Abstract:
Virtual Real Estate Office is to Real Estate and home loans what the assembly line is to automobiles. This patent improves an existing process.” [i.e.] Henry Ford invented a streamlined automobile assembly line to improve an existing process. This process was the assembling of automobiles. 
     The Virtual Real Estate Office is designed to streamline the assembling of Real Estate and mortgage processes and transactions. 
     The “VRO” is an on-line version of an actual Real Estate and or mortgage office, where Real Estate Agents and loan officers can interact with each other and or their clients, potential clients and all vendors services used to perform the completion of a compliant Real Estate and or mortgage transaction. 
     These vendors include but are not limited to the following; escrow, title, appraisal, termite, companies as well as credit reporting agencies, office staff, loan processors, etc.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of Provisional 60/927,695 filed May 3, 2007 the entire contents of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    This invention relates to improvements, systems and infrastructures with the interfacing of all functions of real estate &amp; mortgage brokerages, real estate professionals, and the consumer. Said systems serve as a “Virtual Real Estate Office” enhancing the administration, interaction and information exchange with the broker, affiliated real estate professionals and consumers. 
         [0003]    More particularly, the present partially working model known as the “VRO” or “Virtual Real Estate Office” in which will enact as an intellectual hub that will be utilized on both a front and back end system using Intra/Internet functions as a conduit to connect and retrieve vital relevant business information on demand as needed. 
         [0004]    The VRO will serve as the master panel connecting various specified sub panel modules Known as the “VOM” “Virtual Office Manager”, the “VTC” “Virtual Transaction Coordinator”, “VEO” Virtual Escrow Office” “VLM” “Virtual Loan Manager” and “VTO” “Virtual Title Office” and the “VI” Virtual Interview which will be utilized as a recruiting function and as a video/DVD technology based introduction of the benefits the company offers to real estate professionals. 
         [0005]    The Virtual Real Estate Office will support other utility functions know as “Hubs” to aid in the facilitation of real estate, mortgage, and escrow transaction, marketing, training, and networking with other affiliated real estate professionals. Such utilities are known as Transaction, Marketing, Training and Networking hubs. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0006]    Many functions of the “VRO” are created by intellectual design and should be considered intellectual property such as web sites, Intranet/Internet search boxes, link exchanges, management, functions, messaging boards, instant messaging, inventory activity and status hosted on pre-designated servers. In addition, portions of the sub panels will employ other purchased licensed systems used to serve as compliant functions as well as convenience and simplification. Another problem with operating a real estate office is the overhead of the office space that must be sufficiently sized to support the sales and management staff. 
         [0007]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,968,513 issued Nov. 22, 2005 to Walter A Rinebold et al., discloses an on-line localized business referral system and revenue generation system. This system allow for a connection of customers with business in the area but does not provide for a connection of home sellers with realtors, lending institutions and other services needed by a home purchaser. 
         [0008]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,430,542 issued Aug. 6, 2002 to William J. Moran discloses a computer implemented program for financial planning and advice system. This system provides budgeting and planning advice for a person to determine how to plan their financing. One form of financial advice includes home or realty. While this program aids a person in handling their finances it does not aid in home finding or financing. 
         [0009]    Published U.S. Patent Application 2002/0052814 that was published May 2, 2002 to Robert M. Ketterer discloses a Virtual real estate brokerage system. This system deals with the basic transaction of buying or selling realty but does not include recruiting for sales people, home inspection, home repair or the large number of services that a home owner might need to prepare their home for a sale or to repair a home that they purchased. 
         [0010]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,594,633 issued Jul. 15, 2003 to Vincent S. Broerman discloses a real estate computer network that connects buyers, broker, sellers and financial institutions. This system is similar to the multiple listing services (MLS) that is used by most realtors but does not include recruiting for sales people, home inspection, home repair or the large number of services that a home owner might need to prepare their home for a sale or to repair a home that they purchased. 
         [0011]    U.S. Pat. No. 7,152,037 issued Dec. 19, 2006 to Jeffrey C. Smith discloses a system, method and computer program product for facilitating real estate transactions. This patent specifically addresses the real estate transaction and does not address the additional functions that are outside of the direct buying and selling of property. These additional functions include home inspections, repairs and employee recruiting/hiring. 
