Mapping technology is revolutionalizing the way we find things these days. If you haven't used Mapquest yet to find driving directions you are behind the times.
Interactive maps are bringing us more and more user friendly information. The City of Beaumont has plans to have GIS maps of Beaumont online by early 2009 that will identify the zoning of all parcels of property located in Beaumont. I've seen a preview. Its going to be a great resource.
In the bigger cities across the country the newest technology is bringing home searches to life on interactive maps. Click link for an example from Coldwell Banker in Portland.
Want to look in a certain neighborhood? Want to look on a certain street? The technology is now out there. Google Maps and Yahoo! Maps and Microsoft Virtual Earth are the premier interactive mapping services that are breaking new ground.
The map shown above demonstrates the way a new search could be conducted. The area shown is Beaumont westend from Thomas Road west toward Dowlen but stopping about Howell. The red numbered squares represent homes that are for sale. In the interactive version you can scroll your mouse over the number and a photo with information about the home will be displayed on your screen.
Its amazing technology. You will never look for a home the same way again once you experience this interactive mapping.
Want to know a secret?
The mapping technology will be added to the blog soon! We are doing some beta testing now. Soon blog readers will be able to search the MLS for homes on an interactive map. Its going to be the first site in Southeast Texas that has the technology available. Stay tuned.
How you search for your next home will be changing soon.