Top Three Ways Buyers Find a Home

1.  The Internet.

At least 84% of buyers are searching online.

This is HUGE!  What this means is your online presence is extremely important.  Your home listing will need to have both professional quality photos taken with a wide-angle lens AND local and national website presence.

The most popular search website in our area is HAR.com, provided by the Houston Association of Realtors. This website takes data entered into MLS by Realtors and allows buyers to search for homes. This is the most updated website to get information from because it IS the MLS, Multiple Listing Service. If you home is not listed in MLS, you are missing a ton of exposure. MLS data also feeds into national websites, including Realtor.com, which is the top website for buyers that are not local and unaware of HAR.com.Neighborhood websites are a huge draw to buyers as they want to learn more about the amenites and feel of a subdivision. If a buyer is interested in a certain neighborhood, they will gravitate to these websites because they are focused with listings and information about where they want to be.

2. Realtors.

Nine out of 10 buyers use a real estate agent in the search process.

Not only is MLS important for your internet presence, MLS is also the way Realtors communicate with each other about homes that are available and important details regarding the sale. Choose a Realtor that is actively working with buyers and sellers. These Realtors are more likely to show and sell your home.

Be sure that your Realtor works full time in the business and is able to financially support themselves through their real estate career. Choose a Realtor that keeps in touch with buyers via a "Client Gateway" or "MarketWatch" program. They will be able to instantly communicate with buyers that are actively looking for the right home.

3. Yard Signs / Driving Neighborhoods.

15% of buyers learned about their home through a yard sign.

Be sure to capture a buyer's attention by having these featues curbside:

• Professional signage indicating the home is for sale.

• Reference to how the buyer can find out more information online and view a virtual tour.

• A Realtor phone number that is available for answering questions, prequalifying a buyer, and scheduling a showing.