         [0012]    The “VRO” should be known as the core component and gateway connecting all functions of daily operations of a fully compliant real estate and mortgage office combined, including but not limited to the affiliated real estate professional and consumer, but as in a virtual status accessible anywhere an Internet connection is available. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    It is an object of the virtual real estate office to provide administration and full service of the real estate and mortgage office offering professionals the ability to service consumer requests, access required documents/disclosures. 
         [0014]    It is another object of the virtual real estate office to provide enhancement of access of desired business related information and documents on demand to simplify daily tasks in the most compliant form. 
         [0015]    It is another object of the virtual real estate office to provide access to a consumer that contains relevant and vital information performed by the real estate professional regarding the desired information and proposed services in which they provide. 
         [0016]    It is another object of the virtual real estate office to provide a connection with mortgage professionals to access and exchange relevant, or any information in which may enhance knowledge, compliance, and improved customer service. 
         [0017]    It is still another object of the virtual real estate office to provide access to mortgage professionals, brokers, escrow, and title services and to management as well as interfaced interaction with consumers at any time, anywhere as long as an Internet connection is supported. 
         [0018]    Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, along with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like components. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0019]      FIG. 1  shows the virtual administrator office panel. 
           [0020]      FIG. 2  shows an interconnection diagram of the components of the virtual real estate office. 
           [0021]      FIG. 3  shows the virtual mangers office panel. 
           [0022]      FIG. 4  shows the virtual research office panel. 
           [0023]      FIG. 5  shows the virtual escrow office panel. 
           [0024]      FIG. 6  shows the virtual marketing department panel. 
           [0025]      FIG. 7  shows the virtual networking panel. 
           [0026]      FIG. 8  shows the virtual loan officer panel. 
           [0027]      FIG. 9  shows the virtual training room panel. 
           [0028]      FIG. 10  shows the virtual transaction coordinator panel. 
           [0029]      FIG. 11  shows the virtual title office panel. 
           [0030]      FIG. 12  shows the virtual agent conference room. 
           [0031]      FIG. 13  shows a home page panel for an agent that is registered with the virtual real estate office. 
           [0032]      FIG. 14  shows a virtual conference room panel. 
           [0033]      FIG. 15  shows a flow chart for a typical mortgage process. 
           [0034]      FIG. 16  shows a typical real estate listing page. 
           [0035]      FIG. 17  shows a typical escrow process for a real estate transaction. 
           [0036]      FIG. 18  shows a relationship of various features on the virtual real estate office. 
           [0037]      FIG. 19  shows a flow chart of the saving viewing and retrieval of documents within the virtual realty office. 
           [0038]      FIG. 20  shows three different types of users of the virtual realty office and the access that is available for each user. 
           [0039]      FIG. 21  shows a table of access authorization for users of the virtual real estate office. 
           [0040]      FIG. 22  shows a sample integration of the VTO in one contemplated embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0041]      FIG. 1  shows the virtual administrator office panel  180 . This panel will serve as an online office manager. Within this Reception Area, Consumers may directly access a variety of features that are each delivered in the Conference Room; Division Realty staff and Hybrid Agents precede directly to the appropriate my desk configuration, based on a successful login and associated user attributes. The top of this panel provides quick access to various modules of the virtual real estate office. Some or all of these options may not be visible or available based upon the access privileges of a user. The access links along the top of the page include but are not limited to a virtual office manager (VOM)  110 . The virtual office manager  110  is where agents and others may interface with the broker. A link to a virtual escrow office  110  (VEO) is shown where agents, brokers, and others may interface with the escrow officer. The virtual office administrator (VOA)  180  is shown where agents, brokers, and others may interface with the appraiser. The virtual loan manager (VLM)  120  is shown where agents, brokers, and others may interface with the loan manager. The virtual title officer (VTO)  150  is shown where agents, brokers, and others may interface with the title officer. The virtual appraisal officer (VAO)  200  is shown where agents, brokers, and others may interface with the appraisal officer. The virtual networking panel (VNP)  220  provides a central place to select vendors and contractors. The virtual interview (VI)  230  provides a conduit for potential employees to submit resume&#39;s and have an interview. 
