A method of providing a structured framework to assist land use professionals and others in evaluating information about real estate is disclosed. A geographic information system (GIS) with access to private and public databases of real estate information is combined with software providing structure to real estate decision making processes. Additionally, access is provided to individuals which are experienced in the particular type of analysis being performed. The experienced individuals are able to assist throughout the evaluation process if desired by the user. After a user chooses parameters for a request, the software interacts with the geographic information system (GIS) to retrieve the appropriate data. The software also provides access to additional relevant information if so desired by the user. By automating the frame work around the GIS, the land use professional or other individuals requesting real estate information have a greater likelihood of considering all the relevant information available for the particular decision making process being executed.