feat, but my friends at Propy focus on bringing together international buyers and agents in a unique way by emphasizing a recent trend in green projects — a initiative that’s close to my heart.
Currently in London, Dubai, Moscow, Paris, Hong Kong, Monaco, Miami and New York, Propy gives buyers a look at a property’s sustainability score in hopes of providing buyers and developers with a clear rationale to adopt the sustainable development route.
Propy not only educates the buyer on the energy efficiency of the project but also promotes and brings awareness of eco-friendly buildings in the areas provided on the app.
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Why should you post your listing on Propy? It’s an additional platform to get your listings out there and in front of people from all over the world — which is a huge selling point when meeting with sellers at your listing presentation and describing your process of reaching out to international buyers.
When it comes to choosing the best technology for your business processes, work with whatever you feel is going to help grow your business and your brand.
Sam DeBianchi is Estate Agent and founder of DeBianchi Real Estate. Follow @SamDeBianchi on Twitter and Instagram or on Facebook.