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Real Estate and the iPad

By Ben Warlick

Real Estate Agent with Hines & Associates Realty

April 21, 2011 02:22 AM

Good Morning Folks!

I'm trying to get back in the swing of things on AR so I thought today I would share about my experience with my new iPad.

Real Estate and the iPad

Well a few weeks ago I was cruising Craigslist.org checking on the price of a used iPad. I came across a base model 16G WiFi-only original iPad, new in box. I decided to take the leap and purchased this wonderful machine. The first thing I did was get on AR and find what apps I should download and any tips that others had to offer. I started by purchasing SignMyPad, an app for signing PDF's, adding dates, perfect for Real Estate. After this, I went to go purchase a stylus (pen to write on iPad) and a protective cover, since I knew this thing was going to get some use! The stylus works perfect and is very helpful for someone who is not completely use to a touchscreen only device. Also, the stylus makes signing real estate contracts on the iPad super easy.

I also downloaded an app titled Open House Pro. This app is simply designed for real estate, specifically open houses. You input the home/listing and just set the iPad on a table. As people enter the home they "sign-in" directly on the iPad. Then the app sends them a thank you email for attending the open house. Does our business get any easier than that?!

I have found two problems with the iPad so far in the short amount of time I have had it. The first problem is more my own fault, but I purchased the WiFi-only model. This is a problem when you are at a house with a client and don't have access to Internet. Then you have to go find a coffee shop or somewhere close to get Internet access (Don't worry, there is an app for that!) Second problem, using the SignMyPad app, it can become rather time consuming to input all the information on a contract or addendum. Thus, it is always nice to be as prepared as possible when you meet with your client. The first time I used the iPad for a real estate contract, my client had to watch while I put in all the information, not cool. Luckily, she is a great client and is just amazed at how I am incorporating this technology into my work.

Hope my experience helps you!

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Bryan Robertson

Los Altos, CA

It's still a great technology and has a lot of potential to make real estate a fast, paperless customer experience. You've made a smart choice getting your iPad.

Apr 21, 2011 02:24 AM

Tom Arstingstall, General Contractor, Dry Rot, Water Damage Sacramento, El Dorado County - (916) 765-5366

Dry Rot and Water Damage www.tromlerconstruction.com Mobile - 916-765-5366 - Placerville, CA

General Contractor, Dry Rot and Water Damage

Thanks for the post. I enjoy hearing ways to use technology in day-to-day business activities. Also, thanks for the description of what the downfalls are (ie. WiFi), we can really help each other by sharing this information too.

Apr 21, 2011 02:28 AM

Karin Lundeen

Keller Williams Realty - Denver Southlands - Centennial, CO

Realtor Centennial Homes For Sale

Hi Ben ~ I'm convinced... I need one...want one! Actually, if your phone has a hotspot, you could go with the model you have, right?

Apr 21, 2011 02:35 AM

Mercedes E. Santana

Santana Property Group - New York, NY

Investment Properties

Ben- I've been thinking about getting an Ipad, so your info was most helpful. Especially the info about wi-fi only.

You have convinced me if I get one, I need to spend the extra $$ to have a signal when I need it.

Apr 21, 2011 02:40 AM

Ben Warlick

Hines & Associates Realty - Weddington, NC

I'm glad I could help ya'll and I do believe it is a wonderful tool for us to use. I should note that like Karin mentions, there are probably better alternatives to getting internet access to your iPad than paying for the 3G models. IMO, I would stick with the WiFi-only model and get a MiFi device from your cell phone company. That way you can give internet access to any device you have instead of being limited to only having it on the iPad. Hope that clarifies things alittle!

Apr 21, 2011 03:11 AM

John Gall

Nextage Property Solutions - Las Vegas, NV

Ben,

Welcome to the ups and downs of the iPad! I think in the long run you'll find that the convenience and positives outweigh the negatives big time. :)

Apr 22, 2011 05:55 AM

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