Real Estate Maps and Mapping Services

Real Estate Maps and Mapping Services

They say, "a picture is worth a thousand words".  This applies to maps as well when researching real estate.  In particular, we're now seeing 'mashups' that combine local data with some of the mapping technologies below.  Some, like Google, even allow you to load your own data files and make your own personal mashup.

• Google Maps
  Google Maps is the best in our opinion. For detailed real estate maps and mapping, this one can't be beat.
• MapQuest
  Mapquest was the first mapping service, but has fallen behind Google in capabilities and accuracy.
• MSN Maps
  MSN got into the act as well with maps and mapping services. Good, but not quite there yet.
• TerraServer
  Search Aerial photo maps and Topo Maps across the US with this service. The topo map feature is quite nice.
• Windows Live Local
  Aerial photo and road mapping system that you can install on your laptop. Quite nice.
• Yahoo Maps
  Like MSN, they've got a mapping system, but it's not quite as nice.
• Globe Xplorer
  These guys have a nice library of images and maps, but isn't as easy to use or as interactive for maps and mapping as Google.

3D Earth Viewing Systems

• Google Earth
  3D Earth-viewing software - Free Download
• NASA World Wind
  Open Source 3D Earth-viewing software developed by NASA that accesses NASA JPL database. Free download.

Hazard Mapping Resources

• ESRI/FEMA Hazard Awareness
  Find flood hazard areas, recent earthquakes, (historic earthquakes, hailstorms, hurricanes, tornadoes and windstorms)
• FEMA Flood Maps - Click on Map Search
  Locate flood maps for regions and cities across the United States
• FEMA Hazard Maps
  Locate areas where hazards have occurred. e.g. hurricanes, floods, hail storms, volcanic activity
• USGS Seismic Hazard Maps
  Find seismic zones around the country.
• ABAG Interactive Liquefaction Zone Mapping - Bay Area, CA
  Use this interactive online mapping platform to search liquefaction zones in the Bay Area, CA.

Water and Other Mapping Resources

• Ground Water Atlas of the United States
  From the USGS: search aquifers, rainfall, and other relevant information. 
• National Atlas.gov
  Search national atlas for agricultural, biological, and geological resources. Also search crime, economic, energy, health, and population stats overlaid on maps.