David Fox - The Real Estate Tech Desk

For AR's Maryland, DC, and Virginia Users

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 22:08:14 -0600

Good evening to all, as most users here in the DMV know, I have been providing a blog about Technology here on Active Rain for the last year or two. As of this evening, I have created an outside blog using google's blogger. I made it specifically for Maryland, DC and Virginia Computer Users. it will include information on local IT news, and problems, and will also give some real estate technology information as well. http://marylandcomputermaintenance.blogspot.com/

I hope you will bookmark it and check in often! You can also add an RSS feed too!

I look forward to interacting with you soon on that blog and here on Active Rain.
http://marylandcomputermaintenance.blogspot.com

David Fox, DEF PC Services & The Real Estate Tech Desk - Technology Solutions for Real Estate Professionals

It was love at First Touch...my follow up blog about the New Blackberry

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 18:19:57 -0600

The Blackberry Storm, Just Released from Verizon Wireless

In my previous blog "Taking the World by Storm...The First TOUCHSCREEN Blackberry" I wrote about the upcoming Blackberry Storm, the new touchscreen blackberry. I wrote about the features, benefits, and had great discussion about it. Today, however I got my hands on the brand new blackberry! Here is a quick review.

First off, I need to say that I have been looking for a replacement of my current PDA phone Audiovox XV660 Windows PDA for a while now, but nothing has gotten my attention, had the right features, or a large enough screen until now. I have loved these features about my phone: Slide out keyboard, LARGE touchscreen, Windows mobile (great for my IT needs-Remote Desktop Connections, software compatibility, email and internet browsing)

I have done ALOT of reading of reviews and specifications of the new blackberry. It is a really well built phone, there is a ton of excitement about it, and upon entering verizon today, I noticed several on display (all being gawked up). Several employees at the store already had the Storm and they let me demo their personal phones (you really get great support and information from Verizon--some of the best employee's around)

The size of this phone is amazing, slightly thinner than my XV6600, and slightly shorter, and since it has an onscreen keyboard (will discuss that in a minute) it stayed one size since it didn't have any parts that slid out or moved

A nice sleek black design, and with no moving parts, I knew this phone would be trouble free as far as that went (I've had many clients as well as myself who have had their phones replaced multiple times because of the slide mechanism failing or starting to fail...nothing is worse than trying to hold the phone up, and attempting to type a message at the same time)

The Touchscreen - WOW! the icons were very easily seen and clickable via their size--they were not super tiny like on the palms or the windows PDA's. There is no stylus to lose on this phone, everything is activated via your fingers. You also don't have to worry about pressing buttons while in your pocket because the phone's screen works off the electrical current in your fingers.

Typing on the touchscreen - Hmm this took a bit of getting used to, you really have to press down on the keys for them to actually work, and sometimes you hit other keys, but you learn quickly. Plus the associate also showed me that the sensitivity and speed can be adjusted for the screen/keyboard, which when I made a slight change I liked the keyboard much better. I will still miss my actual keyboard, but I am looking forward to using just the touchscreen.

Applications - there are a ton of applications on the phone and available for download, Social networking is great on this phone with built in apps like facebook for blackberry, making it very easy to keep in touch in the real estate and business world.

Video and Audio playback - WOW!! I watched part of a movie on this phone, and it was definitely HD quality, I have NEVER seen playback on a phone like this before! You will be impressed.

Email/Texting - It's a blackberry, enough said! Blackberries are world renowned for email and texting capabilities. There is no difference here with the blackberry storm!

Battery Life - They say 5 hours talk time and 15 days standby, and although I haven't played with one long enough, I have no reason to doubt them...blackberries always have good battery life

Overall Feel - I liked how the blackberry felt in my hand, very easy to use with one hand - just touch and click the application of choice.

Availability - Verizon Wireless only. Which is good for me, I love their service, I travel alot and go to many places outside of Metro area's and never have an issue. The phone however is mostly out of stock (big shocker there!) But you can put your name on a list, they usually come in within a few days, or you can order from Verizon Wireless online (like I will be doing within the next few weeks)

Should you get one now? Well as with any technology or software, I always say to wait a while for good reviews to come out, and for them to be widely tested and for bugs and kinks to be worked out. I will order mine mid december, that will give me a few weeks to really check out the reviews and make a full decision.

And another AWESOME feature: The data package. If anyone has a PDA from verizon other than a blackberry and you have the data package (most people do) you are spending $45 a month for unlimited. The blackberry however has the data package for $29.99 for unlimited, which will save $15 a month. Plus as with any PDA you can connect it to your computer and use it as a high speed modem (such as an aircard from verizon) without the extra cost of an aircard!

Finally the cost: $249.99 Minus a $50 mail in rebate makes the phone $199.99. If you are eligible for an upgrade (like me) you get a hundred dollars off the cost of the phone, making it only $99.99 You really can't go wrong.

Let me know what you think of the Storm or your current blackberry! Your comments are more than welcomed!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk - Technology Solutions for Real Estate Professionals

Anti-Virus 2008 & 2009 - A Virus in Disguise

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 12:27:32 -0600

Recently Download Anti-Virus Protection? Think you are protected?

Well if you downloaded Anti-Virus 2008 or 2009 or XP Anti-Virus, then you are not protected. In fact these three "Anti-Virus" software packages are actually very harmful viruses/spyware themselves.

What is it?

Spyware/Virus
Rogue software disguised as legit anti-virus protection

How did I get it?

You can opt to download it from a harmful website
You accidently visited a harmful website and the software automatically downloaded without your consent.

How Do I know if I have it?

You can be overwhelmed with Pop-ups
Antivirus 2008 or 2009 will consistently open up and say that it has found multiple (or hundreds) of infections and prompt you to purchase the software to remove it
Balloon pop-ups by your clock will say that there is an infection on your computer, click here to remove
Your REAL anti-virus or spyware software has picked it up and either deleted it, or prompted you that it can't be removed

What harm does it cause?

Well there are several versions floating around, some can collect info and send it back the software maker
It can overtake your web browser and either not display the webpage you requested or will bring up another harmful website
Overwhelm you with pop-ups
Install other rogue software on your computer
Use your computer to infect other computers
Slows down your computer system
Renders your computer useless
Among other many ill effects

How can I resolve this?

It depends on the level of infection
Sometimes it can be removed by your Anti-Virus/spyware software
It possibly can be removed by following steps on the internet
Some PC repair companies can successfully remove it (without reinstalling windows)
But mostly the damage is done, and the infection can really only be 100% resolved by backing up your data and reinstalling windows.

How many people does this affect?

Thousands, probably more than that, I currently fix between 5-10 pc's with this infection a WEEK.

How can I protect myself?

Make sure your Anti-virus protection is up-to-date, if not renew your subscription or download free antvirus from AVG or AVAST!
Make sure windows is up-to-date by running windows update
Carefully type in the web address of websites you wish to visit. Often times these harmful websites where you can contract the virus comes from common websites mispelled (such as mispelled myspace or facebook, and the such)
Use another web browser when possible. When using Mozilla Firefox for example, you are at less risk for contracting the virus (or any virus for that matter) than when using Internet Explorer

I have this problem, but can't fix it myself!

Send us "The Real Estate Tech Desk" a message, we will be glad to give advice or remotely log in and see whether or not it can be fixed remotely or if you will need a complete windows reinstallation
If you are in the Baltimore or Washington Metro area's give us a call or send an email, we would be glad to assist on site, to resolve this issue for you
Contact your company tech support or visit a local repair shop (we recommend not using best buy or circuit city or similar big box stores, because they do not have well trained techs and have long turn around times, not to mention very high costs to perform these services)

This is a major problem, and needs immediate action to protect you, your files, and your clients!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk - Technology Solutions for Real Estate Professionals

View PDF files on your PDA

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:22:01 -0600

On The Road and Need to View a PDF file from another agent?

