Ok, let me put in a little disclaimer here. I'm not saying to not look at all at real estate sites, it's just that most real estate sites are terribly designed or They are just using a template so they look and work the same as everyone else. You have your exceptions out there - Corcoran (although it could use a redesign), Real Living , Etc (ahem...Neutrino sites)
But in general, the best designed sites are the car, fashion & consumer sites. And on top of that you are more likely to find things that reflect your own personal style.
If you are looking to redesign your website here is a little list of things that might be helpful.
1. Create a bookmark folder in your browser that is labled "Ideas to use on my website". Then whenever you come across a cool feature or nicly designed navigation bookmark it. You can come back to this list later and have a nice list to brainstorm from.
2. Think about the sites that inspire you. These are most likely sites that you wish yours could be like. You can use these sites to help you (or your designer) to determine the "look and feel" of your site.
3. Think about sites that you actually use or like using. These sites will help you with the functionality of your site. Do you love the way Amazon.com suggests other products you might like? Well that functionality can be translated to a real estate website. Imagine your site saying "If you like that property you might also enjoy these!)
This is not meant to be a end all on how to design a good site but just a little exercise to help get you pointed in the right direction. You would be surprised at how many things can be translated into the world of real estate it's just that most people (and web designers) are used to just following the crowd. Hopefully you can find your own path - Wonton
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