Geographic Information Systems (GIS) And Real Estate Practice: Estate Surveying And Valuation Firms' Perspective

Abstract

This study investigates the awareness, utilisation, and impact of Geographic Information Systems in the real estate services offered by estate surveying and valuation firms in Akure, Nigeria. The purpose is to bridge the gap between GIS awareness and practical implementation among real estate professionals, providing valuable insights for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers. The study focuses on Akure, the capital city of Ondo State, employing census sampling to obtain data from 26 estate surveying and valuation firms. We used a structured questionnaire to gather information on the awareness of GIS, its utilisation in service provision, and the perceived impact on overall service quality. Frequency distribution, weighted mean score, and Spearman's rank correlation were employed to analyse the data. Findings reveal a remarkable awareness of GIS among estate surveyors and valuers, but a significant gap exists between understanding and practical implementation. While respondents demonstrated a positive correlation between GIS and estate services, the actual utilisation of GIS in practice was lower than anticipated. Specific areas, like real estate marketing, showed higher GIS integration than property management and land use charge administration. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by shedding light on GIS utilisation in the real estate sector in Akure, Nigeria. The study emphasises the need for increased awareness, training programmes, and collaborative initiatives to enhance the practical integration of GIS in real estate services. The findings hold significance for industry practitioners, policymakers, and researchers aiming to promote the effective use of GIS in the dynamic landscape of estate surveying and valuation.