REAL ESTATE IN THE DIGITAL WORLD

With all of the tools and information available online, today’s homebuyers and sellers are savvier than ever. But, with so much different information out there, how do you know what is correct? I get asked this question often, so I wanted to take a moment to clarify real estate in the digital world. REAL ESTATE DATABASES From Zillow, Redfin, Trulia, realtor.com and more, homebuyers and sellers have an abundance of information at their fingertips, which is great! However, when it comes to accurately valuing a home, there are certain criteria these sites can’t account for. For example, they use a computer algorithm to assess the value of a home. And although they can come very close to estimating correctly, they don’t take into consideration things like recent renovations to a home, the lot size, if the home is located on a busy street or near a loud school. What’s more, these sites also cannot precisely determine the current state of the real estate market. That’s where a realtor still plays a vital role. We are not only able to use our experience and expertise to more accurately value homes and the marketplace, but we also make sure we are protecting our clients’ interests at the same time. IBUYERS Next, my clients frequently ask me about selling homes online. And although websites, like Opendoor, iBuyer.com or Zillow make it sound like selling your home online is easy and hassle-free, there are a few things sellers should know before perusing this option. First, there is no one representing your interest. If any issues occur during a transaction these websites have a team of lawyers supporting them, but the seller is entirely on his or her own. Next, these websites will tell you that they don’t take a commission on the sale, but what they don’t tell you is there are several hidden fees they will charge at the end. Lastly, the offer price sellers typically receive from an iBuyer is generally lower than what realtors will fight for. Then, to top it off, the sales price is often dinged after a contract has been signed for any repairs or issues with the home. And last, but not least, once the home is sold it is immediately put back on the market, which doesn’t allow the seller much time to move out or rent back if needed. So iBuyers are essentially flipping your home. THE REALTOR’S ROLE As I said at the beginning, good realtors appreciate when their clients are educated and armed with information. And, when you put together the research a buyer or seller has done along with a realtor’s experience, then that’s the recipe for success. Just keep in mind, that a good realtor is here to protect you. We fight to get our clients the best price (whether you are buying or selling). We will negotiate home repairs, ensure everything about a home is disclosed to our buyers, and protect your interests legally. Everything is good when it’s good. But, when something bad happens, homebuyers and sellers need to make sure there is someone on their side! LET’S MEET FOR COFFEE Have questions or want more information? Give me a call at 702-497-3815 or let’s grab a quick coffee to discuss. No question is too big or small — I am here for you! STAY CONNECTED! To learn more about my Las Vegas real estate experience, please visit www.avidangoor.com/about-avi. And, for the latest updates on my listings, market news, real estate tips, and more, please follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You may also sign up for my newsletter by clicking here. Need more? Check out what my past clients have said on Zillow with more than 135 all 5-star reviews.