         [0042]    In the virtual interview a candidate can view open jobs that are available and can apply for specific jobs, or can upload a resume into the system for listed jobs or to have the resume on file for future openings. The candidate can be presented with a series of questions based upon the position to explain their qualifications in a virtual environment where the system operates like a person conducting an interview to filter candidates. It is contemplated that the virtual interview includes provisions for recording and saving voice and visual records from the interview. A blank recruiting form is available for a candidate to enter particulars such as but not limited to name, date, education, work experience and salary. Within the interview, training and recruiting of candidates is performed. The training includes videos of the procedures and steps used to process a real estate transaction within the virtual realty office. The forums  240  provides where agents, clients, brokers and other may exchange information. If the user has not completed the required virtual realty office orientation, they may be blocked from using this feature. The hubs  250  provides access to various research, training, services and marketing hubs 
         [0043]    The left side of this panel provides an image that is a quick visual reference that is associated with the services for the panel. In this figure the image is a person at a front desk that provides the appearance of what a client might see when they enter a realty office. The right center portion of the screen allows a person to enter a question in the same manner that a person may ask a receptionist a question in the physical world. Artificial intelligence may be incorporated to determine the question being asked and provide an appropriate response. It is also contemplated that voice recognition or speech syntheses can be used to perform the communication as if talking to a physical person. If a question is entered into the box  40  and the search button  41  is selected the virtual realty office will search for one or more responses. If a person wants to go directly to a physical person they can select the contact administrator  42  to go directly to a physical person or an automated response. 
         [0044]    Along the bottom edge of the panel an additional number of links are available. These links include, but are not limited to. A filing cabinet  260  where client records are stored. A search tool  270  that allows a person to perform more advanced searches. Stores record, and data as well as the ability to store or save the files a person is currently working with  280 . Security and virus scanning and protection to ensure the data being stored are secure. Research information  300  allows access to a library of public domain information, files and records. Voice mail, email and similar means of communication  310 . Other panels have similar links and the unique information that is associated with each panel will be described in more detail herein. 
         [0045]      FIG. 2  shows an interconnection diagram of the components of the virtual realty office. The VRO mail access panel  100  is the initial starting panel that a user views when the user enters the web site. The BD2 &amp; DB2-9  60  represents the database that is being used for the virtual realty office  100 . Multi-language conversion software  61  converts and exchange information or data between users that communicate in different languages. In the preferred embodiment the default language is English, but it is contemplated that use&#39;s with different languages can communicate through the language converter  61  using their native language. Within the web site a user can sign up  52  using the virtual recruiting interview  190 . Once a user signs up  52  they will receive a welcome package  51  that will authorize them to receive an orientation  50  for on line or a mailed package of orientation information. 
         [0046]    Artificial intelligence (AI)  70  is used to correct minimal errors and aid users that are unfamiliar with the web site. The software includes a Web sphere technology with distribution rights (CORE)  71  that protects the software from copying and illegal distribution. The entire website and software operates within a dedicated Linux server  72 . While the preferred embodiment is disclosed with a Linux server  72  other servers are contemplated that will provide equivalent operation. Redundant back-up servers  73  and  74  are shown to ensure safe operation of the Virtual Realty Office. 
         [0047]    Once a user is logged into and authorized to use the virtual realty office they have access to the virtual title office (VTO)  150 , virtual escrow (VEO)  140 , virtual title office (VTO)  130 , virtual loan manager (VLM)  120  and virtual office manager (VOM)  110 . These virtual managers, offices and panels  110 ,  120 ,  130 ,  140  and  150  are described in more detail with their respective panels. It is contemplated that when a user rolls the mouse or cursor over these access options  90  the system will show a thumbnail of the panel and or provides an audio byte of the panel. The panels allow contact management application &amp; storage with a pass code  111 . In addition to access to the panels the user has access to information hubs  80  that include but are not limited to translation  81 , training  82  and marketing  83 . More detail of the hubs is described with the respective hubs herein. 
         [0048]    An instant messaging system  91  provides saving and retrieving of messages such as voice mail, email, text  92 , picture mail and video. The messaging allows a user to leave a message for one person, a group of people or all of the users. A series of task bar application are available to the user including but not limited to a virtual loan processor, a virtual appraisal officer and a virtual networking panel  160 . These task bar application are shown and described with their respective application herein. The task bar applications  160  link to an agent form (AF)  170 . Under most conditions the user can exchange information and ask questions to a virtual office administrator (VOA)  180 . Agent service  93  and tech support  94  are available to users to request support and exchange information. 
