John L. Scott launches social network

Microsoft 'cloud computing' services power JLSconnect

Inman News®

Seattle-based John L. Scott Real Estate is building on its ongoing technology partnership with Microsoft Corp. to launch a social network, JLSconnect.

Users must have a Windows Live account to log into JLSconnect, where they can see and map properties with Microsoft Virtual Earth, share saved properites with other users, and post and view comments on their own and others' favorite lists.

JLSconnect allows users to see which of their contacts are online and initiate a chat session using Windows Live.

The social network is powered by Microsoft Silverlight, which integrates several of the software developer's "cloud computing" services, including Live ID, Live Contacts, Live Presence, Live Messenger and Virtual Earth on JohnLScott.com.

John L. Scott is targeting Gen X and Gen Y agents "to begin the process of reinventing how consumers and agents can collaborate around the home-buying experience," said Sam Chenaur, platform strategy advisor for Microsoft, on his blog, "Moving the Needle." 

***

What's your opinion? Leave your comments below or send a letter to the editor.

Share with REmessenger

You must login or register to post a comment.

 
Submitted by Greg Robertson on May 29, 2009 - 3:54pm.

Great to see others understand the value of collaboration when searching for a home. Today's buyers are circumventing agents and brokers and going straight to the web. Agents and brokers need new tools to engage with them online.

Greg Robertson
W&R Studios

http://Dwellicious.com
Organize, share, and discuss the search for your next home.

 
Submitted by Janet Case on June 1, 2009 - 3:36am.

Not surprising to see J. Lennox Scott pushing the envelope for the industry once again. His vision for integrating social networking for Gen X and Gen Y real estate agents and clients is right on the money... connecting and sharing with peers is what they're all about. Real estate brokerage just took a big step forward.

Janet Case, CEO
Proxio, Inc.
Global referral network
www.proxio.com

 
Submitted by Scott Dixon on June 1, 2009 - 6:57am.

This makes tremendous sense. Coupled with an integrated advertising campaign, social media can be another very useful way to connect buyers and sellers.