U.S. patent application number 12/007421 was filed with the patent office on 2009-07-16 for interactive remote wireless system and method to assist in real estate transactions, and the like.
Invention is credited to Timothy Walker.
Application Number | 20090182748 12/007421 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40851560 |
Filed Date | 2009-07-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090182748 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Walker; Timothy |
July 16, 2009 |
Interactive remote wireless system and method to assist in real
estate transactions, and the like
Abstract
A system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to
multiple databases and, specifically, related to a system and
apparatus to provide remote interactive access to real estate
information related databases using a portable, voice interactive
computing device with GPS capabilities and "smart" computer
features. The system combines access to search engines configured
to retrieve real estate listings, publicly available statistics
about a specific geographic area, and retrieval of stored forms
specific to completing an offer for real estate. The device can
have several components in various combinations including a touch
sensitive screen, a keyboard, a processor, GPS circuitry, a
microphone, an audio device, wireless circuitry, cellular
circuitry, a data jack, a wireless remote, and a camera. Software
utilizing those components maximizes efficiency for a real estate
agent in the field.
Inventors: |
Walker; Timothy;
(Springdale, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DICKINSON WRIGHT PLLC
1875 Eye Street, NW, Suite 1200
WASHINGTON
DC
20006
US
|
Family ID: |
40851560 |
Appl. No.: |
12/007421 |
Filed: |
January 10, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 ; 707/999.01;
707/E17.001 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/06 20130101;
G06Q 10/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
707/10 ;
707/E17.001 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/30 20060101
G06F017/30 |
Claims
1. A system for providing remote interactive access to real estate
related databases using a portable computing device, comprising: a
portable hand-held computing device connected to a data network
containing both program code and data, a first database comprising
a search engine configured to retrieve real estate listing data
from an information database, further comprising a set of
parameters describing an individual real estate property listing; a
second database comprising a search engine configured to retrieve
publicly available statistics about a specific geographic area; a
third database comprising a search engine configured to retrieve
stored forms specific to completing an offer for real estate; and a
remote client server defining methods for accessing the real estate
information database through the database search engines.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the computing device has
components selected from the list comprising: a screen; a keyboard;
a processor; GPS circuitry; a microphone; an audio device; wireless
circuitry; cellular circuitry; a data jack; a wireless remote; and
a camera.
3. The system of claim 2, wherein the screen is touch
sensitive.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the processor allows the
collection of a digital signature.
5. The system of claim 2, wherein the GPS circuitry is integrated
into the system, the system further comprising software to
integrate GPS coordinates with selected real estate listings to
develop an efficient route of access to the real estate.
6. The system of claim 2, wherein the wireless remote can be
configured to allow access to electronic key boxes on location of
the real estate.
7. The system of claim 2, wherein the camera is integrated in a
video conference or for taking pictures of a property.
8. A method for providing remote interactive access to an
information database using a portable computing device, comprising:
methods of facilitating communication between the portable
computing device and a information database server, including
identification of the remote client accessing the server, verifying
a subscription to access said server, communicating search
parameters from said remote computing device and database server,
and retrieving the records related to said search parameters and
displaying the received records on the portable computing device.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is generally related to a system and
apparatus to provide remote interactive access to multiple
databases and, specifically, related to a system and apparatus to
provide remote interactive access to real estate information
related databases using a portable, voice interactive computing
device with GPS capabilities and "smart" computer features.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] In today's fast paced service industries, time and
efficiency are critical. Nowhere is this more evident than in the
buying and selling of real estate. In "hot" real estate markets,
the ability to get a signed offer to a seller often decides who
gets a property and, for the agent or broker, the commission.
Despite this "need for speed," it is still important for the buyer
to have a property that suits their needs and their budget.
[0003] Various types of informational processing systems are known
for acquiring and displaying information related to a specific
industry or interest, such as real estate and related goods and
services. These systems typically are server based, which have an
input/output device for receiving and transmitting data, database
files, and database storage. The compilation of information in the
databases can include demographic statistics and are known in the
art. Unfortunately, a major disadvantage of known prior art is that
the user has to be directly connected to a server, requiring a
stationary terminal such as a desktop computer. For example, it is
known that the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) database is updated
continuously. However, as a practical matter, real estate agents do
not have continuous access to the MLS, even with access to wireless
laptop computers. Consequently, real estate agents, and therefore
their clients, generally only learn about new or updated listings
during an MLS database access session conducted at the agent's
office or home.
