Something is in the water
Though they’ve been around for awhile, I recently learned of another real estate technology company operating out of the Seattle area called ActiveRain. Unlike the other Seattle area companies (Zillow, Redfin, HouseValues) that are consumer-focused, ActiveRain’s business is aimed at providing lead management solutions for web-based real estate companies, principally Brio and WhyNotOwn.com. From a press release last year:
ActiveRain combines an intelligent CRM designed specifically around how real estate agents work. Powerful communication tools, such as automated form letters, a task management/calendaring system, and a full blown transaction management system to bring all involved parties together.
One of the aspects that make the transactional management system so revolutionary is the ability to ‘invite’ all of the individuals involved into a home purchase transaction. Everyone can then stay up to date on the current status of the purchase, share documents electronically and keep a history of important communications.
Not long ago they launched a directory type website allowing agents and mortgage lenders to create profiles aimed towards potential buyers and sellers. Basically, this benefits agents and lenders who are hoping to acquire internet leads. Of course, I created a profile for myself.