Frequently Asked Questions
What does "nearby" mean?
We compute proximity by category using distance thresholds and coverage rules explained on our Methodology page. Different store types have different radius thresholds that reflect real-world convenience - for example, grocery stores within 2 miles are considered excellent, while hardware stores within 5 miles receive the same rating.
Why do some searches take longer?
In dense metros we expand categories and may fall back to a secondary provider if a timeout occurs. Rural areas may also take longer due to broader search requirements to ensure comprehensive coverage. Most searches complete within 10-20 seconds for the initial search, with cached results appearing much faster.
How accurate is the store information?
We use multiple data sources including Geoapify and Google Places APIs for comprehensive coverage. Our hybrid approach provides both broad coverage and precise chain matching. Data is regularly updated, though recent openings or closures may have a slight lag of a few weeks.
Can I customize which stores I prefer?
Yes! The app includes store preference settings that let you prioritize your preferred chains in each category while maintaining objective distance calculations. You can adjust your preferences for grocery stores, pharmacies, hardware stores, and warehouse clubs.
Is ConvenientHouse free to use?
Yes, ConvenientHouse is free to use. We support the platform through advertising and may introduce premium features in the future, but core convenience scanning functionality will always be available at no cost.
How is this different from Google Maps?
While Google Maps shows individual businesses, ConvenientHouse focuses on practical convenience assessment. We analyze coverage by category, compute convenience scores, and provide real estate context that helps with home-buying decisions. Think of us as the convenience intelligence layer on top of basic location data.
Do you track or store my searches?
We maintain a session-based search history to improve your experience, but we don't track personal information or sell data. See our Privacy Policy for complete details on data handling.
Still have questions?
Contact us at support@convenienthouse.com and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.