Old dog can learn new tricks

These days Realtors/Brokers are being pressured by the media, the NAR,and the fact that buyers and sellers have access to all sorts of information through the web and are often very shrewd and experienced in real estate..and of course by the zillions new high tech products that are flooding the market.

Contrary to the old belief that old dogs cannot learn new tricks , Realtors can if they choose to.

 In dog years I am about 7 years old. What is there out there that I must must have or that I should have or that Iwant to spend the money on? I have different philosophy about all this high tech mania. I think one should have broadband because sometimes you just have to move fast, you need an excellent printer and laser would be even better. Many of us use Top Producer and other programs for marketing and even networking ,  and have a Blackberry but I still prefer a lap top.These small buttons and screens do not attract me but they are useful. 

The trend is changing: Realtors who spend $5000 and up get 60% of their business through the web. So its not a question of keeping up with the Jonoses but more of learning how to be efficient. Now almost 3/4 of all Realtors have a personal web site with numbers and e-mails which go to them , not the company they work for. So we do have to adapt.   

  I do enjoy a Digital Sony video camera,  specially with clients who are re-locating or investors. But surprise: I recall this agent years ago who was doing a killing. He was louzy on the computer ( he told me he was ), had a louzy camera, a boring car but he was on the phone all day and when he left the office he was either showing, selling or in the process of. It told me that no mather how great the toys are, it still comes back to the personal relationship you have with the client and your being able to show great properties, to listen to your clients and be very well prepared and know how to negotiate and know your properties you are showing or selling...and for these who are a tad perfectionists..and ability to move fast.

So the old dog will learn new tricks but I am not going to have 20 toys around my neck when I talk to a client. Certainly with homebuyers doing 60-70% of their research on the web Realtors and Brokers have learned new tricks. I still will go back to the most important tool:Listening.  

LLoyd

Lloyd