You Need Both: Internet and Professional Realtor®
Despite advertising claims to the contrary, the internet is not a substitute for an experienced Real Estate Professional. It cannot consult, counsel, advise, have knowledge of local laws and market conditions, make judgments, or most importantly, understand your individual goals, needs and care about you as a Client. You need an accurate interpretation of any information you are receiving online. This is where a Professional Real Estate Consultant, a Realtor® can make a positive difference in your Real Estate transaction.
You must remember, buying a home is a very complicated and in-depth process. There are numerous people involved from start to finish. For example, you will be viewing and sorting through many available properties while finally having to choose just one. You will have the responsibility of choosing the right mortgage company and loan officer, someone who is trustworthy. You will probably build into your offer a contingency for a home inspection and that means finding a qualified, trusted home inspector. You will need an inspector that is up to date with radon and mold inspections. If the home you choose is in a community where there are Condo or Association documents, you will need professional guidance. A failure on your part to acquire that guidance could mean an unpleasant surprise or two once you've moved into the community. Of course then, you've bought the house and you will live with what you feel is unfair or improper.
By now you can see, there are many, many steps involved for even the most self-sufficient person when choosing the right house. With a seasoned, Professional Realtor® on your side, you'll have access to these services, already in place and highly recommended. A professional agent has the knowledge and experience developed from many years of working with both buyers and sellers. Experienced Realtors® have developed a network of people, from lenders, lawyers, home inspectors and movers, to assist both home buyers and sellers.
Please remember again, the internet is never a substitute for an experienced Real Estate Professional.