The real estate industry has really evolved with the numerous applications and technologies that are readily available. Additionally, homebuyers and real estate investors have the ability to be more involved in the process than ever before.

Websites like Zillow and Trulia make it easy for anyone to take an active role in the home and property search process. No longer do individuals have to solely rely on their real estate agents to find the perfect property for them. They now have access to the majority of the same real estate listings that their agent is reviewing for them. Zillow even reports that, as of January 2014, the site had 70 million unique visitors. That is a whole lot of people checking out real estate!

Advancements in technology like this make the job of real estate agents both a little easier and a little more difficult. With their clients having access to so much information, real estate agents need to be on their toes at all times. Additionally, with knowledge comes the perception of power, so clients tend to be a little more demanding when they know exactly what is out there and what is being presented to them.

Fortunately, there are also many new innovations that are simplifying processes for real estate agents so they can be more effective at serving their clients. NuOffer is an app that allows agents to finalize, sign and deliver real estate offers in just a matter of minutes, which helps eliminate the worry of not making an offer quick enough. SignEasy is another helpful app for real estate agents and their clients, as this app makes it easy for anyone to simply draw their signature from a mobile device. No more having to rush back to the office to get the paperwork signed and sent over.

As in most situations, technology has both its perks and pitfalls. However, if real estate agents are willing to embrace these new innovations and use them to their full potential, it really is a win-win for everyone. Ideally, the new technology and apps available should make the home finding and closing processes smoother and faster. Sounds like good news to us!