Apartment Finder has introduced a mobile site that connects advertisers with apartment seekers and extends their reach when consumers are actively engaged in the search process.

The mobile site lets consumers instantly search and find their ideal apartment. Consumers can search by ZIP code or nearby properties based on current location.

"The proliferation of smartphones has expanded the ways that consumers are searching for information when they are on the move," said Dan McCarthy, CEO of Network Communications.

"The latest research shows, more than one half of smartphone users says that they prefer conducting Web searches on their phone to using their computer," he said. 

"Apartment Finder provides a comprehensive searchable database of apartments for rent through its Web site, and the development of the mobile site is designed to make access to these listings quick and easy for the apartment shopper on the move."

Network Communications is the parent company that publishes Apartment Finder. 

Apartment seekers

Consumers can use the advanced search filters to narrow down by price, distances, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, pets allowed and other amenities. 

Additionally, the mobile site features one-click links to display an apartment on the map. 

Consumers can view additional details, email the property, get directions or call the number displayed on the screen.   

"The primary marketing strategy to consumers is extending our search engine optimization and content marketing strategy in order to appear prominently in the search results for mobile browsers, particularly in terms of long-tail search terms, which generate the most qualified apartment shoppers," Mr. McCarthy said.

Mobile search

Consumers can also store a history of recent searches and contact communities to inquire about apartments. 

The company also rolled out an iPhone app last year. 

"Expanding our mobile offerings gives us the opportunity to significantly grow our market," Mr. McCarthy said. "Currently, fewer than 15 percent of visits to our site are through mobile browsers.

"Overall, our strategy at Apartment Finder is to expand access to our listings and connect apartment shoppers to our customers across the Google Web, the Social Web and the Mobile Web," he said. "The launch of the mobile site is a key element of that strategy."