It was a surprise to read the headlines about Google Maps dropping its property search this morning. The search engine giant who offered a free service to estate agents, has decided to end its service next month. Google blames its proposed retraction on low usage. Google maps is currently available in the US, Australia, New Zealand, the UK and Japan.
This news resulted in Rightmove’s shares going through the roof, to £8.18, an all-time high.
In a low-key blog, Google’s vice president Brian McClendon stated: ‘One of the key philosophies is to take risks and to experiment. To that end, in July 2009 we announced the ability to find property for sale or rent directly on Google Maps.’
There is a hint that Google might, however, return to the fray. The blog continues: ‘We’ve learned a lot … Yet we recognise that there might be better, more effective ways to help people find local real estate information than the current feature makes possible. ’
‘Real estate companies can also continue to use tools from Google to help connect with buyers and renters who use the internet to research properties. For example, companies can use the Google Maps API to embed customised maps that are useful to potential clients right on their own web pages. Our Google for real estate professionals site contains various methods for generating leads and improving real estate business operations.’
At Intercounty we have developed our very own app, to help you find your ideal home on the move, for more information and for your free download visit itunes
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