Well if you have a Windows Powered PDA or a Palm Powered PDA, you are in luck! Adobe (Maker of Adobe Acrobat, and Aodbe Reader) has a version of Acrobat Reader for the PDA.

Basically you need to download the program, and run the install process. The program will then prompt you to sync your pda/phone and follow the steps on your screen. You will now be able to view PDF files directly on your phone! Imagine how much time this will save you.

Best of all IT's FREE!

Click here to Download Adobe Reader for your PDF

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk - Technology Solutions for Real Estate Professionals

Taking the world by Storm....The first TOUCHSCREEN Blackberry

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 10:50:42 -0600

The Blackberry STORM

Verizon Wireless announced recently the upcoming release of the newest Blackberry: STORM. It is the first ever Touch Screen Blackberry, following suit of most other major PDA phone manufacturers.

My opinion: It's about time! This has been one of the major holdups of not getting a blackberry. I like their battery life, the reliability of the blackberry, the built in features, and ease of use (for most tasks). But have usually stayed with Windows PDA's because of what they can do, plus they have the touch screen, which I find very useful. Upon announcement of the STORM, I decided to do more research on the phone. Here is what I found:

3.25" Touch and Feel Screen - Yes it is a Touch screen, but you also feel your selection, I'm sure its some sort of pulse. Some Verizon phones already have this feature-and it feels and works fine.
Full HTML Browser - Allows you to view most web sites, in either PDA scaled down size, or full desktop PC version (handy for websites not designed for PDA use)
VZ Naigator capable - Turns your phone into a handheld GPS! Whether you are walking through Manhattan or driving through Baltimore, this is a great solution for a GPS unit (for a small monthly fee)
Microsoft Office Mobile - View and Edit Word, Excel and Power Point files no matter where you are, then attach them to email and send them to whomever, or sync to your PC.
PDF Files - View PDF files! Another great tool for Realtor's. How many times have you needed to view a contract when you are on the road?
Visual Voice Mail - One of my favorite new features! Just like on the iPhone, You can see a list of voicemails and who they are from, length and time of call, then you can selectively listen to each message - with just a click!
Battery Life - 6 Hours of Talktime...higher than most windows PDA phones
Memory - It comes with an 8GB micro SD memory card! TONS OF STORAGE! WOW
Broadband Internet Access - Another PDA & Verizon benefit! No need for an aircard for your laptop, just use the USB cable to tether your phone to your pc or use a bluetooth connection to turn your phone into a high speed internet connection for your computer - no matter where you are! (A feature I use alot on my windows PDA)
Built-in Mobile Video and Audio Streaming
Global Capabilities - The phone works in CDMA mode for the USA, and can easily switch to a GSM network when oversea's...great for business users.
Facebook for Blackberry - Built in Facebook program! I'm sure there will be more applications like this for similar sites in the near future.
Too many other features to list!

Phone Release Date: 11-21-2008

There are a TON of features with this phone, and will be extremely handy for real estate agents. I really think this is Verizon's true comeback at the iPhone. However, one feature I would miss on my windows PDA (and which current blackberrys have, which this phone doesn't) is an actual keyboard. This phone/PDA only has a virtual keyboard which is something I will have to learn to love (or hate)

What do you think about this newest Blackberry? What do you like about your current PDA phone? Your opinions are much appreciated.

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk - Technology Solutions for Real Estate Professionals

Real Estate Technology Issue? Computer Issue?

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 23:54:07 -0600

Are you dealing with a nagging technology issue related to real estate? Can't do certain tasks in Top Producer? Does an error pop up randomly that you can't explain? Spyware and popups continually harrassing you? Need a PC tune-up? Ignoring these problems can really restrict what you can do on the computer, and we all know how much real estate work depends on computers & technology.

Leave a comment below and let us know what your current technology issue is! We will try to resolve it through a blog comment response, hopefully together we can solve your issue or help someone else resolve their issue. If your problem requires further attention, we can arrange a remote access session.

Most Computer Issues can be solved remotely when you use "The Real Estate Tech Desk" - Real Estate Computer Experts! No matter WHERE you are located, we can solve the majority of issues through our remote repair service.

We have been working with some of the TOP real estate agents since 2002. Check out this very recent praise/blog about our services from a fellow Active Rain member

Slowing Down? I have what the doctor ordered!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:06:00 -0500

Notice A Big Slowdown On Your Computer?

Does your computer run slower than it did when you first purchased it? Do programs and web pages take forever to load? Well rest assure that it's not just you having this problem, almost every computer user will have slowdowns and issues over time with their computers, but you don't have to LIVE with it! Here are a few solutions and items to look for if you notice slow downs and problems.

Memory: Check to see how much memory you have in your computer, alot of Windows XP machines that are a few years old, only have 256MB of memory. This was fine several years ago, as programs that you run didn't demand much memory to run, but as software has updated, new software is released, and users are using more and more programs at one time 256MB is just not enough, heck even 512MB isn't enough for many users. To check to see how much memory you have on board, click on START, RIGHT CLICK on MY COMPUTER, then click on PROPERTIES on the main page that pops up, under the " Computer: " section, it will tell you how much memory that you have. If it is 512MB or less, I recommend a memory upgrade, it is a small cost to pay (less than $30 usually for 1GB of memory - 1GB = 1000MB) It will GREATLY improve productivity and help with alot of quirks associated with low system memory.

Spyware & Junk Software: Here is another big item that the majority of computers have. More than likely there is spyware and other junk software installed on your computer. You may ask how it got there, since you don't think you installed anything. Well most of that software comes into your computer by you installing software you think is legit (or IS legit) but it has other junk software attached to it. Spyware also comes from emails, and from websites that you visit. You may notice popups on your computer, even if you are not in Internet Explorer, this is all from junk and spyware. Now, you can't always get rid of all of that software, but you can get rid of some of it. Visit: www.spybot.com and download it, and run it, and remove what it finds. This will help, but you still may need to hire a professional to properly clean the system, since your privacy and files on your computer may be at risk. A professional will use many different types of software to clean the computer, as well as know-how to access parts of your computer known to store spyware, what I like to call "Hot Spots".

Windows Updates: These also can help with performance, also not to mention fix many flaws and security risks in Windows. You can access Windows Updates by clicking START, then ALL PROGRAMS, then clicking on WINDOWS UPDATES at the top. You can also open Internet Explorer, and type in: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com. These updates should be done on a monthly basis. Simply follow through the prompts to update your computer.

Up-To-Date Anti-Virus: This is a must! It helps keep your computer running normal, blocks junk software and viruses from attacking your computer. Not only do you need Anti-Virus software, make sure your subscription is up-to-date. Expired Anti-Virus won't do you much good. I recommend AVG AntiVirus (www.grisoft.com) You can download the FREE version (absolutely free) for your home computer, and you can purchase the security center for your work/office PC's. I recommend this over Norton or McAfee, because the cost is less (or free) and it doesn't use as many system resources (meaning it doesn't slow your computer down as much by running the software) Norton and McAfee are bloated software, and they don't seem to release as many updates as AVG.

If your computer is running slow, has popups, or just isn't running properly, give "The Real Estate Tech Desk" a call. We can log remotely into your computer, no matter where you are, and evaluate and fix your computer from our location. Don't fuss with taking your computer in to the store and spending crazy amounts of money that companies like Best Buy and Staples charge, and use a company that will keep your cost minimal, knows the technology needs of real estate professionals and doesn't require you to leave the comfort of your home or office! Call 410-274-4871 or visit: www.defpc.net to contact us today, to schedule a computer cleaning session. We guarantee your satisfaction, and will keep your cost to a minimum!

Choosing a new laptop for your College Student (or for Real Estate)

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 14:28:31 -0500

Choosing a new laptop for your College Student (or yourself)

First I want to Thank Margaret Woda for this blog idea, I was talking with her a few days ago, about a few of her computer issues, and told her how I've been dry with blog idea's. She came up with a few ideas for me, this being one of them... I don't know why I didn't think of this one myself, since I've spent a few days with my younger brother who starts college next week, searching a new laptop for him!

