Reapit News

A Busy start to 2008 - 14 April 2008

As usual the start of a year has been an extremely busy time of year with a number of high profile independent agents making the move to Reapit.

With the housing market tightening, it is natural that the country’s top Estate Agents have taken the opportunity to look at what so many of their peers have been using to cope with the downturn, both in terms of cuttings costs and maximising referrals.

Agents making the switch are Beercock Wiles and Wick with 9 offices and the prominent independent estate agent in Hull and East Yorkshire. Rettie and Co are one of Scotland’s leading Property Agents, and the latest is Heywoods with 8 offices in Staffordshire and prominent members of the Homesale Network.

In total over 200 users have now been extensively trained and are now using Reapit, and with all of these companies taking advantage of the data conversions we undertake from Solex, Estatecraft, GMW and Encore they have been able to move easily from one system to another with no rekeying of data.

The Reapit client base is also growing through client acquisitions, most recently with Hamptons acquiring Allen Briegel's 5 London offices.

Chris Stops, Managing Director of Heywoods Estate Agents commented:

'Heywoods have over many years embraced technology to enhance our service and exposure.  Two years ago, we decided to seek a ‘step change’ in the way our Estate Agency business functioned, to this end we sought an expansive software package.  There were the normal names but we were looking for something that would really set us apart and didn’t just want another system that we knew we’d be making allowances for its limitations.

'It had become very clear that there was a package that was being used by a growing number of the country’s leading Estate Agents, so we thought we’d take a closer look at the Reapit software. We had been loyal to our previous provider, but felt the Reapit solution would provide us with the impetus that we required at this time.

'We really wanted to be able to make best use of the data that was locked within our current system and at the time it felt like we were going to all the trouble of inputting information but getting anything out was very difficult. Obviously with so many of our vendors being previous clients it made perfect sense to want to be able to communicate with them easily to ensure that we were their first port of call when they came to selling their home again.

'Obviously changing software is not done lightly not least of all because of the fear of any disruption and one major concern was how we were going to be able to input the data from our Vebra system into the new software, luckily our Reapit project manager was able to put our mind at ease on this point and highlighted the option of a full data conversion. So we were able to bring across all historical data as well as our current applicant and property lists. It was as if we’d been putting the information into Reapit from day one.

'The software’s only been operational a few weeks now but it’s clear it’s an extremely flexible package which helps reflect the way we want to do business and it is very easy to use. You can see that it’s been built with the end user in mind rather than being designed by some techie!'

Reapit opens Leeds office - 3 December 2007

Reapit is pleased to announce the opening of a new office in Leeds. Manager Carl Nelson commented

'Reapit has an increasing number of important clients in the North of England and we felt that we could provide a better service to them with a local office. Deborah Stevenson will be providing a training facility for our local clients, and we are also building a second line support, hardware and account management team.

'We are delighted to have a permanent base here, and the new office will play a key role in Reapit's continued growth in this important region, enabling us to maintain our high standards of software and hardware services.'

Address and contact details can be found here.

Cumberland Estate Agents, the largest estate agency in Cumbria, introduced RPS in October 2007 into 11 offices

Nick Elgey BSc (Hons) FRICS, Managing Director of Cumberland Estate Agents, said

'As a Company we had been using MatchMaker for several years. The retirement of MatchMaker was one of a number of factors driving the introduction of a new system. Reapit Property Sales product provided the solution to allow the business to progress in the way we wanted.

'As expected we had some concerns with the process of switching to Reapit, not least the consistency of the data transferred and putting the system live before staff received training.

'Throughout this process the Reapit project team worked closely with us to ensure everything went smoothly and any issues which did arise were dealt with in an effectively and timely manner.

'Our data conversion was thoroughly tested before the system was put live in order to iron out any problems. The final data conversion process took place in mid October and within three days all 11 of our branches were live and using RPS and t he go live period itself went very smoothly indeed with no problems to speak of.

'The Reapit staff and trainers who visited all of the branches during the go live period provided excellent service to our staff enabling them to be confident using the system there and then in a live environment. Subsequent training sessions have followed this up and built upon it effectively.

'We see RPS as being a major asset to the company through providing staff with a greater ability to communicate effectively with our clients, improved efficiency and professionalism within our offices and increasing our ability to manage the business and identify staff training requirements.'

