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Estate agents believe the most cutting-edge software tools and applications sometimes just don’t beat a pen and paper.
Despite the plethora of time management tools, CRM applications and collaborative software, sometimes they can provide a little too much information.
Often the advantages in technology create more confusion, according to principal of George Brand Real Estate Andre Kubecka.
Mr Kubecka said one of the worst things for the real estate industry has been the introduction of distracting and time-consuming technology. Mr Kubeca has seen first hand the productivity of salespeople drop considerably when they lose focus on dealing with people “belly to belly”.
“There are massive advantages to using technology, but too much can become confusing in itself,” said Mr Kubecka.
“On my phone I just run the basics; links to listing portals, access to my mobile CRM system, an RP Data link and a stamp duty calculator - I like to keep my phone applications lean and mean as you can easily over complicate things, and not cram in too much to get distracted with.
“Basically, you need to just be organised with a daily and weekly activities list. I don’t even turn my computer on until 10 or 11am because the minute you turn it on you lose hours and I avoid putting myself in that position… I like pen and paper and closing the door when I first get in to check my appointments.”
Mr Kubecka said the office CRM system creates a task list and follow-up trail that is checked repeatedly to assure estate agents keep on top of activities they have been assigned.
Real+ business manager Hermione Gardiner is a keen user of cloud-based systems to manage workflow tasks and said in order to manage workflow with so many different things happening at different times, such a tool shows real benefit for an agency.
Ms Gardiner said there is a lot of scope for online tools and checklists to automate key measurables and ensure a workflow trail.
“These tools are becoming more necessary because people want to save time and measure the value of their tasks,” Ms Gardiner said.
“A great app called Todoist sends reports on productivity and efficiency and how long it takes things to get done.
“Through using such time management apps you can also direct an individual to quickly look at parts of a task.”
Hockingstuart estate agent Kendall Bares is all across the latest and greatest software and applications in the real estate industry. She said she uses the Touchbase app to send out contracts, collate buyer information, text everyone and keep on top of all requests.
“The other thing I use is the agent’s calculator, which makes it quick and simple to work out commissions and stamp duty,” Ms Bares said.
“This year I sold 12 properties off market by using the applications, because I can contact all potential buyers, send photographs, floor plans and then get a quick sale. I am currently integrating the buyer and seller database.
“The app pulls information from a portal listing, including photos and other information. It’s good for listings when I have an iPad with me and can immediately bring up past sales, show photos and even sell off market.”
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