When you consider making a change, you’ll go straight to the internet to begin researching
options. Real estate search apps have taken first place in every aspect of the home buying,
renting and selling process. In an effort to help you make an informed decision, I’ve decided to
share my realtor's perspective on a few of the most popular options.
I am going to start by emphasizing the importance of using a local realtor when you get serious. The main reason is because you need to get on your local MLS (Multiple Listing Service) App, which can only be initiated by your local Real Estate Agent. This will ensure you have the most accurate information hands down, and that your personal details are protected.
I want to explain why. All of the other apps available are pulling their information from this
source. They will only have some of the basic details and never everything that your agent can
share. Due to the Internet Data Exchange (IDX) every listing is shared publicly to EVERY real
estate website. IDX is an umbrella term used to cover policies, standards, and software
pertaining to the display of real estate listing information on websites. So your local MLS is the
starting point, feeding all the real estate sites you come across, which are only pulling the
information they want to get your business. Leaving out some potentially major details you
would need, like room measurements!
Moving on, I’ll talk about Zillow, which stands out as a pioneer in the realm of real estate apps,
offering the most user-friendly platform, having a multitude of features. The app provides
access to an extensive database for all things real estate. Detailing more than what's for sale.
They include information on rentals, distressed sales, school information, and even estimated
home values.
A feature most neglect to use are the customization filters. These robust options enable users
to tailor their search based on specific criteria such as price range, number of bedrooms and
bathrooms, location, legal ownership and more. Make sure you toggle your search to help you
avoid getting overwhelmed.
The app's proprietary Zestimate feature provides estimated home values, helping users gauge
the market value of a property. But use caution, these are estimated based on pre-set
algorithms and are not always accurate.
A quick disclaimer, If you are looking for a rental, please don't use the Zillow platform to submit
an application OR request a showing appointment at the property. The property manager will
likely not accept that application so you are wasting money, AND we can not email you properly
through the Zillow protected email conversation. It makes things unnecessarily complicated.
Realtor.com is another powerhouse in the real estate app landscape, known for its up-to-the-
minute property listings and comprehensive neighborhood information. The app's clean
interface and intuitive design make it easy for users to navigate and stay informed throughout
the home buying process.
Something you may not know is that all real estate agents are not necessarily REALTORS. A real
estate agent is anyone who is licensed by their local state to help people buy and sell
commercial or residential property. REALTORS are real estate agents who have a membership
with the National Association of REALTORS, also known as the NAR. The NAR provides agents
with tools and resources to stay up to date with laws and practices to improve the consumers
experience. So all REALTORS are real estate agents, but not all real estate agents are
REALTORS.
You will not find advertisements for properties that are for sale by owner on this site, as it is
geared towards helping you locate broker listed properties and better support REALTORS. This
site used to be owned by the NAR, but due to the overcrowded web presence for this market,
they sold to allow for better information and protection for our profession.
Realtor.com's map view lets users explore available properties visually, providing a clear
overview of the real estate landscape in their desired location. The app provides valuable
market insights, including trends and forecasts. Realtor.com also offers a library of guides and
articles that cover various aspects of the home buying process, offering educational resources
for first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners alike.
In all honesty there are a ton of apps out there, and they all offer about the same information.
It's all being collected from the same original sources, the MLS for the listing details and the
freedom of information act allows them to get the rest.
Which home buying app you like will ultimately depend on your preferences, needs, and the
features that align with your home search.
One last piece of information to remember on all the apps out there, EXCEPT the one you get
directly from your realtor, they are all financially supporting a company that is trying to get your
money. When you message an agent, it is not usually the actual listing agent. These apps are all
in the business to make money, and they get it from you using their referral partners, which
includes the professionals you may be connected with.
Somehow, someway, most are making money off the free services you receive. If you don't want
to feel like a payday, go to a real estate company site. Remax.com, KW.com, Century21.com,
any company that has a broker or your local realtors page will have a way for you to connect to
an IDX MLS search, and they are not making money from any lender or referral agent company.
After all, is it really for sale if you can't find it on 10 thousand websites at once?
Comments