A great opportunity to get excited about the future of real estate, and your role in it, is headed your way. Agent Reboot is a new conference tour created by Inman News. This road show of sorts is hosted by your truly (Woohoo!) and Daniel Rothamel. The goal of the event is to examine and identify new technologies that are shaping and changing the real estate industry, and ideas on how they are being implemented…or should be. This one-day party, oops, I mean conference will be taking place in 12 cities. My boogie shoes are packed for : San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, San Diego, Las Vegas, Portland. And then your favorite Real Estate Zebra will be rocking: Denver, Houston, Chicago, Boston, Ft. Lauderdale, Washington DC. So what goes down at an Agent Reboot you ask? Well, as one of your hosts I can confirm that you’ll most likely learn something you probably didn’t know already. You’ll hear about the latest innovations in real estate from local brokers and speakers, as well as from many familiar industry rockstars! You’ll be invited to stop by, connect, and “tweetup” with attendees and speakers after the event. Oh, and checking out any of the top industry products and services in the EXPO may result in a handsome reward. As for the logistics. Agent Reboot is a one day conference (9am-3pm) with a set program, but supplemented with local flavor…speakers, sessions, topics.  As host or emcee, I will be your guide for the day. We’ll laugh, learn, and ROCK together! We may even dance…because picking up a new move every now and then can’t hurt! The official Agent Reboot kickoff  is July 12, in San Francisco. Both Daniel and I will be joined by a myriad of industry leaders and local brokers. This first Agent Reboot will be slightly different from the rest of the road show.  A modified program will take place from 9-12, with a break for lunch and then 3 partner programs in the afternoon. Attendees can choose from varying topics presented by ActiveRain, C.A.R., and Zillow. This is sure to be a power-packed day! Why I wanna ROCK Agent Reboot! I wanna ROCK Agent Reboot to meet you, engage with rockin’ speakers and local participants…and most importantly, bring you a program that motivates and inspires you to learn some “new moves” or perhaps add to your existing repertoire. So now you know why I wanna ROCK Agent Reboot. But I want to know….why YOU wanna ROCK Agent Reboot. In fact, if you leave me a status update…or even a video update telling me “Why YOU want to ROCK Agent Reboot!”, on the Agent Reboot Facebook Page you’ll be automatically entered to win one of 5 free passes to Agent Reboot in San Francisco! You have from NOW until Thursday (7/1) at midnight PST to leave a Facebook update on the Agent Reboot wall. On Friday (7/2), I will post a video announcing the winners. Good luck! And let it ROCK!

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If you’ve visited a Facebook Page today you may have noticed right away that “Become a Fan” has been replaced with “Like”. This change is aimed at improving engagement with Pages, since according to Facebook, users are more comfortable with the term “Like”. Apparently, Facebook users are also commitment phobes and “becoming a fan” equates to saying “I DO” in front of your entire online network! I can see their point, but then again, I usually jump in with both feet blindfolded to swim around and explore before coming up for air. Anyway, at first glance you may think you can no longer send updates to fans….I mean friends….or “people”. But you can, you just have to edit your page. However, I’m guessing there are more changes to come since the term “fans” still remains in some areas on the editing dashboard. But I don’t think it will be long before Facebook eradicates that term completely! Another interesting change associated with this update is that the interests you share on your Facebook Profile will be linked to similar interest based Pages. So for example, if you list “No Doubt” as one of your favorite bands in the music section of your profile, Facebook will suggest you join the No Doubt Facebook Page. Facebook explains this change and new focus on it’s own blog here. Developing story….more to come….

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One of the best social media strategies for real estate agents is to become your network’s trusted advisor. And of course one of the best places to put that strategy into play is, without a doubt, on Facebook. So you create a profile and import your sphere list, now what?! Well, as a real estate professional you can easily showcase your expertise and knowledge about your market area and industry trends. One of the ways I suggest doing this is by posting status updates that offer relevant info and/or tips your network would find helpful. Now some of you are already REALLY GOOD at sharing this type of info…and you might be so good at it that you decide to create a Fan Page to focus more intently on business. Fan Pages are becoming more popular among real estate professionals for several reasons. Most importantly, it is more widely accepted (and preferred by Facebook) to utilize a Fan Page for promoting your business and sharing comprehensive listing data. NOTE: There are some people that truly ROCK the essence of Facebook and have mastered the art of the 3 P’s (personality, passion, profession) from their profile and don’t need to maintain the separation of church and state….or personal and professional. However, for many the draw of a Fan Page breaks down to the ability of sharing listing data, as well as relevant market data in a more appropriate fashion…with an opt-in network of interested folks. Up until now adding real estate specific applications to a Fan Page has been, to say it nicely, less than effective. Many of the listing applications copy Website functionality and seem to have forgotten the nature of this network. Ideally, these applications need to offer more than just listing information but a way to provide interaction….or a rich data set of relevant information. And that is why I was very excited to hear about  a new application for agents that launched this week! The Roost Social Real Estate Application is the first app of its kind to offer agents the opportunity to:

