Microsoft Access has a number of templates that are designed for real estate professionals. You can use the template that is included with Microsoft Access or download one created by a third party. The benefit of using templates is that you can organize and manage your data without having to create a database from scratch.
For the purpose of this article, we will discuss the Real Estate template that can be downloaded directly within Access or from the official Microsoft website. This template allows you to manage your properties, buyers, sellers, prices and other information.
Where to Find the Real Estate Database
Go to the Real Estate template on the Microsoft Office template downloads page and click Download. Or, launch Microsoft Access and find the Real Estate template under the Business templates. Once the template is downloaded, you can open it on your computer and start entering data.
The best way to start filling out your database is by clicking New Property and adding your first property. Include the property ID, type, street address, city and state. We also recommend clicking Email List in the toolbar so that you can keep track of your contact list. Successful realtors keep their contacts nurtured.
Tips for Using a Real Estate Database
Successful business owners know that their clients are their most important asset. The same is true for your real estate business. Plus, it’s important to know that your relationships with clients don’t end when a home is bought or sold. It should continue on so that you have easier prospecting, qualified referrals and repeat business.
Here are some tips for using your real estate database.
- Connect with existing customers. It’s easier and cheaper to sell to existing customers. By keeping an updated database of your clients, you can begin the nurturing process. For example, are you having an open house? A pumpkin decorating contest?
- Gather new prospects. Realtors are often so busy working with current prospects, they don’t look for new ones. Fortunately, your website can gather leads while you’re out showing properties. A data-driven website collects user information that is then pulled into your database.
- Be a resource. Set up monthly or quarterly events so that people can come to you when they are interested in buying or selling. These events also keep your name front and center so that you can retain customers and increase referrals. Send event info to the contacts in your database.
- Send housing market updates. It’s also helpful to stay in touch with contacts by sending them updates on the housing market. Most homeowners are happy to see what’s selling in their neighborhood. Plus, by sharing this info, you will become a trusted authority in your local market.
Databases are a huge asset to real estate professionals. Microsoft Access is a great program to start with, as it’s easy to learn and familiar to most people. To have a custom real estate database created for your business, contact the database experts at Arkware.