Interactive Map Interface for Real Estate Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Internet-based property listing services are cumbersome for users, particularly on mobile devices, due to the need for extensive data entry and separate pages for searching and managing favorites, leading to inefficiencies and user frustration.
Innovation Solution
An interactive graphical user interface that allows users to search real estate listings using a map-based system with zoom functions, favorites management directly on the map, and minimal input requirements, along with tools for narrowing searches and providing immediate feedback, all within a single web page.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users search for real estate listings using traditional web interfaces requiring extensive data entry, then comprehensive search capabilities are achieved, but user effort and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-loads map data and property information into the browser before the user needs to search. When the application launches, it automatically loads the map interface and available properties, so that users can immediately begin searching by clicking on the map without having to fill out any search forms or enter data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the search functionality from traditional form-based interfaces and relocates it directly onto the map interface. Users can search for properties by simply clicking on locations on the map, eliminating the need to separately enter search criteria through multiple data fields.
2Loss of information
If property search results are displayed on separate pages requiring page reloads, then detailed listing information is provided, but user experience deteriorates due to loss of search context and increased loading time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the map interface, search results, and property details into a single integrated web page. When users click on a property location on the map, the property details are displayed in an information box or overlay on the same page without requiring navigation to a separate results page or reloading the entire page.
Solution Approach 2:
The search context is maintained continuously throughout the user interaction. The map remains visible and interactive while property details are displayed, allowing users to immediately click on other locations or adjust their search without losing their place or having to re-enter search criteria.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mobile devices are used for property searching, then portability and accessibility are improved, but device limitations constrain data entry capabilities and processing power
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs data loading and processing automatically on the client side using the mobile device's browser. The map and property data are loaded into the browser's memory and processed locally, reducing the need for continuous server communication and minimizing the computational burden on the mobile device.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for searching real estate listings utilizing the Internet includes displaying, on a display device, an interactive map area on an Internet web page interactive graphical interface. The interactive map area displays satellite imagery, aerial photo imagery, or a rendered graphic street map. Then the method includes overlaying a focusing box on the interactive map area. The focusing box is movable about the interactive map area and displays a location title indicating a location of the focusing box on the interactive map area and the focusing box defines a focusing box area on the interactive map area. Then the method includes displaying a total number of real estate listings present in the focusing box area, and displaying a larger version of the focusing box area with a listing icon of each real estate listing of the total number of real estate listings, and each listing icon is displayed at a location of the real estate listing on the interactive map area.