Showcase their expertise from a Fan Page Provide valuable market data and information for a particular area (city) to their network Easily customize and install on your own Page (in 5 minutes!) Avoid the cost of hiring a professional to customize a local resource tab for you (this app naturally integrates local market trend info via Altos Research, active listings via Roost, mapping via Google, school info via Education.com, and neighborhood info via Walkscore).

The Roost Social Real Estate Application is clearly a value-add now…but there are more goodies to come with this app! Derek Overbey and Alex Chang of Roost took some time to share some important details about using this new app, as well as what’s in store in the future! In the coming months, Roost will add the ability to share market data for up to 5 cities! In addition the feature scope will widen to include featured properties, testimonials, and IDX compliant MLS search (inside Facebook)!!! I have to say it’s very refreshing to witness a company like Roost incorporate Facebook functionality and real estate expertise…and deliver it to agents for FREE! Yep, this app is currently available on Facebook for FREE. You can add it to you Fan Page today, simply search “Roost Social Real Estate” once logged in to Facebook. Several agents have already taken advantage of the opportunity to add the app, check out Brad Coy’s Page and Heather Elias’ Page for great examples of customization. To add the Roost Social Real Estate Application to your Fan Page, follow these steps: (1)    Visit the Roost Social Real Estate Application Page inside Facebook, and click on “Go to Application”. (2)    You’ll be prompted to customize the app to your selected Fan Page by selecting: “Create Profile”

(3)    Next customize the application with your contact information, logo, and informational verbiage. NOTE- You can update the marketing verbiage periodically to share the latest trends and tips with your local network.

(4)    Finally, you’ll need to add the app to your Page. FYI- Facebook must render some images of the app so if it doesn’t load completely at first, be patient!

Once the tab has loaded onto your Page, you can direct your clients to the info by announcing it via a status update on your Profile, and even on your Fan Page! Also, be sure to share your Facebook Page URL on all your marketing. Write a blog post letting your clients now about this new feature on your Page, or create a postcard to share with your farm.

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You may have heard of the popular Smarter Agent Mobile Application for real estate companies and professionals….but what you may not know is that they just released a Facebook application to compliment their mobile app! First and Foremost Smarter Agent is a mobile app platform that can be utilized and branded by agents and brokers. The app can be downloaded by consumers to search all MLS listings in their area. And it’s important to know that Smarter Agent works on virtually all mobile phone devices. The Skinny When a real estate professional signs up with Smarter Agent, he/she is provided with a personalized text code that consumers use to download the custom app. But now that same text code can be used to create both a branded badge and tab on your Facebook Profile or Facebook Fan Page.  In fact, your Facebook friends can even add your personalized Smarter Agent badge or tab to their profile.  To get started or learn more about this new Facebook Integration option, login to Facebook and search “Smarter Agent” to view the app. You can also contact Smarter Agent directly. A few examples: Customized Smarter Agent Badges

Customized Smarter Agent Tab

MyTechOpinion: I’m already a fan of Smarter Agent, and this new feature also gets a “thumbs up”. I especially like it for Fan Pages. But I wouldn’t be put off by seeing it on a Facebook Profile either. I think it’s just one more way to contact the expert you know and trust in your area for real estate advice and listing search. In addition, the tab is very informative and provides a demo on how consumers can best utilize the app!

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Facebook celebrated it’s 6th birthday in style…by launching a redesign of the home page.  I was excited to be included in the initial 80 million accounts that were updated with the design on February 4th. This new layout is being rolled out to the remaining Facebook users now (Reggie’s still waiting). I have to say I’ve been a bit annoyed with some of the recent minor changes made by Facebook, but when it comes to this new overhaul…I’m a fan! Most notably, are the cleaner home page appearance and the removal of the bottom “start” bar. The search bar is now prominently displayed in the top center of the home page, just above the News Feed. And the top blue navigation bar has been simplified to include just a few key quick launch links on the left and right sides. Now just in case you are a tad turned around by this new layout, I put together a quick list of 10 tips for getting reacquainted with the network you know and love! (1)   Quick Launch Notifications – Located in the upper left, gain quick access to your most recent notifications.  I’ve been using and enjoying the notifications feature more and more lately. I find it helpful in keeping track of who’s interacting with me, as well as to easily navigate back to conversations I’m participating in. (2)   Quick Launch Friend Request – Now the old “friend requests” link is still available in the upper right. But this new quick launch button in the upper left provides a drop down menu to scan recent friend requests. You can also click through to your “friend request dashboard” for a full view. (3)   Quick Launch Messages – The “inbox” link has been removed from the navigation bar. Now you can access your messages 2 ways from the home page. Either select “messages” from the left sidebar navigation or my preferred channel…the new messages quick button in the upper left. A simplified drop down menu will appear, allowing you to scan your recent messages, respond back, and even quickly send a new message.

