A recent cooperative study released by The National Association of Realtors and Google shows how people search for homes on the Internet and the importance of online first impressions. In “The Digital House Hunt: Consumer and Market Trends in Real Estate,” we are able to see the amazing impact and effect digital media is having on real estate. There is no doubting the huge impact that the Internet has become in everyday living, but the statistics brought to light by this study show with blazing clarity both the effectiveness and importance this tool has for searching Knoxville homes for sale. The following are some highlights of the study:
- 90% of home buyers searched online during their home-buying process.
- 52% of home buyers use the web as their first step in the process.
- Real estate-related searches on Google.com grew 253% over the past four years.
- 36% of new home shoppers utilize a mobile device while they are watching television.
Troy Stavros, Broker and Partner with the 865 Real Estate team at Gables & Gates, REALTORS stated, “As a seller, you have to realize that your first showing is no longer taking place in your home, it is happening on the internet. If your listing isn’t winning a potential buyer over online, they more than likely will never show up at your door.”
The benefits of the digital home search are widespread. Buyers have the opportunity to complete “first showings” of potential homes at their leisure from a computer or mobile device. Buyers can not only search Knoxville homes for sale, but research areas to live and find a REALTOR for representation. Because of these buyer benefits, home sellers benefit from having more educated buyers and more effective showings. Real estate agents benefit from getting buyers who have already done research and are able to make faster buying decisions.
While there is no doubt a wealth of information is out there in the digital space for home buyers and sellers, there is still an abundance of value to be garnered from a seasoned agent. REALTORS are still the best resource for local information, negotiations, and the pulse of the local market.