How to build a public Follow Up Boss integration: Building the Auth Flow

Hey there, fellow JavaScript enthusiasts! Ready to dive into the world of Follow Up Boss integrations? Let's roll up our sleeves and build an auth flow that'll make your users feel like VIPs at a tech conference.

The Lowdown on Follow Up Boss API

Before we jump in, let's quickly chat about the Follow Up Boss API. It's a powerful tool that lets you tap into a treasure trove of real estate CRM features. But remember, with great power comes great responsibility – and that's where our auth flow comes in.

What You'll Need

Alright, let's check our toolbelt:

• Follow Up Boss API credentials (you've got these, right?)
• Your favorite JavaScript setup (we're assuming Node.js and Express, but you do you)
• A burning desire to create something awesome

Setting the Stage

First things first, let's get our project off the ground:

mkdir fub-integration && cd fub-integration
npm init -y
npm install express axios dotenv

Create an index.js file and let's get this party started!

OAuth 2.0: The VIP Pass

Follow Up Boss uses OAuth 2.0 with the authorization code grant. Think of it as the bouncer at an exclusive club – it'll make sure only the right people get in.

Here's the flow in a nutshell:

1. We ask for permission
2. User says "yes" (hopefully)
3. We get a special code
4. We trade that code for an access token
5. Party time! (aka, make API calls)

Crafting the Perfect Invitation

Let's create that authorization URL:

const authUrl = `https://api.followupboss.com/oauth/authorize?
  client_id=${process.env.CLIENT_ID}&
  redirect_uri=${encodeURIComponent(process.env.REDIRECT_URI)}&
  response_type=code`;

app.get('/auth', (req, res) => {
  res.redirect(authUrl);
});

Rolling Out the Red Carpet

Now, let's handle that callback with style:

app.get('/callback', async (req, res) => {
  const { code } = req.query;
  
  if (!code) {
    return res.status(400).send("Looks like we didn't get the code. Try again?");
  }

  // Next, we'll exchange this code for the golden ticket...
});

Trading Up for the Golden Ticket

Time to swap that code for an access token:

const tokenResponse = await axios.post('https://api.followupboss.com/oauth/token', {
  client_id: process.env.CLIENT_ID,
  client_secret: process.env.CLIENT_SECRET,
  code,
  grant_type: 'authorization_code',
  redirect_uri: process.env.REDIRECT_URI
});

const { access_token, refresh_token } = tokenResponse.data;

// Store these tokens securely - they're your VIP pass!

Keeping the Party Going

Access tokens don't last forever. When they expire, use that refresh token to keep the good times rolling:

async function refreshAccessToken(refresh_token) {
  const response = await axios.post('https://api.followupboss.com/oauth/token', {
    client_id: process.env.CLIENT_ID,
    client_secret: process.env.CLIENT_SECRET,
    refresh_token,
    grant_type: 'refresh_token'
  });

  return response.data.access_token;
}

Guarding the VIP List

Storing tokens is serious business. Encrypt them, keep them safe, and never expose them to the client-side. Your users are trusting you with the keys to their kingdom!

When Things Go Sideways

Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Make sure you're handling errors gracefully:

try {
  // Your awesome code here
} catch (error) {
  console.error('Oops!', error);
  res.status(500).send("Something went wrong, but don't worry, we're on it!");
}

Taking It for a Spin

Before you pop the champagne, give your auth flow a thorough test. Try the happy path, throw some curveballs at it, and make sure it can handle whatever your users might throw its way.

You Did It!

And there you have it, folks! You've just built a rock-solid auth flow for your Follow Up Boss integration. Pat yourself on the back – you've earned it!

Remember, this is just the beginning. With this auth flow in place, you're now ready to start making those API calls and building something truly spectacular.

Now go forth and integrate! The real estate world is waiting for your awesome creation. Happy coding! 🚀