(4)   Left Sidebar Navigation – The removal of the bottom navigation bar (or start bar) was a good move! I don’t know about you, but I rarely used it. Now, we have a more organized left sidebar to navigate events, photos, friends, games, applications, ads & pages, groups, marketplace, etc. (5)   Friend Filtering – Upon first glance you might miss noticing where to access and navigate “lists” you created to filter your friends in the New Feed. This is probably one of the most important features Facebook offers as it provides an organized and consistent approach to engaging with key friends in your network. To filter the News Feed via your lists, select the “Friends” link in the left sidebar and the “Friends” dashboard will appear. You will then be able to select from your created friend lists in the left sidebar under the main “Friends” heading. (6)   Applications & Games Dashboards – You can select and view these new dashboards from the left sidebar. Both provide an overview of your friends’ recent game and/or application activity. This is nice new way to see and connect with other friends playing the same game, or better yet, who is utilizing an app that you may also find helpful. (7)   Revised Chat – Now moved to the left, similar in functionality and a right bottom bar remains to keep the conversation flowing.

(8)   Simplified News Feed – Well, it’s actually pretty similar to it’s predecessor, but the options have been more clearly stated: “Top News” and “Most Recent”. (9)   Updated Account Menu – Still a link in the upper right, but the menu of options has been expanded to include “Edit Friends”, “Credits Balance”, and “Logout” in addition to the various privacy, account, and application settings. (10)   Rebuilt Photo Uploader – Next time you upload a photo, you’ll not only have the option to browse from your computer (which by the way provides a more robust navigation interface) but you’ll also be able to create and use a custom email for uploading (similar to Posterous).

MyTechOpinion – I give the new Facebook layout 2 thumbs up! After playing around with it for a few days, I’m impressed with the quicker speed at which I can interact, message, and share. And, the home page interface is much cleaner without the cluttering of repetitive feature links and bars. But that’s my opinion…what’s yours?

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I know the 12 Days of iPhone Apps  are over, but I couldn’t help but share a brand new app that launches today! Realtor.com is making their 4 million listings accessible via the iPhone. In addition, they are providing agents and consumers with a rich set of features to make the most of their mobile experience. Agents that already utilize Realtor.com to post their listings will be able to sync with their account via the app. Branding and contact information is carried over so that interested buyers can easily reach out to the agent, or even add the agent to their iPhone address book. In fact, an interested buyer can contact the listing agent in a number of ways with a single tap: ask a question, call agent directly, visit agent Website. Consumers can easily search for homes and upcoming open houses, explore neighborhoods using the map view, and utilize the advanced search criteria. And when I say “easily”, I’m particularly referring to the GPS feature which allows users to drive around a neighborhood they like and view all the current listings in the area (which are also updated every 15 minutes).  BTW- You could also search using the MLS number. Once you’ve selected a home you like, the listing detail page offer up a good amount of info, as well as up to 25 photos of the home (which can also be viewed in landscape mode). The home buying process itself can become a more organized and efficient process with this app by saving favorites and using the Notes and Ratings features. Now when it comes to sharing listing information, buyers using the app can simply email the favorites to friends or agents,  or….share to Facebook or Twitter! I appreciate the fact that I can add a personal message along with the listing I share, making the sharing experience more personalized. It’s important to note that although this app was created specifically for iPhone users, Realtor.com will be exploring options for other mobile sharing devices this year. To get started, you can download this app from the iPhone App Store by searching “Realtor.com”…oh, and it’s FREE!

