The new year is here, and brokers are already buzzing about all the new Web sites, widgets and other technological gadgets that they expect to use in 2007. If you are looking to upgrade your web site in 2007, here are a few sites and tips that really raise the bar. Some concepts to keep in mind. Both Google and Microsoft both offer premier mapping solutions and these are open platforms for development people. Therefore, all of the newer "cool" sites are incorporating some type of mapping platform.
Now, put yourself outside the box of being a Real Estate broker. Most people do NOT know every county, zip code, street or city for that matter when they are looking for properties. In fact, we as brokers do not know the basic search details for areas outside of what we are familiar with. However, everyone knows how to use a map. You could know little to nothing about any area in the world and become very educated by using a real estate search site that is Map enabled. So in 2007 the number one rule is mapping. If you are not MAP based for property search on your site...forget it. Consumers will use the new generation of WEB 2.0 map based search sites and you will be left behind.
Here is a great example of quality, easy to use, MAP based search product. I will point out a few features that I think make it very useful. http://www.shackprices.com/
1. Note how they've done a nice job tying the listings to the map.
2. The price range and home spec averages for the area "within a map" Is very cool. This could help educate people about what they can expect to find in an area.
3. "Suggested Shacks" is a great concept. Providing relevant related listings that will keep people on the site longer and increase the value to consumers. And they'll spend less time on competitor's sites.
4. The use of Flickr and 43folders for area photos and information. Using 3rd party data sources like this is smart.
5. Using a business blog to communicate changes is smart too.
6. Note that when you use the site you DO NOT HAVE TO SCROLL to see all property information. Compare this to the navigation nightmare on most other Real Estate sites
Here are a few other examples of cool WEB 2.0 Map based Real Estate Search sites.
www.Shackyack.com ShackYack is very Cool Google Maps Multi-feed IDX search site
www.RedFin.com Redfin is a custom map based real estate search platform
www.JohnLScott.com John L. Scott is a multi-feed IDX Microsoft Virtual Earth platform
In 2007, you might want to think about moving ahead with a MAP based interface for your consumers to use. I think that anything short of that, will be nothing more than an electronic business card on line! There's no doubt that 2007 will bring some very, very cool Real Estate Map Search sites.
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