2012 Mobile Apps: Evaluating Options

Start with proven providers: Every organization seems to have an app these days, from your local MLS to the publishers of real estate software. Approach these trusted providers first and find out what mobile tools they offer. Consider these apps to be the foundation of your mobile productivity.

Get referrals and recommendations: With so many apps available, no single source has reviewed them all, but everyone has a few personal favorites. Talk to peers about their favorite apps, what they do, and how they help their business. Then follow their lead.

Visit the app store: New apps are coming to market every day. The only way to know all that’s current is by visiting the respective app store for your OS. Search by keywords like real estate, mortgage calculators, or QR readers and you’ll discover your options.

Read reviews, good, and bad: Take a look at the reviews and update history on any app to decide if it’s worth further consideration. Seeing plenty of positive reviews means it’s a go; bad reviews can highlight shortcomings and indicate how responsive the publisher has been about making fixes.

Go lite: To promote their apps, many publishers offer a free or “lite” version with limited features. These introduce you to how the app operates and its features to decide if you want to invest a few bucks more for the full version.

Take the tutorial: Though most apps seem pretty intuitive, take the few minutes required to view the tutorial or read the support material. It’s the surest way to learn about the app’s features.

Update and re-evaluate: When you receive an alert that a new version is available, install the update. And periodically revisit the app store for a look at what’s new in general, as well as in the categories of apps you already rely on. Eventually you’ll find something that can make your smartphone or tablet a more valuable real estate tool.