         [0049]      FIG. 3  shows the virtual mangers office panel  110 . The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. The virtual manager&#39;s office provides access to a number of functions and data that a manager may use. The broker works from a tailored my desk area; however, other brokerage staff needs to interface with the broker and receive their work products. The virtual office manager area is where agents and others may interface with the Broker. It is contemplated that a user can open drawers and view files by moving the cursor over the item and clicking to open or view the contents. The manager profile  320  may include all data fields and elements provided by their VRO level (Gold, Silver, and Bronze) or may be performed by either the broker or the overall VRO administrator. The picture of the manager on the wall can be changed to match the person&#39;s office. Office update  330  allows a manager to update their company&#39;s service and contact information, including a link to their company&#39;s web site. Legal update  340  allows a manager to view and update links to legal document. Agent business plan  350  allows a manager to view track and make changes to their business plan as well as the business plans of others and the brokerage. A special announcement  360  allows a manager to view, add, change and update any special announcements regarding listings or the realty office. Real estate reference books  370  that provide an on line reference to these books. Real estate news  380  that provides an on line link to current and historical real estate news. The Lock box update  390  allows a manager to view, change and update the lock boxes one their properties. The Code of ethics  400  provides an on line link to this resource that many additionally include local information. The National Association of realtors  410  is an on line link to the national association where a user can view information regarding themselves and other listed agents. The Local association board  420  provides an on line link to local realty boards where an agent can view information that is tailored to their local area. The commission advancements  430  allow a manager to view any and all advancements on commission for themselves and agents they manage. In the description the word manager and agent is user interchangeably, while most of the formation is common between managers and agent&#39;s different levels of authority are contemplated to limit access to agents while granting access to managers that have one or more agents working for them. 
         [0050]      FIG. 4  shows the virtual research office panel  111 . The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. The research office provides access to on line books, documents, regulations, maps and other information. These links include but are not limited to quick comps  440  that allows a realtor to find similar listings and realty that has been sold. Title company  445  to research and prepare title documents. County court records  450 , county assessors office  455 , California law  460 , Secretary of state  465 , U.S. consumer gateway  470 , department of corporations  475 , realtor selection statistics  480  mapping  485 , regulatory laws  500 , real estate &amp; sub division law  501 , regulations of the commissioner  502 , financial code excerpts  503 , check license status  504  of realtors and contractors, DRE home  505 , Respa  506 , Information Respa  507 , U.S. Code Title 12  508  and to link to a help desk  509  to receive advice and additional information. 
         [0051]      FIG. 5  shows the virtual escrow office panel  141 . The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. This panel will serve as an online escrow office. The mid section may contain an area to submit any related coordinating related question that may be entered into the search box for Intranet/Internet search and retrieval. The option to email or instant message the escrow officer is available if and when necessary. This panel; may contain the escrow officer profile with photo. The option remains to order escrow services and or contact the escrow officer if the subject matter is not satisfactory, available, or comprehendible. 
         [0052]    From this escrow office panel options are available to an escrow officer that includes but is not limited to office update  510 , escrow updates  511 , statement of information  512 , notary services  513 , open an escrow  514 , types of deeds  515 , types of vesting  516 , payoff demands  517 , order NHD  520 , order home warranty  521 , order termite  522 , order HOA documents  523 , estimate HUD-1  524 , schedule recordings  525 , help desk  509  and contact escrow officer  527 . 
         [0053]      FIG. 6  shows the virtual marketing department panel  112  provides a central access point for marketing services and information. The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to order signs  530 , order business cards  531 , Web site vendors  532 , print advertisements  533 , printing services  534 , printing specials  535 , company stationary  536 , postcard &amp; flyer templates  537 , Canvassing services  538 , Email marketing  539 , company apparel  540 , help desk  509 , marketing hub  542 . 
         [0054]      FIG. 7  shows the virtual networking panel  210 . The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. This panel will serve as an online networking center to emulate an online office environment and experience. In addition, included will be an area for combined office residential listing inventory. The mid section may contain an area to submit various messages with designated message boards. In addition navigation link that will connect to most commonly used communication and information links. In addition an area for instant messaging offering direct communication with anybody who is logged onto the system. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to contractors  550 , inspectors/inspections  551 , home warranty services  552 , termite services  553 , home and property insurance  554 , general services  555 , and links to standard and custom forms  560  for the offered services. 
