| Tone Check |
Today's tech tip is a cool tool that you may or may not be aware of.
It is called Tone Check ( http://www.tonecheck.com ) and will check our tone before we send an email.
Our broker prefers that we always pick up the phone if the subject or tone is questionable.
If you absolutely have to send an email please use this first that way we don't send emails that we may regret. I know I have been guilty of this at least once or twice in the past.
Take a look. |
| Posted on September 28, 2011 | |
| Google Alerts |
Greetings Agents,
Below is a cool tool that you may or may not be aware of.
Take a look.
Google Alerts — Would you like to know if your name shows up on the internet? How about a competitor's name or know when someone links to one of your listings? You can essentially "spy" on Internet active by setting up a Google Alert. It's easy to do. Go to http://www.google.com/alerts and enter the names, places and things you want to monitor. When those names are updated on the Internet you will get an email. |
| Posted on September 15, 2011 | |
| ifttt |
Greetings Agents,
Today's tech tip is ifttt - http://www.ifttt.com
This can help you save time and be more productive.
I used this site to setup emails so that every time a new For Sale By Owner goes up on Craigslist it automatically emails the lead to me. The possiblities are endless with a FREE service like this.
1.) Ifttt
ifttt puts the internet to work for you by creating tasks that fit this simple structure:
ifthisthenthat
Think of all the things you could do if you were able to define any task as: when something happens (this) then do something else (that).
Triggers
ifthisthenthat
The (this) part of a task is called a Trigger. Some example triggers are "if I'm tagged in a photo on Facebook" or "if I tweet on twitter."
Actions
ifthisthenthat
The (that) part of a task is called an action. Some example actions are "then send me a text message" or "then create a status message on Facebook."
Channels
Triggers and Actions come from Channels. Channels are the unique services and devices you use everyday, activated specifically for you. Some example channels:
Twitter
Facebook
Delicious
Email
Phone Call
Weather
All together now
When you put one channel's trigger together with another channel's action, that's a task! Here is an example of a task that tweets every new bookmark from my Delicious account tagged "tweet":
Statement_ex2
On/Off
Tasks can be turned on and off. Tasks that are turned off won't poll for new data. When they are turned back on they pick up as if you had just created them. You can have 10 tasks turned on at any one time.
Polling period
Tasks poll for new trigger data every 15 minutes. So there is sometimes a small delay between when new data is available and when a trigger picks it up. |
| Posted on August 19, 2011 | |
| Docusign |
Don't forget you can still get your NAR discount for Docusign. If you want electronic signature that is ready for prime time that look no further than docusign.
Just go to http://www.docusign.com/NAR to get your Realtor discount and right now you can get a free 30 day trial.
Have a superb week!!!!!!!!!! |
| Posted on May 10, 2011 | |
| Trulia Price Reductions |
Trulia.com just added a new function to there service that you may want to familiarize yourself with that basically tells the buyer what areas of the town are moving and which ones are not. Follow the link below to
check it out.
http://explore.trulia.com/datavis/priceredux/Q1-2011/ |
| Posted on April 26, 2011 | |
| Custom-Branded MobileLP |
It's time once again for Tech Tip Tuesday with your host/agent: Dr. Dave. Today's tip is on making every listing your listing. How do we do that? Well if you were at the sales meeting last week you might already know. But if not here's the low down:
1. You must have a level 3 site with a copyshak hosted domain name: (i.e. http://www.MyDaveAnderson.com )
2. Head over to copyshak and tell them you want the personalized Branded mobile lp. Once they complete your request you will now be able to add your own personal app to any android, Blackberry, or iphone at your open house or to anyone who wants to drive around and look at homes.
3.. The Main benefit is it will be you as the contact for every home they drive up to when using your app. Eliminate your potential buyer from calling the name on the sine when they have you at the tip of there fingers. You'll get all this for only $20 per month. |
| Posted on April 19, 2011 | |
| Reading Things Off The Computer Screen Instead Of Printing Them |
Today's tip is saving ink and paper while working expireds. Agents are you still printing the tax records for reference when your working expireds? Well here is a couple of simple ways you can have them ready without the need of print.
