Finding Homes in
a Down Market

At Realtor.com, we explored how map-based search could help buyers move beyond rigid filters and discover more relevant homes. Traditional search tools relied heavily on static criteria like price, bedrooms, and bathrooms — often leading to dead ends in a low-inventory market.

Role: Design manager
Platform: Web and native app
Timeline: 3 months
Outcome: Increased map visits by 6.7x, +25% user engagement

The approach

Our hypothesis was simple: if consumers had a more visual and data-rich way to explore homes, they would conduct deeper research, discover more relevant properties, and ultimately engage more with the platform. Existing map users were already submitting leads at a higher rate, which suggested there was an opportunity to invest further in the experience.

testing expanded search

Sometimes a quick A/B test is the fastest way to validate a concept. We tested a card-based feature to see whether users would expand their search radius when search results were limited or unavailable. The experiment addressed a common pain point: searches that returned little to no inventory. While the test showed some promise, the solution ultimately felt too static and didn’t create a flexible enough experience for users.

the process

The launch quickly validated demand — but also revealed key usability challenges. Navigation patterns were difficult to discover, visualizations lacked clarity, and the system wasn’t flexible enough to support future data layers.

Working closely with research, we ran multiple rounds of testing and iteration focused on:

  • Layer controls & discoverability

  • Map navigation patterns

  • Data visualization clarity

  • Search expansion behaviors

  • Cross-platform usability

As the experience evolved, we expanded the platform with additional layers for Home Values, Property Characteristics, and Housing Market Insights.

One of the most impactful explorations focused on improving “no results” experiences. Instead of ending the search, we tested ways to intelligently guide users toward nearby areas, adjusted price ranges, and related criteria directly within the map — helping users continue exploring without starting over.

We first tested the concept publicly at the SXSW Climate Day, launching early “Environment Layers” to explore how users interacted with richer map-based data overlays. The MVP reached over 2.2M users globally, with 1,100+ attendees engaging directly with the experience.

Workflows automates personalized multichannel campaigns based on customer behavior.

the impact

The new map experience became both a meaningful usability improvement and a product differentiator.

+25% increase in users engaging with maps

7.7x higher lead submission rate

6.7x more visits per unique user

The project continued to evolve, with newer explorations focused on AI-powered personalization, richer neighborhood insights, and expanded housing market visibility.

other projects