Where will we be 5 years from now..? This was one of the questions posed at RE Barcamp – Lynchburg (a gathering of some of the most forward thinking REALTORS/Brokers from all across the nation).
Topics discussed ranged from the size of the firm to the role that technology would play. At the end of a lengthy debate the one thing that everyone seemed to agree on was that REALTORS must move rapidly to embrace the technological tools of our trade.
The days of driving across town to get a signature, or sending a contract via Federal Express to an out-of-town buyer or seller – will diminish as we move toward the acceptance of electronic signatures.
“Smart phones” are now enabling instant communication, not just by voice, but by texting (with the inclusion of photos).
Social media/social marketing is completely changing the landscape of our industry. We communicate with our customers/clients, and with each other, at the speed of light. Tools such as Facebook, Flickr, Linkedin, and yes, even Twitter are revolutionizing the way that we do business.
Signs may begin taking on a whole new look. Who wants to see the REALTORS “ugly mug” on every sign. We were introduced to a new way of thinking about signs (and they’re actually environmentally-friendly, as they can be re-cycled). Each sign can feature photos of the property, and should have the property address as a URL (internet address) so that those with “smart phones” can easily retrieve more details of the property (while sitting by the curb, outside the home).
It’s not so much about “bricks and mortar”, and who has the nice office space. The agent of the future will be armed with a laptop, an excellent camera, and a “smart phone” – they’ll be highly mobile – and (if the government doesn’t get in their way) they’ll be able to make your buying and/or selling experience much better and faster than ever before.
October 10, 2009 at 3:15 pm |
Jeff,
Absolutely correct. While I was sitting in a session I got an e-fax with a signed contract from my Seller. I took his contract, signed it (have a tablet PC) and then faxed it over to Escrow, all without leaving my seat in the Conference.
E-fax is another valuable tool which saves not only time but money, and is totally environmentally friendly. No beautiful Lynchburg trees were cut down for all the papers that make up a CA contract
October 10, 2009 at 3:16 pm |
You and I have had a few discussions about this in the past. I think if the larger firms that get behind the technology can recruit some of the like thinking agents they can thrive.
No longer can a broker act stupid and keep their head in the sand refusing to even acknowledge technology. No longer can they just be a paper pusher. They must get their hands dirty as well. Either that, or hire someone that will do that for them.
Agents today are more in control of their business than ever. The broker has less control. Some brokers don’t realize this. This is the topic of discussion and my opinion the brokerages that are listening will succeed at the end of the day.
October 17, 2009 at 9:53 pm |
What a great discussion at RE Barcamp Lynchburg. I am of the belief that there is a great deal of technology already in place.
It will be the job of progressive “incubator brokerages” that will develop techniques, tactics, and strategy to maximize the effectiveness of the tools and technologies. We need innovative brokers and agents to form these incubators and get to work so the rest of the industry will follow suit.
October 18, 2009 at 2:10 am |
As a consumer/customer, I expect more flexibility around the ease of use for finding a home, selling a home, and all the combined paperwork involved in the real estate process. I appreciate the thought that is being given to social network aspects of the scrolling signage and mobile apps for viewing properties. However, I’m also scared about how that may further entice criminals to pick & choose which houses they target. Just my initial thoughts.
October 18, 2009 at 8:21 pm |
Enjoying your website, we are learning much!! Having gone through the process of buying and selling a home we concur that the realtors who are on top of things and “embrace the technological tools of their trade” most definitely make the process easier and more efficient for all parties involved.
Thanks again Jeff for all your hard work in selling our home in VA this past January. Not only were we fortunate in finding a great realtor but a life long friend as well. We send you greetings from Northern ME.