There may be a computer in the broker’s office, but you don’t have to use it.  In fact, you’re better off having and using your own laptop.  Here are some reasons why:

1. You can save your work. If you’re sharing a computer with everyone else in the office, the documents you save today can be erased by someone else tomorrow.   To protect your work, keep it on your own computer.
2. You can customize your settings.  You can install the software you want and you can configure the settings to match how you like to work.  That saves you time and effort.
3. It goes where you go. You can start something at the office and finish it when you get home.  You can work while you’re waiting for a client or when you’re hosting a slow open house.  You can even work while you’re out of town.  And you’re not dragging around a bunch of papers.
4. It can help you (and your listings) look good. With the right software, you can give impressive presentations to clients or run attention-getting slide shows at your open house.
5. It makes meetings interactive. Your can sit down with buyers, for example, and review properties online.  That keeps you from printing out lots of listing sheets or taking buyers to properties they don’t really need to see.
6. It can help you market yourself.  Open your laptop and review listings when you stop for a snack at web-enabled establishments like Starbucks or Panera.  You’re guaranteed to meet people who are interested in real estate.  Make sure you have plenty of business cards.
7. It signals to clients that you’re ready for work in the 21st Century. Nothing screams “old school” like having to say: “I’m sorry, I couldn’t look that up because the computer in the office was down.”

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A portable, laptop computer is pretty much a requirement for the tech-enabled real estate professional.  But should it be a notebook computer or one of those newer inexpensive “netbooks”?

Netbooks are small computers designed to be used on the go.  Best Buy describes them as perfect for travel or as a supplement to your main computer, ideal for surfing the Web and using e-mail.  With prices in the $300-$500 range, they’re gaining in popularity and now account for about 10% of all PC sales.

Typically, netbooks weigh less than 3 lbs., have a 10” or smaller screen, and are equipped with a smaller keyboard as well.  They also have reduced computing power and are unlikely to have a CD or DVD player.  Their small size makes them ultra-portable; some are barely bigger than a paperback book and can fit in a large jacket pocket.  Some tech experts argue, however, that their shortcomings may make them inappropriate for business use.

Of greatest concern is whether a netbook will have the microcomputing power to do your everyday tasks.  Most can do simple word processing, but agents often need a computer than can handle digital images or run a slide presentation.  A netbook may have trouble with these.  Also, small screens and small keyboards may make them too uncomfortable to use for long periods of time.

If you’re thinking of having a netbook as your only computer, test it thoroughly to see if the fit is right for you.  Be certain that it works with your camera, your printer, your music player, and anything else you plan to connect to it.  Also be sure it can run any software you’ll want to add.