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If you’ve been reading MTO for awhile you know we’re huge advocates of WordPress as a platform to power your real estate blog.  And we’re not the only ones who think WordPress rocks! Matt Cutts, the head of the Web Spam team at Google, recently declared WordPress as the best blogging platform in terms of search engine optimization. He went on to say that WordPress automatically solves 80-90% of the mechanics behind SEO, making your site easily crawlable by search engines. Now when it comes to selecting a WordPress theme that delivers a clean design, variety of options, highly optimized code, and customer support….the MTO team chooses StudioPress. Which has been a great theme option for us and our Web design clients. But now theme legend, Brian Gardner, is back and has developed AgentPress, specifically for the real estate industry. In fact, we’ve partnered with Brian to offer customization and consultation for AgentPress theme users. We’re excited about this new theme (yes, because partnering with Brian ROCKS) and because it brings together the best features of StudioPress: sleek appearance, clean code base….but also integrates listings with custom property templates. So now when you’re adding listings to your blog, all you need to do is upload an image once and Brian’s AgentPress theme dynamically auto-sizes it for you. Uploading a listing with Wordpress has never been easier! And if you’ve been looking for a way to archive your sold listings, this theme will take care of that for you too! We choose to use AgentPress because once customized with your selected features and content, you’ll have a blog that makes an impact with your local market, impresses your clients, delivers relevant resources, and helps you better maintain relationships with your sphere. We can help you customize your real estate blog with highly relevant content and resources to benefit your local market. Some of the customizations we feel an innovative real estate blog should have, include: IDX search, local market and real estate trend data powered by Cyberhomes ,Walkscore, & others, neighborhood & school score data, Facebook Connect or Fan Box integration, as well as  lifestreaming multiple social profiles (Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, etc.)and shares. Visit AgentPress to learn more and if you’d like assistance with AgentPress customization, contact us at info@mytechopinion.com. Got questions or comments, drop us a line right here!

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Two and a half years has gone by very quickly. It seems like just yesterday that I was booting up my Windows Vista computer for the first time with excitement and anticipation. For me, it was like watching that summer blockbuster you’ve eagerly awaited in hopes of it exceeding your expectations. But, like most summer blockbusters, Windows Vista didn’t live up to expectations. It was a bloated and flawed operating system in many ways. Vista does have quite a few redeeming qualities. It was an improvement over Windows XP to the point that I never considered reformatting and going back the older OS (something I did shortly after installing Windows ME). We are now back to a time of great anticipation. Hopes that Microsoft will redeem itself with the release Windows 7 abound. Will Windows 7 be faster? Will it ask fewer annoying questions? Will it work with all of my current software and hardware? With the Windows 7 release coming October 22, all of our questions will be answered soon enough. Actually, I hope to answer some of these questions a bit sooner. Windows 7 Launch Party Not sure if by sheer luck or stupidity, I am hosting a Windows 7 Launch Party. It is an event that you hold in your home for friends to showcase the new Windows during the products launch week. You supply the food, drink and people; Microsoft provides streamers, cocktail napkins, activities and a copy of Windows 7 Ultimate for the host. A lot of work to do to help Microsoft pitch a product, but I can’t pass up a techie experience. Plus, it gives me an excuse to throw a fondue and chocolate fountain party. Can’t have enough of those in your life. Introduction to an Operating System With my Windows 7 Launch Party Kit in hand, my first step will be to install the operating system. I’m a bit apprehensive as to what the next few days hold. Will the installation go smoothly? Will all of my hard ware be compatible? Will my software work properly? Then, once it’s installed how quickly will I acclimate to the new system? After I got Vista, it took awhile before I knew my way around and was as proficient as I was on XP. Stay Tuned With a pre-release of Windows 7 in hand, this presents a unique opportunity to share with our MyTechOpinion readership. As I progress in my adoption of Windows 7, I’ll document my trials and tribulations on our blog. Hopefully, the information shared will help you in your adoption of Windows 7 (or maybe help you decide not to switch). Wish me luck in my upgrade and check back to see how it went.