1. Windows 7 users simply pull of two windows. One for the tax info and the other to look up the phone #'s (i.e. 411.com)
2. Not a windows 7 user but have an ipad? Simply email yourself the realist (tax records). Pull them up on your ipad and use or deck top or laptop to look up the phone numbers.
This way you won't have to print them or toggle back and forth between screens.
|
| Posted on April 12, 2011 | |
| Facebook Designations |
Today's tip is on getting the most from your facebook. Agents would you like to remind all of your facebook friends that your a Realtor but not always sure how to go about it? Well one subtle way to do it is by creating your own designation For example my designation is http://www.facebook.com/DavidAnderson.Realtor . With this any and everytime somebody clicks on my profile they know I'm a Realtor. Here is how you do it:
1. Log into your facebook account.
2. click the account tab on the upper right hand corner of your screen and select Account Settings.
3. Select the Change option next to the second Item that says username.
4. Now you can choose any designation/ username you wish and facebook will tell you automatically if it's available. (i.e. John Smith London Properties, John smith Realtor, Etc)
Warning: Have a good Idea of what your want before hand as you are only allowed to change this once after you've put the first one in.
Once complete everytime somebody clicks or goes to your profile they will be reminded of what you do! |
| Posted on April 5, 2011 | |
| Tablet Buyer's Guide |
Are you thinking of getting a tablet device like Ipad 2 or the new Motorola Xoom? While they all have there pros and cons her is a few things that may help your decision. Ipad or ipad2 is probably the most friendly device of the army of tablets set to hit the market but maybe your looking for an alternative? Like maybe you need flash support for all you agents using Cal Redd or deal with alot of flash based software? Then you may want to wait till June 8th. That is when Samsung is releasing the Samsung Galaxy tab 10.1 with Android Honeycomb 3.0 OS. This may be the first to be a contender to the Ipad. Some of you may be saying well wait Dave, What about the Motorola Xoom or the Samsung galaxy tab (7inch screen) that are available now? here is my number one complaint for the Motorola Xoom. It is currently using 3g access and is free upgrade to 4g but you'll have to send it into Motorola for the upgrade and do without your device for approx. 6weeks. Way too long in our business to do without such a vital piece. As far as the current Samsung 7inch tab...it's using Android 2.2 which if you have a droid phone already you've gained nothing except a larger screen. The June 8th release of the Samsung Galaxy 10.1 will be 4g enabled already have 32gb of storage and all for a cost of 599.99 without the need of a contract. The match in the ipad 2 will run you 729.99 and of course is still only 3g. Personally I would much rather have the ipad 2 but its best you make your own judgement.
oh and this just in on the Motorola Xoom....Motorola is ramping down production over the next several months with an eventual halt by June as reported by the WSJ. While Motorola hasn't released any statements as to why...the speculation is the army of android tablets due out between now and June. Also they have leaked pics and info about releasing a new tablet that will be 4g ready from day one.
Bottom line is you don't want to wait then the Ipad 2 is the best unit to get, but if you don't want the Ipad then wait till June 8th. Don't waste your money on the soon to be extinct Motorola Xoom or the current Samsung Galaxy tab. |
| Posted on March 29, 2011 | |
| Docusign |
Agents are you getting frustrated with the new Digitalink? If you are and looking for a more user friendly interface that makes it easy for Zipforms as well as London Forms, then look no further than http://www.docusign.com
This site will cost you money, however you can still get the NAR discount by typing in http://www.Docusign.com/NAR . This will reduce the cost from 24.99 per month down to 19.99 per month. I know digital ink is free so if your willing to put of with the issues then by all means keep plugging away. But if you want speed and effectiveness Docusign is still the site to have. |
| Posted on March 22, 2011 | |
| Visual Voicemail |
It's that time of the week again! Agents are you tired of missing a call or voice mail when your in a meeting or out were it's too hard to hear your voicemails? Sprint Smart Phone users can now get Visual Voice mail for only $1.99 per month. This service will translate any of your voice mails to text instantly and nothing special that you have to do. While there are other services out there that will do the same job. This one I found to be one of the best and by far the least exspensive.
