NAR released their 2008 numbers in the report Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. I have been getting this report for a few years and have kept track of how some of the statistics have changed.
One set of numbers that is intriiguing is what today's buyers wants to see when they are looking for properties. Of course the ubiquitous photo - thats is the fodder for many of post, but maps and the need for them went up. For a while maps were for directions, but now with GPS that need is going away. It seems now that consumers need more of the neighborhood information if they are not familiar with the area.
Google Maps can be personalized by creating your own annotated maps. Then share them with clients, family and friends.There is a directory of interactive content that you can add to Google Maps. Go to their website to learn more. How can this work for real estate?
Create a map with listings for showings, or properties for a CMA. Add place marks, shapes, photos descriptions and videos on the map. Use line tools to draw paths from one property to the other. Use the street view so they can see the actual house. You can make the map private and only those with the URL can view it. And don't forget Google earth. You can fly anywhere on earth and view images, maps, terrain, and buildings. Save the tour and share with others.Enjoy photo-realistic buildings, Swoop Navigation, Light and Shadow and Street View.
So, how do you build a map in seconds? Identify locations of schools, recreations, etc for online visitors. In Google Docs, open an excel spreadsheet.
Insert a Gadget called Google Maps
Select the range of data from the excel spreadsheet to populate the addresses of the map.
Publish the map to its own web page or to a blog. Start connecting with prospective buyers with your knowledge of the area with the help of Google maps.
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