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Calling all real estate bloggers!!! Would you like to spend some time with real people who actually know what blogs are…and why they ROCK! Would you enjoy learning new tips and strategies for continuing your blog success, or perhaps launching it?! Are you wondering where the future of social media can take you, and how to push the limits of innovation while remaining effective? Do you need a vacation and time to play? Or dance? Or go to a show without leaving 20 minutes after it starts because your kids can’t sit still? (Oh, sorry…that one was for me!) If you answered “yes” to any or all of these questions, I suggest you head to REBlogWorld and the BlogWorld/New Media Expo in Las Vegas! And actually…you don’t really need a reason to go to Vegas…it’s Vegas! Woohoo! (I’m not excited…at all!) BlogWorld officially kicks off October 15th at the Las Vegas Convention Center.  The first day of the 3 day program will provide some specific niche tracks…one of which is Real Estate BlogWorld. The agenda for REBlogWorld is packed with rockin’ speakers and sessions covering a variety of topics specifically geared towards the real estate industry (i.e. Social Media ROI, Hyperlocal Blog Content, Branding in the Social Age, etc).  Yours truly will be moderating an ALL-STAR panel including Jeff Turner, Ian Lurie, Todd Carpenter…and rumor has it, David Armano! My fellow MTO rockstars, Reggie Nicolay and Chad Johnson, will be presenting their idea of the “One Site”, the real estate blog of the future that can be achieved today! To obtain all the details for the day, register and view special hotel rates, visit REBlogWorld.com. Now just when you think all the fun is over, another 2 days of social media bliss will ensue! The BlogWorld & New Media Expo was my favorite event last year! I was able to get up close and personal with many of my blog idols: Darren Rowse aka “Problogger”, Laura Fitton, Lee Odden, and Chris Brogan. It was like a Disneyland for bloggers! And I would say that the learning, laughing, and conversing I experienced was even more fun than Space Mountain! So I’m extremely excited to not only attend this year, but also have the opportunity to speak alongside some of social media’s finest! If you plan to go to BlogWorld, you will not want to miss, “How Twits Lay Golden Eggs – The Art of Social Engagement for Business”, on Saturday October 18th, 4:15-5:15 pm in Room 229.  The panel includes microsharing maven – Laura Fitton, the nicest social media pirate you’ll ever meet – Chris Brogan,  real-time innovator – Nick Halstead…and me (clearly the underdog who begged, borrowed, and danced her way into speaking at BlogWorld).  At any rate, I’m in and would appreciate any support. My promise to you: a fun, playful learning experience with highly useful takeaways! If you’re lucky enough to be headed to BlogWorld, here are a few pre-trip tips for you:

Follow @blogworld and @reblogworld on Twitter Check out and RSVP for both events on Facebook (REBlogWorld, BlogWorld & New Media Expo) Plan your schedule now. Don’t forget to RSVP for Branding in the Social Age, Integrating Everything Into the One Site,  and How Twits Lay Golden Eggs: The Art of Social Engagement for Business Read Reggie’s post: 10 Ways to Make Deeper Connection at Your Next Conference

So, “shut up and put your money where your mouth is” and “shake the glitter” with me at BlogWorld in Vegas, baby!

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If you have an iPhone, then the new Regator app will rock your mobile world! And if you’re a  lover of informative news and a sharer of all things great…you will undoubtedly be excited to find out this app launches today! Regator.com is online hub of hand-picked blogs representing numerous content areas. Basically, you can search for and find quality blog posts on just about any topic. With millions of blogs, it can be a very time-consuming task to find, identify and bookmark the REALLY GOOD ones out there. So Regator chooses the best and most resourceful blogs, then organizes them in a way that’s easy for you to locate exactly what you are looking for. You can also be assured that these blogs will offer you quality content, which is key if you aim to be your network’s trusted advisor! With the NEW Regator iPhone app, which is FREE, you’ll have mobile access to over 3 million quality blog articles from 500 diverse categories. Everything from beekeeping to real estate technology! View real-time trending topics and the most popular blog posts in the blogoshere! And best of all, share what you find via email, Facebook, and Twitter. MyTechOpinion I already turn to Regator.com to find interesting blogs and helpful resources. Now I get to do it on the fly….woohoo! This is a no-brainer! It’s a free resource that helps you help yourself, and others! Love it! FYI- While this free version of the app does not feature the “MyRegator” tools available on Regator.com, a paid version with these features may be released in the future if there is demand. To obtain the Regator iPhone app visit the App Store and search for “regator”. To see Regator in action, check out the  video below.

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Good Twitter help can be hard to find. And when it comes to Twitter for real estate, it’s even more important to be led in the right direction or you’ll risk being labeled as a spammer. Your brand could be tarnished in real-time if you don’t learn how to reach out and connect authentically with your network. The good news is, I don’t want to see you become the latest fail whale. I’m determined to share top tools, engagement strategies and best practices to ensure your Twitter success!!! With that said, my Twitter for Real Estate Twits ebook is back! I’ve updated the first version (released March, 09) to include new tools, new tips, a new tweet plan, and even success stories from real agents using Twitter for business. In “MyTechOpinion”, Twitter for Real Estate Twits v. 2, is one rockin’ guide that clearly explains how to not only get started with Twitter, but also learn key strategies for becoming your network’s trusted advisor. But don’t just take my word for it, check out what these real estate pros have to say…

To download your free copy of “Twitter for Real Estate Twits v.2″, click here! And please drop me a tweet if you want to let me know what you think about the ebook, have any questions or just want to “get your tweet on!”

