Your real estate firm handles loads of crucial in-person tasks. But a whole lot goes on behind the scenes, too — and we mean in the digital sense.
Without tech, it would be nearly impossible to conduct market research, update property listings, carry out prospects’ background checks and so much more. And you can forget about making commission, let alone staying afloat.
However, the tech needed to do (and manage) all these tasks brings a full set of IT challenges, from data security concerns to connectivity issues.
Fortunately, CMIT Solutions of Seattle provides tailored IT services for real estate companies, enabling you to operate smoothly while serving clients skillfully.
Let’s review some common real estate IT pain points and CMIT Seattle’s top solutions for them. We’ll also tell you the benefits your firm reaps from dedicated IT support.
[Case Study: Meeting the Real Estate Market’s Digital Needs]
1. Data Security and Client Privacy
Real estate professionals handle tons of sensitive information. Think about all the financial and personal information you need to carry out just one home sale!
Current housing market trends, property information including comparable sales, square footage pricing and valuation, personal buyer credentials like Social Security numbers … the list goes on.
Pain point. Real estate firms are prime targets for cyberattacks like data breaches because of all the valuable information you have on hand. And data breaches in particular severely erode client trust — no one wants their personal information out there in the open.
Breaches can also lead to significant fines and may even damage your company’s reputation, affecting future business.
CMIT Seattle’s solution. We provide highly robust cybersecurity solutions specifically designed to secure all your sensitive data:
- 24/7 monitoring and threat detection. Identifying and mitigating cyberthreats before they compromise client data.
- Data encryption and secure storage. Ensuring your sensitive information is encrypted both in transit and at rest, protecting it from unauthorized access.
- Employee security protocol training. Equipping staff with knowledge (such as recognizing phishing) and up-to-date protocols (such as password updates and multi-factor authentication) to handle data as securely as possible.
[Related: The Rising Need for IT Support in Small Business Data Protection]
2. System Downtime and Connectivity Issues
You and your real estate agents want consistently seamless access to online platforms. In fact, you both depend on them.
Pain point. System downtime or poor connectivity seriously disrupts workflows, period. Something as simple as a poor connection may lead to missed client opportunities (who knows, they could have been your next sale!). It also causes slower processing times for key transactions.
CMIT Seattle’s solution. We enhance your systems’ connectivity and minimize downtime with smart tools:
- High-availability network solutions. Strengthening network resilience with our adept network management services to handle high traffic, especially during peak business hours.
- Cloud-based solutions and backups. Shifting to cloud solutions for reliable data access and backups, reducing your reliance on local hardware.
- Proactive maintenance. Checking and updating systems regularly to prevent downtime and keep all platforms running optimally — especially during high-demand times.
[Related: Cloud Services Are Essential for Business Success]
3. Managing Multiple Digital Platforms
Real estate professionals use a variety of digital platforms daily. These may include customer relationship management (CRM) systems, multiple listing service (MLS) databases, property management software and virtual tour applications.
Pain point. Managing these platforms is usually complex and time-consuming, especially when your systems aren’t integrated effectively. Using outdated software (as in legacy systems) also hinders integration capabilities.
And tech procurement is another obstacle. It’s not so simple knowing what tech you need most, let alone how to incorporate it into your current setup.
CMIT Seattle’s solution. We streamline digital workflows with tried-and-true strategies:
- System integration implementation. Creating seamless connections among CRM, property listing platforms, marketing tools and more to reduce duplicate data entry.
- Platform customization and automation. Customizing your CRM and other software to streamline workflows and automate repetitive tasks, such as lead tracking and follow-up reminders.
- User training and support. Providing ongoing support and training to ensure your staff understand the integrated platforms you have and how to use them.
[Related: What Is Cybersecurity Training, and How Does It Work?]
4. Real Estate Compliance and Data Retention Requirements
In the real estate industry, compliance is extremely important. You’re dealing with far too much confidential data to let the matter fall by the wayside. With that said, complying with data retention and privacy regulations, particularly those concerning client information and transaction records, is key.
Pain point. Failure to comply with any rule or regulation may certainly result in fines and legal issues. But staying up to date with evolving standards is also daunting for most firms, regardless of your size or status.
CMIT Seattle’s solution. We provide IT support that’s highly focused on compliance for real estate, including these actions:
- Automated data retention and archiving. Implementing systems that automatically or periodically archive records in compliance with retention requirements.
- Data backup and recovery plans. Ensuring important records have secure backups and remain recoverable in case of accidental deletion or data loss.
- Compliance monitoring and audits. Offering regular compliance checks to identify and address any regulatory adherence gaps.
[Related: What To Expect With CMIT Compliance Services Versus Competitors]
5. Enhanced Client Communication and Virtual Tools
In real estate (and most any other industry), your clients expect a simple and effortless digital experience. This could involve anything from enjoyable virtual property tours to ultra-fast email and online chat responses.
Pain point. Outdated technology (again, like legacy systems) and unreliable communication tools frustrate clients. They may actually frustrate your clients to the point of backing out, costing you business.
CMIT Seattle’s solution. We help real estate companies enhance the client experience with actions like these:
- Implementing virtual tour and videoconferencing solutions. Setting up secure and reliable platforms for virtual property tours and video meetings.
- Optimizing email and CRM systems. Improving CRM and email system integration to ensure prompt and effective client communication.
- Mobile device management (MDM). Securing your agents’ mobile devices so they can access your firm’s data and work effectively from anywhere.
[Related: Optimize Project Performance With the Latest, Safest Workforce Productivity Apps]
Benefits of IT Services for Real Estate Companies
Technology is a central element of your real estate transactions and overall business flow! Effective IT support isn’t just essential — it’s practically nonnegotiable.
Partnering with CMIT Solutions of Seattle offers numerous benefits:
- Improved data security and client trust. Proactive cybersecurity measures protect sensitive client information, building trust while boosting your reputation.
- Enhanced efficiency. Streamlined workflows and system integrations reduce administrative overhead, allowing your agents to focus on client relationships.
- Business continuity. Minimizing downtime and offering robust disaster recovery help ensure your real estate company continues operations uninterrupted.
- Increased profitability. Preventive maintenance, efficient systems and highly secure client communication ultimately save you time and reduce overhead costs, enhancing your firm’s bottom line.
Real estate companies that invest in dedicated IT support can offer their clients a better experience than those that don’t. You’re looking at higher client satisfaction all around.
It’s also easier for you to stay compliant with data regulations and operate more efficiently in an increasingly competitive industry. Staying ahead of the game earns you major wins.
[Related: Benefits of IT Guidance From CMIT Versus Competitors]
Get IT Services for Real Estate With CMIT Solutions of Seattle
We know you face distinct IT challenges as a real estate professional — and CMIT Solutions of Seattle is here to help.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your real estate firm’s unique IT needs. We’re eager to get started.
Featured image via Pexels
