Use an e-Pro, for top Internet service

What is an e-Pro? And, why should home buyers or sellers use one? When searching on the Internet, consumers want quick, efficient searches that hone in on pertinent, useful real estate information. They want to get things done quickly and without hassle.

So chances are modern, computer savvy consumers want a real estate agent who:

• Answers e-mail promptly and professionally.

• Respects on-line privacy.

• Offers home listings and other Internet tools to help consumers find or market a home. Enter the e-Pro.

An e-Pro is a Realtor who has successfully completed the e-Pro training program for real estate professionals.

Endorsed by the National Association of Realtors, the e-Pro course teaches professionals the nuts and bolts of working with real estate on-line: Web sites, e-mail, on-line tools, and most of all, what today’s consumer really wants.

There are several benefits of working with a certified Internet professional, including more privacy.

Many people are reluctant to give out contact information through the Web for fear of being pestered or spammed. e-Pro’s understand.

They’ve learned the Web isn’t just a place to do business; consumers need information from someone they can trust. That’s why e-Pro’s respect privacy.

They respond quickly to questions, but don’t send unwanted communication. And, they protect a client’s personal information.

Tired of struggling to find information? e-Pro’s eliminate the hassle and are more likely to have access to the latest Internet utilities, making life easier.

These tools may include:

• On-line home tours;

• Instant access to comprehensive neighborhood data;

• Extensive property listings; • Immediate e-mail notification of just-listed homes meeting a client’s criteria;

• Referral networks and on-line forums, where e-Pro’s can quickly find information—including potential buyers—from other e-Pro’s;

• Newsletters on current real estate conditions in target areas;

• Electronic faxes sent by e-mail;

• Advanced software, PDAs, and laptops to find answers on the spot.

The result — consumers get more information, more easily.

With electronic files, there is less paperwork to deal with.

An e-Pro streamlines the entire transaction, from showing to closing.

An e-Pro’s access to advanced technology can save clients considerable expense while offering more tools to find or market a home, which often yields a better price.

With on-line home tours, sellers reduce in-person showings — and the costs involved. And by using e-mail, you save money on long-distance calls and fax charges. Look for the e-Pro symbol after an agent’s name. In this fast-paced age, technology has become a necessity. Choosing an e-Pro ensures that consumers will get the kind of service home buyers and sellers want—and need.

The Southland Regional Association of Realtors is a local trade serving the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys. SRAR is one of the largest local associations in the nation.