Homemaker - headless data management system
CHALLENGE
Listing properties using the Homemaker system was time consuming and reliant on manual processes, it became evident that automating could significantly boost efficiency. An upgrade to the existing system was necessary in order to optimise functionality and streamline operations, addressing the need for a more efficient and modern approach.
SOLUTION
A strategic decision was made to rebuild the Homemaker system to the highest technological standards in order to accommodate evolving demands. A React app was developed, which operates in a fully-decoupled manner, leveraging Drupal 10 as its foundation.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Homemaker system is a powerful data handling platform which delivers high end functionality, automating tasks for realtors and facilitating the creation of legally binding PDF documents and property sales contracts. Properties can be automatically listed across multiple platforms, streamlining operational workflows whilst providing full editorial control.
Homemaker system
Homemaker is the sophisticated real estate data management system powering Miklaborg, a prominent real estate agency in Iceland. The Homemaker system serves as a property listing powerhouse, streamlining the process of adding new properties to the Miklaborg website and other property listing platforms, whilst documenting crucial background information, property contracts and offers.
Through seamless integration, property listings effortlessly transition from the Homemaker system to the Miklaborg website. This automation significantly reduces the workload for real estate agents, ensuring a more efficient and streamlined process.
Tailored headless data management system with Drupal and React
The original Homemaker system was first developed by 1xINTERNET in 2013. Whilst it performed well the rapid advancements in technology meant an upgrade was needed to optimise and improve functionality.
Recognising that the process of listing properties for the real estate agents was time consuming and often reliant on manual processes, it became evident that automating could significantly boost efficiency. A strategic decision was made to rebuild the system in Drupal 10, with a headless React frontend to enable enhanced flexibility and scalability.
The headless solution was built with React offering advanced functionality whilst leveraging the power of a solid Drupal foundation. Drupal manages permissions and user access, seamlessly communicating with the React frontend, integrating with the Icelandic Property Registry, external newspaper sites where properties are listed and Certificate API to handle property certificates with the Icelandic government.
In addition to modernising the systems infrastructure, the client sought to offer the system users high end functionality. Significantly, the Homemaker system now enables the direct generation of legally valid PDF documents and property sales contracts from data within the system, complete with electronic signatures. The system also stores all email communications and documents relating to properties.
Properties can be automatically listed on multiple platforms while empowering realtors with full editorial control, streamlining their operational workflows. The entire transition of a property is facilitated through the Homemaker system; from estimation, to advertising, to selling.
Robust system and advanced functionalities
Drupal migration
The old system based in Drupal 7 was migrated to Drupal 10. The data model was simplified in the backend for a more elegant and robust structure.
Headless solution
The headless configuration enables the React frontend to function independently from the Drupal backend, enabling functionality for system users with a solid base to manage vast data sets.
Search index Solr
All properties are indexed using Solr enabling fast and efficient searches through the large volumes of property data.
1xHOSTING
Hosting with 1xINTERNET ensures a dependable service, comprehensive support, and advanced data security measures.
"We have been working successfully with 1xINTERNET for more than 10 years..."
"We have been working successfully with 1xINTERNET for more than 10 years now. The system they have developed with us has elevated customer service significantly, simplified our work processes and increased efficiency."
Jason Guðmundsson, Owner and Founder
Automated workflows and streamlined data management
Manual processes relating to property registration are automated for greater efficiency saving time for realtors and optimising workloads. Documents and contracts relating to properties can be created, modified, stored and signed within the Homemaker system.
Electronic document signing
The system was integrated with Dokobit, facilitating electronic document signing. This integration allows for smooth communication with the API: users provide data, which is then sent to the API, and subsequently, the user receives the signed document. Notably, these digitally signed contracts hold legal validity.
PDF creation
The system simplifies the creation of essential documents needed during the property sales process, like contracts and agreements by allowing users to generate property-specific PDFs directly from data stored within Drupal. This streamlined process ensures swift access to property details, optimizing paperwork management.
Listing to multiple platforms
This feature facilitates listing properties on various platforms by utilising platform APIs, allowing users to publish, advertise, and specify destinations for each listing with full editorial control. It offers seamless management for properties, enabling updates, data additions, and the synchronisation of listings across platforms in a single click.
Highly scalable and secure open-source solution
The initial version of the Homemaker solution was based on Drupal and met the client's expectations.The Miklaborg website, integrated with Homemaker, also operates on Drupal; it was logical to build both solutions using the same platform. Drupal offers the highest standards of security which is an important aspect for Homemaker which handles sensitive client data, legal documents and contracts.
Other projects
Miklaborg
Eldum Rétt - complex e-commerce system
