The Significance of Technology in Real Estate for Buyers

The Role of Technology in Modern Real Estate Transactions

In the rapidly evolving world of real estate, where properties are often sold within hours rather than weeks, it is crucial for buyers to quickly find, identify, and preview homes. Equally important is the assurance that the properties they view online are still actively listed for sale.

Unfortunately, when buyers rely on websites like Zillow, they often encounter outdated information. Many properties remain listed on the site long after they have been sold or have gone under contract, as these sites are not obligated to adhere to the same MLS rules that local broker sites must follow.

Moreover, these sites sell user information to real estate agents, making it advantageous for them to maintain as many “active listings” as possible to generate leads and sales. Consequently, buyers may find homes listed as “off the market” in fine print, leading to confusion and wasted time.

Real-Time Property Alerts: A Game Changer

Orson Hill Realty leverages technology to provide real-time property alerts. As soon as a listing hits the MLS, buyers receive an email detailing the property and providing a live link to set up a viewing appointment. This immediate access is vital in today’s market, as the sooner a buyer views a home, the more likely they are to submit an offer and secure a contract.

Advanced Search Capabilities

Orson Hill Realty’s advanced search capabilities allow buyers to filter homes based on a wide range of parameters. This ensures that buyers only receive alerts about homes that meet their specific criteria, eliminating the frustration of sifting through irrelevant listings.

Listing Your Home: The Importance of Technology

The Power of Online Presence

The importance of a strong online presence in the real estate industry cannot be overstated. Despite some outdated views that websites are merely “digital business cards,” the reality is that a robust online presence has been crucial for businesses for well over a decade.

As an expert in online and digital marketing, I understand the importance of a website for real estate professionals. With the National Association of Realtors stating that about 90% of all home buyers find their home online, it’s clear that the internet is the most effective way to market your home.

The Truth About Traditional Marketing Methods

While some agents may claim that open houses or print media are the best ways to sell a home, these methods are often used more for gathering buyer leads than for selling homes. In fact, only 2-3% of homes are sold through open houses.

If a real estate agent admits to not knowing much about online marketing, it may be in your best interest to continue your search for an agent. In the digital age, an agent’s proficiency in technology is crucial for providing the best service to their clients.

The Myth of “Hidden” Listings

The notion of “hidden” or “pocket” listings is largely a myth in today’s real estate market. Almost every listing is available online or in the back end of our MLS. If a home isn’t found, it’s likely because it either doesn’t exist or doesn’t fit within the buyer’s budget.

In conclusion, technology plays an indispensable role in the real estate industry, providing buyers with up-to-date information, real-time property alerts, and advanced search capabilities. For sellers, a strong online presence is crucial for effectively marketing their homes. As the industry continues to evolve, the importance of technology in real estate transactions will only continue to grow.