Field Guide to Using GPS Navigation Systems in Real Estate
(Updated May 2009)
Global Positioning System (GPS) technology has progressed quickly in recent years. Comprised of a worldwide navigational system of 24 satellites that orbit the earth two times per day, GPS continuously transmits digital radio signals which contain data from the satellites' location to earth-bound receivers. The result is convenient, real-time delivery of information to your cell phone or other handheld device.
GPS technology is beneficial for REALTORS® because it can provide turn-by-turn spoken directions, access to MLS data, the ability to queue up numerous properties at once, detailed neighborhood maps, and more. This field guide contains general information about GPS, its usage in real estate, and future trends that will keep REALTORS® in the know, especially in these economic times, we need technology that can boost business and satisfy customers. (M. Glick, Senior Information Specialist)
Smarter Agent Mobile GPS
Smarter Agent mobile GPS search for real estate and homes, (YouTube Video, Oct. 24, 2006).
What is GPS? [Global Positioning System] Technology 
How GPS Works, (About.com, 2009).
GPS Tutorial, (Trimble.com, 2008).
Buyer's Guide: Maps, GPS, demographics, (REALTOR® Magazine Online, Apr. 2008).
Integrated Mapping -- The New "Killer App" for MLS, (Houston Association of REALTORS®, 2007).
How GPS Receivers Work, (HowStuffWorks.com, 2007).
Maps on the Move, (InformationWeek, Sept. 2005). Q
GPS and Real Estate
MobileCrossing new GPS for Real Estate Agents, (Mobilewhack.com, N.D.).
Don't Make Your GPS a Theft Magnet, (REALTOR® Magazine Online, May 2008).
GPS real estate searches from your cell phone, (SmarterAgent.com, May 2007).
Real estate maps can churn out Web leads, (Top Realty News, May 2006).
Mobile GPS Device Tailored to Practitioners, (REALTOR® Magazine Online, Feb. 2006).
GPS as a Tool for Real Estate Agents, (TravelbyGPS.com, 2003).
GPS Trends
GPS handset Sales Set For a Boost, (Arm.com, May. 2008).
Mio readying c720 / c320 GPS handhelds?, (Engadget.com, Feb. 2007).
Opn Hse!, (New York Magazine, Feb. 2007).
Social Networking by Cellphone; More Companies Roll Out GPS Services That Locate Your Friends -- Or Your Kids, (Wall Street Journal, Jan. 16, 2007). Q
A Phone App for Real Estate Fanatics, (Yahoo! Tech, Jan. 2007).
Pharos announces GPS phone -- no, really, that's the name, (Engadget.com, Jan. 2007).
Websites
GPS Buying Guide, (CNET, 2008).
Mobile Computing: GPS Buyers Guide, (PC World / About.com).
GPS Reviews, (GPSreviews.net, 2008).
eBooks & Other Resources
eBooks.realtor.org
The following ebooks and digital audiobooks are available to NAR members:
GPS for Dummies (Adobe eReader)
Aerial Mapping Websites (Overdrive Audiobook)
Field Guides & More
These Field Guides and other resources in the Virtual Library may also be of interest:
Field Guide to Effective Online Marketing
Field Guide to Digital Cameras and Photography
Field Guide to Choosing and Using a PDA
Using Digital Video as a Marketing Tool
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The inclusion of links on this Field Guide does not imply endorsement by the National Association of REALTORS®. NAR makes no representations about whether the content of any external sites which may be linked to this Field Guide complies with state or federal laws or regulations or with applicable NAR policies. These links are provided for your convenience only and you rely on them at your own risk.
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