Last week I was talking with Neil, the Art Director for Cyberhomes, about some of the hidden gems on the Cyberhomes site.  We both fired off a few of our favorites and then it became apparent…we need to share this on the new blog! And just like that, the following list was born. I think it’s important to note that I did not add the obvious tools like home search; even though it’s reach is incredible. I was going for the hidden WOW-factor and I hope you will agree.

So here they are, 7 of my favorite hidden gems:

1. Heat Maps:  I’m sure you’ve seen the mapping we include next to home results, but have you searched the “Maps” section? It’s remarkable and will prove handy next time your buyers ask questions about neighborhood characteristics, demographics and market trends.  Use the map interface to drag and zoom around your area.  Each map includes a color coded key; use that to match against various segments of the map.

2. Comparables:  You’ve probably already investigated the “Change Home Value” feature, but sometimes you’re just looking for comparable properties. Try searching a property and then scroll down the page and look to the right-hand side for “Comparable Homes.”  In that section click “View All Comparables.” Now you can sort through the comps and select the properties you feel are most appropriate.  On the right side a matrix will display the impact of your changes on the subject property.

3. Zip Code Level Market Indicators: Search a zip code in your market area using the “Neighborhood” section. Track everything from Median Estimated Home Value to Projected Job Growth in the next 10 years.  You’ll appreciate the quick access to such prolific data. Look through bar charts, graphs and data sets.

4. Results Page Toolbar: When searching a property, neighborhood or school, look for the black toolbar above the results.  You’ll see a series of buttons starting with “Rename.”  This button will allow you to modify the name to something more specific or helpful. For example if you’ve searched one of your listings, maybe you rename the property to include the seller’s name. This modification will only be visible to you!

The “Print” button delivers a 1-page overview highlighting the current page.  If you’re on a property detail page you’ll also see a “Report” button. When selected, it will provide you with a comprehensive 17-page property report including an overview of the home, comparables and neighborhood insights.   Great for you your buyer’s package!

5. Homepage Widgets: Take a few minutes to customize your Cyberhomes homepage with the info you want to track monthly. For example visit Cyberhomes.com and click “Personalized Homepage” and then click the button titled “Neighborhood” to activate the corresponding Widget.  Now add your market area and select the type of tracking: Median Estimated Home Values, Median Sales Price and Sales Volume or Heat Maps.

6. Good Reading & Blog: If you haven’t visited the Good Reading section, you’re missing out. It starts with an amazing group of writers with backgrounds that span the Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, San Francisco Chronicle and many other trusted sources.

7. Schools:  It’s all about schools; at least that’s what most homeowners with kids say. That’s why the school section of Cyberhomes has made this list.  We’ve partnered with GreatSchools to provide our school data.  Search “Schools” and enter your zip code and even school name.  Stay up-to-date on how many students are enrolled in each grade level or student/teacher ratio at local schools. Schools ratings are based on a comparison of test results for all schools in the state.