HouseLogic - NAR Introduces New Consumer Website
The National Association of Realtors launched a new consumer focused website on November 12th, 2009. HouseLogic.com was officially announced in a special report released by NAR Board of Directors meeting held on November 16th.
As described in the report, "HouseLogic was developed by NAR to help its members extend their relationship with consumers through the lifecycle of homeownership and to provide an opportunity for homeowners and REALTORS® to speak together to federal legislators on public policy issues of common interest.
The site is a comprehensive resource for homeowners of the information they need to protect, maintain and enhance the value of their home. The site also gives members free access to various content packages from the site that they can use in their own marketing efforts, at www.houselogic.com/members."
Striking my interest, I decided to investigate further and find out for myself what this new homeowner resource was all about.
First of all, kudos to the Realtor® association for developing a consumer site that is well laid out, easy to navigate and research. After diving into the site and clicking around I quickly understood what I think to be the 2 main components of this site.
- Research - Consumers can learn how to "Improve" their homes, "Maintain" their homes, "Engage" in their community, discover new information on property "Taxes & Incentives", "Finances & Insurance", and read recent housing "News & Activity".
- Project Management - Buyers, Sellers and current Homeowners can create a member account and track progress on home improvements and community driven events. Even more important, consumers can research how to improve their homes to maximize a return when it comes time to sell.
For first time users, you may want to read the brief "How HouseLogic Works" guide in order to get familiar with how the members area & project binder works.
For agents, you may consider HouseLogic as a resource for your new homeowners and sellers. I see a benefit for agents looking to affirm the effects an upgrade or an improvement to the sales value of a seller's home. Plus, think of the time it would save in gathering contractor quotes for ballpark costs.
HouseLogic is just one step the National Association of Realtors has taken in improving their consumer relationships while adding valuable tools for Realtors® to utilize. Look for other valuable web based programs to launch by the NAR in the 1st quarter of next year.