News from Reapit clients in Oxford and Belfast - 25 October 2007

Leading Oxford Estate Agent Breckon and Breckon had a very familiar story. They had used a couple of the popular Estate Agency systems of the day but had found themselves limited in two fairly key areas. Partner Keith Stacey said

'In the past multi-listing between branches had been a fairly torturous affair either involving clunky hourly updates that often failed or by having a real time link between the offices. The real time link was dependent on a very reliable network in place and, although often quoted, the 99.9% reliability of broadband seemed nothing of the sort. In effect we would have had to have taken on an IT manager or an expensive outsourced service with some network specialists.

'As we have grown and continue to expand into new areas the need for multi-listing both of applicants and properties has become more important and I’m glad to say that this is handled seamlessly within Reapit. Management information that traditionally took some time to prepare is now available at the touch of a button right down from a company level down to an office and negotiator view.

'So many times we’re told that technology is here to help us and yet seems to be a barrier to doing business. Certainly this seemed to be the case with some of the systems I’ve used in the past, but I’m delighted to say that Reapit is a tremendous asset to us and helps us excel in customer service to our clients.'

MCW Residential are one of the market leaders in the buoyant Belfast market and have found a major benefit by being at the forefront of technical innovation. Operations Director Richard Charles explains

'We have always felt that a major selling point of the firm has been our staff members' ability to communicate effectively with our clients. As such the investment in our telephone systems was an obvious area for us to concentrate on.The system which provides us with information on the busiest periods of the week enables us to ensure that we are able to resource effectively to ensure our clients get the highest level of service.

'It had always been on our wish list to tie this into our Residential Agency system but no one had been able to meet this requirement - that was until we implemented Reapit, who had a ‘Plug and Play’ TAPI interface into their software. Not only did this mean that we never had to dial another number, simply needing to click on the phone number within RPS to dial out to numbers.

It also had another important time saving feature, which was that calls are flagged within the system so we can see who’s on line and look at their contact record as soon as we answer the phone. This has enabled our staff to maintain the highest levels of professionalism when dealing with our clients queries, saving the need for all the normal questions like “what’s your address and phone number?” whilst waiting for the computer to find their record.

'The phone interface has also worked exceptionally well as a de-duplication check against applicants on the database. Previously an applicant may not have already realised they had already registered with one of the other branches and so we could have ended up with multiple records. There are of course cost saving implications from a mailing point of view but the main advantage was the we looked far more professional and were not sending repeat post for the same requirements.

'It was even possible to have this search automatically against our archived applicant database and I can’t begin to tell you how impressed some of our clients were that we remember them from 5 years ago!'

Chesterton install Reapit software across 20 offices - 18 July 2007

Chesterton have completed rolling out the Reapit software to their network of twenty offices. The software installation was extended to include new acquisitions Copping Joyce & Stickley Kent in North London and Millest and Partners in Kent.

Chesterton have been one of the leading agents in the London residential market since starting in 1805.

Bradleys using Reapit software in 45 Offices - 5 June 2007

Bradleys Estate Agents have around 45 offices in Cornwall, Devon and Somerset, covering sales, lettings, international sales, and provide a range of other property related services. Reapit RPS sales software was installed late last year, and since then the RPL lettings software has been rolled out, along with a new web site, and ongoing customisations.

Francis Marshall, Director, said:

'I have been involved with 3 separate Estate Agency software packages installation and development for Bradleys over the last 8 years.

'On the two previous occasions it was an incredibly frustrating time with difficulties arising from things producing inaccurate results and systems that crashed.

'Since installing Reapit to Bradleys our ability to manage our business has increased many fold and all our previous problems have disappeared as well as being able to offer a better service to our clients.

'I have found Reapit to be both reliable and accurate and our staff found it easy to use.

'All of this stems from the Reapit development team who listened to our requirements and then delivered exactly what we wanted when we wanted it. They made the installation process easy for us and trained our staff so we were fully operational with in a few days.

'The ongoing support has been outstanding and if I have asked for any development it has been provided quickly.

'I can honestly recommend Reapit as a company that are fantastic to deal with, their product works well, they are professional in their approach and above all they are very nice people to deal with.'

The Group IT Director, Lyndon Bent, commented:

'Estate Agency computer systems have been part of my day to day life for nearly 25 of my 30 years in the business.

