The Realtor Technology Report - 2009 is available online.

Here are a few highlights from the "Executive Summary"

Technology Sourcing

Respondents seek new technology through:

• Real estate news websites (59%)

• Colleagues (57%)

• NAR (47%)

 • Local REALTOR® Association newsletters (38%)

 • Broker (37%)

 • Magazine advertisements (35%)

 • State REALTOR® Association newsletters (31%)

55% would like to receive information on real estate productivity & enhancement tools for their mobile device.
• MLS information; information suitable for consumers; mortgage apps; and integration with lockbox are among the mobile device tools that interest respondents for their mobile device.

32% of respondents use the Blackberry as their primary mobile device; another 14% use a Palm Treo; 10% use an iPhone.

The top three tools that respondents plan on purchasing or replacing in the next year are: smartphone with email/Internet connection (42%); notebook/laptop (34%), and digital camera (26%).

57% find value in the technology provided by their broker. 13% of respondents indicate that their broker does not provide any technology.

48% would like their broker to expand the technology provided. Several suggestions include: training on technology tools; blog hosting; leads; Wi-Fi; and tech support.

Social Networking

Of the respondents using social media tools:

• 28% are comfortable with it and another 27% are somewhat comfortable. [Interesting- that's only 55%-js]

 • 76% use facebook while another 58% use LinkedIn.

 Of all respondents, 16% do not use any social media sites (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc.)

25% state that social networking is effective for business purposes. Another 38% feel that it is somewhat effective, while 26% are not sure.

Lead Generation

Referrals (83%), repeat business (82%) and the internet (53%) are very important in generating leads.

The top five web sites where respondents' listings are displayed:

• REALTOR.com (83%)

 • Broker's or Office's site (83%)

 • Local Association or Local MLS site (73%)

 • Trulia (51%)

 • Zillow (50%)

Respondents indicate that the top three tools used to keep in touch with past clients are email, phone call, and postal mail. These were ranked in order by respondents.

How are we doing with technology as a profession?  Are we keeping up with the technology use and needs of the general population.  I realize that any Realtor even reading this post very probably has a technology advantage over the majority of NAR members.  Look over the entire survey. I would like to hear your thoughts.

The Survey