Real Estate App of the Week: Quora

Imagine asking a question and getting immediate answers from those in the know? That's what Quora is, and now, I'm addicted.

It's like Wikipedia but the information you get is only from the people you know or those you choose to follow. Forget using this app to get any cold, hard facts, but it's great for getting quick insight.

Here's what they say about it:

Quora is an information network that connects you to everything you want to know about. Quora aims to be the easiest place to blend new content with the best of what's on the web. We organize people and their interests so you can actually find, collect and share the information most valuable to you.

When you want to know more about something, Quora delivers you answers and content from people who share your interests and people who have first-hand knowledge — like real doctors, economists, screenwriters, police officers, and military veterans. On Quora, it's easy to create a personalized homepage of everything you want to know about by following topics, questions, people and boards.

Here are some ways I can see real estate professionals using it:

1. Global. If you work with international buyers and investors, this can be a useful way to find out information, such as, "What is the typical breakfast in Brazil?" The answers will give you insight into your buyer (yes, it's just a generalization) and help you plan an event or their visit better.

2. Event Planning. "What is the best REALTOR® event for networking?" "What's the most popular REAL Trends' Gathering of Eagles event?" Ask your peers for their input into speakers, events and things to do in the area.

3. Tips and Advice. I've seen questions about why you should network, tips for how to network, how to meet people, etc. Ask others what their no-fail elevator speech is, or which social event has the best mix of people.

4. Tech Advice. Need help figuring out how to do a screen grab of a page on your computer? Have a quick question about using Evernote? You'll get an amazing array of tips and how to's.

As with much of what is on the Internet, there's no way to tell how accurate any of the information is. However, think of this as a way to poll your peers for quick advice. Or, use it to inspire you to try harder and think bigger.

QUORA — Available on iPod, iPad, iPhone, Android and Web

To view the original article, visit the REAL Trends blog.