         [0055]      FIG. 8  shows the virtual loan officer panel. The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. This panel will serve as an online loan office manager. The mid section may contain an area to submit any related real estate and or mortgage related question that may be entered into a search box for Intranet/Internet search and retrieval. The panel may optionally include loan office manager profile with photo. An option remains to set an appointment with the loan office manager if the subject matter is not satisfactory, available, or comprehendible. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to the manager profile  570 , loan processor  571 , a pre-qualification form  572 , authorization assistant  573 , advantage credit  574 , mortgage guidelines  575 , A paper rates  576 , alternate A rates  577 , mortgage package  578 , mortgage minutes  579 , contact a loan manager  580  and the help desk  509 . 
         [0056]      FIG. 9  shows the virtual training room  82  panel. The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. This panel will serve as an online training center containing real estate and mortgage training at all levels. The mid section may contain an area to submit any related question that may be entered into the search box for Intranet/Internet search and retrieval of necessary related available training. This section will encompass contracts, disclosures, step by step on line training, dialogue aids and scripts, professional development, as well as other training modules. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to dialogue aid &amp; scripts  590 , real estate forms training  591 , the listing transaction steps  592 , sales transaction steps  593 , company disclosures  594 , car winforms  595 , mortgage training  596 , company forms  597  and step by step training for various company processes  598 . 
         [0057]      FIG. 10  shows the virtual transaction coordinator  130  panel. The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. A picture of the transaction coordinator may be shown on the wall and can be changed to match the person&#39;s office. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to the coordinator profile  610 , submitting VTC requests  611 , quick reference guide  612 , users manual  613 , schedule training  614 , self coordinating options  615 , help desk  509 , and for a user to contact the coordinator  617 . 
         [0058]      FIG. 11  shows the virtual title office  150  panel. The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. This panel will serve as an online Virtual Title Office. This panel has links that will provide, open order requests, property information, document requests, messenger services, legal, and typical title related topics/news. The mid section may contain an area to submit any related title and or real estate related question that may be entered into the search box for Intranet/Internet search and retrieval. The option to email or instant message the loan manager is available if and when necessary. This panel may optionally show the title officer&#39;s profile with photo. The option remains to contact the title officer or representative if the subject matter is not satisfactory, available, or comprehendible. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to order a property profile  620 , order a farm package  621 , recent recordings  622 , nod list  623 , open a title order  624 , to profile  625 , title search  626 , customer service  627 , messenger request  628 , document request  629 , Rep profile  630  and manager profile  631 . 
         [0059]      FIG. 12  shows the virtual agent conference room  113 . The selectable options along the top and the bottom of this panel are described in more detail with  FIG. 1  and with their respective links herein. The agent conference room  113  is a meeting room where multiple parties can meet at a pre-determined time to exchange information. Facilitates a real-time meeting. May include consumers, hybrid agents, division management, auditors, etc. Each participant is given a chair with an indication of which they are (photo, avatar, etc). Typed comments appear on the projection screen. If desired, an electronic/printable transcript of the conference will be available to each participant (typed comments only) at the end of the meeting. A calendar scheduling system provides information about scheduling a physical conference room available to the brokerage, with a calendar of previously scheduled dates/times. 
         [0060]    It is also contemplated that the agent conference room  113  can be used as a Blog to exchange information, or add to an existing string of comments. This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to scheduling a meeting  640 , interactive online meeting  641 , conference room calendar  642  and presentation tools  643 . In one contemplated embodiment the chairs can be populated with virtual people that may have a live or saved facial image of each person at the table. 
