I think we can all agree there is way too much paper in our lives. So if you are motivated to save the planet or just hate filing, here is the first in a series of tools to share that will help you use less paper in your life.
Dropbox is an easy way to share, store and sync files online. If you want to be techie about it, Dropbox is an easy first step into the computer buzz word of the day – cloud computing. Simply put, Dropbox is an online filing cabinet where you can store, access and share files.
How can you use it? Here are a few ideas for real estate applications.
- Got a listing? Open a new Dropbox folder for each listing you have. Invite the owner’s to share the folder where you can store all of the relevant listing documents… listing agreement, sellers disclosure, MLS printout, photos of the property, etc. The “sharing” can be set up so that the owner will receive a notification every time you drop in or change a document.
- Got a buyer? Share a folder with your buyer and keep the print outs and brochures you have seen together. Great procuring cause documentation as well.
- Got a Sale? Share a folder with the buyer, seller, cooperating agent and closing agent. You can share different document folders with different people just in case you want to separate what you are sharing.
- Got a Closing? Now use Dropbox as that online file cabinet that creates permanent storage for your files. Clean out those messy file cabinets and pat yourself on the back for taking one more step into the 21rst century!
- Need a form? Another great use for Dropbox is to store frequently used forms. Since Dropbox is mobile, you will be able to access anything you put in your Dropbox from your mobile phone to then email from anywhere without having to find a computer.
The basic account with 2GB of space is free ( yes, I said FREE) and you can earn more storage space every time you invite someone to join. You can pay to upgrade to have more storage. So if you are looking to backup 5 years of files, that may be an option.
Overall, Dropbox is a simple, secure and straightforward tool that can change your business habits for good. I also think your clients will think you are brilliant when you introduce the tool to them as a way to keep them informed.
Happy Sharing!
How does dropbox compare with box.net? Ariel Segall’s baby?
Hey Karen! They are very similar. I like dropbox for the ease of use and simple straightforward interface. Box.net does allow 100 outgoing efaxes which is a very cool feature when you need to send a fax – and who has a fax machine anymore? So, in short, I use both.
Great site Beth. How often have I wanted a place to store all the “paper” so I’d have easy access from anywhere.
How does a Corolla compare to a Lexus ? Both are cars and the take you to same places. The question is what else ? Box.net is by far a SAS70 Secure – Audited – Cloud Content Management system – that also allows you to store documents ( the only feature that DropBox provides )