REW Custom IDX

[Ryan Ward]

I just went live last night! So, I would love to hear any thoughts on how I can get users to inquire about listings, make it more functional and just an overall review of usability. I have been looking at it a lot lately and could use some fresh eyes looking at it.

Thanks,

Ryan

www.ryanwardrealestate.com/search-mls.php

[Malok]

Looks clean, and easy to use.



The only VERY MINOR constructive input I can provide is:

1. When you do a search - and then click on your internet browser BACK - it doesn't save what your previous search was, so you end up having to reselect everything even if you only wanted to make 1 change (the towns, etc).


2. When I selected the MAP option - part of the map didn't load in the bottom right hand corner. (I'm using Firefox)
It said "I'm sorry, we don't have maps at this zoom level in this region" or some such.

It really looks nice. Great work.

[pcdoc]

e.g.,

http://www.ryanwardrealestate.com/id...2/details.html

personally, I like a prominent display that makes it easy for the prospective customer to contact your office; local and toll free phone numbers, clickable email, and a simple contact form.

[Matt Scoggins]

I would move "Built After" up on the same line as "Built Before". Other than that is looks good!

[Aaron]

I'd loose the navigation and slideshow on that map search page.

http://www.ryanwardrealestate.com/idx/map/

Listing results pages look a bit jammed together in Firefox. maybe a line to separate them.

[webmaster]

I have LOTS of suggestions But lets start with a few simple ones.

#1 - I would remove the slide show and featured listings from the ENTIRE IDX framework - once your users are searching for homes, you have made enough of an impression with your pretty pictures and slide show - now let's concentrate on providing them access to available inventory as high up on the fold as possible. They are in search mode - let your cool listings application sell them on your website from here on in.

#2 - Forced registration on viewing details page - I know there is lots of debate and a great thread in AWG - I am for it, and would like to see you at least try it.

#3 - cleaning up the layout a bit more of the search page - I thought we were going with the tabbed search page, perhaps your designer didn't get the memo - it's just want cleaner

I LOVE your suggestion (If it was yours) to limit the areas so there aren't a ton, and then allow people to type on in if it isn't in the list. That is a great idea (Especially when you only mainly focus on a few areas, yet your IDX covers way more.

That is all for now - I will have more after my 11 AM meeting

[webmaster]

Also your listings display is a significant improvement on the IDX vs your featured listings which is quote old - I would ask your designer to implement the IDX listings and details template for your featured listings manager - that way it is consistent, and that section could use an upgrade

[Ryan Ward]

Thanks to everyone..I have emailed my updates to my programmer, Matt. He has done a helluva job and I think deserves some kudos...

Thanks Matt!

[Discover Davis Homes]

Ryan, my IDX feed is in the later stages of development but hasn't gone live yet. http://www.dev49.rewdev.com/search.php
I have been debating (with myself) to add an email to a friend feature. I would think that some people might email the listing to themselves rather than print or save to favorites.

I did put the registration on my site. I am going to try to entice people via showing more photos and virtual tour (if available). One change I'm planning on making is adding the number of photos available vs. just more photos.

Another addition that I made was to put my name, phone number and web address at the bottom of the listing so if someone prints it out, they have the contact information on the print out. As it is set up now, there is nothing really to brand the printed page to you.

[keenjosh]

I LOVE your suggestion (If it was yours) to limit the areas so there aren't a ton, and then allow people to type on in if it isn't in the list. That is a great idea (Especially when you only mainly focus on a few areas, yet your IDX covers way more.

I agree - that is a great idea. Our MLS covers such a significant area it is sometimes difficult to create unique ways of searching that don't overwhelm the user. You've done a great job in that regard and have even given me a couple ideas for my own site