         [0061]      FIG. 13  shows a home page panel for an agent that is registered with the virtual real estate office. It is contemplated that the background, foreground, colors or images on this page can be altered to designate the level of authority within the virtual realty office or the amount of sales dollars achieved by the agent. It is contemplated that levels designated as silver, bronze and gold can be used. In the embodiment shown the home  656  is shown as gold to designate the level of sales for this agent. A picture of the agent  665  and the contact phone number  666  is shown in this panel to identify the agent along with the first  650  and last  651  name of the agent  653  and the title or status of the agent. While only and agent title is shown here title for all users of the virtual realty office are contemplated. The broker profile text  658  is shown on this screen to identify the training, skill, and type of sales this person deals with. A premiere listing of one or more houses  659  is shown on this page. The panel also shows the realty agency  672  the agent is working for. Quick links to the agents premiere listing  650 , finding a home  652 , selling a home  654 , finding a lender  655  and to contact the agent  657  are available on this panel. The right side of this panel provides links the a service directory  667  where a user can access buying tools  668 , selling tools  669 , market news  670  and the agents web site  671 . Along the bottom of this panel a user has links for information about the agent and the agency  660 , the agent&#39;s profile  661  the broker  662 , contacting the agent  663  and recent news  664 . While a particular arrangement of this panel is shown with images and links other arrangements of the components are contemplated that provide similar functions. 
         [0062]      FIG. 14  shows a virtual conference room panel  114 . This panel gives access to the following links including but not limited to an agent directory  680 , key personnel  681 , an agent interview  682 , home tour presentation  683 , experience  684 , presentation  685 , division financial  686 , divine escrow services  687 , a calendar  688 , request for a meeting  689 , market evaluation  690 , handbooks  691 , current listings  692 , more information  693 , open houses  694  and home tours  695 . The calendar scheduling system provides information about scheduling a physical conference room available to the brokerage, with a calendar of previously scheduled dates/times. 
         [0063]      FIG. 15  shows a flow chart for a typical mortgage process. The process starts  700  when a client fills out the mortgage pre-qualification form  701 . A decision is made if a credit check must be performed  702  If a credit check is required then a credit check is run  704  to determine if the person has good or bad credit to purchase the home. If a credit check is not run then the process ends  705 . The results of the credit check  707  are evaluated. If the credit is not good they may decide to try again  703  or place the client in a ticker  706  to run the credit check at a future time. 
         [0064]    If the credit is good then the client will fill out a complete mortgage package  708  and submit  710  the package for review of the mortgage package  709 . If the package is complete and ready to submit  711  then it will be passed for a credit decision  712 . If the package is not complete then it will be returned back to be filled out  708 . The credit decision can and usually goes through a series of credit decisions  713 ,  714  and  715  where a decision is made to proceed with the mortgage  716  or to end the process  705 . If a decision is made to proceed with the mortgage then escrow is opened  717 . 
         [0065]      FIG. 16  shows a typical real estate listing page  800 . The listing shows a picture of the property with the listing agents name and the particulars about the property that would be found in a MLS including but not limited to age of construction (years), asking price ($), building size (square feet), location (State, City, Street, School District, Zip code), lot size (acres), the number of bedrooms and bathrooms. 
         [0066]      FIG. 17  shows a typical escrow process for a real estate transaction. A typical escrow continues from the process shown and described in  FIG. 15  herein. Escrow starts  810  when an escrow form is filled out  811 . At the opening of escrow, escrow instructions are issued  812  and a preliminary title report is ordered  813 . The title report is prepared  814  and a full package is submitted to a loan processor  815 . An appraisal is ordered with documents and information  816 . The property is appraised  819  and information is supplied  817 . The information and the appraisal is joined into a compiled package  818  where it is checked to determine if it is ready to send to the lender  821 . If the pack age is not ready for the lender then it is returned. If the package is ready then the package is submitted and a request for loan documents is requested  822 . Loan documents are prepared  823  and added to the escrow package  824 . The process then ends  825 . 
         [0067]      FIG. 18  shows a relationship of various features on the virtual real estate office. Upon an initial URL hit  830  a user has the option to skip the introduction  831  or view the introductory video  829 . They will go though a pre-login  832  where they will login  833  and enter their RA  834  to enter the reception area  835 . From the reception area  835  the user selects a RA feature  837 . If the system detects an exit request  836  then the system will exit the virtual realty office  848 . 
         [0068]    A set of symbols are shown in this figure that shows where users with different status are authorized. Common virtual realty office (VRO) features are available to known users only  860 , and all virtual realty office (VRO) users  863 . Local virtual realty features are available to known users only  861  and all virtual realty office users  864 . Virtual realty office (VRO) areas or states are available to virtual realty office interior  862  and exterior  865 . 
