It seems like almost everyone relies on technology to get through the day, whether it’s through texting or using mobile phone applications or “apps,” emailing, using online software, or conducting internet searches to educate yourself on various topics. Almost anything you do can be enhanced by using technology, and the process of buying a house is no exception. The majority of home buyers (92%) use the internet in some way to assist in finding a home to buy, and half of buyers use a mobile website or mobile app to locate homes for sale. If you’re interested in learning how to buy a home, here are some home buying tips that will help you take advantage of the many resources available online.
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1. Do an internet search to get started
This is the first thing you should do because online resources can tell you what’s available for real estate listings. You can search for things like “single family homes for sale Chandler” or “houses for sale in Scottsdale.” You can browse listings and recent sales to learn more about prices and locations. You can also search online to find a Realtor and you will have access to reviews from previous clients, which can be important when deciding which real estate agent to hire.
2. Research the location
When you’ve decided on a few neighborhoods to focus on, you can research various aspects of the locations at different websites online. Things to check out include the school district, property taxes, crime rates, weather, and local culture. You can get all of this information on the internet and you can read comments from locals who have insider tips on what it’s like to live there.
3. Find mobile phone apps for home buyers
Home buyers who use mobile apps to assist in their search have access to lots of information. A recent study reported that 78% of buyers used their mobile devices to look for comparable home prices, 47% used their phones to search for homes and 44% researched neighborhoods and local amenities. If you’re not confident with your ability to navigate your cell phone, ask your kids or a friend to explain the app to you.
4. Check out social media
In 2014, three out of four home buyers used social media in the home buying process, compared to about half of buyers who used it in 2011. Social media can help by connecting you with other buyers and sellers who may have information or resources to share. If you are looking for a home, you can make this known on social networking sites and you can contact sellers directly if they have a home that caught your eye.
5. Don’t forget…you still need a Realtor
Even with all the advances in technology that aid in the home buying process, you still need an experienced Realtor to guide you along the way. A real estate agent has insider knowledge that can’t be found online, so before you visit any homes or make an offer, discuss it with your Realtor to get their opinion on how to buy a home.
Do you have any tips on how to buy a home using the many mobile and online resources available to today’s home buyers? If you have any thoughts, please share them by leaving a comment below.
