There probably aren’t too many of you who are looking for a Carlsbad home (or anywhere for that matter) that aren’t using technology in some manner. In this day and age it is hard to escape. But are you using technology to YOUR advantage?

This is a 3-part series on how Carlsbad buyers can use technology to their advantage before and during a real estate transaction.

Here we begin with the home search.

SEARCHING FOR A HOME

Searching for a home, whether locally or for a relocation, is best accomplished on the Internet.

Whether you are venturing out on your search unaccompanied or with an agent, the myriad of websites out there that offer home listings from the various MLSs provide you with a wealth of data at your fingertips, 24/7.

Here is some of what you should be looking at in your home search:

• Photos (well, in many cases but not all – you can always request more from your agent)
• Virtual tours
• Mapping (e.g., Google Earth, Google Maps), aerial views and street views
• Details about the listings (be aware some data in listings are not accurate and you should verify all information)
• Access to various property records (e.g., Property Shark, in many parts of the country)
• Videos of the homes themselves and the surrounding communities
• Access to estimated property values (e.g., Zillow) – be mindful that these data can be off, sometimes quite significantly, so use it only as one resource, with information from an agent likely to be more accurate.

Other websites commonly used by buyers include Realtor, Trulia, Craigslist, ZipRealty and Redfin in addition to the major brokerage site - RE/MAX, Coldwell Banker, Prudential, Keller Williams and many more.

NOTE: No site is perfect and some will offer more information than others In some cases you may be required to shared your personal information just to search. You have to decide if you are willing to do this in order to gather the information that you want.

You will likely be researching schools as well if you have children or are anticipating children, or because you want to purchase in a particular school district.  Two sites that buyers have recommended repeatedly to me include School Digger and Great Schools.

Community information can be found at Outside.in and on American Towns.

Stay tuned for Part 2 where we discuss using technology in your search to find the right agent to help you.

************************

If I can provide more information about Carlsbad and surrounding areas, or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360
or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

All content copyright © 2008 Jeff Dowler Carlsbad Homes and Real Estate Tidbits