For years real estate listings have been displayed both online and offline in tables and lists. This is a great way to view that type of data if you know what you are looking for and where you are looking. Unfortunately all people don't process information the same way. I happen to do better visually. When getting ready to show properties, I have always had a hard time looking a list of homes and knowing exactly where they were. On the other hand, my wife, a Realtor as well has no problem browsing a list of homes and charting her course. This is why I was so excited when Google and Microsoft released their mapping API's and we were able to use them in the online real estate world. Mapping is the natural evolution of property search, it adds a visual dimension to the task. The addition of satellite imagery also allows users to get a much better feel for what a neighborhood is like, they can drill right down to the lot detail level. We have created a new mapping tool that uses Microsoft's virtual earth in conjunction with our MLS data to create a search tool that I personally think is first rate. We chose Microsoft's "Virtual Earth" as our mapping platform because of the direction they are heading with new features like "Birdseye View" and other ground level view options currently in development. SpringsHomes.com map search example: We are constantly looking for ways to improve our users experience by improving the quality of the content we provide. The next step for us is to add the locations of fixed amenities to the maps as they relate to the position of our listing data. In other words, how far is the nearest grocery store? The hospital? etc…Additionally, we are working on a system for our sellers to add their particular points of interest. For example, stuff that was important or valuable to the seller while they were living in the home. Mapping and satellite imagery create opportunities for Realtors to tell a more complete story about a neighborhood and more specifically our listings within that neighborhood. We are really excited about the possibilities this technology creates. Check our site often for changes.