This might be coming late to some people, whom already sent off the students to college with a new computer, but to those who have not, or for those agents who are looking for a new laptop for themselves, this post will have a lot of information for you!

Laptop's have really come down in price since you probably have last looked. Just take a look at Best Buy's, Staples, Lenovo's, or Dell's selections. Laptops starting at $300-400. There are several items you REALLY need to look at before making your purchase for your student... Those are all outlined below. Remember, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at "The Real Estate Tech Desk".

• Brand: Tend to stay with a trusted brand such as: HP/Compaq, Dell, Toshiba, and Sony.

• Processor Type: I ran into this issue the other day with a client, who bought a new laptop, it had a 64 BIT processor. UNLESS you or your student HAS A NEED for a PC with a 64 BIT processor, stick with a 32 BIT processor.... Applications and Devices such as printers, scanners and phones that work with 64 BIT PC's are VERY limited. My client cannot print to ANY machine in his office because none of the printers (10 different printers) support 64 BIT.

• Memory: Since almost EVERY computer now comes with Windows VISTA you NEED a MINIMUM of 2 Gigabytes of memory. I would recommend 3 Gig's, since your student will more than likely be running music or video programs, while running interactive internet programs, games, and of course doing studies ---usually multitasking the entire time. This also applies to you agents out there looking for a new laptop.

• Hard Drive: Minimum of 120 Gigabytes of storage is needed, again for all of the music files, videos, applications, and documents. Laptop hard drives come in sizes from about 120 Gigs to about 450 Gigs.

• Video Card: If you student is a GAMER, I would choose something that does NOT have BUILT IN Graphics, I would choose something that has a NVIDIA or a INTEL graphics chip in it. This will give you optimum performance for games. If you student (or yourself) is not a gamer, I wouldn't really worry about this too much, as all laptops now come standard with a pretty hefty video processor, that can handle your needs, and intermediate gaming support.

• Built In Web Cam: If you want to keep in touch with your student (or with clients) This is a nice option that comes with a lot of different model laptops. Another option is to get a external web cam, but then that is something else your student (or yourself) that has to be lugged around.

• Bluetooth: Most every laptop has this feature, but make sure you get one that has it. This is for syncing phones/PDA's with phones, Wireless headphones, Wireless Mice (most people prefer to use a mouse instead of the touchpad, Bluetooth mice eliminate the need for a plug in device in your USB port.

• Wireless: You don't need to worry about this anymore, every new laptop has wireless built in.

• CD/DVD Burner: Your student (or yourself) with absolutely need this feature, for school reports (some schools allow students to email the reports, but there are times when making a CD is necessary. Most laptops come with CD Burners and or DVD burners. But you want to buy a laptop that has a CD & DVD burner built in.

• Screen Size: I would go with a 14.1 Standard or a 15.4" Widescreen laptop, you REALLY don't want a 17" Laptop screen...it is way too big to carry around (I call 17" laptops, desktop replacements) When you go to the store, you will see the size of the 15.4 is pretty reasonable.

• Weight: Obviously the lighter the better. You or your student will be doing a lot of walking and carrying. If you go to Best Buy, Staples, Fry's or a store of the similar type, ask an associate to unlock the laptop you are interested in so that you can pick it up and feel the size and weight.

• Windows Version: If you are buying for a student, I recommend Windows Vista Home Premium or Basic. If you are buying for you or your office, I recommend Windows Vista Business or Ultimate.

• Price/Budget: This is something you really have to set. BUT As I said before, laptop prices have dropped. Here is an example: Best Buy currently has a Compaq Presario Laptop, with 3 Gigs of Memory, CD/DVD Burner, AMD Dual Core Processor, 15.4" Widescreen, 5 in 1 Card Reader, 200 Gigs of Storage and Vista Home Premium. Now it doesn't have Blue Tooth, but that shows you what a deal you can get for $650.

I hope this helps you choose a laptop for your college student or for yourself. If you are looking for a new laptop for your business, please look at our Agent Resources page on our website for a list of must haves for agents.

Best of luck to you and your student!

David Fox, Owner
The Real Estate Tech Desk
A Division of DEF PC Services

410-274-4871
www.defpc.net

FACTS ABOUT SWITCHING TO VISTA!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:57:48 -0500

There have been a lot of blogs surfacing recently about making the switch to Windows Vista, or Windows VISTA OR XP, or Will XP Still Be Around....and comments surfacing like: Xp isn't going to be supported...you have to go to Vista...

Well I'm gonna lay out the facts regarding Vista, XP, and some other pertinent info!

Quick Facts:

Windows XP was released in October of 2001, since then it has undergone 2 service packs, and hundreds of patches, making it the most widely used Microsoft Operating System to date. The majority of software works with windows XP (except for some really old software, that was designed for DOS or 95....even then some of it works in XP)
Windows XP is STILL available in stores for purchase until JUNE 2008 (and who knows, that date could be extended)
Windows XP is STILL available on new DESKTOPS and LAPTOPS which are available ONLINE (Dell, HP, Lenovo, etc.) or through Independent computer shops whom build computers... They will continue to be available for quite some time.

Now onto a big issue on many peoples minds...I might also add that retail store employees have been known to falsify this information (saying XP is already unsupported and such):

Windows XP Support will be available to HOME USERS until 2010, and Enterprise and Business Users through April 2014. Now these are the dates that are being circulated. I might also add, that history shows that Microsoft OFTEN extends these dates. One example: Windows 98. Windows 98 was released June of 1998 and was supposed to have support end in JULY 2004, HOWEVER this date was then expanded to JULY 2006, due to such heavy useage of the Operating System. (Mind you, XP has a stronger usage than 98, so we are more than likely going to see an extension of support for XP)

Why would you choose XP (released almost 7 years ago) versus Vista (released 1 year ago)?

There are many reasons why, but here are the main reasons:

XP is widely supported in the IT industry (software and hardware manufacturers) It is still hard to find Vista Experts
Users prefer the XP Operating System. It's what they have used for years, and have grown comfortable to it
SOFTWARE INCOMPATIBILITY WITH VISTA...yes this is still a HUGE issue, and the main reason why I just ordered my new laptop with XP. There are still TONS of software that cannot run on Windows Vista.
XP is still the industry standard for Operating Systems.

Things to Consider when buying a new computer with Vista:

Does my OFFICE fully support VISTA?
Will the printers/scanners/accessories that I use on my XP machine work in VISTA?
Will ALL of my software work correctly in VISTA?
Does my VPN Software (software used to remotely connect to your office) work correctly in Vista (alot of vpn software currently doesn't work in VISTA)
Will all of the OFFICE EQUIPMENT work in VISTA? (Just because the office supports it, doesnt mean that your favorite printer in YOUR private office will work with VISTA!)

These are all major items that need to be looked at!

I personally feel that VISTA is GREAT for the home user, but currently is not up to par with business users yet. Give it some time, and it will be there! Remember: XP IS STILL BEING SUPPORTED, and WILL BE SUPPORTED FOR YEARS TO COME, and that you can still BUY a computer with XP on it, if need be.

Should you have any questions regarding making the switch to windows Vista, or need support with your computer, feel free to contact us at "The Real Estate Tech Desk"

This Blog will also be updated on my website www.defpc.net! Go directly to the Windows Vista Page.

GET INTERACTIVE! What Technology Questions do you want answered?

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:33:45 -0500

I'm constantly asked by agents, oh it would be great to have a device that does this or does that. What surprises most agents, is that their "imaginary" "non-existent" device or product, actually exists! As far as real estate technology & technology in general goes, if you can think of it, it probably exists!

