The challenge was to design a property web application for homeowners and investors. The aim was to make it as user friendly as possible and aspire home buyers to finding their dream home.

My goal was to keep it simple, keep it functional and keep it aesthetically pleasing.

Purpose and Context

Real estate investment is an increasingly popular way for individuals to achieve financial security. It is an exciting and emotional experience, but often complicated. While there are plenty of blogs and agencies providing information, often, buyers new to the market may struggle to get started without professional guidance and waste time viewing properties out of their range. This web app will provide them with the expertise needed to get started efficiently.

My Role and Responsibilities

In this project the user research was already provided and I took on the role of sole UI designer. After some research I began by making user flows and sketching low fidelity wireframes, which I then placed in a prototype for testing. I then created a 12 column grid to design for different breakpoints and started adding my elements. I continually tested through the entire process. I then created moodboards for inspiration on colour, font and imagery. On illustrator I created custom icons and illustrations to give my app some personality. When all the different elements had come together I made high fidelity wireframes and a final prototype. Finally I created a comprehensive style guide and designed screens for different breakpoints.

Software and Resources

• Pen and paper
• Invision and Marvel for prototyping
• Usability hub for A/B testing
• XD and photoshop
• Illustrator for icons and illustrations
• Unsplash and Pixabay for photos
• Zepelin for asset export
• Draw.io for user flows

Who: This web app is made primarily for new, small-scale property buyers who are looking to invest for additional income or financial security. My user persona is an educated lady in her early 40’s who wants to invest in some property.

What: This will be a user-friendly, responsive web app containing a database of available residential properties and land, and comprehensive information on each listing.

Where: Buyers will use this tool at home or on the go. Users can search for properties
anywhere, as long as they’re logged in on a device.

Why: Unseasoned buyers need access to reliable, uncomplicated information about their potential property investments. Buyers get a feel for a place by viewing comprehensive information about the property and its neighborhood before spending time on-site.

Working off the user flow I began sketching out an outline of the app. Using Marvel I then inserted the low fidelity wireframes into a prototype. I engaged in prototyping and testing throughout the design process.

I then progressed onto digital format and created a responsive 12 column grid, which would allow me to design for different breakpoints.

I began adding block elements to my grid and my design started to take shape.

I began putting together images, colours, typography that I thought would suit the concept. I was thinking stylish, professional and aspirational.

I applied my images, custom made illustrations and icons as well as choosing a clean and modern font.

I compiled a comprehensive Style Guide with brand concept, design ethos and a visual guide to all my design elements. Click on the link to view it in full.