Ready or not, the Internet is rapidly changing business in Evergreen and the world.
Unless you're living in a cave, you already know the Internet is a network of computers bringing people and information together. The World Wide Web (WWW) is an increasingly popular information source within the Internet, noted for its user friendliness.
Harris Reiter, owner of Rocky Mountain Real Estate, takes full advantage of the fast-changing computer technology through his WWW site.
In Reiter's WWW site, one can find price ranges, square footage, floor plans and color photos of luxury homes in Evergreen, allowing people all over the world to browse for homes through their personal computers.
Out-of-state subscribers can also access maps of the Denver metro area, information about Jeffco schools and literature from the Evergreen Area Chamber of Commerce. Within months, Reiter said WWW subscribers will be able to view multimedia presentations (including promotional videos) through the Internet.
Through computer "e-mail," Reiter corresponds with prospective clients, which gives him a better idea of what the clients want. Reiter claims he's kept ahead of other Evergreen Realtors in respect to technology. While he concedes competitors will acquire new technologies, he hopes to stay one step ahead of the competition. He said he's committed to acquiring the best technology available.
The technology allows Reiter to conduct his business at home rather than at an office. Reiter's 12 agents also work from home.
"What do you need an office for? When you go to a seller to list their house, they don't see your office until closing," he said. "We're heading into an era where most people will work from their homes." Because of the Internet, Tom Martin predicts businesses with 150 employees or less will be able to operate without an office.
Reiter continues to produce full-color brochures for clients without computers, but he thinks buyers and sellers using the Internet have the edge in the information age.
"Very few people will be able to keep their heads in the sand," he said.
Andy Petrick, executive director of the Evergreen Area Chamber of Commerce and self-described computer junkie, agrees the Internet is the future of business.
"I think it's the direction where things are going to go," he said. "The information that's at your fingertips and the ability to market your business is enormous."
The Evergreen Area Chamber of Commerce maintains a WWW site, which provides information about schools, clubs, and organizations and Evergreen history.
Canyon Courier Excerpted Article "Net Gains" Canyon Courier August 16, 1995
