Whether it’s the Facebook group you use for referrals, the transaction management tool you swear by or the checklist you developed your first year as an agent, when you’re running your real estate business, it’s easy to find something that works — a routine, a system, a program — and keep treading that same ground over and over.
But doing things the same way like it’s Groundhog Day is also called a rut, and it could be decreasing your efficiency. Consider trying some of these hot apps, and see if one of them can help you find a new and better way to grow your business.
1. Canva
If you are paying someone to create custom graphics and designs for your social media sharing, flyers and other presentations, take a look at Canva.
While the desktop platform has been around (and been beloved) for a while, the app is every bit as good and even more convenient.
Upload photos, or use the vast image library, and create custom graphic elements you’ll be proud to share, then do just that with the integrated share feature. Never put a same-old, same-old photo on your Instagram again.
2. Videolicious
If you’re seeking to leverage the power of video to promote your business or communicate with current clients, Videolicious is for you. With personalized, branded videos you’ll bring in more leads, convert them into clients and then stay with them throughout the sale process.
It increases engagement and allows you to provide a level of client service that text alone can’t match.
3. RealClozer
Want to increase your reach and build your referral network? RealClozer is a new app rolling out this summer. Get in on the ground floor as an early adopter to connect with like-minded agents around the corner or around the world.
Be the first to know about pre-market listings, and reach out to your network with buyer needs.
Find referral partners, and increase your outgoing and incoming client referrals. If you work with real estate investors, you’ll be able to browse and upload off-market listings straight from the app.
4. ArriveHome
Currently available in California, Colorado and Arizona, ArriveHome hopes to be the Uber of real estate agents, offering agents the opportunity to connect with unrepresented buyers in their area at the touch of a button.
And as with Uber, clients can review you on ArriveHome, helping you leverage your great client care into more and more opportunities.
It’s a great tool for those who are just starting out or looking to increase their client base, as well as for those moving to a new area and needing a quick start to establish themselves in a new market.
5. Hurdlr
Winner of Realogy’s annual startup competition, this D.C.-based company is moving from general business services into the real estate space, with an app designed to help agents analyze the profitability in their transactions, identify places where they can cut costs and increase margins to make their business run better.
By monitoring everything from back-office to mileage to taxes, real estate professionals can keep their eye on the bottom line on each transaction.
No matter what challenges you’re currently experiencing in your business, there are developers hard at work to create ways to address them. Whether you want to get better at marketing, networking, lead generation or management, there’s never been a better time to try something new (or new to you).
Christy Murdock Edgar is a Realtor, freelance writer, coach and consultant with Writing Real Estate in Alexandria, Virginia. Follow Writing Real Estate on Facebook or Twitter.