Property service for mobiles launched


19 Jun 2007

Mobile content provider Phonovation and Sky High Networks have partnered to launch a mobile property service that allows customers receive information on properties over their phones.

The service, SMS Direct Property, enables people send a text message to secure full details of properties for sale or rent within a particular area, postal code or town in Ireland.

It is the first SMS platform of its kind in Ireland, the founders said, and is aimed at estate agents as an additional value-added sales tool.

To avail of the service, consumers text the word ‘property’ along with an area of interest and a price range (eg “property dublin15-house3bed-350000”) to the shortcode SMS number 51000 and they will receive back summary details, including pictures, of all properties for sale or rent within the requested area. Consumers can also opt to hear a verbal description of the desired property by calling 0818201021 and entering a PIN number.

Consumers can book viewing appointments using the service and can pre-register their details to receive updates on any new properties that match their criteria as they become available.

Under the service, it is also envisaged that estate agents will be provided with a small sign to attach to property signs at homes for sale or rent detailing text reference numbers for consumers to use to receive SMS details about the property.

Gavin Carpenter, director of sales at Phonovation, said SMS Direct Property has already generated significant interest among the property industry. “This service is another route to market for estate agents who want to encourage viewings for a particular property and drive sales. For consumers, the service allows them to view considerable details about specific properties through their mobile phone while on the go as well as book appointments to view the property.”

Darren Hanney, managing director, SMS Direct Property, commented: “SMS Direct Property is a first for the Irish property market and utilises the most widely used form of communication to bring buyers and sellers together: SMS. It is the next step to ensuring that people interested in buying or renting houses have complete and instant access to view all possible available properties within a specific area and according to their needs.

“The service is a valuable tool to help estate agents maximise viewing potential of a property and ultimately close a sale,” he added.

Phonovation will host the service through their dedicated SMS gateway, which is capable of handling 650,000 SMS messages per hour.

By Niall Byrne