BoldTrail vs. CINC: Which Platform is Right for You?

Jim Gray, Lead Generation Expert9/25/2024

Editorial Note: We sometimes earn a small commission from partners listed. This never affects editor opinions or evaluations. More

pexels-fauxels-3183150 (1)Are you in the market for your next CRM? We’ve done extensive research on several platforms because, as you know, having the right CRM to promote efficiency is vital in helping you grow your business. Whether managing your leads, optimizing your website, or automating routine follow-up and marketing tasks, the right CRM can make all the difference. 

The big question is, how do you choose the right one? We’ve encountered two powerful platforms, and comparing them side-by-side could help you make your decision. Today, we’ll compare BoldTrail and CINC, both of which are highly rated for various reasons.

We’ll explore their features, pricing, strengths, and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision about which one may work best for you. Let’s get started!

5 Key Takeaways

  1. User Interface Matters: BoldTrail offers a more intuitive, modern, and user-friendly interface, ideal for solo agents and small teams looking for a streamlined experience to enhance their bandwidth for more clients and growth. CINC offers more features to take advantage of but could require more time to set up and get into a good workflow.
  2. AI-Driven Features Can Save Time: Both BoldTrail and CINC include AI-driven tools, which are almost essential now to help you stay ahead of your competition with automated lead nurturing and follow-up. However, note that CINC’s AI features are at an additional cost in some packages. 
  3. Website Customization and Optimization: This is an essential factor for me in decision-making, and it is truly important to take some time to determine what will help you the most. If having a customizable IDX website that automatically integrates with your MLS is vital to you, BoldTrail excels in this area. However, if your focus is on conversion optimization, CINC’s websites are designed more with lead capture and conversion in mind.
  4. Lead Generation Approach: BoldTrail focuses on lead generation tactics through automized marketing to localized target audiences with email and SMS systems in place. On the other hand, CINC offers an extensive lead generation suite, including paid ads through Google and Facebook, with a 25 million dollar annual ad spend to help rapidly build your client pipeline, making it a strong choice for agents who need high lead volumes.
  5. Consider Pricing and Value: BoldTrail offers flexible, customizable, affordable pricing that can scale with your business, making it suitable for agents with tighter budgets. However, it could be pricey for a solo agent just getting started. While more expensive, CINC offers a premium all-in-one solution with advanced features and four different packages with AI add-ons to help give options to those who can justify the cost.

Learn More

Quick Summary: BoldTrail vs. CINC

Both BoldTrail and CINC provide essential features to help you grow your leads and brand awareness through optimization. However, they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. Here’s a quick overview:

  • BoldTrail-PrimaryLogo-FullColor-LayeredBoldTrail is known for its user-friendly interface, AI-driven features, and customizable IDX websites. It’s designed to streamline your daily tasks and boost your efficiency.
  • CINC-logoCINC, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive all-in-one solution that offers lead generation, CRM, and optimized IDX websites. It’s solid in lead nurturing automation, paid ads, and team collaboration features.

Side by Side Comparison

FeatureBoldTrailCINC
User InterfaceSimple and intuitiveMore complex, with a steeper learning curve
AI-Driven FeaturesYes, for automated lead nurturing and marketing on all packagesYes, AI-driven messaging and follow-up for additional cost
Custom IDX WebsitesYes, customizable for your brand with MLS integrationsYes, optimized for lead capture and conversion, less customizable
Lead GenerationFocus on quality, hyper-local targetingSeveral marketing tools, includes paid search and social media ads
CRMExtensive, with customizable workflows to aid in lead organizationAdvanced, with team collaboration and automation to set your priorities with detailed analytics
PricingFlexible, with options to scale as your business grows, starting for solo agents is about $499Starts at $899/mo, higher for teams and different packages with options for add-ons, $200 extra for AI
Support & TrainingExcellent, with daily webinars and live eventsExtensive, includes a dedicated client service team

Diving Deeper: Features and Usability

Let’s take a closer look at some features that could impact your business growth for each platform.

User Interface

pricingOne of the first things you’ll probably notice about BoldTrail is its user-friendly interface, which can make a big difference in your ability to use it to the fullest extent. From what I can tell, the setup seems relatively intuitive, so you can get to work quickly. The platform minimizes the learning curve if your main focus oscillates between managing your CRM, updating your website, or analyzing your lead data. That’s a perk!

CINC, on the other hand, offers a more complex interface, which makes sense given its vast features and powerful marketing tools. So, while this could be a drawback when using it efficiently if the overall features are worth the time spent learning, it’s still a good option, especially for more tech-savvy agents. 

Why this matters: The user interface can significantly impact your daily workflow. If you want a system that’s easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of training, BoldTrail might be the better choice. However, if you’re willing to invest the time to learn a more complex system, CINC offers many features that could pay off in the long run. It’s really up to you which you find more important!

Learn More

AI-Driven Features

In today’s market, AI-driven features are a massive asset to real estate agents. We are always on the go, juggling multiple interactions and deals. It’s a tough business that can easily become overwhelming without the support of proper technology. 

pexels-sanketgraphy-16587314In my opinion, BoldTrail excels in this area by offering tools that help automate lead nurturing and follow-up processes, which are included in all of its packages.

