I'm now working with Highrise (highrisehq.com) from 37 Signals to see if it can be a true alternative to a Top Producer 8i.

At the current time, I use TP8i to follow up with leads and for action plans, but I find their systems too convoluted and complicated. I'm now working with Highrise, and can offer a couple of suggestions if you want to try:

1) Start with the free account. It's a little hard to find that account option, but there is a free account you can use.

2) Cases are Listings. Use the cases area to keep track of your listings. The free account doesn't allow you to have more than one case, but at least you can get a feel for how it'll work.

3) Deals are closings. A listing that is pending sale, or a buyer that has an accepted offer on a home is a deal. Use this area to keep track of them.

4) Use the REW Lead manger for drip campaigns (if you have it - shame on you if not!), then tasks in Highrise to keep track of your follow up via phone, or if you need to remember to call them next week.

5) Keep great notes!

6) You can click on the email of a contact (in the contact detail page), and it'll provide a BCC address that will automatically attach that email to the contact notes. Pretty nifty stuff. I did get the email link to work with GMail and Gmail Apps - so let me know if you need guidance.

So far so good - I'll probably blog about this later on my tech blog. Just wanted to share with you guys a good alternative to TP8i, since I know we're all (well, most of those I've talked to) actively looking for one.

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Steve Castaneda, Realtor

Specializing in Houston Real Estate. Feel free to browse Houston homes for sale or read about Real Estate Technology for agents.