The How to Buy Real Estate Software Checklist

The How to Buy Real Estate Software Checklist

by James R Kobzeff

Searching online for the right real estate software you require to meet a particular desire can be confusing, to say the least. Take it from someone who knows, having myself spent big bucks online for real estate software.

Where do you begin? There are a variety of real estate software solutions available, with various features, tools, and reports. Once we determine our budget, we have consented to the investment, so the confusion is not just about price. We just want it to work for the purpose we expect, and most of all, we want it to be easy.

Here is a checklist you might want to employ when you get ready to purchase real estate software. It has helped me.

1. Look at the web site. The web site is the first clue about the software. Is the site well organized, creative, informative, unobtrusive, and easy to navigate? Bear in mind, the same company claiming to you that their program is easy to use and professional and your best solution publishes the website.

2. Read what the software purports to do. Knowing whether the software is what you need is crucial, though not always easy to decipher. If you are uncertain about what the software does, call the company and ask for clarification. When a number is not available, you might want to opt out. You do not want to spend money on a software program you are unsure may help you, and worse yet, are not able to discuss it with the software company directly.

3. Preview the screen shots. Screen shots of the forms and reports should give you a good idea of what the program will look like when you open it. When screen shots are not included, get concerned. If the developer is not thorough enough to post a few gifs, chances are that the software will be more hype then substance.

4. Read the testimonials. Reading what real people who use the software have to say about the software is helpful. Most testimonials are legitimate so you should be able to trust them.

5. Examine the support policy. When you encounter a problem, or have a question, how are you served? Telephone contact is always preferred, especially with the developer. Email contact is okay, but I generally like talking to a real person.

6. Read about the company. The more experience related to your type of real estate business the better, and look for longevity. How long has the company been in business? This alone should not persuade your decision (all real estate software companies have to start somewhere). But given the choice, it might be better to look for some seasoning.