CINC also offers AI-driven features, particularly in its messaging and follow-up systems. These tools are designed to keep your leads engaged and move them closer to a sale without requiring constant manual input. However, it is an add-on cost in each package.

Why this matters: Time is always of the essence in our industry; deals get made in seconds, and having a platform that can handle many of your routine tasks is a big time saver. Both BoldTrail and CINC have strong offerings in this area; the difference may be in pricing.

Custom IDX Websites

Your website is often the first point of contact with potential clients and the first established impression, so it needs to represent you and your brand in the best light possible at a glance. Both BoldTrail and CINC offer customizable IDX websites designed to capture leads and showcase your listings.

BoldTrail’s websites are highly customizable and integrate with your MLS, ensuring that your listings are always up to date for potential clients. They also include built-in SEO tools to help boost your visibility online, making it easier for leads to find YOU.

CINC’s websites are optimized for conversion, with features like lead capture forms and retargeting ads. They are also fully integrated with CINC’s CRM, making tracking and managing leads as they come in easy. I will say that it doesn’t seem that they are as customizable for your brand, but they do have a professional, clean design.

Why this matters: A well-designed website can be a powerful tool for generating leads and building your brand. BoldTrail is a strong contender if you want a website that’s easy to customize and integrates well with your existing tools. If you’re more focused on conversion optimization and lead capture, CINC’s websites might be a better fit.

Learn More

Lead Generation

pexels-fauxels-3184287Constant lead generation is at the core of your success as a real estate agent, and both BoldTrail and CINC offer multi-faceted tools to help you generate and manage your leads.

BoldTrail focuses on quality over quantity by using more targeted local systems to attract leads that are more likely to convert. This approach can help you get better results from your marketing efforts and reduce the time spent chasing unqualified leads.

CINC, on the other hand, offers an exceptional lead generation suite that includes paid search, social media ads, and proprietary technology to target different niches within your market. They also provide a unique seller suite that helps you generate more listings by leveraging home valuation and “sell your home” pages. Regarding lead generation, Cinc has the technology to expand your online reach.

Why this matters: If you’re looking for a platform that offers a broad range of lead generation options, CINC has a lot to offer. However, BoldTrail’s lead generation tools might be a better fit if you prefer a more targeted approach focusing on quality leads. Both methods drive success in growing your pipeline! 

 

Pricing and Value

BoldTrail and CINC take a different approach to pricing for, I believe, the right reasons. 

BoldTrail offers four different pricing packages with various features, but it also allows you to customize so you can scale your plan as your business grows. This makes it a great choice for agents who are just starting or who need a more affordable option. You can start with a basic plan that still includes AI features and many more, and then you can choose to upgrade as your needs change.

CINC, on the other hand, is known for being a more premium option. Their pricing starts at $899 per month for single agents, with higher rates for teams. While this can be a significant investment, CINC also offers a guaranteed return on investment for the first year, which can provide some peace of mind. (Source)

Why this matters: Pricing is always a key consideration when choosing a CRM platform. If you’re working with a limited budget, BoldTrail offers more flexibility and affordability. However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive solution and are willing to invest in premium features, CINC could be worth the cost.

Get More Pricing

Pros and Cons

Both BoldTrail and CINC have their strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a quick summary of what we’ve already gone over:

BoldTrail:

  • Pros:

    BoldTrail screengrab

    • User-Friendly Interface: Easy to navigate, with a minimal learning curve.
    • Affordable Pricing: Flexible options that allow you to scale as your business grows.
    • AI-Driven Features: Automates lead nurturing and follow-up processes.
    • Customizable IDX Websites: Designed to showcase your brand and boost your visibility.
  • Cons:
    • Limited Lead Generation Tools: These tools focus more on quality than quantity, which may not be ideal for all agents.
    • Fewer Team Collaboration Features: This may be less useful for larger teams.

CINC:

  • Pros:

    CINC screengrab

    • Comprehensive Lead Generation: Includes paid search, social media ads, and niche targeting.
    • Advanced CRM Features: Ideal for teams, with accommodating collaboration and automation tools.
    • Optimized IDX Websites: Designed for lead capture and conversion.
  • Cons:
    • Steep Learning Curve: It can take time to learn and navigate effectively.
    • Higher Pricing: It is more expensive than many competitors, which may not be ideal for solo agents or small teams.

Product Alternatives to Consider

If you’re still on the fence about BoldTrail or CINC, here are two alternative platforms that might be worth considering:

1

Best Budget Leads

A+
  • Get leads instantly
  • Integrates with dozens of technology platforms
2

Best for Solo Agents

A
  • All leads within 50 mile radius
  • Platform uses 400 million data points
3

Best for New Agents

A
  • Full contact information included
  • Comes with step-by-step resources

Who Should Use BoldTrail?

BoldTrail is an excellent option for:

  • Solo agents and small teams looking for an affordable, easy-to-use CRM.
  • Agents who prioritize targeted marketing in their lead generation efforts.
  • Those who want a customizable website that integrates seamlessly with their MLS and other tools while maintaining the integrity of your brand.

