CRMs to use: Is HubSpot on your list?

Question

I'm trying to workout what the best CRM is to use for this that doesn't actually cost money yet. I have Podio setup with the REI package, but it's got a bit of a clunky feel to it. Hubspot feels a little better, smoother, and kind of more integrate-able.

What do you user, and what's your suggestion?

Thanks!

Mo

What do you user, and what's your suggestion?

Thanks!

Mo

Trevor Ewen · Answer

@Moshe Wolfe

I would take a different direction with this. I wouldn't get too lost in the weeds of a CRM. Find a system that works and get out there. As a technologist, I am definitely interested in this stuff, but I do think it distracts a ton of would-be investors from actually getting out there and doing the work. I have yet to hear an interview with a seasoned investor that got things up and running with the right platform. Usually it's a 'good enough' option, and we'll deal with that later.

Not trying to scold, I think this stuff is eventually important. I am not sure it's the most important thing at the moment.

Benson Juarez · Answer

Hubspot is a great option. As long as you have your own domain (not gmail, outlook, etc.) you can get a free account. Also, don't think that that's a big deal. It isn't. I helped someone get their own domain with email for less than $30 from Godaddy and set up their Hubspot account in less than 30 min.  https://www.godaddy.com/

You can get access to the free Hubspot account here:  https://www.hubspot.com/pricing/crm. It's also not just freemium. It's free forever. You can upgrade to a a paid account if you want to get some more advanced features but it's not necessary. There are so many great features that you can use in your business. First, the CRM. You can track all your people and property leads easily. Using the "deals" feature you can track each stage that you're in and apply a system for follow up so leads don't fall through the cracks. It also has the "Meetings" feature. Which is like Calendly. Here's an example: https://bit.ly/2Pc0q4f . All your calls / emails / and other correspondence can be easily tracked in each record. You can set up and associate tasks with reminders with all your deals. I highly recommend it as a Free option for any serious real estate professional. Let me know if anyone needs help.

Collin Goodwin · Answer

@Moshe Wolfe right inline with @Trevor Ewen... it's not the software that defines the process, but the process that defines the software. Software platforms can be huge rabbit holes, gobbling up years of time in the process. I have been fortunate to be able to structure, organize and automate several large REI businesses. I can tell you with full transparency that not a single development that we have done has ever been the same. Why? Established companies have process. I would recommend taking a look at your process first, growth objectives second, and see what software platform you can use now to stay lean and efficient, while giving you the ability to scale when you need. In my case, this is Podio + ActiveCampaign 90% of the time.

Gavin D. · Answer

As a developer I have set up / modified / built / rebuilt / unbuilt countless CRMs.  For the most part, they are all the same.  Well, provided the crm allows for custom fields that is....  What was once a "Company"  object in a CRM can be turned into a complete property history and contact information for current owner as well as tenants with some creative custom field-ing....   For the most part, all CRM core functionality should be the same, simple association of objects, people to properties, contacts to companies, dogs to groomers... whatever.  Its the integration that matters and of course the price....  For example... hubspot marketing automation integrates well with their CRM... duh.   But watch those costs keep rising.... easy setup ehhh.. kinda..any way you cut it you are going to go through a learning curve on the software, as well as in the ways which you use the CRM.   Which brings me to my question... what will you be using the CRM for?if your using it to keep track of your regular customers.. great!   that is what a crm is for!  If you are using it to keep track of contacts to potential property sellers....  you are using the wrong type of software.. that is unless you intend on buying more than one property from the people you buy from.  If you using a CRM FOR the integrations aspects... IE loading data into the CRM so you can email, facebook, and whatever other means of contacting one-offs you prefer... you can cut out some steps, and go directly to marketing automation software.  All the documentation of phone calls, and emails sent and conversations... blah. useless... property investment is a numbers game.... not an analytics game, nor a relationships game. so market like crazy, treat everyone the same, and use software that doesn't slow you down by encouraging you to give in the OCD voice that says "every field must be filled!...every one!"  (use matic if this is this case... its opensource... just like hubspot marketing automation...)  If you do need a very configurable CRM   X2 is opensource and pretty bad ass...So anyway  what type of  contacts will be housing in your crm?

Jim Pellerin · Answer

I have tried many and got rid of all paid products. I now only use Hubspot.

Moshe Wolfe · Answer

Gavin! I'm sorry for not replying earlier. Been busy.

I'll be putting all my contacts in said CRM. Prospective sellers, buyers, resources, realtors, builders, title companies...everyone.

Moshe Wolfe · Answer

Appreciate your input! Although, if I may say: part of the process should include the software used - meaning, that the software should be included in debate of how to decide on the process.

I will take your experience as advice as well :)

Thanks!

Mo

Andriy Boychuk · Answer

@Moshe Wolfe what are you trying to do?

Different CRMs are for different fits better for different purposes.

For example, for real estate agents I always recommend ActiveCampaing. However, if you need task management system as well, pipedrive is the simplest one.

Michael Quarles · Answer

My CRM has a phone email text chat conference scheduling and webforms.

Calltext.com

CRMs to use: Is HubSpot on your list?

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