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It’s here! One crazy week in real estate! Tomorrow, REBarCampSF registration begins at 8am and the event will officially kickoff at 9am. This promises to be an exciting day of learning, sharing and connecting! On Wednesday, the Inman Connect will get underway. I KNOW for a fact that there are some exciting presentations planned to rock the RE industry. And there may even be a little dancing…that is, if I can call upon the Inman attendees for a bit of encouragement (not for me, but Reggie may need a nudge). MTO will be in full effect at these events and plan to share the latest happenings whether you can make it or not! Reggie has hooked us up so that we can “Cover It Live”, Chad will be snapping photos like nobody’s business, and you can count on me for some video tweets. We’ll be aggregating it all on MyTechOpinion. If you have questions or comments, please feel free to join the conversation here! You’ll be able to comment on our liveblogging posts. And if you tweet using the #mtosf hashtag you’ll be pulled into our live stream on MyTechOpinion. ALSO, I’m looking forward to conducting some on-the-spot mini Video Tweet Interviews! If you can’t be here, but have a question for one of your favorite attendees, I’d like to help! Just DM me the question and the person you’d like me to ask, and I will take care of the rest! I’ll be sharing his/her response to your question via a Video Tweet, which will also be shared in our stream here on MTO. We’ll start liveblogging tomorrow morning. If you are planning to be at Inman, I hope you’ll join us as we’ll be presenting and participating in the following sessions: Blogger’s Connect Workshop: Wed, August 5th, 12:15-1:00pm Closing Business in 140 Characters: How the Pros Are Using Twitter to Farm The Real-Time Web Blogger’s Connect Workshop: Wed, August 5th, 1:45-2:00 LIVE LAB The Experts Give Feedback on Your Blog, Your Profiles, Tweets and Videos in Real Time Inman (Main Conference)- DEEP DIVE 2: Twitter & Facebook Best Practices – Moving beyond setting up your account to driving engagement and avoiding embarrassment. One more quick announcement! I’ll be releasing version 2 of “Twitter For Real Estate Twits”! It will be available tomorrow via free download.

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Twitter has been integrating Search.Twitter (formerly Summize) for some time now. I first noticed the search tool and “Saved Searches” features about a month ago. However, it seemed like Twitter was taking it’s time rolling this new search tool out to all it’s users.  You may have already observed the trending topics and search bar that have taken up residency on your Twitter Profile. But now you can search a topic or specific keywords, and then add each search to your sidebar as a “Saved Search”. Other applications like Tweetdeck and Tweetie have integrated various search and sorting tools already, but now you can search and monitor directly from your Twitter Web Profile. And the experience seems to be fast and easy thus far! If you are currently monitoring specific keywords (i.e. your business name, your name, expertise, local interests, etc) with alerting services like Twilert and Tweetbeep, then you’ll quickly identify the benefit of this new Twitter feature! If not, this is the perfect introductory tool to keep you in the “know” when it comes to what Tweeps & Twits are saying about you and your business. You may want to consider saving searches for topics you blog about or share as resources via Twitter & Facebook. If you’re goal is to become your network’s trusted advisor, then you’ll want easy (easier) access to resources for whatever it is your clients turn to you for (short sales, investing, local tips, homeowner advice, etc). For example, I saved searches for lifestreaming, Cyberhomes, #twitterqueens, etc.). These are items that reflect my personality, profession, and passion.  Twitter users are who are creating and sharing hashtags, are providing us with keyword driven channels of content. Woohoo! Another fabulous use of hashtags (ex: #REBCSF) and saved searches are for events. REBarCamps are popping up across the country. Don’t sit home and sulk if you can’t go, just hook yourself up with a saved search of the event hashtag and you can tune in wherever you are! I know I’m looking forward to rallying friends and colleagues this summer at the Inman Connect SF, which offers numerous learning and networking opportunities. These saved searches will definitely come in handy when trying to locate others during and after the event. To get started creating your own saved searches, login to your Twitter Profile. Next enter your topic, keywords or hashtag into the search field on the right. Your results will be displayed and you can choose to save your search by selecting the green button next to “save this search”.

If you’d like to learn more about specific Twitter tools, how to become your network’s trusted advisor, make a Tweet Plan, or how to best share and display your Twitter status….join me (@nik_nik) and @Cyberhomes for the “Get REAL on Twitter” Webinar this Thursday, May 7th (10am pacific). It’s free, and you can RSVP here.