[0004] Sealand et al (U.S. Pat. No. 6,484,176) discloses a system
and process for providing remote interactive access to a real
estate database using a portable computing device. However, this
system cannot interact with a real estate agent, clients, and
homeowners selling real estate simultaneously utilizing available
technology such as voice activation, global positioning, integrated
smart key card with camera and voice recorder, electronic signature
capability, integrated voice activated phone, pre-loaded real
estate forms and contracts, network of service professionals in a
subscriber's geographic area such as: home inspectors, termite
inspectors, insurance brokers, mortgage companies, moving and
storage companies, settlement attorneys, and the like.
[0005] There is a desire and need in service industries, and
particularly the real estate transfer industry, to optimize time
and efficiency. Thus, it is desirable to provide a single,
all-in-one real estate system, method, and apparatus that is
portable and provides a flexible solution for remotely accessing
real estate related databases in an interactive fashion and in
communication with all parties involved with a real estate
transaction.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Accordingly, the present invention is generally related to a
system and apparatus to provide remote interactive access to
multiple databases and, specifically, related to a system and
apparatus to provide remote interactive access to real estate
information related databases using a portable, voice interactive
computing device with GPS capabilities and "smart" computer
features.
[0007] Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention,
the system provides remote interactive access to real estate
related databases using a portable computing device, a portable
hand-held computing device connected to a data network containing
both program code and data, a first database comprising a search
engine configured to retrieve real estate listing data from an
information database further comprising a set of parameters
describing an individual real estate property listing, a second
database comprising a search engine configured to retrieve publicly
available statistics about a specific geographic area, a third
database comprising a search engine configured to retrieve stored
forms specific to completing an offer for real estate, and a remote
client server defining methods for accessing the real estate
information database through the database search engines.
[0008] The device can have several components in various
combinations including a screen. a keyboard, a processor, GPS
circuitry, a microphone, an audio device, wireless circuitry,
cellular circuitry, a data jack, a wireless remote, and a camera.
The screen can be touch sensitive, allowing collection of digital
signatures. The GPS circuitry can allow integration with software
to integrate GPS coordinates with selected real estate listings to
develop an efficient route of access to the real estate. The
wireless remote can be configured to allow access to electronic key
boxes at the location of the real estate, and the camera can be
integrated in a video conference or for taking pictures of a
property.
[0009] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will
become apparent from the following detailed description, the
drawings, and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0010] The foregoing features, as well as other features, will
become apparent with reference to the description and figures
below, in which like numerals represent like elements, and in
which:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic of information flow in accordance with
one embodiment of the present invention; and
[0012] FIG. 2 is diagram of a portable remote interactive device in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention is generally related to a system and
apparatus to provide remote interactive access to multiple
databases and, specifically, related to a system and apparatus to
provide remote interactive access to real estate information
related databases using a portable, voice interactive computing
device with GPS capabilities, "smart" computer features, integrated
smart key card with camera and voice recorder, electronic signature
capability, integrated voice activated phone, pre-loaded real
estate forms and contracts, network for appointments of service
professionals to include home inspectors, termite inspectors,
insurance brokers, mortgage companies, moving and storage
companies, settlement attorneys, and the like. This system and
remote interactive methods are not limited to the real estate
industry, but can be used in a wide range of service and industrial
sectors including, but not limited to, investment groups, property
management companies, government regulatory agencies, and the
like.
[0014] General aspects of the present invention portable system in
various combinations can include: access to databases related to an
industry, such as the real estate industry; access can be by a
wireless portable interactive computing device which may be
responsive to voice activated commands.
[0015] A calendar/planner to which a user can download
appointments, and the system automatically remind the user of
scheduled appointments and/or set reminders.
[0016] Allows real time automatic database updates and notification
in the field of any updates to databases (such as when a property
scheduled to be visited has a change in status that would render a
visit unproductive, such as being put under contract or pulled off
the market).
