Key Takeaways:

  • There’s a fine line between having gadgets that enhance your productivity or hinder it.
  • But, as commercial real estate professionals, the on-the-go nature of our business requires we have technologies that can empower us.
  • Check out this list of my top three gadgets that keep me empowered.

When it comes to devices and gadgets, there can be a fine line between having things that enhance your life and being ruled by your electronic assistants.  A useful gadget is one that helps you do what you do –with fewer interruptions, greater efficiency, and minimal glitches.

This holds true for any business, and for CRE important considerations have to do with mobility and compatibility, since most of the real estate professional’s day is not spent at their desk. Therefore, some of the most useful devices are those that help to ensure connectivity and seamless operation, regardless of your location.

#1. Power Up

When you’re on the move, it’s essential that all of your mobile devices are fully charged. You may as well pack it in if your phone runs out of juice or your tablet is unresponsive. There are some great options out there for conveniently charging your devices, even when there’s not an electrical outlet in sight.

Battery packs, like the Crave Travel Pro, provide a portable power source for your devices. This pack is lightweight and super portable, and makes the “best of the best” lists for portable chargers regularly. I couldn’t work efficiently on-the-go without it.

#2. Feel at home, anywhere

CRE professionals are frequently called on to make presentations and share information with clients and partners, and no matter how well prepared they may be, everyone experienced disruptions due to incompatible devices and systems.  For a very small investment (around $35), the Chromecast lets you share your screen with any HDMI device (like a TV), creating a presentation platform for crystal clear visuals.

No more relying on your hosts to supply the set-up. While most offices are ready for digital presentations, they may be having equipment issues, or the correct cables may be missing, or –on occasion- the equipment may just not be there. The Chromecast is the size of a flashdrive, so it can be slipped into your laptop case and ready for action when the time comes.

#3. Where’s the WiFi?

Particularly when you’re outside your home market, you can run into issues with connecting to the internet. There are plenty of gadgets that can get you online, many at a minimal cost.

A smartphone (with 3G+) can be tethered to a laptop or tablet via USB and access the Internet, creating a wifi hotspot. There are a variety of apps that help you accomplish this, including Easytether, which sells for under $10.

You can also bring along a standalone hotspot. A good example is Karma, for Apple or Android systems. One Karma Go can provide access for up to 8 devices.

Another way to get online when you’re on the go is through the use of a marine Wi-Fi extender. This is an antenna that amplifies Wi-Fi signals,. It can be very useful in rural areas. These were designed for use by boats, and can have a range of  up to 7 to10 miles.

Pricing varies widely on these devices, and is dependent on their range and power. You can find several versions for under $100. Depending on your needs, this might be a great solution for ensuring access when you travel.

Whatever sort of gadget you’re considering, be sure to identify a pain point in your life that it will address, so that the device removes barriers and frees up time.