One recent example is about going paperless! This agent thought it would be expensive, and confusing...here is the result:

Agent want's to go paperless. How to save paper, and ink! She wanted to be able to take documents or contracts and email them versus printing them. This is actually simply done. Using a free PDF printer software, the agent now can easily print documents, emails, or virtually anything directly into a .PDF file (files that open in Adobe Acrobat Reader) Now the agent can easily store the document on the computer or email it to whomever needs it. The agent also already had a printer/scanner machine which allows her to take paper documents and scan it into her computer---a few lessons on how to properly save the documents, email them and a few other tips, and this agent is now 85% paperless!

Having the proper resources in real estate is essential. Here's your chance to add a tech resource to your arsenal. Add a comment, ask me a question regarding a tech or marketing service (real estate or non real estate related) or a technology QUESTION and I'll give you a answer/solution. I know you've got something on your mind that you wish was possible!

Lets see the type of questions we get here! I bet you'll be surprised with the results!

Attention Top Producer & MRIS users!!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 17:52:43 -0500

Top Producer 7i & MRIS Keystone Photo Upload Java Problem RESOLVED!

Over the past two weeks I have probably recieved over 40 phone calls regarding Top Producer & MRIS issues. What the problem is, as we all know Top Producer 7i is JAVA based but requires that the Java Applet in Internet Explorer be disabled. The problem is that MRIS (Metropolitan Regional Information Systems) the MLS for MD, VA, DC, DE, PA & WV has just released a new version of KEYSTONE (what you use to upload & edit listings) One of the features now is that you can upload 30 photos per listing, but it REQUIRES JAVA, and installs it on your computer when you first use the new keystone. So basically both programs require java in some way shape or form, but keystone requires an option that top producer won't run with.

Now that you have a background on the problem, here is how to fix it.

HOW TO RESOLVE TOP PRODUCER & MRIS KEYSTONE JAVA PROBLEM

Open Internet Explorer
Go to MRIS.com & Login
Open KEYSTONE & make sure that you can upload a photo to your listing
Now close out of KEYSTONE
Open TOP PRODUCER 7i
You should get an error when logging in...if so please proceed with the following
In Internet Explorer Click on TOOLS
Click on INTERNET OPTIONS
Go to the ADVANCED TAB
Scroll half way down the list until you get to the JAVA (SUN) section
UNCHECK the box next to "Use JRE 1.5.0 for <applet> (requires restart)
Now click on OK
Close Internet Explorer
Reopen Internet Explorer
Try Top Producer...it should log right in
Now try Uploading a photo into MRIS Keystone...it should also work

If you continue having problems contact MRIS support or contact us at The Real Estate Tech Desk 410-274-4871

Best of luck everyone....this has been my headache for a few weeks now

I also have to mention that if you are a TOP PRODUCER 8i USER, then you do not need to worry about this. Top Producer 8i is NOT JAVA based and does not have the same conflict. Stay tuned to my next post where I will do a review of the new Top Producer 8i platform!

How To Backup Microsoft Outlook - Video Tutorial

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 23:13:53 -0500

Continuing our series on technology tips for real estate, our next how to video shows you how simple it is to backup Microsoft Outlook!

This is a process we recommend you do on a regular basis. Think of all your personal and business information that is stored on in outlook! Not only should you backup outlook, but you should also backup your documents and other files that are stored on your computer! We recommend purchasing either an external portable hard drive (available at Best Buy, Staples & Office Depot) or by purchasing a USB thumb drive, this way you can carry your data from different locations, and open it on multiple machines.

Should you have any questions regarding backing up your Outlook & Documents or which equipment to purchase, feel free to contact the Real Estate Tech Desk! We work almost exclusively with real estate professionals throughout the US to provide you with the best technological and marketing solutions available to the real estate industry.

How We Can All Learn From Mc Donalds!!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 08:23:30 -0600

How We Can All Learn From McDonalds

Some may have heard, some may have noticed, but for those who haven't, I'm going to show you how we can learn from McDonalds. Throughout the country recently, McDonalds has been remodeling their locations to favor the style of Starbucks, upscale restaurants and Bistro's to adjust to their clients changing needs. If you haven't been in one of the remodeled locations, you really should look. They have fireplaces and fish tanks, nice tile floors, muted colors like sage green and browns on the walls, leather loveseats and couches, bistro tables, new seating in general, soft lights, oh and did I mention flat screen televisions and WIFI internet.

McDonalds has also just released that they will have McCafe's in 14,000 locations with barista's to compete with Starbucks. You can buy your nonfat, venti quad shot caramel macchiato no whip at mc donalds (with a slightly less fancy name) as well as a slightly lower price tag (.60-.80 cents cheaper).

I myself until recently would not even go to McDonalds drive thru because the smell was nauseating. However with the new locations the ventilation must be better because it doesn't have the greasy thick smell in the air anymore, and is actually a nice place to sit and eat with someone while on a lunch break, or to use the internet.

HOW WE CAN LEARN:

McDonalds has adjusted to change due to changes in their clients needs and due to what chains such as Starbucks, and Chick-Fil-A offer. (where else besides Chick-Fil-A can you go to the drive thru at lunch hour and have the line wrapped around the building and still be out of their in 5 minutes?) McDonalds is learning from their competitors and clients, and you should too!

Similar to what I posted yesterday about studying your competitors successful producing websites & national companies websites, the same is true for studying the top producing agents in your area, seeing what makes them successful, seeing how they keep, retain, business and survive during slower times.

Now, you shouldn't see what your competitors are doing it and copy it, basically word for word, what you should however, is to study them and IMPROVE upon what they do, to make you more successful. What do they do for listing presentations? Take it step farther! What do they do for actual listings or advertisements, websites, communication with clients? Take is a step or two farther!

We can all learn from McDonalds, so why not for lunch today (if you have one of their remodeled locations near you) stop in, grab a nice salad, chicken sandwich and a latte (if your lucky to have the Mc Café already) and pop out your laptop or a notepad and take notes, and strive to do better in 2008!

To your success in 2008,

David Fox
The Real Estate Tech Desk
"Technology & Marketing Solutions For Real Estate"
410-274-4871
www.defpc.net

What Attracts Users To Popular Real Estate Websites?

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 21:00:01 -0600

What Attracts Users To Popular Real Estate Websites?

Real Estate websites are basically a dime a dozen now-a-days. Everyone has one...some work, some don't. Some constantly strive to improve their site, to reach the goal of gaining more business, and some have them simply to tell clients they have one or to say they have a web presence.

You may have a great website, but not necessarily great traffic to your site or many leads from your site. The question of 2008 is "What brings the users to large site such as realtor.com, realestate.yahoo.com, redfin.com, zillow.com, realestate.com and those of the similar?"

You may say that the main reason is because of their large name presence, BUT all of these companies and websites had to start from somewhere! A few years ago zillow, redfin, realestate.com, etc. didn't exist on the net. What attracts users and keeps users on their websites?

Take a look at each of these websites, open each in a new tab in firefox or internet explorer, so that it's easier to view all with a click of a button. I'm looking at nine sites now, and here is what I see that all have in common: Each has a search feature directly on the main page, they each has soft easy on the eyes colors (except remax.com), most have real estate news snippets, and easy to find eye popping buttons taking you to buyers tools, sellers tools, etc.

Digging deeper you'll see that the website is not all about "me, me & me" it is setup like a business should be, providing the product/service in a professional manner, including a professional design to meet their specific needs, and the needs of their target client. There are ways for you to contact them or the listing agent, however they are subtle...every site has a "not in your face" approach, which is what the client is looking for, they like anonymity, and they don't want to be harassed to contact you - such as being prompted for registration to view homes.

The website provides the client with everything they need, in an easy to read and use format, the client can do the proper research they need right from that website. When designed, the website owners & designers made it so that everything needed is on that website, keeping users put!

