Do you use a computer that is dedicated strictly to your real estate business? If so, what do you use and what programs do you use on the computer?

I carry a HPdv6 with a 15.4 screen and running Windows 7. I keep zip forms loaded there for forms. I also have a HP Officejet 100 mobile printer. I link this to my desktop so what ever I have on one I have on the other.

I love Macs but I had to get a PC for business purposes, as until recently my MLS was only accessible through IE. Sure, you could load Parallels on Macs, but it takes away from the simplicity of their OS. For now, I'm using a Sony VAIO as my business laptop, but hopefully within the next year will transition fully to my MacBookPro.

I have an HP laptop that I could use strictly for my business but it's running Windows Vista. Would that be an okay operating system? I haven't used that laptop very much so I'm not terribly familiar with the OS. My PC runs Windows XP. Should I invest in a new laptop?

Investigate what your MLS requires before spending ANY money.

Let the MLS be your guide. You probably have an appropriate computer already . . . . that'll be the least of your expenses. Too often, people think that throwing more money at this business by buying the latest and the fastest will give them an edge when it's still a "people" business. I don't think that will ever be any magic pill.

Once you become familiar with the functionality of your MLS, you'll be much better equipped to devote time (and maybe money) to obtaining whatever will best exploit the tools that your MLS makes available to you.

I'll say it again: Let your MLS be the guide. I'm writing this on a 2002 Desktop still running XP; but whose Operating System I've upgraded several times, added Memory, changed out the Cooling Fans and Power Supplies, changed the CPU Heat Sink, replaced Hard Drives, the Scanner, and the Printers, and Monitors, and the UPS (back-up) a few times. I limp along somehow; but have never felt that I "needed" a new computer to perform my work. I don't think you will either.

Thank you very much Vermont! That seems like excellent advice.