Or how I went from technically challenged to industry leader.

Ten years ago I lead a simple life where most everything had an on off switch with the exception of my computer. Prior to that time, for 15 years, computer expert John Beneke build custom programs so I would not have to learn about computers. I enjoyed my abyss delighting in the problems with technology I kept hearing about from my associates and friends.

I might still be wandering around in the dark ages talking about how experience was all that mattered if not for the President of the Houston Association of Realtors, a visionary named Bob Hale. Mr. Hale stressed we are in a changing world and my industry was going through a period of disruption. Basically my choices were to become tech savvy or go broke. I took out a notepad and wrote down every word he said as quick as I could write. I signed up for every seminar and class offered in my area. I made technology my God and Bob Hale was my unknowing mentor.

I can’t say the path was smooth. But I can say the knowledge I acquired was life changing. Technology has allowed me provide my clients with a service level unimaginable just a few years ago. My mobile phone has replaced the desktop as the place where transactions and service take place. I am able to access all files within seconds, provide documents quickly and manage the real estate transaction from my phone.

The once indispensable iPad is becoming a storage device and video presentation tool. I now drive a smart car powered by electricity as my beloved 3 series BMW has become the wet weather car. Storage for files has become a cloud based affair as my office supply bill has shrunk. I buy less paper, print cartridges, gas, and office supplies. I am surrounded by three 25-inch computer screens, a surface Pro, 50 page pdf reader, laser printer, legal size multi- purpose printer, and a large color laser printer. The main computer is backed up on carbonite, and portable storage devices.

I have three websites, two of which have been over hauled recently. The third is in the process of being updated to HTML 5. I still use many mobile apps but I see virtual reality applications being the future of Real Estate.