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OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®



Widgets: Easy, Inexpensive Enhancements

What's one of the most cost-effective ways to enhance a Web site? In a word, widgets.

 

A widget is a packet of code describing and activating a specific feature or function. Copy and paste that code into your page and you’ve added anything from a property flyer to the latest mortgage rates to a “bookmark this page” button.

 

Most widgets are free. Providers supply them to promote or link to their site from yours. For example, consumer portals Trulia and Zillow both provide a selection of widgets for real estate sites.

 

Google Map also generates widget code you can use to add generic maps or personalized maps you've created using its MyMaps service.

 

To get some idea of the range of real estate widgets, check out Widgetbox or Housing Widgets.

        

If you decide to use any widget, preview how it impacts your page before taking it live. It may take a few seconds to copy and paste the widget code but expect an hour to rework the design so the page looks right.

 

Read more: Fluff Up Your Web Site With Widgets

 

 

Learn More: How Others are Using It  ׀  Basic Features Every Site Should Have  ׀  Add-ons for Your Site

 

 

Michael Antoniak is a journalist and technology expert with a focus on real estate applications. He also writes about real estate technology at his blog, RealTechTools, and has published an e-book on Essential Technology for Mobile Professionals. He can be contacted at antoniak@dtccom.net.