Apple iPad and the Rapattoni MLS
David Kingston, Director of Information Services
(Updated April 21, 2010)
Since the announcement and subsequent release of Apple's iPad, we have received many questions asking if the Rapattoni MLS will be "usable" on this device. Although Rapattoni's official stance has been that the MLS "isn't Safari (Apple's web browser) compatible," they were "working on making the MLS comparable," I figured it was time to get one and test it out for myself.
While the Adobe Flash player is still required for some of the functionality within the MLS and Flash is not available on the iPad, I was pleasantly surprised to find that a lot of the search functionality was usable on the iPad. Standard, basic searching and manipulation of the results worked flawlessly on my test iPad. When it comes to reports, printing or the map searches, we will have to wait until Rapattoni makes additional changes to the MLS. Adding or editing contacts failed, as well.
If you are out in the field with clients and just need to look up information in the MLS and want to look geek-savy, the iPad will get you the basics. As Rapattoni does more development, the list of iPad-compatible features will likely grow.
Being a part-time Mac user, I had played with the MLS on several occasions with very limited success. There have been options for Mac users (boot camp into Windows OS, or the Citrix login to Rapattoni), yet none of these were really solid solutions for the average REALTOR®. Rapattoni seems committed to making the necessary changes within the MLS to allow some browser independence. Their first priority is Firefox compatibility and Apple's Safari browser is slated to be next on the list. While this is great news for those of us who aren't completely thrilled with Microsoft's Internet Explorer, it does delay the complete transition to the iPad as an all-in-one REALTOR®-friendly device a short while longer.
Don't forget, there is more to the iPad than just the MLS! There are applications available to do slideshow listing presentations, spreadsheets and word processing as well. The device makes keeping up on your Facebook page, checking email, searching maps, contacts, checking your calendar, and showing your favorite photos very easy. And oh yeah, don't forget it functions as an iPod as well!
The iPad will take the place of a laptop for many REALTORS®. Is it the only, best solution for all? Absolutely not. There are other tablet-pc options available, so with a little bit of research, you will find the right fit for your needs
The bottom line: If you want a lightweight, simple device that effectively shows presentation material and handles basic MLS searches in the field, this device fits the bill. If you need a complete MLS solution, other options might be the way to go for now.
If you have any questions about using the iPad in your day-to-day life as a REALTOR®, please feel free to contact me at dkingston@dabr.com or 223-0900.