MyEListing | UX/UI Case Study
MyEListing is a web-based platform designed as online resource to find and post available commercial real estate for sale and for rent. The following UX/UI case study outlines the design process and improvements made to enhance the user experience.
The Problem
In the commercial real estate market, many platforms charge users to list or search for properties, limiting accessibility, especially for small businesses and independent professionals. MyEListing sought to address this issue by creating a platform that democratizes access to real estate listings, making it easier for users to connect without financial barriers. However, with this unique business model, the challenge was to design a seamless user experience that conveyed trust, efficiency, and simplicity, while ensuring users can easily find, list, and manage properties without subscription-based features.
Research and Discovery
I engaged in thorough market research to gain insights into the requirements, drivers, and actions of businesses seeking commercial real estate. We specifically targeted individuals with significant experience in leasing or purchasing commercial properties. Following the collection and analysis of qualitative data from diverse user interviews, we crafted empathy maps and persona profiles to encapsulate the collective perspectives of our target audience.
Upon identifying our primary personas (Agent and Lessor), we strategically aligned our efforts to cater to their objectives. Our hypothesis centered around two specific profiles, 'The Innovative Commercial Real Estate Broker' and the ‘Ambitious Entrepreneur’, enabling us to address their specific needs and adapt to various usage scenarios effectively.
The empathy maps and personas were referred to throughout the process to keep us grounded with a laser focus on itinerary feature enhancements.
Site Map
The sitemap for MyEListing is designed to provide users with an intuitive navigation experience, ensuring easy access to all essential features and resources. The Home section introduces users to the platform, showcasing featured properties and a prominent search bar for quick property searches. The Property Listings section allows users to filter and view properties based on various criteria, with detailed property overviews available for each listing. The List a Property section guides users through a straightforward, step-by-step process for listing their own properties, complete with helpful prompts and a preview option. Additionally, the Resources section offers valuable market insights and guides, while the About Us section presents the company’s mission and team. Users can easily reach out through the Contact Us section, which includes a contact form and customer support information. Finally, the User Account section enables registered users to manage their listings, save searches, and update account settings, fostering a personalized experience on the platform.
Design Process
The design process for MyEListing focused on simplicity, usability, and scalability. The key objectives were to reduce the cognitive load on users and eliminate any perceived barriers caused by the free-to-use model.
I began with wireframing and mapping out user flows for the two primary actions: searching for properties and listing properties. The search flow allows users to filter properties by region, price range, property type (e.g., office, industrial, retail), and size, with advanced filters for amenities, proximity to landmarks, and lease/sale options. Search results are displayed with interactive maps, a comparison feature, and detailed property overviews. The listing flow is a streamlined, step-by-step guide that prompts users to upload images, enter location data, set pricing terms, and preview their listing before publishing.
Visual Design
I crafted a modern and visually appealing interface that aligned with the branding of MyEListing, and also developed a clean and intuitive design language with a focus on readability and usability.
App Development
We developed an app that would still cater to both real estate agents as well as users browsing for commercial listings by creating 2 different profile structures. Agents have the ability to create and manage listings, and other users are able to browse, save listings, and message agents directly.
MyEListing Products
The Product Team at MyEListing continued to develop products that benefited not only commercial real estate agents, but also area vendors. For a monthly fee, area vendors such as contractors, plumbers, electricians, etc., were provided a list of real-time data on the properties and specifications that commercial real estate buyers, sellers, lessors, renters, and agents were working on in their city.