'Being a fairly IT progressive company, I approached Reapit with a tall order of requirements that would satisfy the Bradleys Group’s immediate needs, but also to see us well into the future. The RPS solution seemed to fit the bill well, as well as having the scope to adapt and improve to our exacting demands.

'I have been impressed from the outset with the professional and knowledgeable manner in which Reapit have conducted their business with us. At every stage they have sought to fully understand our business and apart from listening to our requests, which at times have been quite unique, they have been quick to provide alternative solutions for us to consider.

'In addition, their broad exposure to the industry and third party suppliers has ensured that we have been kept fully up to date with the latest technology and additional integrated services.

'Bradleys highly successful company website was completely redesigned with a fresh new look by the Reapit team and was re-launched in late 2006. Work continues on the design and content, while ensuring constant optimisation to retain the status of being in the top 50 most visited Estate Agents website in the UK.

'In all, Reapit’s calm and confident approach made the implementation and subsequent management of their systems a pleasurable experience for Bradleys.'

Reapit Solihull office moved - 2 May 2007

As part of Reapit's expansion in support services for our clients, we have grown our Solihull operation necessitating a move to larger premises.

The move was successful, with no noticeable depreciation of service. The new contact details can be found here.

ReapitTech and Reapit Labs web pages updated - 18 April 2007

Reapit Tech is Reapit's e-mail, networking and hardware division, providing a one stop shop for all infrastructure requirements. Further details of ReapitTech's services are available here, with case studies for a number of clients.

Reapit employs a number of extremely talented developers, involved in an active R&D program. We have produced a new area of the web site to preview these technologies before general release. Our first installment is now live, with details of our browser based RPS.net here.

Strutt and Parker roll out RPS to 22 offices - 22 December 2006

Reapit is pleased to report that Strutt and Parker have completed the roll out of the Reapit estate agency software to 22 branches around the UK. Agency Manager, Annabel Clery said:

'The experience of moving our database over to RPS has been (almost) totally painless. The whole package provided by Reapit, from data cleaning and migration, through installation to training, proved to be unruffled, sensible and thoroughly professional. I would not hesitate to recommend them to any agent.'

Hamptons International install Reapit Software - 6 September 2006

Reapit is delighted to announce that Hamptons International are now using Reapit's RPS property sales software across their network of around 60 offices. Jon Baker, Head of IT Services said:

'Hamptons faced some specific and unique challenges in implementing RPS, and Reapit rose to those challenges admirably. Their experience and advice was invaluable and meant that we were able to achieve all of our objectives. We are now starting to see real benefits from using the software and will continue to draw upon Reapit’s expertise to expand its reach.'

Stephen Tarrant, Sales Director, commented:

'The completion of the installation of RPS has been a massive achievement for both Reapit and Hamptons International. After we spent an enormous amount of time researching the different opportunities to meet our ongoing aims, we were more than satisfied that the team at Reapit would be excellent partners going into the future.

'The software in the short term has been of huge benefit not only to our staff, but to all our customers, enabling us to improve our business systems to everyone’s benefit.

'Going forward we are pleased to be working with an innovative team. Together we will be able to develop our systems in conjunction with the all important software, that is at the heart of our day to day activity.'

RPL software for lettings version 9 released - 26 May 2006

Reapit has released version 9 of the RPL lettings software. This is a major upgrade, including features such as client server operation, international features, e-mail enhancements and much more.

RPL now shares much of the same code base with RPS, which should see features being delivered to both applications simultaneously in the future. Version 9 is available to download from the software page, though we recommend contacting Reapit before carrying out an upgrade.

Reapit software installed in Michael Poole - 11 May 2006

Reapit is delighted to announce that Michael Poole Estate Agents are now using Reapit estate agency software. Michael Poole have seven offices in the Middlesbrough and Tees Valley area. Managing Director Michael Poole said:

'Just a short note of thanks for all the help and support your team have provided during our recent software change over to Reapit. Being an extremely busy, multi office Estate Agency we challenged you to implement our new system seamlessly, efficiently and get our Staff up to speed on the use of this in as little time as possible - you have delivered on all counts!

'Having just completed a further follow up training session delivered by yourselves it is clear how Reapit will contribute towards our continued success in being the leading Estate Agent in the Tees Valley Area.

'Once again, Thank you.'