Now you can read your voice mails anywhere and judge whether it's going to make you money or not. |
| Posted on March 15, 2011 | |
| Facebook Scribblez |
Today's Tip is reminding your facebook friends that your a realtor. Simply click on the link below and log into your facebook account so you can add the Scribblez app to your facebook. This app is from the National Association of Realtors and what it does is allow you to send a message to a friends wall and will include a little welcome mat with the Realtor logo. Just a little way to remind them of what you do without hitting them between the eyes.
http://apps.facebook.com/scribblez/ |
| Posted on March 8, 2011 | |
| Motorola Zoom |
Today's Tech tip is on the new Motorola Zoom Tablet that was released last week. While it has been pumped up to be the first true competition for the Ipad here are the top 5 Reason you may want to think about it before you buy.
5. The $799 dollar price tag.
4. While it's 4b upgradable for free right now you'll have to send it in for about 6 weeks once 4g is made available in our area.
3. Ipad with 3g can be purchased for about 599.00
2. It's not ready for flash yet. While they are currently working out a patch to make it support flash it hasn't been done yet.
And the Number 1 reason to Think before you buy. 1. There are currently 4 tablets due out between now and June including the Ipad 2. |
| Posted on March 1, 2011 | |
| Facebook Etiquette |
Today's tip is on the Top 5 Reason's people will UNFRIEND you on FACEBOOK.
5. Not FACEBOOK Related!
(something that happens in the real world that causes them to unfriend you)
4. FACEBOOK Pullback!
( The Novelty wearing off of using facebook and people realizing how much they are exposing on Facebook and choosing to not be on so much)
3. Racist of Vulgar Posts
( Be Mindful of what you say)
2. Making Posts about Politics or Religion.
( Social media has not changed this Taboo practice)
And the Number 1 reason people will unfriend you?
1. Persistent Inane Posts
(Farmville updates alone are enough to inspire genocide....before you post ask yourself one questions....Who Cares? ) |
| Posted on February 22, 2011 | |
| Google Translate |
| Today's tip is for all you I Phone and I Pad users. Agents do you ever run into a language barrier with clients? One app that may help is called Google Translate. To get the app just go to the app store and type in Google Translate and download the app. It's great because you can get verbal or text and even recored and translate what you say. |
| Posted on February 15, 2011 | |
| Real Estate Apps - Android |
Today's tip is for all you android users. Wanna be the best friend and save your clients money? Then go to the android market place either from your computer ( http://market.android.com ) or directly from your android phone and type the word realtor. The second app to come up will be the Lowe's Hardware Realtor app. With this app you'll be able to sign up clients on the fly for special discounts so they can use them before they go out to purchase those expensive items like refrigerator or washer and dryer. Not to mention you can order giftcards for your clients at a discount.
Word of CAUTION, however: If buyer is getting a loan, it is generally NOT advisable for them to open an account or make large purchases (cash OR credit) during escrow.
Many aspects of the loan could be affected adversely:
* the inquiry has to be explained,
* a new account can temporarily lower credit score,
* any additional debt incurred will affect the debt-to-income ratio.
* Even paying cash for an item could unintentionally deplete the bank account below the amount needed to close or for reserves.
The minute they have keys to the house, however, GO CRAZY and shop til you drop!! (Just make sure they save enough for their first house payment!!) |
| Posted on February 8, 2011 | |
| Xbox 360 & Kinect |
Today's tip is on using Technology to get into shape for all those Open Houses. Agents do you want a way to get into great shape but don't want to go to the Gym? Then get yourself an Xbox 360 & Kinect Sensor (bundle available for $299 at any retailer) and pick up a copy of Your Shape Fitness Evolved. You'll have the luxury of a personal trainer without the continuing expense. I've put my money where my mouth is on this one. I've been Working out with it for 4 weeks now and have lost over 12 pounds and more importantly I've lost 4 inches from my waist and added almost a half inch to my arms. I know this won't directly sell a home for you however I've noticed and big difference in the energy I have each day dealing with clients.