         [0069]    The feature that are available include but are not limited to frequently asked questions (FAQ)  838 , log out of the virtual realty office (VRO), the brokerage directory  839 , going to my desk  844 , brokerage listings  840 , go to the research office (RO)  845 , brokerage open houses  841  got to the training room (TR)  846 , virtual realty office (VRO) site map  842  and go to the CR  847 . From the logout leave virtual realty office (VRO) a user can exit the virtual realty office (VRO)  848 . From the go to my desk (MD)  844  the user has access to their desk  849 . From the go to the research office (RO)  845  link a user is directed to the research office  850 . From the go to the training room (TR)  846  link a user is directed to the training room  851 . From the go to the conference room (CR)  847  a user is directed to the conference room. The connections and links between the different portions of the virtual realty office are controlled by a matrix of option and user access authorizations. A sample of one table that identifies links giving authorization is shown and described in  FIG. 19 . 
         [0070]      FIG. 19  shows a flow chart of the saving viewing and retrieval of documents within the virtual realty office. When a customer begins the process of purchasing realty a file is opened. In the real world this file is created and maintained in a paper version. In the virtual realty office this file may be created with a combination of real (paper) documents and virtual documents or entirely with virtual documents. The virtual realty office has the advantage of keeping a copy of all the documents in a virtual environment where they can be transmitted or viewed anywhere with connection to the database. From the customer interface  870  a customer enters information that identifies them to the database  871 . They will then enter a pass code to enter the database  872 . The user then enters a conference room  873  where they have access to the documents they are authorized to view, alter or print. The realty agent receives notification that someone is accessing the file and a record is created that identifies the person that accessed the data with a date and time stamp  93 . The documents are “checked out” in a similar manner that paper documents would be checked out  874 . If an approval is required the user e-signs the documents, or approves the document  875  where it is returned to the files or is forwarded to another party to continue the possessing. 
         [0071]    Third party vendors and or service providers  876  can be accessed from the virtual realty office. These third party service providers can provide extermination, virtual appraisal office (VAO)  200 , construction, moving and inspection services. While several services that are related to or needed by the realty transaction are identified other services such as dry cleaning or restaurants are contemplated. These services can be ordered or verified with an E-Fax application or the like. A record of the order and any transaction is saved and viewable from the real estate, mortgage, Escrow, title document storage  880 . The virtual office administrator (VOA)  180  has access to all the files in the database to ensure quality of the files and maintains them until the transaction closes  877 . The virtual realty office software can check each document to verify accuracy of the information and identify discrepancies in the entered information where it identifies potential erroneous information. The virtual office administrator routs all transactions through the virtual office manager (VOM)  110  who approved the documents and authorizes them for placement into or back into storage  880  and to the closing of the transaction. 
         [0072]    All the parties agencies, lenders that need access to the data regarding a specific transaction have access to the documents  880 . Access is granted through passwords and authority levels that are identified by the agent(s). The parties that need access to add, or alter the stored documents include but are not limited to the virtual loan manager (VLM)  120 , the virtual loan processor (VLP)  121 , the virtual transaction coordinator (VTC)  150 , the virtual escrow office (VEO)  140  and the virtual title officer (VTO)  220 . The virtual title company has access to other documents that include but are not limited to ordering a profile, a farm package, recent recordings, N.O.D. lists, Title search, document requests, messenger requests, order CC&amp;R&#39;s Manager profile, Rep profile and open a title order. After the realty transaction ends the files are transferred to a one or more archive file systems  881  and  882  where they can be retrieved in the case of loss or damage from any of the parties. 
         [0073]      FIG. 20  shows three different types of users  834  of the virtual realty office and the access that is available for each user. In the left most column an anonymous user  890  enters the virtual realty office. In order for an anonymous user to gain access beyond the reception area of the virtual realty office the user must enter information into a form  891  that will grant them direct access to the reception area  892 . From the reception desk they will have options to leave a message for someone, or be directed to a conference room. The reception desk will provide a list of services that are available to a known anonymous user. From the anonymous user may be granted access to a list of options including but not limited to information “About us”, a broker profile, manager profile, agent directory, feature properties, office listings, open houses, before you list, home seller hand book, selling your home, before you buy, home buyer hand book, buy a home, need a home loan and contacting the virtual realty office. The information from multiple anonymous people is entered in the user information form and a prospect demographic is stored  893 . 