Who Should Use CINC?

CINC is best suited for:

  • Larger teams and brokers who need a comprehensive all-in-one solution.
  • Agents willing to invest in a premium platform with advanced CRM and lead generation tools at a higher price point for rapid growth.
  • Those needing a system that can handle a high volume of leads and offers automation features.

What Others Are Saying 

It’s always helpful to hear what other users say about a platform before deciding. Here are some insights from real estate agents who have used BoldTrail and CINC:

Untitled (10)Name : Brady Bridges

Title: Broker/Owner Reside Real Estate

Website: https://www.residedfw.com/about/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brady-bridges-54bb057/

CINC and BoldTrail offer services designed to support real estate agents but cater to different needs. CINC stands out with its extensive toolkit, including expert Google and Facebook lead generation, IDX websites, advanced CRM, and lead nurturing automation. It is ideal for complex businesses looking for an all-in-one solution. On the other hand, BoldTrail focuses on providing the latest real estate technology, such as AI-powered Smart CRMs, programmable IDX websites, lead generation services, hiring tools, and back-office automation, appealing to those who prioritize cutting-edge technology and innovation.

While BoldTrail is a solid choice for agents interested in utilizing new technologies, CINC’s vast features and capabilities make it preferable for real estate agents seeking a strong, all-encompassing platform to support business growth.

 

Untitled (9)Name: Sal Dimiceli, Sr.

Title: Owner/Broker Lake Geneva Area Realty

Website: https://www.lakegenevaarearealty.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sal-dimiceli-sr-5821b569/

As a mid-size real estate company owner and broker, I prefer BoldTrail over CINC, thanks to its easy-to-maneuver layout, cost, and seamless integration to multiple devices. CINC would cost $1300 per month for the team, whereas I can get the work done with BoldTrail for $500 with custom quotes. CINC works wonders regarding large data analysis, lead generation, and the ability to service a large team. However, the platform’s intricate details mean hours in training – especially for the new recruits. In contrast, BoldTrail’s user interface model self-training means our team doesn’t need hours for newbie onboarding like CINC. Apart from employee management, BackOffice made accounting easier for the entire company.

 

Untitled (11)Name: Saddat Abid

Title: Buyer & CEO at Property Saviour

Website: https://propertysaviour.co.uk/we-buy-any-house/

CINC is high-end, with a completely integrated suite of products that merge seamlessly with MLS data to provide the real-time property updates so essential to staying competitive in the market. Features related to lead nurturing are top-shelf, allowing for automated follow-up and personalization in communication, hence ensuring client engagement throughout the buying process.

Above this, the deep reporting and analytics from CINC give such insight into our marketing performance that we can further refine our strategies with real data. This is key in making informed decisions that will align with growth objectives.

In contrast, BoldTrail boasts an intuitive interface and totally seamless integration with third-party services, including email marketing software and social media sites. That makes it a powerful solution for those real estate teams that value user experience and speed of onboarding. Besides that, customer support at BoldTrail is responsive, which is a huge pro in training new people or troubleshooting problems.

 

Untitled (12)Name: Jonathan Ayala

Title: Founder of Hudson Condos

Website: https://hudsoncondos.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-julio-ayala

As a seasoned real estate agent and the founder and CEO of Hudson Condos, with over 15 years in the industry, I have firsthand experience with both CINC and BoldTrail. Both CRMs are powerful tools, but they cater to slightly different needs.

CINC stands out in lead generation and is especially useful for teams in need of advanced automation and highly flexible workflows. Its reliable lead management processes make sure no one is left behind when on large teams or agents with many leads, which Whiteboard is surely exceptional at. As opposed to this, BoldTrail has a simpler usability experience while putting emphasis on relations and communications with clients. It suits people who prefer to nurture existing rather than acquire more clients.

In case there was a need to choose a technology, I would personally go with CINC, which I find highly appropriate given its growth potential and all-purpose functionalities, which are specifically useful for Hudson Condos as our clientele keeps growing. Agents prefer less intricacy and more acquaintance; however, they will find a comfortable choice in BoldTrail.

Experts are here to help (FREE)

Speak with an industry expert agent advisor. Together we will find the best solution based on your goals and needs.

So Which Platform is Right for You?

Choosing between BoldTrail and CINC depends on your specific needs and budget, and only you can decide what is best for you. 

Ultimately, both platforms have a lot to offer, and the right choice will depend on your individual preferences and business goals. It’s best to take the time to explore each platform’s features and see which one aligns best with your needs, but I do hope that this comparative analysis provides you with some clarity along the way!

About the Author

Jim Gray got licensed in 2013 and sold 57 houses in his first year. Over the next 6 1/2 years he went on to sell 437 homes with a small team. He went on to manage the lead generation department of the 13th largest expansion team at Keller Williams and designed lead generation and conversion systems for 60 agents in 7 locations in 4 states that drove 600 home sales in a 2 year period. Jim currently does real estate team development and coaching for some of the largest real estate teams in the country.

Last Updated: 9/25/2024