How do you track your REP hours? Thinking of building a tool.

Question

Hey everyone,

This is my first year seriously trying to qualify for Real Estate Professional (REP) status and I’m realizing how tedious it is to log hours. I’ve been experimenting with spreadsheets, but it already feels like a headache keeping everything organized by property, activity type, mileage, etc.

I’m curious:

• What methods are you currently using to log REP hours (if you qualify or are trying to)?
• Is it just Excel/Google Sheets, a time-tracking app, or something else?
• What’s the most annoying part of this process for you? (forgetting to log, categorizing activities, proof for audit, etc.)

What methods are you currently using to log REP hours (if you qualify or are trying to)?

Is it just Excel/Google Sheets, a time-tracking app, or something else?

What’s the most annoying part of this process for you? (forgetting to log, categorizing activities, proof for audit, etc.)

I’m even considering building a dedicated software/app that makes this easier.

Before I dive into it, I’d love to know if there's a real demand and what features would be must-have vs. nice-to-have?

Appreciate any insights. Thanks!

Greg Scott · Answer

The IRS does not require you to organize your log by property, activity type, mileage, etc.  The only requirement is that it be Material Participation and you have to record the time.  That is two fields 1) A description and 2) Amount of time.   Example:

Repaired leaky toilet at 123 Main Street. Hours include drive time:                    2.5 hours

Filled out insurance application for 123 Maple Street and discussed with broker:   1 hour

A lined sheet of paper could accomplish this.  If you want to have an electronic form, iphone's Notes or Google Sheet would do.

Dennise Ramirez · Answer

I do use an App to track all my activity, helps me with analysis at the end of the year. I think it works better than a spreadsheet (just my personal opinion)

Edgar Estrada · Answer

Hey @Maya Jones of course! I'll send you a DM.

Edgar Estrada · Answer

Hey Jihea, there's already a few tools on the market place that do this. If you'd like recommendations, happy to DM you.

You can also just use a Google sheet tracker, which I've created a template for if you'd like a copy. Just let me know.

Maya Jones · Answer

I would love a copy of your sheet and what tools are available in the market . Thanks

Jihea Moon · Answer

Ahh is it that simple? Thank you that saved my headache!

How do you track your REP hours? Thinking of building a tool.

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