There are two sorts of database fields: those internally required by iRealty for its basic functions and integrity, which we will call system fields, and those, defined by user for the sole purpose of describing listed objects. System fields are used for unique listing identification and ownership information and are not discussed in this manual. There is no limit on user-defined fields in the listing database.
Each user-defined field belongs to one of the predefined types available in the system. Type of the fields is defined by the administrator of the system at time of creation. Once chosen, field type cannot be changed. Choice of type for the fields should be based on the best match for the data that will be stored in the field. For example, the best type to represent the number of rooms in the house or apartment would be "Integer number," however, "float" would be the best match for the area. Each type has its own constrains and advantages when used in listing database operation, apparent mostly during search. The list of all available type and their features can be found in the Type Reference chapter of this manual.
When new database field is created, besides type administrator must set name for the field. Name of the field is an arbitrary string describing the purpose of the field (i.e. "number of bedroom", "Price", "Year Built"). The name of the field can be changed at any time.
Database fields should not necessarily be valid for every listing in the database. When iRealty is used for listing of two or more different types of realty only some fields can be valid for all of them. Price, for example, is valid for both houses and apartments; however, floor number is valid only for apartments and is not valid for houses, just because they stand on ground. At the same time, size of yard and basement fields may make no sense for apartments. The set of valid fields for particular type of real estate objects is defined by the form. See "Forms" chapter for details.
Database fields are managed in "Database fields" page of "Listings configuration" section of iRealty administration panel.
Fig 1. Database fields page
The page contains table of currently existing database fields, their types and field hints. Field hint is text, which is displayed when user stops arrow cursor over the title of the field in the form. It should not obligatory property of the field and can be left blank. However, providing each field with a good explanatory hint may simplify your site users' experience, making your site more usable and thus attractive.