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We don’t do much in the way of self promotion here on MTO. But we do think you should be aware of an extremely affordable marketing tool that has our stamp of approval. MyMarketWare is product offering from Effektive Solutions. It’s a single property Website solution that offers a myriad of features that can assist you in attaining maximum online exposure for your listings. And at only $39 a pop ($32 with coupon code: mtoagent), MarketSites are an obvious choice to increase your online listing visibility, impress your sellers, and market real estate more effectively! We are happy to announce a significant upgrade, bringing you even more market power for the same low price! New features include: (1) MarketSites to go! Download any single property Website created by MyMarketWare for offline use.  Showcase your online listings during a listing presentation or copy any of your MarketSites to a CD for a thoughtful closing gift. (2) Enhanced sign riders made from corrugated plastic provide increased durability for all type of weather conditions.  Sign riders cost $22 with reduced shipping time at no extra cost! (3) FREE SMS texting service! I’m not naming names….but some SPS solutions will charge you as much as $25 per listing per month for this service.  But MyMarketWare will provide you with unlimited SMS texting service free to go hand and hand with each and every sign rider! Incoming leads are circulated in real time to the listing agent’s mobile phone as well as via the “Activity Center”. (4) New custom site design center! Create your own MarketSite design within minutes using our new design tool. You don’t need to be programmer, just have an eye for design and personal branding! (5) Got Feedback? You’ll get it with our new feedback mechanism.  Interested buyers can provide their thoughts (anonymously if so inclined) via each MarketSite providing the agent with specific and valuable information. (6) New “My Leads” tool keeps track of messages delivered by your MarketSite (via the contact forms). (7) Increased agent branding & contact information! Add contact info and branding for up to 3 agents on a MarketSite! Brand your team or co-brand with your favorite lender(s)! (7) Enhanced slideshow! Showcase your listing with a full screen slide show! (8) Monitor your site with not only MarketSites Statistics, but also Google Analytics! (9) New syndication partners and valuation tools! MarketSites currently syndicates to:  Trulia, Google Base, Oodle, Propsmart, Local.com, Homescape, Vast, Zillow, Homes.com, and Frontdoor. What do agents like about MyMarketWare? (1) MarketSites cost only $39 each for an entire year! AND if you use the MTO coupon code “mtoagent“, you can try out the service for only $32 a site for the next 30 days! (2) Huge bank of professional non-branded, franchise, commercial and customizable designs! Current franchise designs include: Advance Realty, Alain Pinel, Better Homes, Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Crye Leike, Empire, Envirian, ERA, Frank Howard Allen, GMAC, Intero, Keller Williams, Long & Foster, Lyon, Pac Union, Prudential, REMAX, Real Living, Realty USA, Realty World, Royal LePage, Soreno, Sotheby’s, Weichert, and Windermere. (3) Add up to 100 high quality photos, video, unlimited property details, and even 50 related documents! (4) MyMarketWare auto-populates census and community info, school info, maps, and links to over 70 area amenities based on the property address provided. (5) Add your blog, RSS feed, and even change the automatic SEO settings if you wish. (6) Sign up and create your site for free, pay only when you publish online. MORE TO COME! More exciting features are already under development! We’ll be integrating the Cyberhomes API to bring you even more stats and valuation tools. We’re also working on increased share controls in order to bookmark and share your MarketSites on social networks like Facebook and Twitter. The next release will include a voice over feature and language translation tools.  We’ll keep you posted! And in the meantime, feel free to ask questions or leave your comments or suggestions below.

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Twitter, tweet, twit, Twinkle, Tweetie, Tweetdeck, TwtVite, Twinfluence, Twitbacks, TwtPoll, TweetGrid, Tweetag….what’s all this “TWALK” about? Download your FREE copy of the “Twitter for Real Estate Twits” ebook and allow me to break it down for you! In fact, I cover everything from setting up your Twitter account to strategies for becoming your client’s trusted advisor! If you’re already a seasoned Twit, then I want to hear from YOU! I’ll be creating an updated version of the ebook. Actually I plan to add to it yearly, keeping it freshly stocked with tools, apps, strategies and more. But for now, I’m looking to add one more chapter that will include success stories from REAL estate professionals. If you’ve had successes large or small with Twitter, tell me about it.  Submit your Twitter Success Story, but you must meet these guidelines: (1)   Be a real estate professional (2)   Write 300-500 words on how YOU use Twitter for your real estate business AND/OR the success you’ve experienced (3)   Email your entry to (Nicole at EffektiveSolutions.com) by Monday, March 23rd, 2009 At this point I’m not exactly sure just how many Success Stories I will include in the new chapter. Could be 5, could be 10. It all depends on how compelling, appropriate, inspiring, creative, smart, and legible they are! But I do know I will select the BEST to be published in Twitter for Real Estate Twits. Here’s a little more about what I expect… What is Mrs. NikNik looking for?