         [0074]    In the middle column an invited guest  894  has a similar and different set of options available to them. They will enter a user information form  891  where they will identify them to the system  891  and enter an agent I.D. code  883  that will grant them access to their files and the files they are authorized to view. The reception desk  180  provides a similar and different set of options customized for the agent and services. It is contemplated that the options available to the invited guest include but are not limited to about agent, agent interview, available listings, free market evaluation, listing your home, sell your home, before you buy, home buyer hand book, buy a home loan, need a home loan, need to refinance and contact me. Information that is changed, altered or saved is stored in the agent database  895 . 
         [0075]    The right column contains information for a registered customer  896 . A registered customer will first enter information that will identify them to the system  833  with a password or similar identifier. The reception desk  180  provides options that include but are not limited to an agent customized multimedia welcome message, transaction process explanation &amp; help functions. The conference room  114  is customizable to the agent and the closing team. These options include but are not limited to agent of record, seller real estate documents, buyer real estate documents, escrow documents, title documents, mortgage loan documents, loan processing documents, communications with the transaction coordinator, contacting the agent and contacting the management. All documents  897  are are centralized and accessible by customers for review and approval. All trades, agent and closing personnel will load required documents into one central location for the customer. Consumer information is securely stored and pass code access to the information will expire a finite number of days after closing of escrow. 
         [0076]      FIG. 21  shows a table of access authorization for users of the virtual real estate office. In this table series of different classifications of users is identified across the top of the table  900 . A series of locations where a user can go is shown on the left side  910  of the table. The intersection of each user  900  and each link location  910  is designated with an “X” to identify that a user can make this selection or a blank box meaning the user does not have access to this particular area. While only one table is shown the process is similar for most other areas within the virtual realty office (VRO). 
         [0077]    It is contemplated that a user can enter a panel to receive general information that includes static information on a number of topics, either provided by TDR as part of the VRO or by the brokerage. Examples of these features might include but not be limited to selling your home (presents a video/multimedia overview of the home selling process), buying a home (provides a video/multimedia overview of the home buying process), home mortgage information (provides an overview of the home loan process and may include current programs and interest rates), refinancing (provides an overview of the refinancing process), press clippings (provides access to recent articles about The Division Realty and/or the franchisee), about this brokerage (provides a general overview of the brokerage&#39;s mission, vision, place in the community, etc), brokerage office location/directions (provides a summary map of the brokerage office location with a link to Google Maps, Map Quest, or a similar direction-finding application), brokerage contact information (provides general contact information for the brokerage-main telephone number, main e-mail address, etc), about the brokerage (provides a general overview of offices mission, vision, place in the market, etc), and contact information (provides general contact information for software package, intended for potential Franchisees, Agents, Partners, Auditors, and Vendors/Contractors). 
         [0078]      FIG. 22  shows a sample integration of the VTO in one contemplated embodiment. The system is set-up in a franchise type arrangement with the Virtual realty office VRO  100  being the central hub of all transactions. The system is established with one or more franchisee&#39;s  930 . The franchisee&#39;s pay a periodic amount for access to the virtual realty office  100 . Each franchisee has one or more realty agents that work for them  920 . The number of realty agents  920  that are a part of each franchise is variable based upon the community the franchisee serves. In this figure there are five franchisees and the number of agents varies from 15 to 142 but there is no limit to the number of franchisees or the number of agents associated with each franchisee. All licensed franchisee&#39;s have equal access to the virtual realty office unless there are special features or functions where limiting access to some functions is desired. Below the virtual realty block  100  is the escrow  140 , loan processing  120  and the data storage (VTC)  880 . Each agent&#39;s desk  93  sits in a direct connection with the virtual realty office database  100 . The OTC system  940  provides access to title documents for the virtual title office  220  where the title officer may need including but not limited to ordering a profile, a farm package, recent recordings, N.O.D. lists, Title search, document requests, messenger requests, order CC&amp;R&#39;s Manager profile, Rep profile and open a title order. 
         [0079]    Thus, specific embodiments of a Virtual Realty Office have been disclosed. It should be apparent, however, to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the spirit of the appended claims.