When you are trying to jazz up your website, or figure out why your site isn't bringing in clients or traffic, you need to evaluate what works for the popular websites - including the major national sites as mentioned above, but you also need to look at your local real estate web leaders. What makes their sites shine, why do people talk a lot about their sites, etc. etc. Look at this website we've recently finished, look how the colors flow, and are easy on the eye, everything is in a easy to find manner, and the home search, contact, and listings are right at your fingertips. Take a look at your website, and compare each feature to your competitors-see what you can improve on.

If you are in the market for a new website, do your research, most canned websites won't give you the easy to use features of the national sites or that a custom site can provide you with. Talk with a web developer about what you want, need, as well as what you would like to have. A designer takes all of the above mentioned items (and more) into consideration when building a website, website colors for example, can give a different effect upon users, depending on where your business is. For example, a real estate website in the cold, wintery, snowy climates usually or should have warm color patterns, and feature local pictures (you're not going to have palm tree lined street pictures for a house in upstate New York) however, template websites this is something you will have to deal with. Same goes with a Miami real estate site....you will want light airy colors in your website. This is just one example of what needs to be taken into consideration.

Closing Thought: Don't pick a website based on initial cost, remember most designers will work with you on payments, and also remember that you are purchasing the website to help make you money! Why throw money away month after month for something that doesn't have the features you need or for something that is exactly like everyone else's. To be successful, you need to stand out from the crowd, bring value to your potential clients, that will help them choose you over your competitor!

Budget minded? View my 1/6/2008 blog on Marketing budgets, and take the RAMP UP CHALLENGE ‘08

Best of Success in 2008

David Fox
The Real Estate Tech Desk
"Technology & Marketing Solutions for Real Estate"
410-274-4871
http://www.defpc.net/

Stop Wasteful Spending! Here's a free tool!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 17:36:54 -0600

Ramp Up Challenge

As the real estate market adjusts, many agents begin to cut costs and minimize or stop all together their advertising. In actuality you SHOULD be marketing, if not ramping up your marketing. Think about it, more and more agents are leaving the industry - even heavy hitters from a year or two ago (I can't wait to see the statistics of how many didn't renew their licenses for '08), more agents don't have the advertising budget like they used to. I have significantly noticed how many less mailing's I receive, how many fewer advertisements are around, how many less flyers are floating around, etc. etc. Why not take advantage of this great opportunity, by increasing your marketing, or if you are starting out in this industry, create a marketing plan and implement it.

Therefore, I am starting the "RAMP UP CHALLENGE ‘08". Here is how it works:

•1) Download the RAMP UP CHALLENGE '08 Worksheet. (visit: Our website, read more on the Challenge, and DOWNLOAD the Worksheet-FOR FREE)

•2) List All Products/Ad's you pay yearly or monthly for.

•3) Start Crunching Numbers! In the COST column, you want to put what that service cost you in 2007, in the RETURN column, you want to put the amount that you MADE from clients that you can directly relate to that service, the BALANCE column is already configured to calculate the sum for you! (also, the worksheet is configured to give you totals at the bottom!)

•4) Any Product/Ad that didn't bring you ANY business that you paid for, instantly cut that service. These are just wasting you money! Now I should note, that if you have been using the product/ad for less than 3-6 months, then keep it...you have not given it enough time to work for you.

•5) Look at your remaining services/ad's: Which ones are costing you money, and which are making you money? Now I'm not going to be the one to say cut every service that's not making you money, but you do need to look hard at the ones that aren't bringing in the cash money! HOW much are they costing you? Maybe you can reduce the amount of ad's your doing with the provider or if it's a product, maybe you can change service plans, so that it costs less...and possibly turn into a positive investment.

•6) Similarly, you also need to look at the products/ad's that are making you money! Maybe you can ramp up these productive ad's/products...maybe they have a bigger package you can purchase or maybe there is added services by buying a different packages that will bring you more exposure and therefore more $$$.

Agents come to me all the time stating that they would love to change their marketing plan or their website, etc. etc. but they can't afford to because funds are low or for some other reason. There are many products out there for real estate, and all promise to bring big results or to make life easier...but with anything, you need to evaluate YEARLY to make sure they are cost effective. If you cut out all of those misc. products that are not making money but are costing money, or that are not up-to-par with your expectations, then you will have the money to purchase that new custom website or marketing package. Marketing is the same as websites go...there is no ONE SIZE FITS ALL package....well actually there is, tons of products out there like that, but to be truly effective in your marketing and business overall, you need to have something that is built towards your specific needs, and clients needs, and your general market area needs. A true marketing professional will evaluate you, your clients needs, and your market area to determine what will be best or what is needed in that area. This will help you tap into markets or clients that you never knew existed.

Let us know how this challenge worked for you! If you have questions regarding this challenge (such as our opinion on the services that you pay for or use) let us know, we're here to help!

Best of success in 2008!

David Fox
The Real Estate Tech Desk
"Technology & Marketing Solutions for Real Estate"
410-274-4871
http://www.defpc.net/

Tech Tip #3 -- Accessing your Home or Office PC REMOTELY!! (and for free)

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 21:59:21 -0600

Real Estate Tech Tip #3

Today we are focusing on: Accessing your Home or Office PC from a Remote Location

Have you ever had a need to access your office computer from home or another remote connection or need to access your home computer from the office? Well today, I am going to show you how to easily access your computer remotely....and for free!

The Program:

It's called logmein.com and it has several levels of service available, however the one I recommend using is their free version. I use it to access my clients computers, when they are having computer issues. I can work on their systems no matter where in the world they are located and at any time. So if they are having an issue I can log in and fix it-without them being in front of their computer.

How to get it:

Go to http://www.logmein.com/ and click on the big green button: DOWNLOAD LogMeIn FREE, fill out the basic required info (username, password, & email). Then follow the directions to download it. You will then want to do it on your other computers as well. Remember when you get to the step that asks you to Name the computer that you want to give it a unique name you can remember so that you can easily access the correct computer remotely.

How to Use It:

When you install it to all your computers, you can then access any of them you need to simply by going to the logmein.com website, and logging in. You will then see a list of your computers. If they are blue and underlined (like a web link) that means the computer is turned on, and can be accessed. If the computer name is in grey it means the computer is not online or is not turned on, therefore it cannot be accessed. You click on the computer of choice, enter in the password, click on remote desktop and BAM you are on your computer.

Summary:

Once you take the 5 minutes required to setup the program, it will literally take 30 seconds from a remote computer to access your office or home PC. It will save you money & time, plus you don't have to shell out a monthly fee as with other services that offer the same product type.

Happy Holidays,

David Fox,
The Real Estate Tech Desk
http://www.defpc.net/

Tech Tip #2 -- Keyboard Program Shortcut Commands

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 20:59:25 -0600

Real Estate Tech Tip #2

Today we are focusing on: Keyboard Shortcuts

Below are a list of commonly used PC commands that you can quickly do, by using a few keyboard quick commands. Study these commands, they will help you save alot of time when working in almost all of your real estate and non real estate related programs. Good Luck!

PC Commands and Commands to use in most programs in Windows.

CTRL+C (Copy)

CTRL+X (Cut)

CTRL+V (Paste)

CTRL+Z (Undo)

SHIFT+DELETE (Delete the selected item permanently without placing the item in the Recycle Bin)

CTRL+A (Select all)

ALT+TAB (Switch between the open programs on your computer)

F5 key (Refreshes the screen-so if you are looking at a website, instead of clicking the reload or refresh button, just push the F5 key!)

