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Bespoke Application Development

BlackRabbit was recently asked to develop a software package to enable a chain of Estate Agents to advertise the properties that they have for sale or rent on the Web. After consulting with the client, the needs of the web site were identified and a solution was designed to the requirements of the company.

The web site needed to:

• Allow fast and complete searches of properties for sale or rent.
• Provide property details clearly and attractively to make customers want to view.
• Be operator friendly allowing easy property entry and display.
• The customer required software ownership to eliminate subscription fees for the usual hosted property search facilities.

A technology refresh had previously been carried out throughout the company's premises to which allowed staff to access the Internet. BlackRabbit PropertyBase was then installed on the company website.

Property details and photographs are entered into PropertyBase via the simple interface along with photographs. The solution is very pictorial with the facility to display multiple photographs for each property giving purchasers a clearer expectation prior to visiting the property. Other useful information, such as floor plans, can also be included. Once the property details are entered they are available immediately for client searches.

By using PropertyBase, our client can now take full control of property advertising on their website, without the need to involve a third party. The straightforward and convenient interface enables staff to make changes efficiently. This ensures that staff are able to provide accurate data, which ultimately maintains the professional image of the company. The company’s business strategy is to be able to offer their clients more information and better access to services than their competitors. In combination with the initial investment in infrastructure, the use of the PropertyBase software is enabling them to realise that goal.

In summary, the PropertyBase application has increased productivity and is simple for both staff and clients to use. Due to the nature of the solution being very visual, purchasers now have a clearer expectation prior to viewing a property and conversion rates are improved.

Note: This fully developed and tested application is available for purchase. The software is easily customisable to individual companies and, if necessary, we can build in additional features to match individual requirements.