A navigation system can literally add hours to your day, reducing time spent trying to find locations or plot a day’s course by entering a list of addresses.   

That assistance can be yours for less than $100 or even as little as $10 a month. All navigation systems are not alike, however. Several features make them especially valuable to the mobile sales associate or broker. Here are some items to consider in your search.

1. Portable vs. installation. Do you want a GPS system that you can take with you wherever you go or one installed in your vehicle? For most, a portable GPS is more practical. You can move it from car to car, or carry it to your office for planning your day and updating maps. In-dash systems are most expensive, but they tend to have all the latest bells and whistles.

2. Map database. A navigation system is only as useful as its map database. All include street maps and area points of interest. But it's important to find out how often that database is updated, especially if you work in an area with many new roads and subdivisions. Check the cost and logistics of getting the latest information into the system.

3. Address storage. Since you’ll be making repeat visits to current listings, capacity for storing addresses may be important. Another consideration: The ability to enter several addresses to plan a day’s travels with the most direct route, and then also easily revise that plan on the fly. You also will likely want a system that tracks your progress, and automatically recalculates your arrival time, sparing you the embarrassment of showing up late for an appointment without calling ahead.

4. Graphics. As far as the maps go, some now feature 3D renderings of landmarks and intersections. That makes it easier to recognize where you make that next turn. If you plan on glancing at maps while driving, screen size matters.

5. Voice prompts. The system tells you vocally where and when to turn and can make navigation even easier—plus, you won't even have to take your eyes off the road. A few systems also let you control system functions and enter addresses with spoken commands.

6. Automatic rerouting. This puts you back on track when you’ve wandered off course. For those who work in cities, real-time traffic updates with automatic detours around congested areas may be worth any extra cost. Typically it requires subscribing to a service, along with purchasing the hardware.

7. The extras. Other step-up features simply make the GPS system a more versatile tool so you might want to consider if they're worth the extra cost. For example, Bluetooth and an FM transmitter allow hands-free calling and spoken directions through the car stereo system. Units with an mp3 player or iPod interface can also handle music playback.

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