Bidwells now using Reapit Software - 1 May 2006

Bidwells are the latest agent to successfully install the Reapit software. Partner Julian Carder said:

'Bidwells is the largest independent firm of Chartered Surveyors operating predominantly in East Anglia with 5 offices, plus our head office based in Cambridge. The Residential Department were previously using Matchmaker and were concerned over the ability of RPS to transfer all the data and go live without any prior training. When Reapit went live in February all the data was there and any minor hitches were dealt with quickly and efficiently.

'The proof in the pudding was that the system is far more logical to use and everyone got to grips with it very quickly. The trainers were fantastic for the follow up sessions and everyone has reported how much they prefer it to Matchmaker.

'Our Rural agency department have also taken on Reapit and it is linked with the main agency system so that data can be cross referenced. In the next few weeks our Land & Development team will have RPS rolled out. Effectively three previous independent systems have now been replaced by one which enables each department to cross reference.

'We would not hesitate to recommend the system - with the exception of our direct competitors!'

Belfast agent MCW Residential using Reapit software - 12 April 2006

Reapit is delighted to announce that MCW Residential are now using the Reapit software in their four Belfast offices. Richard Charles, Operations Director for MCW Residential said:

'MCW Residential is an independent agency with 4 branch offices in the Greater Belfast area. The Company had been using the MatchMaker product for a number of years and when it was announced that MatchMaker would be retired in the near future, the Directors began to look at a suitable replacement product. It became apparent in a relatively short space of time that the Reapit Property Sales product would address the current plus many of the new requirements of our agency and offer us a distinct edge in the marketplace.

'The data conversion process took place in mid March and within a few days the new software had been rolled out to all workstations. We were most impressed by the capability of the project team, there were many requests for particular bespoking of the system, reports and layouts and all of these were dealt with in a timely and professional fashion.

'The comprehensive ongoing staff training by the project team has ensured that all staff are comfortable with the system and are able to get minor issues resolved in conjunction with the Reapit helpdesk.

'As the Company is split over 4 locations, speed of access to the client server SQL database is an important factor. By use of localised servers to provide redundancy in event of a comms failure we are able to operate in a seamless fashion offering all offices live real-time access to all applicant and property details.

'MCW Residential would have no hesitation in recommending the Reapit Property Sales product and the project team to any other agency who are considering a system of this type.'

Two new Reapit software users - 2 February 2006

Reapit is pleased to announce that Dacre Son and Hartley are now using the Reapit estate agency software in their 20 office agency in the Yorkshire region. Head of Residential, Patrick McCutcheon said:

'Dacre Son & Hartley is a large Yorkshire based agency, with twenty offices within the county and has been established for over 185 years. Following Reapit's decision to retire the Matchmaker software, we were naturally concerned about switching to Reapit, but as we looked at the Reapit software in more detail it became clear that it resolved the majority of the issued we faced using Matchmaker, and a switch-over to this system would very certainly be a step forward.

'Following a successful data transfer exercise in December, the Reapit software has been well received by the staff across the firm, and is being used to an increasing depth throughout the branch network. Ongoing training has increased staff confidence in the new system, and acceptance by them has steadily grown as they become more aware of its extensive functions and ease of use.

'The Reapit system is running in client server mode, with all users having real time access to all company data. All data is also being synchronised in the background, so if there is a failure with the central server or broadband, all offices can continue working until the problems are resolved.

'With the on-going training and support provided by Reapit it is anticipated that the system will be used to an even greater extent and form an integral part of our every day sales process.'

Reapit software is also now live in Webbers. Established in 1924 in North Devon, Webbers now have 16 residential sales offices covering North Cornwall, North Devon and West Somerset. Tim Bennett, Business Development Director, commented:

'We have been delighted at the superb level of support and training that RPS have provided. The initial roll out was hassle free and everything that RPS said they would do they did, which was a very pleasant change!

'Requests for amendments have been met positively, with plenty of help tweaking the system to suit our needs. It has helped us with a cultural change in trying to move into paper free environment.

'We would have no hesitation in recommending both the system and the staff at RPS.'

Property portal news round-up - 22 December 2005

Two major portals have been bought by newspaper companies in the last two months. The first was Propertyfinder, bought in early November for £14.3m by News International who own The Times, Sunday Times and London Property News.

In a second deal, Daily Mail and General Trust plc (DMGT) announced on 8th December the purchase of Primelocation for £48 million. DMGT also own Findaproperty following a £13.8m deal in November 2004.