Have a great Week!!!!!!!!!!!!! |
| Posted on January 25, 2011 | |
| Internet-Ready TV |
| Today's tip is on internet app televisions. Agents Are you in the market to get a new TV but would like to have internet on it too? Then you may be confused as to which internet ready TV to buy. All the Major Brands Like Sony,Samsung, and even Vizio have Internet ready apps on new models of there Televisions. But be Warned there is no uniformity on the apps and it's tough to tell which one is the best as each Brand is trying there own spin on how the internet will work with there models.
Another alternative is Google TV Made by Sony. This unit will work with most Televisions and retails for $399.00. Not bad but if your thinking of this route save yourself the Money and get a Playstation 3 from Sony for $299. it will work with any TV you currently have and has a full internet Browser so you can still go to any website and you don't have to pay the extra for an internet ready TV. Not to mention the Playstation 3 also has a Blue-Ray Player built in for awesome Movie exp. Hope that helps in your future purchases. |
| Posted on January 18, 2011 | |
| Verizon iPhone |
| Today's tip is on Verizon's announcement of the I Phone officially to hit the Verizon Network Feb. 10th......If you an existing user you can pre-order the Iphone on Feb. 3rd. But before you rush out to get it you may want to check out the Motorola Bionic coming just one month later using a dual core processor built in the phone delivering amazing speed. Also if you are an AT&T Iphone user and want to switch you can but don't expect much change as the Iphone 4 for Verizon will not be 4g compatible....However it is expected a 4g Iphone available by summertime. To find out more go to http://www.cnet.com to get more hands on details. |
| Posted on January 11, 2011 | |
| CES 2011 |
| Time to get this year kicked off with a bang! Iinterested in the latest technology coming form CES 2011? Don't spend all the money to go to Vegas. ( unless you want the other fun parts of Vegas) You can get all the press conferences on live streaming video on http://www.cnet.com. This Years biggest subjects will be Tablets (pc & Apple) and Some key Cell Phone announcements like possibility Apple to announce Iphone for Verizon. To get all the great videos just head over to Cnet.com starting tomorrow Jan. 5th through Jan 9th. Also for you Ipad users the newest software 4.2 is now available. Simply sync up your ipad and it should prompt you for the update. |
| Posted on January 4, 2011 | |
| Check your Facebook Profiles! |
| Recently Facebook updated all of the profile pages for every user. With this update many users have had there hidden birthday info put back on in the new format. Next time you log into faceboo just click on your picture to bring up your profile page and check if your birthday appears at the top. if it is then click the edit button near the top next to your birthdate and select the option you want such as display just month and day or not to be displayed at all. Recommend that you remove atleast the year due to possible identity theft. |
| Posted on December 28, 2010 | |
| Zipform 6 Templates |
Today's tip is on Zipform 6 Templates. Agents are you looking for a way to save time like me? .....if the answer is yes, then take the time and set yourself up with templates for you transactions.
1. Print out any old Real trak's page 2 for an order to creating your template.
2.. Log into your Zipforms 6 account and select Templates & Create New.
3. Create a Buyer Template and a Seller Template in the order of which we turn in files found on page 2 of your real trak. (Note: you can also customize a few more templates to reflect if the transaction is a Short Sale or REO as these transaction will have a few extra forms to include)
A lot of you probably have already done this but if you haven't it will save you time and help eliminate errors or missing docs at closing. |
| Posted on November 30, 2010 | |
| Samsung Galaxy Tablet |
| Today's Tip is on the SamSung Galazy Tablet. I got my hands on one last week and in my personal opinion it would be best for you to save your money. The unit is smaller than an Ipad at 7" screen but the worst part is when you try to access our Zip Forms to write a contract the unit auto-defaults to a mobile device Which forces you to use Zipforms Mobile which would take about a year to write a full contract. While the price isn't bad at $399 it just doesn't do what we need it for to be practical. Not to mention the 2 year contract requirement by most carriers considering there are several new devices due out between now and March 2011. |
| Posted on November 23, 2010 | |
| C.A.R. eSigning Services |
| Please take the time to type in the link below or cut and paste it to find out the latest info on the free signature service that C.A.R. is offering coming January 2011. Check it out before you go out and pay for
a e-signature service.
