Access Homes and MLS Using Your TREO

First, I have to say that I’m not the biggest fan of the Treo as a PDA. As a Mac user, I’ve sworn my heart to the new Apple iPod touch. I just couldn’t bear to switch to the iPhone due to the super-slow AT&T network.

TOP PRODUCER

That said, I do like the integration of my Treo 650 with several real estate applications. For instance, the Treo will sync to my Top Producer database using the mobility upgrade. I have listings, closings, appointments and contacts all in one little device that travels with me.

The SUPRA iBOX

Many agents were upset when our board completely moved to Supra iBoxes, which are electronic keyboxes that allow secure access to homes. The Supra iBoxes by GE are useful because agents can set access hours and know exactly who entered the home once the agent syncs their key again. In Austin, we simply purchase iBoxes from the board. Before you can use it, they will program your information into the box.

The #1 benefit of using the iBox is the ability to quickly ask for seller feedback using HomeFeedback.com.

E-KEY APPLICATION

The eKey application is optional software that allows you to use your TREO to access Supra iBoxes instead of the typical MLS key. You can purchase it as an upgrade when you buy the box itself. The eKey application is pretty handy because you can search MLS through preset parameters, automatically sync to the key each night, and even send feedback once you open a door.

As other Palm OS applications come online, the Treo should continue to be useful. So far, I haven’t seen news that GE is working on applications that can sync to Blackberry or Windows Mobile platforms.