The Primelocation deal looks like being a massive bonus to the shareholder agents, both from a financial point of view, and for the lifting of the exclusivity requirement. Whether the newspapers can make these portals pay is a more difficult question.

The steady flow of new entrants into the market has seen sites like OnOneMap attracting interest. This site 'crawls' other portals and presents the results on Google Maps. Other portals looking to get a foot in the door next year are PrimeMove, Look4aProperty and PropertyChart.

Rightmove is also expecting to float early next year. It looks like the dot-com frenzy is back.

RPS version 9 release announcement - 3 November 2005

Reapit has announced the release of version 9 of the Reapit Property Sales software. This is the most comprehensive overhaul of the software in the last four years, and features a host of improvements, both large and small. Changes include:

• Extensive land and new homes functionality
• Multi currency and international features
• New Company handling including hierarchies and staff lists
• Company applicants and vendors fully supported
• Up to two additional property marketing offices can be specified
• Property attributes, financial and marketing screens redesigned
• All journal and advertising entries can be followed up
• Applicants can be shared between multiple users and offices
• New offer and pipeline reports module
• New advertising reports
• Diary allows viewing of multiple offices

A full list of changes is available here (rps_readme.txt). This release also provides us with the platform to add a range of new functionality. In the next few months, look out for integrated pdf support, a new security model and many improvements to imaging and detail production.

Gascoigne Pees ReapitWeb site launched - 5 October 2005

One of the most ambitious estate agency sites using the ReapitWeb technology has just been launched. The new Gascoigne Pees site features properties from over forty offices in the South East. Property searches are available by road map, rail map, postcode and office. Property data is continually updated throughout the day, so that searches are always up to date.

For more information about ReapitWeb, click here.

Cluttons go live with Reapit software in 14 offices - 30 August 2005

Reapit is delighted to announce that national estate agents Cluttons are using Reapit sales and lettings software across 14 branches in London and the Country.

Robert Bartlett, Partner and Head of Residential Division, said:

'As part of our ongoing commitment to provide a first class service to both our clients and our applicants I am delighted that we have chosen the Reapit RPS system. RPS will allow us to significantly improve the efficiency and professionalism of our agency offices by providing a fully integrated system. It represents part of a major investment in providing state of the art IT solutions to all our agency offices.

'We were attracted to the RPS system by its ease of use, and the excellent in-house training. It has enabled our offices to share all data on potential applicants and the properties we have for sale with the result of providing an even better service to our vendor clients. RPS now also forms an important management tool in providing direct data on the performance of our offices. From this we have been able to identify direct training needs, and thus further raise the level of our client service.'

Greenslade Taylor Hunt installs RPS into 12 offices - 10 August 2005

Reapit have recently installed software for regional heavyweight Greenslade Taylor Hunt who have 12 offices in Devon, Somerset and Dorset. The firm has 14 partners and 140 staff and have a mixed practice with specialist departments in residential sales, agriculture, land development, fine art, lettings and commercial.

Partner in charge of IT for the residential department is Michael Dukes MRICS who comments:

'It was vital in sourcing a new software supplier that they could match up to the promises made and we have been more than pleased with the professional attitude of all at Reapit in handling both installation, training and bespoke requirements we have had. Their integration with our website designers and general helpful and pro-active attitude has been impressive and refreshing and clearly they intend to keep their software package at the leading edge in the future.

' They have been more than happy to discuss development ideas with us and are certainly not resting on their laurels despite the impressive features their software has already. I would have no hesitation in recommending them to any firm.'

New Solihull office opened - 26 June 2005

Reapit staff formerly with Phoenix Software Solutions have completed a move to new offices in Solihull. Contact details are available here >>

Reapit and Phoenix Software Solutions merge operations - 25 May 2005

The merged company, trading under the Reapit banner, is the largest supplier of software to the UK's 50 largest estate agencies. A product strategy for the next five years is in now place, with extensive work already having taken place to amalgamate the two companies' key products.

As clients are migrated to a single platform, development efforts are being transferred to the next generation of software. Reapit plans to release further information about these plans towards the end of the year.

Asserta brand retired - 1 March 2005

The Asserta property portal brand, originally started by Norwich Union in 2000, has been retired. Traffic and properties have been switched to the Propertyfinder site.

This has increased the volume of properties on Propertyfinder to approximately 180,000. Propertyfinder retains good links with referring sites, such as newspapers, and has always been popular, not least due to the very guessable site name.