[0017] Notification to a user en route to a property whether a key
from lock box is in use.
[0018] Ability to communicate with real estate professionals,
lending institutions, and related industries to allow prompt
scheduling of appointments with home inspectors, termite
inspectors, insurance brokers, settlement attorneys, moving and
storage companies, remodeling and renovations contractors (e.g.,
landscaping, irrigation, electrical, plumbing, roofing and siding,
HVAC, window and doors, flooring, painting, drywall, appliances,
home improvement, carpenters (framing and finish carpentry such as
molding, trim, and cabinet insulation), brick and masonry,
insulation, water proofing, locksmith, fireplace and chimney,
professional cleaners, interior designers, furniture stores, home
entertainment, interior and exterior lighting specialists,
security, and the like).
[0019] Built in camera combined with a digital audio recorder.
[0020] Built in key card (universal smart card) to access real
estate electronic lock boxes to view property and/or access
information from the built-in camera and voice recorder for later
review.
[0021] Allow for the authentication of documents through electronic
signatures via built-in electronic pen, allowing real-time
execution of contracts and or other documents while showing
properties of interest to respective clients.
[0022] Access to banking needs and transactions through financial
information, mortgage products, interest rates, mortgage
applications, lender approval letter, and current financial trends
in real time.
[0023] A GPS receiver for receiving spread spectrum GPS satellite
signals from a variety of satellites.
[0024] GPS lat/long coordinate mapping software to assist in
cutting time and effort in planning and viewing properties by
enabling a user to enter, in no particular order or sequence, a
listing of properties to be viewed and, based on the start and
finish location of the agent/client and the geographic location of
the properties, the system will automatically determine the most
efficient route.
[0025] Wireless telephone capability that, combined with hands-free
voice activation and/or secure communication technology, allows a
real estate professional to handle cell calls, providing tremendous
safety benefits while on the road.
[0026] The system may contain an annual financial profiler or
tracker that can allow a subscriber to keep daily, weekly, monthly,
and yearly account of income earned through commissions and the
like, along with any and all expenses incurred during those same
time periods. This can allow the subscriber to stay on track with
their set financial goals, while simultaneously maintaining
extremely accurate records that the independent contractor or self
employed individual can efficiently print and provide or email to
their respective tax preparer. Thus, the system can become the
subscriber's personal bookkeeper as well.
[0027] The system can also contain an optional program specific for
brokers that would enable them to access information of selected
salespersons or realtors into their database of associates to also
track and access selected production criteria on demand.
[0028] In use, the various features can be used, for example, to
take photographs of a property visited, which can be emailed from
the database system to a client, download data into electronic
contracts, schedule appointments for viewing property, all of which
can be supplemented with cellular calls via the same unit. The
system can also be configured to automatically notify of or inquire
into new, updated real estate listings or changes in the real
estate search criteria. Databases could be accessed to obtain
neighborhood crime data, local school statistics, public
transportation, restaurants, parks, medical services, or other
neighborhood information that can be correlated with the GPS
coordinates or through specified regions by the user.
[0029] There are two principal sets of components needed to
practice the present invention: a real estate informational
database system (FIG. 1) and the portable interactive remote device
(FIG. 2).
[0030] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1 is an information flow
diagram for a system for providing a portable interactive remote
wireless system for access to real estate related information
databases in accordance with a first embodiment of the present
invention. This system can use a portable interactive remote
device, generally indicated at 50 (shown more specifically in FIG.
2), as the system access point for a user, plus various other types
of servers.
[0031] The real estate information system will have access through
device 50 to real estate multiple listing searchable databases
operatively coupled to a database supplying banking needs,
electronic legal document templates, insurance quotes, and the
like. As illustrated, the system, by voice activated commands 20,
can access the MLS database (indicated at 22) for a set of listing
records that each contain a set of characteristics describing the
real estate property listing. There are ten potential classes of
properties: single family residential, common interest development,
multi-residential, mobile homes, residential lots and lands,
commercial lots and lands, commercial/industrial, business
opportunity, commercial rental, and residential rental. Within each
class, a listing record can include various sets of
characteristics, including characteristics pertaining to interior,
exterior, additional information, and remarks. Within each of these
sets of characteristics, further criteria can be specified, such as
for an interior, type, style, bedrooms, bathrooms, and so on. The
database can be searched by specifying these individual
characteristics.