Internet Explorer Shortcut Commands

CTRL+E (Open the Search bar)

CTRL+H (Open the History bar)

CTRL+I (Open the Favorites bar)

CTRL+P (Open the Print dialog box)

CTRL+W (Close the current window)

Happy Holidays,

David Fox,
The Real Estate Tech Desk
http://www.defpc.net/

Tech Tip #1 --Anti Virus Protection & A Free Solution!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 20:36:51 -0600

Real Estate Tech Tip #1

This is the first of many blogs that are intended to help solve "life's little technical problems"

Today we are focusing on: Anti-Virus protection

I cannot stress enough how important it is to have Up-To-Date anti-virus protection on each and every computer that you have. If you do not have anti-virus protection on your computer, you must get protected ASAP. If you do have it, make sure that your account is still active, and that your subscription has not expired. Your computer cannot receive virus protection updates on an expired subscription. If you are experiencing either of the problems above (no anti-virus protection or expired subscription) worry no more. I am providing you with a free option in anti-virus protection, but before I give you the link, we first need to delete any old anti-virus protection on your computer, as having multiple protection software packages on your computer can really affect your computers performance. This is good to know, even if you don't need new protection.

Click on START

Go to the CONTROL PANEL

Then you want to open ADD/REMOVE PROGRAMS

The next step is for you to REMOVE any old antivirus suites off of your computer

Once you've completed this, restart your computer.

Now you want to open your web browser

Go to: http://free.grisoft.com/

Click on the DOWNLOADS button

Then choose under the header Free Downloads

Choose AVG Anti-Virus Free Edition 7.5

Then download the program, and install it on your computer, following all steps provided in the setup.

There will be a checkbox option for running a daily scan, I would uncheck this option. It seems to slow down your boot up time.

After setup is complete, I would run a virus scan on your computer, and delete or quarantine any viruses that it finds.

Now your computer is always up-to-date, the virus software automatically updates itself, and it is some of the best software out there available, plus it is a very LIGHT program meaning that it doesn't slow down the performance of your computer as compared to Norton or McAfee, both of which I do not recommend anymore due to their computer performace issues (and price).

Please note, that this free version is meant for non-commercial use computers, therefore it should not be used on your office computers, but can be used on your home computers and laptops.

Hope this helps, and stay tuned to our next Tech Tip/Fix! Or visit our website for more tips and support.

Happy Holidays,

David Fox,
The Real Estate Tech Desk
http://www.defpc.net/

Are YOU doing it?? I wanna know!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 19:07:02 -0600

Are YOU doing it?

What I'm talking about today is Marketing (no, not advertising). You may be asking yourself, "what's the difference?" and there actually is a huge difference between the two. Today I want to show you the difference between ADVERTISING a home, and MARKETING a home.

When many agents go to a listing appointment, they show their potential clients the many ways that they will MARKET their home, when in fact, with the methods that they use, they should tell their clients the many ways they will ADVERTISE their home. OK so what is the difference? Lets first take a look at advertising, as agents are most familiar with it.

Advertising: The dictionary defines it as: "the act or practice of calling public attention to one's product, service, need, etc., esp. by paid announcements in newspapers and magazines, over radio or television, on billboards, etc.: to get more customers by advertising." Here is typical advertising for a property: An agent takes a listing, and either hires a photographer, or takes the photos themselves of the property, places them on a flyer, postcard, or website with a description, price, and agent contact info....sounds normal enough I know, and the majority of agents do this type of property advertising. The problem is deeper than what we see on the surface of the flyer. Advertising simply places the home in the public view for potential clients to see. It doesn't bring an emotional tie between the property and the potential home owner. Many of us know that many people purchase based on impulse and emotion, so you need to bring that emotion to the flyer or other form of advertising to bring clients to your property that is for sale.

Marketing: The dictionary doesn't give a great 21^st century definition, but if you go to google and type in DEFINE: MARKETING, you will get many definitions...I like this one: "perceived by lots of business people to mean simply promotion and advertising, the term marketing actually covers everything from company culture and positioning, through market research, new business/product development, advertising and promotion, PR (public/press relations), and arguably all of the sales functions as well. It's the process by which a company decides what it will sell, to whom, when and how, and then does it." What the world doesn't need in real estate anymore is photos of vacant properties (no furnishings) or photos of half baths that only show part of a pedestal sink or part of a toilet, or a empty bedroom (or so we think, all we see in the photo is part of 2 walls and either a ceiling with a light, or carpet). What I am NOT talking about here is taking bad photos, (there are plenty of great articles discussing this) what I am trying to teach is that instead of showing photos (like what I mentioned above) why not take photos of the front of the house, the kitchen, maybe the living room, and then take photos say the neighborhood, or the great park down the road, or something of the like. Margaret Woda and I spoke regarding this last week while I was working on her PC. She said that if the property you are trying to sell has a gourmet kitchen, show multiple photos of that kitchen or if it is a "large & spacious home" take photos and place them in the flyer of the LARGE and spacious rooms, not necessarily the small bedroom or tiny half bath. If the property is sitting on a large corner lot - that for instance is rare in that area, then you need to showcase that lot, with multiple photos...not saying you need to exclude interior photos, but showcase the exterior and include a few key interior shots as well. Most people are going to assume that the house had bedrooms & baths, and unless the rooms are really outstanding (and you can prove it from PHOTOS) then they really don't need to be in your ad or marketing piece. Let's take that great house on the corner lot. We include the wonderful photos of the front, the side, and maybe a shot or two with the kids playing in the yard (I will talk about this shortly). People will pick up the flyer and go, WOW that really is a great yard, the kids look really happy and there is plenty of room for football, or there is hardly any maintenance needed...lets take a look at this house! BOOM you just got a showing because of the emotion factor and showing them the value in that lot.

Another great form of advertising is using actual people in the photos. You have to be careful with this one, because you can't try and market to a particular type of people or age group...this we all know, so I recommend using different people in different photos. Take for example the living room shot, why not have a family sitting on the couch eating popcorn watching a movie, or a family (different generation and races) sitting at the dining room table eating a holiday meal, or kids in a bedroom playing video games, or people in the back yard enjoying a cookout. This sells emotion as well, and is a great way to help sell your property in this flooded market.

Lets use this example below....which one appeals to you more and makes you want to see it first:

The picture on the left shows me a functional kitchen with obviously room for 4, new appliances, nice countertops etc....while the photo on the right shows a room (actually it's a master bedroom-you would never know it though) this photo doesn't show me size prospective (what can I fit in this room, what does it feature, what IS this room?) It really does nothing for you.

Take a look at major companies such as NIKE or APPLE. When they market a new product (lets take the IPOD for example) they don't show you 20 photos of the thing. They usually give you a LARGE photo of a person on a treadmill using the IPOD or kids in the back of the car watching the video on the IPOD or someone walking down the street listening to the tunes. Then they also show a photo of the actual device. What they are doing is selling you the practical use of the product or the "coolness" factor the product-that's so cool I want one for working out on the treadmill too! They don't need to show you every little photo of every angle of that device, they show you what sells it! This is one way of them making millions of sales. Not saying that the IPOD is necessarily the best music device out there, but it is definitely the best marketed device out there. So you want to go out there and market your home better than all those other homes out there available in your area!

So again as a recap, MARKET those rooms that will truly sell that house or MARKET the property...if that is where the bang for the buck is at. We all know that your clients house is NOT the best property around, but you need to show the potential client WHAT that property has to offer them.

Best of success to you & your's this Holiday season

David Fox,
The Real Estate Tech Desk
www.defpc.net

What's Happening to the Real Estate Guides? How to Advertise Differently!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 20:53:32 -0600

What's Happening to all of the Real Estate Guides?

Info on Advertising DIFFERENTLY in Print Media!

This is a tad lengthy, but is well worth the read!

This evening, I was pulling into a local Giant food, here in Severna Park, MD, and I noticed the new "The Real Estate Guide" of Anne Arundel County. I picked it up and headed out to the car. I grab the guide monthly from Anne Arundel as well as a few other counties in MD, as well as at my house in North Carolina. Today though when I picked up the guide I noticed something very different. The guide was about half the thickness as it usually is. Glancing through I noticed the regular heavy hitters in the area were advertising: Scott Smolen & The Smolen Team, Team Surlis, several other large Re/Max Producers, The Pat Hiban Group, Dee Dee Miller, as well as a few other noticeable producing agents. What was missing though, were some advertisers that have been in that book for years-top producing agents, that you could guarantee would be in the book...not this month! The majority of the smaller agents that have been advertising over the last few months or years also appear to have stopped advertising.

