Smartphones – What to Know Before You Buy
By Nick Church
As a Multiple Listing Service we often get the question: “Which Smartphone is the best for Realtors®?” There’s no easy answer to that question. The predominant phones on the market, which currently have most of the features a Realtor® might need, are:
- Android (which has many different models)
- iPhone (which has a couple different versions, 3, 3GS, 4, 4S)
- Win7 (which also has different models)
The availability of a particular smartphone is completely dependent on your service provider (ex. AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile or Verizon.) Some sources will try to tell you that as a Realtor® you need a specific device or operating system to do your business. This just simply isn’t true. It really depends on your preferences and how you want to use your phone for business.
We’ve made RMLSweb available in an abbreviated mobile version, rather than an app, so that it can be used on any smartphone or tablet. It’s important to note that at this time you will not have access to Listing Load on a mobile device.
As for the smartphone and your Supra key service – there are many different options of approved devices and you can you read more here. All of the phones mentioned above require the purchase of a fob to work with the Supra eKey system.
While RMLS™ cannot recommend a specific phone or carrier over another, our general suggestion is that you go into your local store (when you have no intention to purchase) and simply “try them out.” Many carriers have versions of their devices that you can explore, navigating to the Internet, finding various links, seeing how you’ll type in messages, etc. I think you’ll find being able to experience the device will help you find that “perfect fit.” There isn’t a “best phone for Realtors®.” There’s simply a best phone for you.
If you have questions on how to utilize your new smartphone with our system, feel free to email RMLS™ Training or the RMLS™ Help Desk You can also call Help Desk at 503-872-8002 or 877-256-2169 (toll-free). We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.