http://www.car.org/tools/zipForm6/esign/ |
| Posted on November 16, 2010 | |
| Rapidfax |
| Today's tech tip is on Rapidfax.com. Agents are you tired of Banks insisting on a paper fax when you have already left the office and all you have is a scanned copy of the contract on your computer? Well now that bridge is fixed with Rapidfax.com With Rapidfax.com you can input the banks fax number and send them your digital copy from your computer and Rapidfax will translate that into a Paper fax for the bank. Sure beats printing it out and faxing it to them! Prices for this service start at 7.95 per month for 150 pages free and 9.95 for 300 pages and goes up from there. Simply choose the one you think best fits your needs. Also if your not sure they are running a 30 day free trial for you to test it out. |
| Posted on November 9, 2010 | |
| Mobile MLS |
| Today's tip is on Accessing the Fresno MLS on your pda or Ipad. Just go to your web browser and type in
http://www.fresnomls.rapmls.com/pda . Once your there bookmark the site so it's easy to find. For I-pad users simply
press the + button in the upper left hand corner of you ipad and select add bookmark. Now your ready to get those vital agent instructions on the fly. |
| Posted on November 2, 2010 | |
| Craigslist |
| Today's tech tip is on Craigslist. For those of you that use craig's list for your listings I would recommend you open a seperate email acount specifically for Craig's list leads. And one that is NOT tide to your website or websites. The reason I say this is to help prevent you and your sellers from getting scammed. Case and point there are some scammers out there that will trace th email back to your site to get the address and then advertise your listing as there property and that it's for rent. Usually they'll make it too good to be true like a 300k home for 900 dollars a month to rent. While this tip should cut down on such scammers nothing is full proof. |
| Posted on October 19, 2010 | |
| Virus Protection |
Today's tech tip comes from Page 8 of our newest issue of Realtor magazine. To help protect yourself from Identity theft make sure your virus software is active and updated. If you don't currently have a Virus protection software you can always download the one I and many London Agents use i AVG.
1. go to http://www.cnet.downloads.com and type in AVG virus software in the search box.
2. select the free version and download.
Note: if you have already had Carol upload the london net package then you already have AVG on your computer. |
| Posted on October 12, 2010 | |
| Verizon iPhone |
| Sorry for the delay on the tech tip for this week. I've been very sick but starting to feel better today. Today's tip
comes from Fox News where they just announced that Apple is starting mass production for a new Iphone that will be similar to the current Iphone 4 but will be using CDMA techonology so it will go on the Verizon Network and will be starting to sell January 2011. So for those of you who wanted the Iphone but didn't want At&t you'll finally have your chance in January. |
| Posted on October 5, 2010 | |
| London Email |
| Today's tip is on your London Email. Every in a hurry to get to your next appointment and don't have time to respond to an important email right away? Then click the box inbetween where the subject line finishes and just before where you can flag the email. Here you can chose up to five colors to catagorize that given email so you know what kind of urgency it is for you to respond later. You could also choose to create a catagory if you don't want to use one of the given colors by simply selecting create catagory under the main colors. |
| Posted on September 14, 2010 | |
| Facebook Scam Alert |
There is a facebook scam and/or virus going around. It's an email that notifies you that you have successfully changed your facebook password with a link. I received one today for Gus Picone via the Fresno_London_all email.
We should probably let the agents know, especially the newbies who just signed up. |
| Posted on September 14, 2010 | |
| Google Phone |
| Today's tech tip is from our friends at Google. If you have a Google email awesome and if not sign up today it's free and you'll need one to take part in this tip. When you log into your gmail account you can sellect Call Phone on the left hand colomn. The first time you do it you'll be asked to download the key pad and accept the terms. After that you'll be able to make free calls anywhere in the United States or Canada. Enjoy and have a great week!
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| Posted on September 7, 2010 | |
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