Did you know 90% of buyers search for their next dream home online? With so much information at your fingertips, it can be hard to separate the diamonds from the rough when looking online. We’ve gathered our top tricks to help you sort through the online jumble so that you can get an appointment quickly and with ease.
Tip #1: Use the MLS
The MLS is the #1 resource for agents and their clients to post and find listings. You should be using the MLS to find the most accurate and up to date listings. In fact, the MLS updates every 15 minutes whereas sites like Zillow and Trulia can take up to 2 weeks! Start searching for listings now by signing up through our app HERE.
Tip #2: Follow the “5 Home Rule”
It’s easy to fall in love with a property online based on beautiful photos. But what you see is not always what you get. You might also be discounting an amazing property because its listing photos are not doing it justice!
That’s why we recommend you follow the “5 Home Rule.” This means you find your top 5 properties that match the numbers you’re looking for (price, square footage, number of bathrooms/bedrooms, fenced in yard, etc.). Then let us know your top 5 so we can get your foot in the door right away to see which properties actually match your needs and preferences.
Tip #3: Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment
You’ve probably heard we’re in a sellers market, which means properties are selling fast. This is why it’s so important that you tell us as soon as you find a property you like so that we can set up a viewing appointment before it goes off the market. Feeling overwhelmed at the thought of putting in an offer? Check out our “How to Put in an Offer” guide so that when it’s time, you feel confident submitting an offer that is a win for you!
Tip #4: Don’t discount websites like Zillow or Trulia
This might sound contradictory to tip #1 where we pushed the importance of the MLS. While that is still true, Zillow and Trulia can still be helpful to find properties listed as “for-sale-by-owners.” This is because even though 89% of homes are listed through an agent on the MLS, there’s still a small portion of sellers who are listing without an agent. And those listings can be found on third-party sites. But remember, Zillow and Trulia cannot guarantee the most accurate information, so be prepared if a house you think is for sale is actually already off the market.
Tip #5: Remember you are driving the search for your home
A big misconception about relators is that our job is to push you towards houses that we like. False! Our job is consult you through the process based on what you’ve communicated to us about your needs, wants and preferences.
When we show you properties, we will point out the positives and the negatives about the home and its physical condition. That also includes what we know about other factors such as its location. Your job is to communicate to us your likes and dislikes. Ultimately, your goals determine what is the best fit.
Tip #6: Stay encouraged!
Looking for a home is a lot like online dating. You can get emotionally attached to the idea of one home quickly, but then at the last minute it falls through. That’s ok! We might have to put in several offers before winning the offer. So remember to stay encouraged in the process. Even if your ‘dream home’ doesn’t work out, we will find another one that accepts the offer that is best for you.
Conclusion
Looking for homes online can be overwhelming, tricky, and exciting all at once. But remember, we’re here to help guide you through the process to get you to your next dream home.
Let us know how we can help you find your next home in the contact section below!