Starward Homes launches new homebuying
experience through Google Earth
October, 2008
ANCASTER, ON - Starward Homes, a 100 year-old new home builder, has launched a next generation new home shopping experience on its website, www.starwardhomes.com
The experience leverages Google Earth satellite imagery and topographic maps to let homebuyers virtually step into Encore in the Meadowlands, Starward's executive townhome community in Ancaster, Ontario.
Developed over three months, the multimedia experience is a North American first, utilizing Google Earth in a unique way. The website was developed through the facilities of oogleTours, a division of Brickworks Communications Inc.
Ward Campbell, Starward Homes' President, says that both research and customer feedback pointed to a need to provide customers with more information and greater flexibility in accessing information to aid buying decisions.
From 2000 to 2006, the number of people using the Internet as a main source of research for buying a new home tripled. And, research shows that they are spending nearly three months researching builders and new home sites before visiting a site or show home.
"Customers are sophisticated," Campbell said. "There are so many factors that go into a buying decision and we know that, increasingly, our customers want a complete package of information, delivered over the Internet so they can access it on their own terms."
"Our new Google Earth experience reaches far beyond what home builders have been able to offer by giving a buyer an opportunity to visit the site and surrounding area in a virtual way. There is no detail left out," he said.
"This does away with paper based amenities maps and site plans and changes marketing and sales in our industry. We have the application available in our Encore sales office and foresee an evolution that will continue to offer home buyers innovative and compelling information from which they may base a homebuying decision."
Customized imaging completed for Kitty Murray Woods development
October, 2008
ANCASTER, ON - oogleTours uses the latest computer and web-based tools to build effective and customized sales presentations for home developers and architects. It actually lets prospective homebuyers shop from their own homes!
The images were developed by oogleTours, a division of Brickworks Communications. Inc., a full-service corporate communications company with expertise in corporate positioning, marketing & advertising and web-based solutions
The images, which include a range of two-dimensional renderings and three-dimensional models, allow homebuyers to tour homes at Kitty Murray Woods through high-detail exterior and interior renderings.
They can visualize the homes to the finest detail, including fully furnished rooms and landscaping. Life-like lighting effects and detailed texturing bring the home designs to.
