With the advanced technology that we are enjoying right now, a lot of people turn to it for all the things that need to be done. The Interne, in particular, seems to have all the answers to all your concerns. Instead of having a CPA do your taxes, you do it online. Instead of going to the doctors, you sometimes just check your symptoms online! Now, even in real estate, more and more people are looking at homes online instead of getting the help of an actual agent.
While there are those who have had a good experience in doing so, it is not something that everyone can resort to at all times. There are real-life complications that real estate agents can help you with by having them find the right solutions for you.
To help you decide whether you should consider online house-hunting, here is a short comparison of pros and cons for you to consider:
PROS
Online house-hunting is convenient because you can do it anytime and anywhere you want. You can see a number of houses with just a few clicks even when you’re just relaxing at home. You do not need to leave the comfort of your abode to discuss things with an agent. You are in control of the pace and the scope of your search because you are doing it yourself. You do not have to wait for your agent’s selections and easily adjust your wants and expectations according to what you find online, too.
CONS
Online listings will not have all the information about specific properties that a buyer’s agent could easily find out for you. Agents have accessibility to additional information about the trade (especially the unpublished ones), like when a property’s price could possibly be reduced or if there is a new listing that isn’t posted yet.
Real estate agents can narrow down your search according to your criteria, and include other requirements like close proximity to particular schools, and other similar factors.
Real estate agents are also your neighbourhood specialists; they can easily provide you with tips and other helpful information about an area you are considering, available amenities in that neighbourhood, transportation and road information, and even differences in the homes on the same area, among others.
It is true that house-hunting online can be a big help, especially if you are at a stage where you just want to look at potential properties first without any pressure. When it comes to all the details and the thoroughness a buying transaction requires, however, no website can compare to a real estate agent equipped with professional knowledge and years of experience.
