When it’s time to search for a new home, you have many tools at your disposal, but the best tool just might be the internet. With just a mouse click, you can review neighborhoods, find Realtors, and view homes. Still, it can feel a little overwhelming at the start. Here are some online home search tips that will help you find the perfect home.
Online Home Search Tips:
Define Your Must-Haves
No article about online home search tips would be complete without telling you to create a list of non-negotiable features. This could include the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, or specific amenities like a backyard or garage. By focusing on your “must-have” criteria, you can streamline your search and avoid missing out on homes that may meet most of your needs but not all.
Set a Budget
Just as important as defining your preferences is setting a budget. Search for homes in your price range to see how much home you can get for your money. If you can’t find anything you can afford in the area you are thinking of moving to, you can refine your search either by raising your budget ceiling, looking in a different area, or letting go of some of your must-haves.
Download an App or Two
One of the easiest ways to search for a new home is via the app. Zillow, Redfin, and Movoto are just three of the many house-hunting apps available to help jump-start your search. Most offer advanced search filters that allow you to narrow down listings based on specific criteria like price range, square footage, and amenities. Take advantage of these filters to refine your search and find properties that closely match your preferences.
Enable Notifications
To stay ahead of the market, set up automated notifications for new listings that match your criteria. Most real estate websites and apps allow you to receive alerts via email or text as soon as new homes are listed. Opt for immediate notifications rather than daily summaries to ensure you don’t miss out on desirable properties
Conduct Thorough Research
Where do you want to live? What are your must-haves for a neighborhood or community? Research neighborhoods online. Look into local schools, crime rates, amenities, and community vibes. Think about your commute and how close you want to be to retail centers and hospitals. Most real estate websites and apps will offer this information. If you are thinking of moving to a master-planned community, visit their websites and use their home search tools to see what’s available.
Discover Professionals
Online tools can help you find the perfect professional to help you with your home search. You can easily find a lender and even get pre-approved online. All Realtors maintain an online presence. Review websites can help you learn more about Realtors and lenders so you can find people you think you will click with. Once you have a list of names, you can call them to discuss your needs.
Make Appointments
If you are looking into master-planned communities and builders, you can visit their web pages and speak virtually with a representative. They can answer your questions and schedule appointments for you to tour communities and model homes.
Sign Up
You can receive even more information if you sign up. Most master-planned communities have online forms you can fill out to receive information about the community, builders, home-buying events, and more. Don’t forget to follow communities on social media to get a picture of the lifestyle offered.
Tour Our Model Homes
We hope you found these online home search tips useful. Now that you know, spend time checking out The Grand Prairie website. It’s the simplest way to find your new home. Not only can you check out our list of available homes but you can also learn more about our builders — David Weekley Homes, Lennar, Perry Homes, Sitterle Homes, Village Builders, and Westin Homes. Visit their model homes to learn about floor plans, options, and builder incentives. Stop by The Welcome Center today to learn more about The Grand Prairie and tour our 10 model homes!
