This is an old thread. I'm upgrading now, so wanted to see if anyone had updated opinions. I heard I should get a Tobisha or Sony. I really don't want to spend more than $1500 right now since I don't really need one, I'd just like to get a pc since I only have a mac powerbook.

I just bought a new Dell laptop. It's the Inspiron series. It cost me about $900 after the NAR discount. It has the wireless wifi set up, and it works wonderfully for me.

I love my Dell Inspiron 5100 I've had it for over a year, bought it on ebay for $800. I've NEVER had a problem with it, it's my main computer... we have a desktop, but it's considered my hubbys. I love it for powerpoint presentations to clients, and I've got wireless internet, which is fabulous! Just make sure it has enough RAM.

Wow...those two Dell computers sound great. I forget that we get a discount. I'll definitely look at it.

Make sure it has at least 512, a full gig is better. As for a processor, at least a pentium 4 3.0 ghz or equivalent AMD xp. That will keep it useable for the next couple of years....

Want an INEXPENSIVE deal got to Tiger Direct.

www.tigerdirect.com

Tiger has IBM refurbs for like 300-500 bucks. You can upgrade the ram very easily. Check Pricewatch for the upgrades. Link is below.

Also

www.pricewatch.com
www.discountlaptops.com (High Power Notebooks)

I know there was a knock on the Centrino Notebooks but honestly it sure is nice to have everything integrated in your notebook and have support from IBM rather than an aftermarket vendor you would purchase a card upgrade from.

This 1.5 Pentium M with 1 gig of ram is fairly responsive on SiSandra Pro 2k4 versus any other 1.5's. Benchmarks around the same as a 2.0 celeron D. (533 fsb)

In layman's terms it is much more responsive in turning data than a normal 1.5.

Wow. I thought I did well buying my new Sony for $1200.

I have an IBM laptop which was sold to me new from a reputable dealer, but it has had so many problems, I think it was a product return and resold to me, because it took a long time to get it running right. Having it has taught me a few things I should have considered:

1. Any new computer is most susceptible to problems right out of the box because the operating system and security software need to be updated. So make sure your security software is up to date BEFORE you connect to the Internet, and that if you're using Windows, that it has the latest build of Windows XP installed on it. In fact, I'd make whoever you buy from SHOW you that they have installed all the latest updates.

2. Spring for a fast computer. It will help with security updates, downloads, email, listing photos, searches, etc.

3. Consider how the laptop screen looks when you're looking at it from an angle. Sometimes reviewing listings on your laptop calls for a very viewable screen.

Good luck!

1200 does not sound bad for a Sony Dee.

Good Laptop made with high end parts.

Brand new too! I bought it from http://www.pcmall.com. They have a lot of good deals on a name brands as well as off brands. It came with a docking station that is supposed to be worth $200 or so.

I bought the Soney with only a 256mb of ram so I can buy a 512GB stick. I think it was only $45 or so for the ram from http://www.oempcworld.com/

I'm surprised that there aren't many Tablet PC fans here.

Here are some posts from a Tablet PC forum:

"I have been in real estate for five years and currently using the HP TC1100 and love it. I take it everywhere and use it as a computer but also as an extension to my PDA (Pocket PC Phone). Because of the size and weight I use it for showing property, writing contracts and note taking - exactly what it is designed for. Because of the internal wireless connection I have established a T-Mobile Hot Spot account to access the internet for propety searches or emailing/faxing contracts. I have also subscribed to and use an wireless aircard for those times I cannot access the internet via "Hot Spots".

Clients are very impressed with the portability and ability to perform all real estate task on the run. No more running back to the office to write contracts, counter offers or search the MLS. You truly have an office on the go no matter where you are. It's grab and go time."

And...

"Hey Folks,

Buying an M205 has allowed me to transform my Sacramento area real estate business into a paperless operation. I now have all my contracts, disclosures, etc, available for review and signing on my tablet pc.

In addition, I now provide my clients with a USB Keychain Drive at the start of a transaction and all client documentation is copied to the drive as we move along towards the closing.

After the transaction is completed, I provide my clients with a CD or DVD containing a pdf file of all their documents ordered from start to finish. It includes a nice web interface that auto launches when the disk is inserted.

I have made arrangements with both lenders and title companies to work with electronic versions of documents as much as possible. Some hardcopy is required, but the amount is very small.

My clients love this service and I enjoy provding it! Guess my new motto should be "Sell or buy real estate through me and save a tree"

Just one more reason to love tablet pc's"

How are you printing essential documents? How are your clients signing?

i can do all that with my dell laptop and my treo. don't need to have a tablet pc. lol

You can sign directly on the Tablet and Efax documents.

There are portable printers as well...if needed.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/tabletpc/evaluation/about.mspx

http://www.hp.com/sbso/solutions/real/what_table_can_do.html

http://www.quepublishing.com/articles/article.asp?p=102213&seqNum=8&rl=1

There is a premium over regular laptops, but if you're in the market for a new one- a Tablet is well worth a look.

What do you store on your USB drive?