Find out more in our Internet Property Site Guide.

Portal upload tool updated - 24 February 2005

The latest version of our property portal upload tool has been released. The new version now supports the Home Sale Network, an affinity group of around 740 independent agents.

We have also improved the error handling to provide better resilience in the event of an FTP failure. The e-mail notifications have been updated to show whether errors were successfully handled or not.

RPS help and tutorials updated - 21 December 2004

The RPS electronic help and tutorials have been updated to reflect the changes up to version 8.60. To obtain the new file start RPS, then select the 'Setup' menu, then 'Online Update' and 'Help File'. This will download the latest version from the web site.

Property Auction software release - 17 December 2004

Reapit has delivered the first version of the new RPA Residential Property Auction software to Countrywide Property Auctions. CPA are based in Chelmsford, and run auctions throughout the UK.

The new software system is designed to replace a number of separate databases, and encompasses many of the specialist roles associated with a property auction.

TAPI Integration - 14 October 2004

Reapit is pleased to announce that both RPS and RPL are now fully integrated with TAPI. This means that if you have a compatible phone system, you can right-click on any telephone number to instantly dial that number.

When an incoming call is received, a telephone icon is lit up. Clicking on this icon will then display a list of applicants, vendors and landlords matching that number, allowing the record to be immediately displayed.

For more information on these features, and for details of suitable telephone systems, please contact us.

Reapit is moving office - 27 August 2004

Reapit will be moving to new premises around September 17th. This will give us more space along with improved training facilities.

The new address is: Estate House, 921a Fulham Road, London SW6 5HU.

We will also be updating our telephone system, and phasing out our previous number. The new number will be 020 7610 8700.

We apologise in advance for any disruption in service this may create.

Jackson-Stops & Staff using Reapit software - 18 June 2004

Reapit is delighted to announce that Jackson-Stops & Staff are now using Reapit software. Senior partner Michael Brandon said:

'Jackson-Stops & Staff decided in November of last year that they needed a new Estate Agency computer software system for both sales and lettings. The market was carefully researched and after exploring several products Reapit was approved by the executive committee and main board as the preferred software.

'Reapit was initially installed and piloted in their Chichester office for six to eight weeks and variations to the program were discussed and adopted with the helpful assistance of the Reapit staff.

'The software has now been rolled out to most branches of Jackson-Stops & Staff and should be in all offices (36 branches) by the end of the year. The training has been excellent and most staff members are now keen to explore the many additional features that this Estate Agency software provides.'

Pureproperty merges with Propertyfinder - 11 May 2004

Pureproperty has now merged with Propertyfinder, who gain Winkworths, Chancellors, John D Wood & Co. and Kinleigh as clients. Propertyfinder is hoping that this will give them an equal footing with Primelocation, their main rival in the high-end sector of the market.

Following a first stage redesign, scheduled for this Summer, Propertyfinder are planning to implement the innovative map based search mechanism used by Pureproperty.

RPS 8.35 new features to include telephone integration - 8 April 2004

RPS version 8.35 is currently in final testing, and includes a range of new and updated features. The first phase of our telephony integration project is complete, allowing you to make calls to contacts within the system via a TAPI compliant telephone exchange. The second phase will include CLID, so that incoming calls will automatically open the relevant record in RPS.

Other updates include support for vendor and buyer ID checking for compliance with the new money laundering regulations. Also divorced/separated vendors can be entered, and mail merging letters will produce separate correspondence. We have also added a dated note facility to the front vendor and applicant screens, allowing unchangeable notes to be recorded following conversations, for example.

A range of applicant management facilities have also been added, allowing sorting of matches and reports by applicant status. Applicants can be removed from matches based on status. For example, you can match to developers and hot applicants initially, and then produce subsequent mailouts for general and cold applicants.

Software Development Update - 23 March 2004

We have recently completed a major update of the RPS online documentation. This contains a fully graphical tutorial, as well as a context sensitive help system. A number of resources have also been provided for more technical users, including comprehensive guides to creating particular templates.

RPL Lettings is undergoing final testing of version 8.50. This update brings across the new look and feel of RPS version 8.20, with fully scalable screens, the new diary system and a range of other improvements. We will also shortly be releasing an update to the RPC contact management system, with much improved performance, and better integration with both RPS and RPL.

