Using Bing and Microsoft Photosynth in Real-Estate

Earlier I wrote about a new Microsoft product called Photosynth. In that article I talked about how I felt Photosynth was another option for agents to use to showcase a property. I talked about it being a new type of “Virtual Tour”. The more I learn about Photosynth, the more I like it.


Now Bing Maps has added an extra twist. Within Photosynth you can do what is called “geo-code” the location of the content. Geo-coding actually places the content, a Photosynth photo tour at a location on a map, in this case the Bing map. When you pull up Bing you will notice on the left side a “Map” option. Selecting this brings up a map that looks very similar to Google Maps. Once the map is loaded you will see another new feature in Bing on the left called “Explore the New Bing Maps” with a “try it now” hotspot.


Clicking on the “try it now” brings up a Bing with some new features turned on. You will notice the left side now features the current weather for the area you have centered on the map along with some other interesting content, such as photos, AND any Photosynths in the area. Clicking on the “Map Apps” button on the left brings up a window where you can turn on additional features. One of those features is Photosynth. Turning this feature on now places location pins on the map where a Photosynth is present. By doing a Photosynth of your listed properties you now add another marketing tool to your arsenal and get more exposure for you and your listings.



In my Photosynths, I add titles such as "Offered by Barrett Powell" or if the property was sold I leave the "synth" up (with the new owners approval) and place "Sold by Barrett Powell" along with my contact information. So all my Photosynths on Bing Maps become little stick pins of advertising for homes I have for sale and homes I have sold.


Try Microsoft Photosynth on your next listing. http://photosynth.net/.