[0032] As further described below, database servers can include a
random access memory (RAM) into which is loaded and executed a
search engine capability which can be accessed from the portable
device. The search engine interfaces to databases for the storage,
retrieval, and searching of listing records stored within the
database also includes periodical updates. The search engine can
calculate properties of interest defined by a number of criteria,
such as square footage, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, school
districts, by subdivisions, and the like. In addition, the database
server includes serial ports and an electronic banking access.
Banking capabilities can be used to verify reserves of monetary
funds in a defined account, qualification for a price range for a
real estate transaction, or transfer of funds into an earnest
banking account.
[0033] To illustrate the benefits of the present invention, a
potential use of the device having many of the described features
could be as follows.
[0034] A user (here, a real estate professional) conducts a due
diligence with a potential buyer on the type of property they wish
to purchase (e.g., the number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms,
square footage, neighborhood preferences, school districts, style
of property, and the like). The user can enter this data as a
client profile into the system using voice 20, keyboard, touch
sensitive screen, and the like. The system can then immediately
search the MLS 22 for properties that match these specifications.
Additionally, the system can arrange to periodically check the MLS
for new properties that meet the buyer's profile in order to
automatically update and report the new properties to the user.
Neighborhood statistics 24 can also be obtained.
[0035] Once the user obtains these properties, they can be
forwarded to the buyer to view. The system can then schedule
appointments to see properties that are desired by the buyer. The
system can call the contact for the property for scheduling. If
multiple properties are scheduled, the optional GPS 26 can set a
logical route with step-by-step instructions to direct the user to
each of the properties. The routes can be based on automatically
mapping the most efficient order and route for viewing based on
starting point and distance from each property.
[0036] When each property is reached, a remote wireless device 28
can trigger the local electronic lock box having the key to open
the lock box. This can be automatic as well by synching
automatically with the electronic lock box, allowing the user
access to the property. This will be a significant improvement over
the present process of accessing keys for properties by electronic
lock box. Thus, the system with a built in key card, upon arriving
at a property, will automatically release the key via
infrared/wireless connection, thus eliminating the need for the
user to physically manipulate the lock box at the property's door,
with all the other things a user would typically be carrying in
this situation.
[0037] During and after showing a property, the user can take notes
and photos of the buyer's and user's comments using the system's
dischargeable key card. The system can record voice notes so these
do not have to be written down. The device may be configured to
record oral voice notes through a very slim and light palm-held
dischargeable key card which can very easily be carried by the
user, separate and apart from the device. Similarly, the device or
its key card may be used to take photographs of the site. All data
recorded apart from the device can be synched later, when the key
card is returned to the device. This feature can help tremendously
because some buyers want users to show them properties several
times before making a decision to purchase because they forget what
the property looks like and what they liked about the property. The
system will thus drastically reduce the number of repeat showings,
which in turn saves the user time and money to do what they are
supposed to be doing: conducting efficient business.
[0038] At some point, the buyer may want to write an offer on a
property. Typically, a purchaser or their agent would need to go
back to their office to prepare, copy, sign, and distribute this
document, losing precious time. Other documents, such as a lender
letter, copy of a check for earnest money deposit, seller's
disclosure statement, lead-based paint, etc., are also needed. The
system of the present invention will alleviate this step by
allowing a user to immediately access their banking needs 30 and
contract forms 32 by clicking on the particular property already
downloaded in the system. The system has the ability to
automatically download data into a contract and assemble previously
scanned copies of all the related documents. The user need only
input offer price, special conditions, earnest money deposit, etc.
The system allows for digital signatures 34 and e-faxing or other
means of sending the offer 36 to the cooperating agent and or
seller. This can be accomplished within minutes of a buyer making
this decision, including scanning or taking a photo of the deposit
check. Alternatively, the buyer may have the ability to wire money
through the system to the seller's agent.
