Most home buyers are searching for their homes online and that's OK. That is exactly what I did when shopping for a new home and I am a Realtor. Here in the Central Florida region there are
so many different areas to live, each with their own characteristics and charm, searching online seems the obvious first step.
However what you have probably found is that some of the portals out there confuse you as a buyer more than one would imagine. The listings are out of date, an active listing is already under contract or sold even a year ago, the information is questionable at best and sometimes it appears to be fake.
This is how the process works from an agent perspective.
The seller's agent enters the data in to the multiple listing Service (MLS). All agents in the MLS share the same data and have access to the latest information.
Seller's agents want the information for listings to be visible to as many eyeballs as possible. For this reason the information is syndicated to other sites. Depending on how this information is pushed or pulled the accuracy of the information can easily change over time. If pictures are added, if prices are changed this information may not be updated quickly, if at all. Some sites even sell the information again, this is called re-syndication, the information is further removed from the original more accurate source information.
The various portals out there attract customers by posting information. They then sell advertising space to various service providers including real estate professionals. They need to have content to attract visitors and much of the information is helpful, even if not always 100% accurate.
How can I as a buyer save myself the trouble and confusion?
As a Broker Associate the easiest answer is of course contact the LR Group. However this blog is not about shameless self promotion. It is however important to point out that a buyer's agent has access to the updated information in real-time.
At the LR Group we have invested in tools which enable our buyers to search on their own if preferred. These tools give our buyers access to exactly the same information that we have. We don't harass our customers we just provide the tools and information and when you are ready so are we.
Of course a savvy agent will also be able to set up searches which are very specific and detail oriented. Not every home buyer wants to move quickly and some want to get a feel for the market before they start the search for real. That's OK, but don't hesitate to involve your buyer's agent early in the process they could ensure that you have the updated information and use your time wisely.
The LR Group
Premium Properties Real Estate Services
Tel: 407-593-8234
www.homesinlakenona.com
Allister Lenn Broker Associate
ABR - Accredited Buyer's Representative
MRP - Military Relocation Specialist
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