Tech Bytes: News from Collabra, CoreLogic, BoxBrownie 

Editor's note: Technology is a driving force in real estate. From startups to established players, tech companies are constantly innovating, growing and forging partnerships. Here we highlight some of the latest news about the companies that help power the industry. 

Industry icon joins Collabra Technology board

David Charron, a longtime industry leader and champion of innovation, has been appointed to the board of directors for Collabra Technology, a digital marketing and analytics company.

Charron is former CEO of MRIS, which evolved into Bright MLS, one of the nation's largest and most influential MLSs. He is also a founding member of the MLS Roundtable and a past chair of CMLS (the Council of Multiple Listing Services). Russ Cofano, Collabra president and CEO, called Charron "one of the brightest minds and most respected leaders in our industry."

Collabra, which recently announced a partnership with Bright MLS, is "laser-focused on becoming the undisputed leader in MLS-integrated digital marketing solutions for agents," Cofano said. "David's deep understanding of the MLS industry, and his stellar reputation in real estate generally, will be invaluable."

Others on the Collabra board include former Microsoft CIO Jim DuBois, investor and startup leader Tom Simpson, investment banker Patrick Ringland and Cofano.

CoreLogic unveils AR measuring tool for appraisers

Property data company CoreLogic has launched ScanToSketch, a new property measuring and sketching tool. ScanToSketch uses augmented reality and LiDAR (measurement using light waves) to allow appraisers to create a full exterior footprint of a home in minutes and adjust in real time onsite.

The new tool, which was developed using CoreLogic's a la mode appraisal software, has been embraced quickly and already has been featured in more than 12,000 appraisal reports and 20,000-plus sketches, CoreLogic said.

"From ScanToSketch to proprietary image analytics, our CoreLogic teams are always working to put new, advanced technology in the hands of our customers. This product improves speed, accuracy and access," said Devi Mateti, president, CoreLogic Find and Enterprise Digital Solutions Group.

ScanToSketch, which the company says is accurate within 1-2% of traditional measuring tools, runs on Apple Pro and Pro Max Devices and is available to use at no additional charge in the TOTAL for Mobile appraisal app.

LeadingRE adopts BoxBrownie.com

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World has added BoxBrownie.com to its Solutions Group, a collection of curated tools offered to LeadingRE's network of 550 independent firms. BoxBrownie offers image editing services that include virtual staging and renovation, floor plan redraws, and image enhancement.

"BoxBrownie.com's expertise in image editing and marketing is a game-changer for real estate professionals," said Jeff Kennedy, LeadingRE's VP of sales and partnerships.

"We're thrilled to be entering this relationship; it represents our continued commitment to providing innovative and streamlined solutions that assist industry professionals to stand out in a competitive market," said Mel Myers, BoxBrownie.com co-founder and CEO.