Gone are the days when real estate brokers would run ads and intentionally leave out vital information. In the past, the goal was often to force a potential buyer to call the agent directly just to get a property address or a price.
Thanks to the rapid advances in technology and the internet, those days are over. Consumers now have greater control over their search, and frankly, that is a good thing for everyone—including the agents and brokers.
1. Real-Time Access to Property Data
In 2016, nearly all the data about a property is available to the consumer at the click of a button. Major platforms like Trulia, Zillow, and Realtor.com download their information directly from the local Multiple Listing Services (MLS). This means you can shop online at your own leisure, access detailed specs, and view high-resolution photo galleries without any "gatekeeping."
2. Virtual Scouting with Google Earth
One of the most useful tools for the modern homebuyer is Google Earth. Beyond just looking at the house, potential buyers can now virtually explore the surrounding area, check out the neighborhood density, and see the proximity to local amenities. This allows you to make an informed decision on which homes are truly worth a physical visit before you ever leave your living room.
3. Choosing the Right Partner via Online Profiles
Technology hasn't just made it easier to find a house; it’s made it easier to find the right Realtor. Many of our clients have told us they appreciate being able to look at professional profiles and read online reviews before reaching out. Being able to choose someone you feel comfortable with based on their track record and personality is a huge benefit of the digital age.
The Bottom Line
The advances in technology have turned home searching into an enjoyable, transparent, and efficient process. We embrace this "open book" approach because it leads to better-informed clients and smoother transactions.