My question is, did these agents stop advertising because of the cost involved? Not a high Return on Investment? Or was it because they were revaluating where they spend their marketing $$$ ? Anne Arundel was not the only book looking a little thin, I also noticed some other MD counties that were missing a few regulars, as well as my books in North Carolina.

Now, as the owner of a marketing company (web design, and print media) I know that the majority of home buyers and sellers use the internet as their primary search method for a home, but I also know that The Real Estate Book, The Real Estate Guide, and other print media are still popular with buyers & sellers, as well as agents for advertising?

I personally think that the Books can work, if you advertise differently than the other agents in the book. Think about it! Why would a buyer or seller pick you as the agent if you had the same style page as everyone else (other than the fact that you may be the #1 or #2 agent in the area with large name recognition, or the fact that they may like a home you have advertised) Why would they pick you. If you had a page with your name, maybe a logo, 12 different listings, a web address in small font as well as your aol email address and your phone number, you would in essence have the same style page as almost every other agent in that book-it's the default style. So basically it would be a lottery of agents-maybe you get the luck of the draw this time...or maybe not.

What to do? Take a test! Pick up your local copy of that book, glance at each ad, and mark each page that stands out to you. You probably only have a handful of ad's (if that) that stand out. Now look carefully at each ad...what about it makes it stand out? Is it the background? The images? The fonts?

The Layout? The format I use for a lot of my agents who currently (or have previously) advertised in the book, is to do something different! The majority of my clients advertising in the book, are my marketing clients, whom we have designed logos, and themes for. We incorporate the theme of their advertising into the book...using the same fonts, logos, colors and more on every print & online ad. We also highlight say 3-6 listings, providing more details about those listings than most agents. Then we take a portion of that ad page, and advertise the agent. For a lot of our agents, they have just launched a new website with us, so we will take a snapshot of their website, put it on the ad, and list details about the site, and put in bold and large: http://www.gaylastrickland.com/ or something to that effect, or put SEARCH ALL HOMES ON OUR NEWLY DESIGNED WEBSITE or RESEARCH REAL ESTATE ON OUR CUSTOM DESIGNED WEBSITE. Something that is bold and will catch attention-unlike most normal ad's in the book... We make sure that the ad's make people stop flipping pages and READ! We have had a lot of success with the books with our agents who use our marketing plans.

So.... Basically, even though the books might be thinning out, it still might be a good time to advertise in them...IF you do it differently!

Final Thought... Thinking of differently, if you live in the Raleigh/Durham area, then you are more than familiar with the new Johnson Automotive Badger Commercials! This is an excellent example of doing something different than your competition! For those not familiar with the Badger commercials, let me explain: Everybody is familiar with the regular car commercial: Come on down to Big Johns new lexus dealership-we have thousands marked below invoice...blah blah blah! It's the same thing, every dealership, in every state! Well not in Central North Carolina. Johnson Automotive is doing something very unique in car dealership advertising. They have this lively badger who is dressed in an used car salesman's suit, who to say the least has an attitude, and is worried about nothing than getting you to buy a car-the typical car salesman basically...the ones we hate, who are pushy and rude and just won't give up. At the end of the commercial, the announcer says: Great Deals, Great Service, No Badgers!

Excellent, Excellent, Excellent advertising! It is done by the same company who does the geico gecko commercials. No longer does the consumer click the fast forward button on the TIVO or switch channels when this commercial comes on, but they watch, laugh, and best of all tell their friends (like I am doing now-oh and I am not looking at their website-I am giving you all of this info from the top of my head!) Its advertising that sticks! Just take a look...here is a link to a list of their commercials-watch a few, laugh & LEARN! I guarantee you will watch all of them.

What are your thoughts or idea's on What's happening with the Books? Please leave comments below or contact us directly!

David Fox,
The Real Estate Tech Desk
http://www.defpc.net/

We've been working hard helping an agent become more productive!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 21:53:06 -0600

It's been a while since I've done a post, and according to the emails that I have been receiving, I'm well over due for producing a great blog. I really do have a good reason why! We have been so incredibly busy working with our clients producing excellent marketing material, to help them become more productive in this industry.

Today, I want to announce the release of a brand new website that we have created for Renee Melanson, A licensed Maryland Realtor & a Licensed Washington, DC Realtor. Take a look at her new website, and please send me any feedback (good or bad) that you have - all feedback helps! Not only is Renee releasing her new website today, she is also a brand new member of Active Rain. So send her a warm welcome (link to her AR blog is on her website) and encourage her to start blogging!

I look forward to your feedback!

Please Visit www.reneemelanson.com

Best of Success,

David Fox
The Real Estate Tech Desk

Where Does The Real Estate Industry Go From Here?

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 10:39:40 -0500

Ok, so this isn't my normal Techy post, or one of my marketing posts, but it holds the same value to everyone in the industry.

After reading an article today on MSN called "For Home Builders, The Worst is to Come" it got me to thinking about how my business has changed in this current change in the market. Not necessarily saying that we are in a down market, (although some area's may be) We are more of being in a normalizing market, from the crazy & insane market we have been in for the past few years. As all of my current clients are in the real estate industry, business has changed dramatically for them, and therefore, how they run their businesses. I myself have made alot of changes, I now require a 50% deposit for work (except for a few bread & butter mega clients of mine) due to the fact that I was completing work for agents, and never hearing from them again, either they ignore my invoices, emails, or calls, or they have closed up shop (I've seen a lot of smaller agents either get out of the business or get a part time job in the last few months) I now only work with larger "top producing" agents, due to the fact that I can rely on steady income. I've started accepting online payment via credit cards, as an attempt to get some of my past due invoices paid (I probably have close to $4,000 in past due invoices, that I will probably never see a dime from). Alot in my business practices have changed alot, from the way I collect payment, to whom I work with is very different from a year or so ago.

I would like to know what you all are doing in changing your business practices (from whom you are working with --if you an agent, how are you choosing buyers & sellers to work with, and other practices, to builders, mortgage, title, other marketing & IT companies, how are you choosing to work clients, are you being more picky with who you work with, or how you collect payment? Do you now deny work (or potential work) from particular agents?

I've been noticing that my agents that have been in the business for many years are still fairly steady with clients, and of course my mega agent clients are busy still, and in fact I seem to notice that my bigger agents are getting even BUSIER as the market has changed. I have my reasons and beliefs as to why this is, but I would like to know what others are thinking.

I look forward to talking and working with you all soon!

Best of Success,

David Fox
The Real Estate Tech Desk
"Technology & Marketing Solutions For Real Estate"

It was only a matter of time!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 22:45:12 -0500

Thanks to Donna Yates who MeMe'd me the other day. I just recently did a listing flyer for her for one of her new listings, and in return she Meme'd me! Thanks!! (just kidding, this should be fun)

My name is David Fox, I am 23 years old. Born & Raised in the Baltimore/DC/Annapolis area.I graduated from Glen Burnie High School, went to community college one semester until I decided that it was NOT the route for me.

All during high school I worked (at one point I was working 2 jobs and going to school-not because I had to, but because I wanted to) I worked my way up through the ranks of Grocery stores, graduated HS in 2002, my parents and I moved to a new house, I started College, and a new job (I followed my store manager from Metro/Shoppers, to Superfresh, to a small grocery store called Magruders) I worked there for several years while starting my own business, I got started thanks to the real estate agent who sold our old house - he and my father used to work together in the Police dept. The Realtor is now a client of mine, and owns a Re/Max Brokerage and a Title Company.

