Property maps for Australian real estate agents

Choose the map around the conversation

Begin with the question your client needs answered. A map showing recent sales serves a different purpose from a map introducing the surrounding area. Keep that purpose clear in the title and in the information you include.

• Recent sales: show the locations of selected sold properties alongside the records you want to discuss.
• Nearby amenities: show where selected parks, shops or transport stops sit in relation to a property.
• Local orientation: use recognisable streets and landmarks to help someone understand the area.

Keep the map and the supporting records connected

Use short, consistent labels so a person can match a map marker to the corresponding address or record. If a map accompanies a property list, use the same numbering in both. Keep the full record available when there is more detail than will fit clearly on the map.

Check the address and marker position before sharing. Where several properties are close together, spread the labels or show a closer view rather than covering the points with text. A location marker should be easy to identify without guessing which record it belongs to.

Make dates, sources and scope easy to find

Label the period covered by the records and identify the source used. A map showing a selected set of properties should make that selection clear; readers should not have to assume it contains every property or every sale in the area.

For an amenities map, name the places included and check that the information is current. A point on a map shows location. Any additional claim about travel time, service availability or eligibility needs its own supporting information.

Review it at the size your client will see

Check labels, colour contrast and the legend at the actual presentation or print size. Use colour consistently and combine it with labels or symbols, so the meaning is still clear when colours are difficult to distinguish.

Before a meeting, open the final version and check the property list against the map one last time. Give the document a clear title and date so it can still be understood when it is viewed later without your explanation.