Reapit supports Postcode Anywhere- 4 February 2004

Reapit is pleased to announce support for the innovative postcode lookup system PostcodeAnywhere. The system works on a credit mechanism, so you pay a small amount for each postcode found. Being fully internet based, no local postcode data or updates are required.

RPS version 8.27 and RPL 8.20 will both provide support for PostcodeAnywhere. Reapit continues to support a range of postcode searching products, including QAS QuickAddress, AFD Postcode and Arc-en-Ciel Address.

Lonres to RPS import tool updated - 9 January 2004

Following the release of the new version of the Lonres system, the RPS import tool has now been updated and is working correctly. Lonres is a system for sharing half commission properties between London agents. The import tool allows this data, along with images and floorplans, to be brought into RPS automatically. These properties can then be marketed to the existing applicant register from within RPS.

We are liaising with Lonres to implement a range of new features in the future, so if you need an update to the import tool, or have any suggestions of features that you would find useful, please contact Reapit.

RPS Upgrade features new diary tool - 28 November 2003

Version 8.20 of RPS is now released, featuring a completely new diary system. Built entirely from scratch, the new diary looks similar to that in Microsoft Outlook, along a flexible display suitable for multi user use. The diary is fully integrated with RPS properties and applicants, along with advanced support for setting up viewing tours.

We have also taken the opportunity to update the look and feel of a number of core screens, to allow more efficient use on large monitors and laptops. The upgrade further improves integration and consistency with Windows XP.

Carter Jonas using RPS - 17 November 2003

Reapit is delighted to announce that Carter Jonas is now using RPS. Carter Jonas have 11 residential sales offices across the country, and have always had a strong presence in the North of England. Recently they expanded their operation by taking over the Egertons chain in central London.

Tim Waring, the Director in charge of Residential Sales, commented after the rollout that:

' We are settling in well with the Reapit Software. The training is being well received with more and more staff impressed as they see of what the software is capable. We deal with a wide range of properties from single houses in Central London to Country Estates where a completely different range of information is required but the software delivers all the information that we require in a fast and easy to use format.'

Fish4homes upload available - 13 October 2003

Reapit is pleased to announce the completion of the Fish4Homes upload module. Fish4Homes is one of the largest portals in the country, supported by extensive advertising and is backed by a consortium of major newspaper companies.

As always, Reapit provides the upload tool at no extra cost, and uploads directly to the portals themselves. This improves reliability, accuracy and speed.

Townends Group using RPS Software - 6 October 2003

Reapit is delighted to announce that Townends have now installed the RPS Property Sales software across their network of 34 offices in London, Middlesex and Surrey.

Sales director Peter Ford said:

'Townends prides itself on its ability to use advanced technology to provide real benefits to clients and applicants, and we needed to find a software company that would help us to improve and develop our market leading services. We chose Reapit not just for the quality of their software, but because they were willing and able to customise it to our requirements.

'The software, data conversion, and inter office data sharing were delivered on time within a very tight framework, and work as promised. We have started the process of customising the software through user group meetings, and already, after less than a month, changes and improvements are apparent throughout the system.'

NAEA relaunch PropertyLive portal - 3 September 2003

The NAEA has relaunched their web site, incorporating the Propertylive portal, with a new design and search mechanism. The portal currently faces the usual dilemma - with not many properties the public will not use the site, and without proven leads, agents will not advertise.

To see how the new site compares with the established portals visit our Property Portal Guide.

RPL, RSynch and IUpload Version 8 released - 24 July 2003

All the principal Reapit software tools have been upgraded to version 8 to reflect the use of new library files. Please contact support for instructions on installing and running these latest versions.

RPS Version 8 released - 14 July 2003

Reapit are pleased to announce the public availability of RPS version 8.

The principal improvements are:

• New sales progress and chain screens
• New advertising tools
• New features to handle property developments
• Improved agricultural and rural sales facilities
• Journal improvements: clearer design, better filters and enhanced reporting
• Many Diary improvements
• More flexible display options and full support for Windows XP themes
• Housekeeping enhancements

Head4home property portal launched - 7 June 2003

The latest entrant into a crowded market, Head4home is the brain child of Resource Techniques, TEAM's IT suppliers. The portal is pitched at the independent agent, though it will have a hard job competing with the large advertising budgets and sophisticated technology of the top portals.

Find out more in our Internet Property Site Guide.

