GPS Devices a Nice Fit for Real Estate Needs

Since as early as 1989, global positioning devices have been available in a variety of forms. Unfortunately, a number of the early products were simply too cumbersome to use, as well as, too expensive for the market at large. Today, there are a number of devices and services that are worth a look.

As a “born and raised” San Francisco real estate broker I have always prided myself on the fact that I know how to find any street in the city. You take me out of the city boundaries I know general streets and will eventually find my way. You take me to the surrounding counties I would know certain streets and landmarks but would certainly need assistance to find a particular location. GPS devices change all of that.

I recently purchased a new automobile with the On-Star system. On-Star is so simple and reliable that anyone will find it useful the first time you use it. You simply press a button and wait for an On-Star representative to come on the line. You can ask them directions to a specific address, a specific business, hotel, store, etc. Since they know exactly where you are, they personally stay on the line guiding you to your destination. If you lock your keys in the car, you can call On-Star and they can automatically open your doors for you. If your car is stolen, On-Star can track its location for the police. Other services provided include a satellite phone service, concierge service and emergency roadside assistance. Prices vary depending on what features you choose but the range is between $500 and $800 per year.

GPS devices can now be added to your PDA devices, as well as purchased as add-ons to your vehicles. Garmin (http://www.garmin.com) offers some excellent choices including their Street Pilot III GPS device. This vehicle navigation system offers turn by turn text and voice guided directions making driving in un-chartered locations a breeze. If you make a mistake and make a wrong turn, this device automatically plots new directions to get you back on your way.

Rand McNally has an excellent GPS device for your palm pilot. Maps and directions are easy to use even on such a small viewing device as a Palm.

It is also a great equalizer tool for newer real estate agents that may not yet be totally familiar with getting around their marketplace. Check it out.