ADVERTISEMENT

OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®



Buyer's Guide: Smartphones

Your phone can practically do it all now. So are you using it to your advantage when it comes to your real estate business?
By Michael Antoniak February 2009

 

WHAT IT IS

A mobile phone is no longer just something you talk on. Smartphones offer advanced computer-like capabilities all from a handheld mobile device. These all-in-one phones often have built-in cameras, navigation software, contact management, Internet and e-mail capabilities, and a full keyboard for typing messages. They also often boast software for browsing photos and viewing video clips, allowing you to showoff listings no matter where you are with clients.

 

 

DO YOU NEED IT? 

Think of all the resources you need when you're on-the-go in your business: open communication links with clients and colleagues via phone, fax, e-mail or text messaging; easy access to the Web, MLS listings and your Web site; files of forms and contracts; your contact database and calendar; productivity and presentation applications; GPS navigation for point-to-point directions; and a digital camera/camcorder for capturing the appeal of listings. A smartphone puts all that, and more, in your pocket, purse or palm of your hand.

 

 

No wonder smartphones are one of the fastest growing tools within the real estate profession. The 2008 REALTOR® Technology Survey found that 42 percent of brokers and associates carry a smartphone. And their ranks will only grow: 37 percent of the survey's respondents plan to trade up or purchase one in 2009.

 

 

INSIDE THIS GUIDE

Find everything you need to know about buying a smartphone, including:

 

 

 

Learn More: Specs That Matter  ׀  How Others are Using It ׀  Product Photo Gallery  ׀  Shopping Glossary

Products for Your Budget: Budget Buyer ׀  Mid-Range Buyer ׀  High-end Buyer

 

 

 

Michael Antoniak is a journalist and technology expert with a focus on real estate applications. Antoniak also writes about real estate technology at his blog, RealTechTools. He can be contacted at antoniak@dtccom.net.