Overview

ParcelPlot is an innovative software product that allows large amounts of MLS data to be displayed on a Google map at a high speed. This distinction makes ParcelPlot much different than other, more simplistic Google mapping interfaces. ParcelPlot does not require that latitude and longitude information be included in the MLS data because it geocodes the addresses for properties with unknown coordinates. The geographic coordinates for each property are found and entered into the database along with the MLS data independent of the MLS system. This pre-population of geocoding data ensures high-speed information retrieval.

Map Controls

ParcelPlot works fast and efficiently at all zoom levels of Google maps. At lower zoom levels, properties near each other are grouped as one dot. As potential clients zoom in, more and more details appear. As the user reaches a zoom level where streets appear on the map, each property is individually displayed on the map. As with regular Google-maps, potential clients can choose Map, Satellite, and Hybrid views, as well as use click-and-drag panning. In order to allow the user to easily jump from neighborhood to neighborhood without changing zoom levels, ParcelPlot includes a "Jump to:" feature that allows the user to select a neighborhood from a drop-down list and change the map to display that neighborhood. Each night updated MLS data is loaded into the system so the most up-to-date information is always displayed.

Searching for Properties

Since the entire MLS dataset that comes over IDX is loaded and prepared for mapping, the searching interface is extremely customizable. Property type, Bedrooms, bathrooms, price range, square footage, condition, and parking are standard with ParcelPlot, depending on the availability of data for the local MLS, but additional search fields can be added separately.

Property Overview

When a client clicks on a property marker on the map, information about that property appears in a small pop-up area and includes a link to click for further information about the property and pictures of it, if available.

Displaying Property Details

When a client clicks on the link to show details about the property, a new windows opens that shows all of the available pictures associated with that property in the MLS and displays more detailed information about the property. Any information that is in the MLS and is included in IDX can be displayed on this page, and ParcelPlot is pre-configured with a selection of commonly-requested information about properties. Contact information for the brokerage is displayed on this page so a customer can easily schedule a tour or contact the brokerage for more information about the property of interest.