The right software can make a huge difference in a real estate agent’s life! The programs available today can take all aspects of your business and organize them, store them, and in some cases, will even do them for you! So, what are the different types of software you can use to manage you real estate business?

Contact management programs are some of the most popular types of software used by real estate agents, and there are many to choose from.  They can range from a simple address book, to more detailed programs that allow you to categorize and retain a history of your communication.  A good contact management program should also offer the ability to sync your database with your phone, as an agent’s life is an increasingly mobile one.

Real estate marketing programs are another very popular type of software. These programs usually come fully loaded with various templates you can use and they’ll keep track of different marketing campaigns that are being sent.  Make sure that the program you choose allows you to customize the content.  It’s also a good idea to have a program that can incorporate different marketing strategies – email, print, phone calls, etc.

Document storage programs are a third type of software popular with the real estate industry, and it’s these that will let you keep track of offers to purchase, listing agreements, inspections, and any other files or forms that you may need.  With the push towards “going green” and paperless business transactions, you still need a place to keep all your documents for legal purposes.  When considering a document storage program, find out if there are limits on the amount of storage you’re allotted, and also if you’re able to organize them in a way that makes sense for you.

Some agents choose to purchase separate programs to manage the different aspects of their business detailed here and run their business more a la carte.  Today, real estate agents also have the option of a more one-stop-shop with sites like www.WiseAgent.com that combine all these features and more into one easy-to-use system.

A good Contact Management program is critical to an Agent’s business.  There are many options out there, and it can be confusing to say the least.  How do you choose the right one for YOU?  Here are three easy steps to consider when you’re ready to look for the best CRM to fit your needs.

Make a list. Start by making a list of the features that are most important to you.  Do you want to send email marketing campaigns?   Do you need help staying organized with regards to your transactions?  Maintaining a detailed contact history is also important.  Do you want to sync your phone to easily access the information from anywhere?  If you leave your current brokerage, can you take your database with you?  Having a list of your top priorities allows you to easily weed out any options that don’t have all that you need.

Ask around. Do some research to see what options are available.  You can ask your colleagues or broker, check out Facebook groups, do some Google searches – the more information the better.  Run each program through your list of critical features to ensure it has what you are looking for.  Narrow the list down to a few programs that include all (or at least most) of your specifications.

Try it out. Most CRM programs offer a free trial period so that you can make sure it will work for you before you buy.  Make sure the interface is user friendly and intuitive.  This is also a good time to test their customer support – make sure they have help available when you need it.  The last thing you want to do is get stuck with a program you don’t know and there’s no one around to assist you.  Is there a cost for training, or is it included for free?  Also, confirm that the cost is within your budget, and be clear on the terms of any contract they may lock you in.  Be wary of any program that requires you to enter your credit card up front – this may be a ploy to lock you into a contract if you don’t cancel within a given time frame.

We realize that you have options when choosing a CRM.  Compare several programs side by side to best determine which one is right for you.  Wise Agent has been designed by real estate professionals as a comprehensive system that has all the bells and whistles, but none of the gimmicks.  Compare our features, ask others about their experience, and give us a try – we think you’ll like what you see!