somd.com Classifieds Mapping Feature
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What does this do?

A: The mapping feature allows you to see applicable classified ads on geographical map.  So, when shopping for a new home to buy or rent, you will immediately be able to see what is available and where.  This should save a significant amount of time when shopping.  We also provide a map of yard sales.

Q: How do I use it?

A: First click on the link provided in the appropriate classifieds section.  A new window will open and after a few seconds a map of the region will load and small icons will display on the map.  Each icon represents a single advertisement.  The icon is placed on the map at a location that equates to the physical address that the advertiser indicated in his ad.  This service uses Yahoo! Maps.  If you already have experience using this, you should have little trouble using this application.


Sample Map

NAVIGATION -- Use the zoom controls on the left to zoom in and out.  We start at level 6.  The smaller the number, the more detail.  Use the panning controls around the perimeter of the map to pan.  If you click on the map (but not on an icon), it will zoom and center on that point.  The map is initially centered around Benedict, Maryland ( a good approximate geographic center of southern Maryland ).

READING THE ADS -- By placing your mouse cursor over each icon (but not clicking), the icon will change to a red asterisk and a pop-up window will display with the ad's caption and the sale price (or sale date in the case of yard sales).  If you want more information, click once on the icon and a more detailed window will appear.  In this window are also links to view the detailed ad and to get driving directions to this location.

USING SmartView (tm) -- SmartView is a Yahoo! Mapping feature that appears at the right of the page.  It lists all of the ads that are displayed in the current map view.  By placing your mouse cursor over each listing (but not clicking), a pop-up window will appear more information about that listing.  The actual location will also be high-lighted on the map via the red asterisk.  Clicking on the listing in SmartView takes you to the detailed ad on classifieds.somd.com.

Q: It does not seem that all ads are appearing on the map.

A: We can only display ads where the advertiser has specified a complete and accurate address in the property address fields.  Sorry, but this is beyond our control. Also, we only update the maps once per hour.  So, there may be up to a one hour delay after an ad is posted before it appears on the map.

Q: I have an ad in this section and it does not appear on the map.  What gives?

A: We can only display ads where you have specified a complete and accurate address in the property address fields (these are not the address fields that appear in your user profile).  Any address that can be found at http://maps.yahoo.com/ is valid for this application.  Be sure you check for typos!  Also, we only update the maps once per hour.  So, there may be up to a one hour delay after an ad is posted before it appears on the map.

Q: How do I get to the Maps?

A: There is a link to the maps in each applicable classifieds section.  You can also use the links below:

Q: I have a suggestion or problem.  How can I contact you?

A: Just click on over to http://help.somd.com/index.php?d=5&Next=Next&pf=t and write us a note.

DISCLAIMER:  The mapping service is currently being offered on an experimental basis.  We reserve the right to change or discontinue it at any time.