Published November, 2005 in RIS Media

Savvy brokers know that time and transaction management are critical aspects of running a successful business. With new technologies and increasingly busier offices, agents’ time can be pulled in many different directions when trying to close a transaction. To help simplify this process, the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® partnered with Real Estate Business Technologies, LLC (REBT) to offer the RELAYTM online transaction management system.

From the start, the Realtor-owned, Realtor-centered system launched this summer was developed with Realtors’ needs in mind. Through an Early Adopters Program, brokers, agents, local associations and MLSs participated in development, providing feedback on the features and functionality of Relay, an NAR partner in the Realtor BenefitsSM Program.

The Relay system streamlines workflow and collaboration between professionals and clients in the transaction processes and coordinates easily with any office system via fax and e-mail to accelerate the function. The result has greatly simplified the job of organizing and monitoring the entire transaction process.

A key highlight of the system is the ability to track and manage all documents and information related to a real estate transaction, from listing to closing, including listing and sale information, transaction contacts, documents, and all communications throughout the transaction.

In addition, Relay offers a direct connection to ZipForm and WINForms electronic forms. One-click forms’ integration means less typing or document scanning, eliminating data entry errors, as well as the need to fax documents. And, a built-in client satisfaction monitor provides continuous, instantaneous client feedback.

The benefits are obvious—Relay’s secure, customizable transaction Web site lets you and your agents connect with clients in a new way, and provides 24/7 client access to documents and communications. This continual connectivity means fewer delays and faster results, no matter how many busy schedules there are to accommodate. Throughout each step, all updates are recorded in an automatic document history, effortlessly creating thorough records.

“NAR’s ongoing collaboration with REBT not only responds to a day-to-day member need, but also gives them the tools to help their clients through the transaction process,” says Bob Goldberg, NAR senior vice president, marketing and business development. “It’s like getting lost time back, and it is one more way to help our members set themselves apart in the marketplace.”

Relay features include:

• One-click connection to WINForm or ZIPForm data—eliminates time-consuming double data entry

• Secure, complete document management—automatically maintains document revisions and history of updates

• Realtor-controlled access—assign which documents clients or affiliates can view

• Branded communications—screen appearance branded with your company and personal identity

• CD-ROM module—create custom-branded closing CDs for your clients

• Multi-language support—Relay screen text can be translated into four languages

• E-signatures—saves time and effort with secure electronic signatures

• No software downloads or special equipment needed

To learn more, visit www.rebt.com or call 1-866/736-REBT (1-866-736-7328).

RIS Media