Although QR codes are mainly used in marketing and company promotions, the truth is that they are perfect for things like maintenance records, asset inventory, and asset tracking whether you are a property manager or real estate agent. With nothing more than a smartphone and some codes, it is possible to track real estate maintenance in real time.
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What Are QR Codes?
A QR code, or Quick Response code, is an array of black and white squares that store information. Much like a laser scanner can read a barcode, a smartphone camera and QR code-reading app can derive information from that array of squares. Unlike traditional barcodes, however, a QR code can store much more information. For the most part, they store information about the item to which it is attached, which makes it easier for those involved in real estate (either real estate agents or property managers) to obtain information on demand and, often, in real time.
Traditional Methods for Tracking Real Estate Maintenance
Even in today’s technologically-advanced day and age, people still use written logbooks to keep track of work completed. Those who have multiple properties requiring maintenance may use spreadsheets; they accept completed work orders from those responsible for the maintenance and enter the relevant info into that spreadsheet when they have an opportunity to do so. This process is quite tedious as it requires plenty of data entry, and there is a huge margin for error, as well.
The Benefits of Using a Smartphone and QR Codes
QR codes provide a much better system than spreadsheets or paper logs for a variety of reasons. These include:
· Instant access to information with just a quick scan of a code;
· Access to information from anywhere with an internet connection;
· Less margin for error since all information is immediately uploaded to the cloud;
· Access to all of the information you could ever need in the palm of your hand;
· The ability to share information with others almost instantly;
· No more need for tedious spreadsheets or logs; and
· The ability to store and access more information than a traditional barcode.
The benefits associated with using QR code technology to keep track of your real estate maintenance speak for themselves. It’s simpler, faster, and overall, more economical than traditional methods.
How QR Code Technology Can Benefit Your Clients
Aside from making your life easier, QR technology keeps your clients happier, too. For example, because information is readily available and there is virtually no margin for error, tenants can rest comfortably in the knowledge that their homes, condos, or apartments have been properly maintained. What’s more, real estate agents who use the technology to track their maintenance can ensure that they are only showing clean homes to prospective buyers. What’s more, if those homes need work, it is possible to track that work in real time and ensure that it is being completed on schedule.
As you can see, the case for using smartphones and QR codes to track real estate maintenance builds itself. It puts an end to the searching for information and gives you access to just about anything you need to know in seconds, right in the palm of your hand.