Advice on finding real estate listings can often be a difficult task. There are many real estate websites to pick from. Here is some advice on finding real estate listings in Columbus, OH.
Real Estate Websites Are All Different
Listings in Central Ohio are typically entered into the Columbus MLS database by real estate professionals. The data is then given to other sources through feeds. These third parties reformat the data and present a subset of data on their websites.
Even though the third party websites get information from MLS, they do not necessarily get every house for sale or every available field from the MLS. Zillow, Trulia and other real estate websites that ARE NOT affiliated with the MLS, use pieces of the MLS data, but do not have all the information. Realtor.com, my website and other sites that ARE affiliated with the MLS pay to display the most up-to-date information on houses for sale.
Home sellers can also opt-out of having their homes included in third-party distribution feeds. Additionally, the third parties may only renew at certain times, so new inventory may not automatically display. If you are monitoring real estate listings in a hot market, a delay in seeing a newly entered listing can cause you to lose the house of your dreams.
Advice On Finding Real Estate Listings In Central Ohio
Using websites is a good way to perform a preliminary search, but keep in mind that local real estate professionals have access to all listings and complete property facts such as disclosures. Real estate professionals will either review listings for you or give you direct access to MLS via their account. Check with your real estate professionals for more information on this.
Advantages to Using Real Estate Professionals
Searching for listings is complicated enough by itself, never mind the actual purchase process once you find a home. Why not receive help? Hiring a broker means having a professional to give useful guidance through every step of the process. Your broker can help you pick properties to visit, assess options, and come to educated decisions. You may always use third party sites that you enjoy in addition to the one that your broker offers.
