The Tech Tools of Modern House Hunting
At a time when 55% of modern home-buyers say that going online was their first step in the house-hunting process, it's clear that the days of realtors toting around shoeboxes full of listings are over. But, what kind of tools exist nowadays to assist the tech-saavy, or even the tech-newbie, in landing the perfect property? Allow us to elaborate.
Finding a Realtor
Some buyers partner with the first real estate agent they see as they scroll their social media feed, but an online search will provide valuable testimonials and details on the different geographic areas and price points with which a given realtor most often works – essential information for choosing the right agent for your specific needs.
Deciding on a Price Point
Use a mortgage calculator to find out just how high your max budget can be before linking with a lender, who can also be vetted by searching online, in order to secure a mortgage loan pre-approval.
Downloading the App
Most major brokerages offer an app of some kind that draws its data from the MLS, or Multiple Listing Service, which is the most reliable compendium of up-to-date listings available. Many house-hunters will turn to websites and apps that they’ve seen advertised to them but you’re much better off letting your REALTOR send you a link to their brokerage-specific app. Usually, you can set up your own saved searches through the app, which will automatically notify you of changes to the listing price or status by sending updates directly to your email address on file. If this option isn't available, your realtor will be able to set you up with your own personalized MLS "portal" that they will establish using your preferred search criteria.
Google Earth-ing the Neighborhood
Take a stroll around town by clicking the "Maps" tab and then on "Street View" after searching the subject property address in Google. This tool gives buyers a look into the area outside of the house, but our final (and favorite!!) house-hunting tech tip involves virtual tours, designed to display a detailed walkthrough and provide specific, relevant details about a property's features.
Touring Homes Virtually with Matterport
Matterport's 3D data platform creates a realistic digital copy of any listing, which allows you to easily explore and evaluate it; it's far more than your average virtual tour. For that reason, VNTG has partnered with Matterport to provide these unique and extensive virtual home tours with every home we list, and this perk is valuable to both the seller and the buyer. As a buyer, Matterport tours are helpful for multiple reasons:
True 3D™ technology powers an immersive, interactive walkthrough
Virtual reality touring available
Schematic floor plans eliminate the need for multiple trips to the property to make sure everything, including furniture, is a perfect fit
Mattertags™ embed annotations and media within tour to highlight key listing features
Technology is an indispensable tool in today's home search, necessary to find your ideal property. If you're in the market for a new home, contact VNTG Place or visit our website for a complete list of our available properties. You'll enjoy Matterport technology, powering all of our listings and providing you with the ability to interact dynamically with your potential future home. We look forward to being of help to you during the exciting and important process of shopping for your new home in the age of technology.
