Property hunters can access interactive maps pinpointing a property of interest’s exact location in a few easy steps

UK property hunters can access aerial images of an area of interest, in addition to interactive maps

Foxtons, the high-quality property provider, has deployed Multimap’s XML Portal service on both its US and UK web sites, to make property-hunting as easy, quick and pleasant as possible. Thanks to the service, US property hunters can access interactive maps of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut showing the exact location of suitable properties, with mouse-overs containing top-line information. The service also enables visitors to access step-by-step travel directions, to or from properties of interest. In addition to these invaluable services, Foxtons’ UK site offers property hunters the option to view local schools and transport links, and to access aerial photographs of interest.

Visitors to www.foxtons.com select a state and input search criteria, e.g., maximum price, number of bedrooms, and state and area or ZIP code, to access a list of the top ten most suitable properties, along with basic information on the properties delivered. Users can view a map with icons pinpointing the exact whereabouts of these properties by clicking on the ‘ Map these 10 properties’ tab. They click on an item of interest to view a mouse-over with basic property information. To access a more detailed, interactive map, they then select the ‘Full details’ link, followed by the map icon that appears above the property details. To obtain step-by-step travel directions to or from the selected property, represented by numbered icons on the map delivered and as a textual list, visitors simply click on the ‘driving route’ link, and enter the location of the start or end point of their journey. Visitors can also view a map with all the properties fitting the search criteria entered, and not just the top ten most suitable ones, by selecting the ‘Map all these properties’ tab early in the process.

Visitors to www.foxtons.co.uk access the same functionality, and they can also select to view local schools and transport links as icons on the maps delivered, in addition to an aerial photograph of the area of interest.

Leo Lapworth, senior web developer, Foxtons, commented, “We are thrilled with the addition of Multimap’s XML Portal service. It’s reliable and accurate, and our customers tell us that it makes the formidable task of property-hunting significantly easier. To be able to visualize the location of multiple properties at a glance, and to view the basic information not only about the property itself, but about the facilities located around it, is an invaluable tool for our customers. Our aim is to make their experience on the site as positive as possible, and to be an innovator in the property sector. With Multimap’s cartographic excellence, robust infrastructure and flexible services behind us, we are more than happy that we are delivering on our promises!”