[0039] The user can then use the system to call the seller's agent
to inform them that a contract has been sent. The system can
alternatively send an automatic digital notification to the
subscribing listing agent that a contract was sent and who the
seller's agent needs to contact for questions, concerns, ratified
contracts, or counter-offers. The system can have the buyer's
agent's cell phone linked to it and, with a simple voice activated
command, will instruct the system to contact the listing agent,
alerting that agent of the sent contract. The system next waits for
a response 38, which can be promptly and automatically forwarded to
the buyer upon receipt.
[0040] Additional features of the system can also facilitate prompt
referrals and scheduling of events needed to complete the
transaction, such as inspections, loan applications, attorney
review, insurance coverage, settlement company, and the like. The
system may have subscribers or preferred vendors of these services
which the system can automatically select and set appointments with
the appropriate inspector. The system can notify the user and/or
buyer when appointments have been scheduled and send confirmation
emails to client and inspector.
[0041] The system can also assist the user in the role of the
seller's agent. The system can prepare reports of recent real
estate activity And trends, analysis of appropriate listing price,
closing cost predictions, and the like. Again, the system can
prepare and execute all the necessary documents to list a
property.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, a portable device to illustrate one
embodiment of the present invention is shown generally at 50.
Device 50 can have a screen 52, optionally touch sensitive, a
keyboard 54, a processor 56, GPS circuitry (not shown, but well
known in the art), a microphone 58, an audio device such as a
speaker 60, wireless circuitry and cellular circuitry (not shown,
but again well known in the art), a wireless remote 62, and a
camera 64. Where screen 52 is touch sensitive, digital signatures
are possible. This would be useful for embodiments that utilize a
bank of forms that require signatures of the buyer, seller, or
other real estate professionals. The GPS circuitry can be useful
for a variety of applications where location of device 50 can be
used to facilitate a user. Wireless remote 62 can be used to allow
access to electronic key boxes on location of the real estate.
Camera 64 can be used for video conferencing or for taking pictures
of a property. The device further contains a headphone/microphone
jack 66 and a jack 67 that accepts a data memory media for
additional data storage, such as a secured digital (SD) card and
the like. As described above, microphone 58 can be used to
interface voice commands or for use as a cellular telephone.
[0043] Typically, device 50 should be highly portable and designed
for handheld use. Finally, device 50 could be incorporated as part
of the new generation of cellular telephones, known as Smart Phones
and similar devices, which integrate the functionality of a PDA
with the features of a cellular telephone and wireless local area
network (WLAN) computer communication capabilities.
[0044] The present invention, in a digital format, can be realized
as methods or systems in hardware, software, or a combination of
hardware and software of a computer system, including a computer
network system which may include the Internet. The present
invention can be realized in a centralized fashion in one computer
system or in a distributed fashion where different elements are
spread across several computer systems. Any kind of computer system
or other apparatus adapted for carrying out the methods described
herein is suited. A typical combination of hardware and software
may include a general purpose computer system with a computer
program that, when being loaded and executed, controls the computer
system such that it carries out the systems and methods described
herein. The present invention may also be voluntarily embedded in a
computer program product (or any computer usable medium having
computer readable program code embodied therein) which comprises
all the features enabling the implementation of the methods and
systems described herein and which, when loaded in a computer
system, is able to carry out these systems and methods.
[0045] Computer program or computer program product, in the present
context, means any expression, in any language, code, or notation,
of a set of instructions intended to cause a system having an
information processing capability to perform a particular function,
either directly or after either or both of the following: (a)
conversion to another language, code, or notation; and (b)
reproduction in a different material or electronic form. In
addition, this system may include a subscription. The subscription
service could be an individual, a group of persons, or an
organization to which a user has subscribed and provided sufficient
information to enable the subscription to send program information
to the subscriber and/or directly to the system. The subscription
service may be associated with a user fee or a subscription
rate.
[0046] While the invention has been described in conjunction with
specific embodiments, it is evident that many alternatives,
modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in
the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, the
present invention attempts to embrace all such alternatives,
modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope
of the appended claims.
* * * * *