Allconnect is a premium sponsor of Real Estate Connect, a technology real estate conference taking place this week in San Franciso. The company has launched new functionality at www.connectmybuyer.com. Below is the official release. If you are a Realtor, or know a Realtor, have them try connectmybuyer.com out between now and July 30 and they’ll be entered to win a trip to Napa Valley!

Allconnect Launches Unique Marketing Tool for Real Estate Pros

New, free online system lets brokers create custom brochures about home services for clients

SAN FRANCISCO, July 13, 2010 – Allconnect – the leading comparison shopping and connections marketplace for essential home services – today unveiled a new, unique customer service and marketing tool at Real Estate Connect 2010 created specifically for real estate professionals. ConnectMyBuyer.com is an innovative, free system that delivers benefits to both realtors and their customers.

By accessing Allconnect’s ConnectMyBuyer.com, realtors can input a client’s address and create an individualized email or flyer that lists contact information for water, waste, gas, and electric services.  It also includes a summary of the television, Internet, and phone service plans available for the specific location.  New home buyers can compare providers, plans, and rates, with no obligation to purchase.

“ConnectMyBuyer is designed with both the homeowner and the realtor in mind,” said Glenn Goad, Allconnect Chief Strategy Officer.  “The homeowner has access to information about special offers, can explore which plan is right for them, and get best-price guarantees. Realtors can provide customer service that exceeds expectations while standing out from the competition.”

ConnectMyBuyer.com is already in use at Allconnect’s real estate partners, including Harry Norman Realtors, Home123, Keller Williams Realty: The Rawls Group, RE/MAX Executives, and Prudential Palms Realty.

“Our comprehensive database is regularly updated to have the latest information from service providers. The front-end technology is easy to use. The combination gives realtors hassle-free access to a powerful personal brand enhancer,” said Allconnect’s Goad.

About Allconnect
Allconnect is the leading provider for connecting consumers with household services including satellite TV, cable TV, Internet, phone, home security systems, and natural gas and electric utilities.  The company offers a convenient, simple, and objective one-stop source for comparing options and pricing, whether consumers are transferring or establishing household services during a move or simply wanting to ensure they are on the best plan for their budget.  This service is offered at no charge, online or by phone.  Founded in 1998, Allconnect has connected over 20 million people through its partnerships with more than 30 utility companies and hundreds of service providers across the U.S.  Allconnect employs more than 500 associates and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with offices in St. George, Utah; Danville, Virginia; and Mexico.  Realtors can learn more at ConnectMyBuyer.com.  Customers can visit Allconnect.com or call a Home Services Consultant at 800-930-1940.

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Comparing television technologies doesn’t result in a ‘one-size-fits- all’ recommendation. The “best” technology depends on your priorities. When it comes to satellite and cable TV, everyone has a preference. We’ll help you compare the services.

First, find out what is available in your area. Allconnect makes it easy to compare Satellite TV vs. Cable TV providers.

Now, compare the available options based on your priorities.

Cost: Yes, the cost of different channel packages is important. But look at the total costs:

• What is the cost for equipment?
• Will you need additional equipment for each room? (This includes DVR equipment.)
• What is the cost for additional room hookups?
• Ask about special promotions and new customer discounts.
• Ask if you’ll save any money by bundling services. Cable service providers typically offer Internet services. Many satellite service providers have partnerships with companies that offer DSL Internet. (You can check local bundle options at Allconnect, too.)

Channels: While you’re looking at how much the packages cost, really look at what channels are available. Don’t make any assumptions. For example, some satellite packages do not offer local channels. Ask if they offer the new 3-D channels.

Contracts: Find out if service comes with a term contract — and ask about costs associated with the contract. Contracts often offer  discounts on equipment and installation charges because you are making a commitment to stay with them.

Picture Quality and Reliability: Satellite TV typically has better broadcast quality than cable TV, but satellite service is more likely to lose its signal during rain and snow.

Equipment: In some remote areas, you may have to choose satellite TV because cable is not available. Or you may have to choose cable TV because you do not have a good south-facing site on which to install a satellite dish. If both satellite and cable TV service  are available, you should consider the cost of equipment (including any equipment installed in rooms with televisions) and the potential location of a satellite dish.

To help compare satellite TV vs. cable TV, you can use Allconnect’s handy comparison feature which shows the following information side-by-side:  pricing, promotions, set up charges, equipment charges, standard features includes, plus optional features.

Image by aplumb via Flickr

Most children spend more time watching TV than talking to their parents. If that’s the situation in your household, then check out these five ways to use television programming to start a conversation with your kids. Timing of the conversation, using open-ended questions, developing critical viewing skills, capitalizing on awkward TV topics, and dealing with unsettling news stories are all crucial components. Read more about Using TV programming to talk to your kids.

For readers in Georgia, take note of this press release sent out today by Allconnect. The company is donating $1 to Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) for every order placed online!

ATLANTA, GEORGIA, March 9, 2010 – Customers who order or transfer their home services using Allconnect, Inc., are finding more than convenience, choice, and the best price.  Throughout 2010, Allconnect is donating $1 to Special Olympics Georgia (SOGA) for every order placed at www.allconnect.com.

The $1 donation is made when a Georgia customer orders or transfers home services, including satellite TV, cable TV, Internet, phone, home security systems, natural gas and electricity, through Allconnect’s free one-stop online resource.

This fundraising effort is in addition to Allconnect’s ongoing sponsorship of Special Olympics Georgia and volunteer efforts of employees.  Allconnect employees volunteered at the State Indoor Winter Games in January, assisting athletes at the craft tables in between athletic events.  They will also be participating at SOGA’s fundraiser, Race for Champions Annual 5K Fun Run on May 22, as well as the Duck Derby fundraiser on June 25.

“Having a donation made each time an online order is placed is an easy, free way for customers to support Special Olympics Georgia,” said Mark Miller, Allconnect CEO. “Special Olympics is one of the most respected sports organizations in the world.  It’s inspiring to watch these athletes overcome challenges and excel. We are proud to support them through donations and volunteering.”

About Allconnect
Allconnect is the leading provider for connecting consumers with household services including satellite TV, cable TV, Internet, phone, home security systems, and natural gas and electric utilities.  The company offers a convenient, simple, and objective one-stop source for comparing options and pricing, whether consumers are transferring or establishing household services during a move or simply wanting to ensure they are on the best plan for their budget.  This service is offered at no charge, online or by phone.  Founded in 1998, Allconnect has connected over 20 million people through its partnerships with more than 30 utility companies and hundreds of service providers across the U.S.  Allconnect employs more than 500 associates and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, with offices in St. George, Utah; Danville, Virginia; and Mexico.  Keep up with Special Olympics Georgia events at www.facebook.com/allconnect.