RPS Version 8 in final testing - 30 May 2003

The release of the eagerly awaited version 8 of RPS is imminent. Containing a mixture of new features and refinements of existing tools, this version has been driven by extensive consultation with our clients.

The principal changes are:

• New sales progress and chain screens
• New features to handle property developments
• Improved agricultural and rural sales facilities
• Journal improvements: clearer design, better filters and enhanced reporting
• Many Diary improvements
• More flexible display options and full support for Windows XP themes
• Housekeeping enhancements

Reapit article in Estate Agency News - 22 April 2003

Read Bob North's article in Estate Agency News.

Reapit scoops largest UK Residential Agency IT contract - 26 March 2003

The largest residential estate agency software contract to come up for tender in recent years has been won by Reapit. The Countrywide Assured Group, which now has over 800 offices after the acquisition of Friends Provident late last year, plans to install the software in 550 offices, as well as making it available to their fast-growing Franchise operation that operates under the banner of Bairstow Eaves.

The decision was confirmed following a 6 month trial rollout in seven subsidiaries. John Wallis, the head of Countrywide Estate Agency IT department, said, "the whole approach to our requirements was refreshingly optimistic and almost everything seemed possible".

RPS Improvements - SMS matching and on-line printing - 20 February 2003

RPS version 7.53 has just gone into limited release, and features a number of improvements. The new features in RPS integrate with services provided by selected Reapit partners providing state of the art Internet based services.

In addition to our existing text messaging features, we have now introduced SMS matching. Our recommended supplier for SMS services is SMS-Speedway.

We are also trialling online printing services for property particulars, using services provided in conjunction with VLM.

If you are interested in any of the above, please contact us at Reapit Enquiries.

Knight Frank now using RPS - 28 January 2003

Reapit is delighted to announce that Knight Frank is now using the RPS Property Sales system at 8 offices in London and a further 25 around the UK. The software was installed at the end of 2002 using an advanced thin-client architecture, developed in conjunction with Reapit partners Intercept-IT.

Findaproperty to charge for third party uploads - 13 January 2003

Findaproperty have announced additional charges for companies who wish to use a third party package (such as RPS or RPL) to upload property details to their site. The charges will be £1000 per company per year, and will start on 1 February 2003.

Findaproperty justify the charges saying that 'there tends to be a significant amount of support and development time required to provide this service'. As far as we know, no other property sites charge extra to receive third party uploads.

Major improvements at Rightmove - 25 October 2002

Rightmove have announced a number of important enhancements to their website. The most significant allows multiple pictures and floorplans to be displayed for properties. In addition, a mapping function will be incorporated into the site, along with better support for new property developments.

These features are due around the middle of November, and Reapit clients will benefit from the outset. In the long term, Rightmove is investigating the possibilities of an instant upload, allowing property data to be sent and updated in real time. Rightmove has always been successful in marketing and traffic generation - with these planned improvements they look set to challenge some of the high end sites on functionality.

RPL Lettings Software Version 5 released - 3 October 2002

Reapit is pleased to announce the release of version 5 of the RPL Lettings Software. Based on extensive feedback from our clients, RPL has been tailored to improve both speed and functionality.

The principal changes are:

• Better handling of multiple landlords, tenants and applicants
• New thumbnail driven property picture screen
• Internet maps from right-clicking postcodes
• Improved integration with Outlook and other contact management software
• Applicant reporting introduced
• Improved tenancy reporting, including commission breakdowns in Excel
• Gas certificate expiry reports
• Faster and more flexible search screens
• Source of enquiry for company tenants and tenancies
• Better diary features
• Multiple Word particular templates can be used
• Journal screen displays both diary and journal entries

Property Portals - the Autumn Tidy up - 30 September 2002

This month has seen a change in the appearance of eight different property portals, including Prime Location. Alterations and new home pages have been launched across the board. Refer to Reapit's Property Portal Guide for more information.

Reapit releases RPB Private Buyers Software - 12 September 2002

Reapit has announced the release of the RPB System (Reapit Private Buyers). The system is designed to provide independent and agency based private buying agencies with a state of the art property and client management system. The software supports both London and Country departments, and can also be used to manage Lettings properties.

Originally developed for Property Vision, the market leading private buying agency, the software has been used and refined over the last three years. In the last couple of months, further developed has enabled us to offer the system to other clients.

If you are interested in more information please contact us.