Getting the Most out of your Agent

Getting the Most out of your Agent

Technology and the Internet have changed the practice of real estate in many ways. Real estate agents used to carry around a Listings Book, a massive printed set of photos and data about listed properties. It was always at least a month out of date, and they would also have to carry temporary sheets for new listings they faxed around to each other. It was good for them though, as they controlled all of the information and the consumer had to get it from the agents.

Along came computerized MLS, Multiple Listing Services, databases and the game changed dramatically. Of course, the real estate professionals were much more up-to-date with their MLS listing data, as most systems update every day. They now carry around tablet and notebook computers with online access to the MLS, and can look up the details of a home listing if you see one of interest while driving around.

Computerized databases have another great feature, comprehensive data-crunching and reporting capabilities. Real estate professionals can generate comprehensive reports of recent sales, current listings by feature or price range, and even homes with recent price discounting. When you are recruiting real estate agents for your investing team, make sure they’re tech-savvy and are willing to create reports for you and email them on a regular basis.

Almost every newer MLS software and online system now offers another powerful feature that can multiply the value of your real estate agent, and it can do so without taking up much of their time at all. There are now custom search and alert features available to the agent in order to send you automated reports and alerts.

The agent creates custom searches for you with an email alert function. Let’s say that you want to know about all price drops the day they happen in a certain price range and area. They can create the search and set it up to email you. You’ll end up finding out about price decreases before most of the real estate agents. Discuss these features and services with your real estate agents and get them started for your business.DClark

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