Passion, no fakers! REAL success stories Examples to prove your point Tools and resources that make Twitter even more effective for YOU! Grammar counts! Proof read please!

The stellar submissions will be announced with the release of the updated version in the first week of April. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me via the comments or Twitter DM.

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WE LOVE YOU! Well, we love our loyal MTO readers and community members! Thanks for sharing your love with us every day via your comments, thoughts, ideas, suggestions…and most of all, support!  We’re also very thankful that you love technology as much as we do. But it’s time to get off the computer (for just a moment) and share some love (and your best moves) with those around you! So we made you this Valentine Dance Gram! Hope you enjoy and Happy Valentine’s Day from MyTechOpinion!

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Of course we can’t go to every real estate conference taking place this year. But we can plan ahead for events that may be coming to your local area. Or better yet, plan for a vacation-learning experience. I may be a bit biased being in California, but San Francisco and San Diego make for great destinations! Here’s the lowdown on all the valuable upcoming real estate conferences….all are worth attending! Which one(s) are you planning for? REBarCamp Seattle - One day event for passionate real estate professionals who are hungry to learn and share creative and effective marketing ideas and industry trends. When: Feb 13th, 2009 Where: Zillow Corporate Headquarters, Seattle RETechSouth - Real conversations about the technological changes impacting the real estate industry. Some of the best minds in the industry will gather in one room to share their knowledge.  When: March 20th 2009, Where: Gwinnet Center, Atlanta REBarCamp Los Angeles - If you missed Seattle, don’t worry REBarCampLA is a great day for agents looking to get started with social media marketing and other creative online and offline strategies for growing your business. When: April 2nd ,2009 Where: Location TBA REBarCamp San Francisco - The 2nd annual REBarCamp SF! The first one was a hit, and this just happens to be where it all began!  Join in the conversation and collaboration. It’s also a great way to kick off the Inman Connect SF (if you’re attending that one as well).  When: August 4th, 2009 Where: Exact location TBA, San Francisco Inman Connect SF - Brings together leaders in real estate, finance, and technology to promote change and innovation in the industry. Between the workshops, expo, and events (aka: parties)…this conference is probably one of the most attended (and valuable) RE events of the season. Be there or be square! When: Aug 5-7th, 2009 Where: Palace Hotel, San Francisco NAR 09 - Registration opens May 5t for the 4 day expo and conference being held in San Diego.  Learn to be more productive or renew your motivation with new strategies and tools for your real estate business. When: Nov. 13-16th, 2009 Where: San Diego Convention Center REBarCamp San Diego - More details to come. When: TBA, sometime during NAR09 Where: San Diego, exact location TBA Be sure to check back, as I will be updating these events with more information as it becomes available. Oh, and let me know which event you will be attending so we can connect! Woohoo!

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Our very own Reggie Nicolay helped officially launched Cyberhomesblog.com today.  Reggie hasn’t wasted anytime jumping into his new role as Director of Social Media for Cyberhomes. Yes, I may be a bit biased since I’m married to the guy. But the Cyberhomes Blog is more than just your run of the mill industry blog. Reggie practices what he preaches here on MTO, by demonstrating how design, content and social media strategies can make for a powerful and insightful online community. Upon first glance, you’ll notice that Reggie integrated Facebook Connect, like what we’ve done here at MTO.  FB Connect allows you to port your Facebook Profile right into the Cyberhomes Blog Community. This makes participating an optimal experience! You control your profile settings and how your comments and other resources are shared. There’s nothing as rewarding as learning something new yourself or aiding a fellow colleague with their real estate questions. Helpful content and cutting edge multimedia resources go hand and hand on the Cyberhomes Blog. As a reader, you’ll gain insight into the latest trends and technology that real estate and mortgage professionals are finding success with. Access, share and implement a variety of resources available within the Video Library, Image Gallery, and News Room. I’ve mentioned before and I’ll say it again, Reggie is a great Web digger! The guy scours a plethora of online goldmines to bring you a frequently updated resource stream, aka the Cyberstream. The Cyberstream is content integration of information, tools, products, resources and fun…that you might not regularly find on the Web (without a little investigative Web digging). Last but not least, no blog can be a good blog without powerful content. The Cyberhomes Blog was created for real estate professionals with REAL interests and issues. Reggie and the other talented contributors have just one simple goal in mind…bringing ideas and insight into the hands of the people that shape and mold the industry, that’s YOU! If you’re a fan of MyTechOpinion, I’m sure you’ll feel right at home at the Cyberhomes Blog.  Check out this tour via Reggie:

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