I worked my way up at Magruders, finally leaving there at the position of Assist. Store Manager, it was getting to be overwhelming working there (60+ Hours) and try to get my company successful. I worked part time on my terms at home depot just for health insurance.

A few years ago I left all my part time jobs (yea!!) and was solely on my own. Last year (actually on this exact date last year) I was moving into my first house-in North Carolina. Maryland was & is just too expensive to start out in.

When I am not crazy busy working, I love to travel and see family in California, and up north in New York/Connecticut. I try as often as possible to get to my family's beach house in Delaware, and to the house up in West Virginia. I travel weekly from NC to MD (3.5 hours), (where most of my clients are) When I am home, I try to get out to Baltimore & Annapolis for some great night life! You just can't beat Downtown Annapolis or Fell's Point in the summer!

Family is very important to me, and so are my friends....I am also very much single at this time too!

Well that is just about it for now...I am going to have to figure out who I will Meme next!

It's YOUR Money! Should You Market YOU or the COMPANY??

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 21:12:26 -0500

It's Your Money! Should You Market YOU or the Company?

Normally, I talk about websites....website design, content, template or custom, etc. etc. However, this evening I was reading a post by Diane Aurit here in NC, talking about whether or not your company/broker is supporting you, or competing against you. I have come across this many times throughout the past few years with my clients, and thought it would be a great post to go into detail about...SHOULD YOU MARKET YOU or THE COMPANY???

I'm an agent...WHO should I advertise?

You work for a major brokerage. You're a fairly new agent or even an experienced agent. You do not do your own marketing, mainly on the fact that 1) you are not sure how to approach it, and 2) the broker has always told you that by advertising the company, it is the best advertising you can do (usually they talk about how the company has spent millions advertising the balloon or logo -which is very true, and has been very successful). However if do a listing flyer, or a postcard, or do your website with just broker branding (COMPANY LOGO LARGE, with brokers phone number, but with your photo small or on the other side, with your phone number - who are you really advertising?? It's the broker. By making everything scream REMAX REMAX REMAX or COLDWELL BANKER OR KW and just having your info super small, no one is going to remember you! So when these prospectives get ready to buy or sell, who are they going to call? YOU or the BROKERAGE, chances are it's the broker! Why? Its because your marketing is generic (a picture and your name-big whoop) It doesn't stand out but when you put 410-555-9090 HUGE on the front that's the number they are going to call, and they are going to say they want to buy or sell, they aren't going to say "I would like to speak with JOE AGENT"

Your broker does an excellent job telling you to advertise the company, and how well the name is recognized-which is true, but the broker wants you to advertise them because of the fact that 1) they get free advertising, and 2) if the broker competes with you, then any leads coming in via phone or walk-ins usually go to the broker (and he disburses the leads from there, I have a ton of brokers who just gives the leads to members of their OWN TEAMS. So of course they want you to SELL the company.

If you want Business, your going to have to stop believing that "if you market the company - it's the best marketing you can do" What to do? You need come up with a brand, you need to develop a marketing plan, and stay consistent with everything that you do, you need to start advertising the company as small as possible. I will lay out some idea's below.

How should you market the company ?

Most people usually ask...OK I want to brand ME but don't I HAVE to have the brokers information on my marketing? The answer is usually yes, although it varies from state to state and county to county, the majority of the time you have to have the company name, address, and brokers phone number, as well as equal housing logo. The Realtor logo is optional although we recommend you use it. Most of our marketing pieces we do for agents has the brokers info small but legible and easily found. Click here for samples of a agent branded website you will see how the brokerage info is small at the bottom and that the phone number and address for the brokerage is on the contact page...now here in the Raleigh area this is acceptable. Now in Maryland, another primary market I service, the contact info has to be on the main page so we place the info small at the bottom. Click here to view flyer samples, you will notice how we brand the agent, not the brokerage - you will see how after a while, the clients will remember you, instead of the broker! After all, you most likely won't be spending your entire career at that particular office, so the smaller it is the better....On most of our marketing, the agent could change brokerages every other day, and no one would even notice! That's the way it SHOULD be.

Who's money is it anyway?

This isn't a simple easy answer. The answer is a lot of useful, unique, and up-to-date information displayed in a clean and easy to use way (more on displaying the info later). Wow, this is a big question.

The brokers that say you HAVE to market the company or you won't survive are dead wrong and are steering you the wrong way. I am not bashing large companies or small companies, heck in MD there are so many brokerages -you can have one Re/Max on one side of the road, and another Re/Max on the other side of the road-and the difference in how they are run and support their agents are night and day differences! If you market your company on everything you do, then technically your broker should pay for the marketing - not you, because in all reality you are the one who is not benefiting....they are. The broker wants as much free advertising as they can get. Now again, I am not "hating" on the brokers, THEIR job is to market the company any way legally they can, and if they can get you to do it, then they succeed, and win! Heck they are getting free advertising-you can't beat free, so you can't blame the broker, and yes some agents don't want to brand themselves, so broker branding works for them.

Brokers & Managers That Compete With You...Do YOU WIN?

A lot of brokerages have BROKERS and MANAGERS who are simply that BROKER'S and MANAGERS-they manage and run the company on a day to day basis, and help the agents succeed, so that in return-THEY SUCCEED. But then you have BROKERS and MANAGERS (and even receptionists) who PRACTICE real estate, they either work themselves or have teams. So, are they really working towards your best interest? Are they really completely focused on your success? Probably NOT! I see brokers take all of the leads that come from walk-in's and phone calls, and usually distribute them to their own teams, sometimes they give junk or crappy leads to other agents. I see this day in and day out! Receptionists who take call-in's and then schedule to meet with them, thus keeping the leads to themselves, and managers who do the same. I see agents who need help or have questions and they can't get answers because the manager or broker is on a listing appointment or with a client.

I also have brokers & managers who compete with their clients, and as a way to "keep everything legal" they REQUIRE that they SEE every piece of marketing and HEAR every IDEA before the agent puts it into print or starts the new IDEA to make sure it has all of the proper requirements (broker address, phone, equal housing, etc.) I have seen brokers who told agents not to do a mailing or such because they think the company logo should be larger. I have seen brokers STEAL agents idea's and implement them themselves. When you are starting out (or changing companies) research for a long time, talk to other agents, and RESEARCH! You want to make sure that you are the one who is important, you want a NON COMPETING BROKERAGE (including manager, receptionist, broker, etc) The company needs to work to your advantage. Go to a company that supports and recommends agent branding, or talk to a company like us, who can help you with your marketing, branding, and choosing a company that will best fit you and your needs.

Conclusion:

I have a lot of clients who have been very angry with their previous brokers because of competition, and marketing, and Diane's post got me thinking about all the crap I hear all the time.

Well, Best Of Luck To Everyone, and I would like to get everyone's opinion!

David Fox
The Real Estate Tech Desk
"Technology & Marketing Solutions For Real Estate"
410-274-4871
www.defpc.net

FREE MARKETING GIVE-AWAY to AGENTS!

David Fox, The Real Estate Tech Desk (The Real Estate Tech Desk) — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 11:14:49 -0500

We are offering a FREE LISTING FLYER to the first 15 agents who contact us. We will update the post, when we have reached our 15 free flyers limit. Agents #16 - 25 that respond, will recieve a listing flyer for $15, thats $5 off our regular price.

Why are we giving away 15 flyers? Simple...we want to bring AR members aware of our affordable, quick turn-over services...what better way than giving away a few flyers???

Here are a few samples of our listing flyers:

*Free Flyers are limited to 1 per agent/team. You are responsible for printing your own flyers, or we can upload it to a printing company of your choice. We will provide you will a high quality flyer in PDF format that you can easily print, or email to anyone.

What is required from the client: We will need your photo, personal logo (if you have one), contact information, and also request that you email us the listing MLS sheet, so that we can use the listing photos, and descriptions.

Want more information on our services? Visit us at: www.defpc.net