Just starting your career in real estate or a full-time veteran? REST is the perfect solution to build your business the right way from the beginning or to get control of the success youre already having. Move your real estate business into REST and give it a secure place to prosper. Unlike web-based solutions which store customer data online, agents using REST don't access their data from an internet browser. REST users access their data directly off of their own hard drive, a level of security web-based solutions can't provide.
Based on Filemaker Pro, REST provides a great way for MAC real estate professionals to manage their contacts, transactions and communication campaigns. GREAT customer support - for setup and troubleshooting. Keep it all local or their remote servers
Cons
Powerful tool requires some getting used to - changes the way you approach your habitual use of iCal and to do lists (HINT try the Getting Things Done approach and you'll be fine!)
Summary
Been using this for years. Just upgraded to new version. I couldn't have asked for better support in the transition and when I ran into little hiccup after contaminating my database with bad import (a good reason to use their subscription program is they'll keep back ups for you!). Product is terrific for contact management system where you want to "own" the system and not rely fully on "the cloud'. Karen and the support team are SUPER: responsive, patient and knowledgable in the world of real estate and all that involves.
User friendly crm with powerful features
CommercialAgentSF
Pros
Based on Filemaker, a proven, rock solid database, cross platform, Office friendly, database capable of supporting extremely large file sizes with up to 250 users. A program you can scale.
It does not try to do to much.
Cons
The program is primarily written for residential real estate. I wish they had a dedicated commercial real estate program, but, with that said, I was able to adjust it marginally to my business needs. Very helpful, free assistance from REST.
Summary
I am a commercial real estate agent. I got to a point in my practice where I realized that I had to bite the bullet and spend more money for a custom database solution instead of using a jack of all trades program. Prior to REST, I had been using a program regarded as the best available for Mac. At the end of the day, this cheaper solution was actually a thousand dollar purchase paying for consultants to try to learn how to use the undocumented software, which never got to where it needed to go. Enter REST. The company gave me a free 10 day trial to use it. I got busy and they gave me another 10 days. I could have continuously extended the free trial, but it was not necessary. They have a CRM that is very intuitive and well supported with manuals and videos. Before I purchased, Matthew spend an hour with me reviewing the software and answering my questions. I was sold and ordered on the spot. Since my purchase, I have received customer service unlike any other software support experience. They really want you to have a great experience with their product.
What I like:
I can link anything to anything, and to multiple things.
I can put all attachments, photos, etc. into the file. Everything in one place.
I can find anything in search.
Does a great job with all of the things you need to do to keep on top of your business.
Nothing falls through the cracks.
With Filemaker To Go, your database is on your iphone and ipad, with no annual subscription fee.
REST will let you work remotely (in groups if you like) and 100% control all of your data, unlike cloud subscriptions (you pay year after year) that may not give you back all of your data ( your precious notes) and may sell your hard earned data to others.
I really feel this software will help me to succeed better in my business, without being a slave to the program.
I hope this review helps in your consideration of REST.
A bit bulky, poor customer service.
seeeker
Pros
Seemingly has everything you'd need to keep track of your business activities.
Cons
No bulk email click through tracking.
Confusing workflow around setting up, using Mail (email) and templates.
No design templates.
Summary
My big problem was customer service. I purchased the program, and it took several weeks to get my head around how I might use it, figuring out the flow of Filemaker and managing records. Ultimately, because I am a new agent and just getting my business off the ground, I decided this program was not suitable for my needs. I know I will not be using it. I very politely communicated this and requested a refund - and if they could de-activate my software, or void the serial number - please do so.
They rejected my request and would not honor a refund, citing the 10-day trial period. Most programs offer trial periods, but this does not always reflect the time available or needed to acclimate to a unique program. It's also very expensive at $400.
A good company would honor a refund (I am offering to void the product) and keep a happy customer and positive word-of-mouth. Unfortunately REST has given itself a bad name in my mind, and I will have to communicate this for others.
This is hardly the one-stop program you'll be using, as there numerous more powerful systems for real estate business organization.