BIG ISLAND HOME BUYERS ARE SHOPPING ONLINE

Searching For Real Estate Online

More than ever before, technology is in the forefront of the home buying and selling market. It impacts every part of our lives, and consumers now expect faster and faster service, not only in service industries and real estate sales but in the sale of products as well.

If you are selling or buying property in the 48 contiguous states or searching Big Island real estate for main residences or romantic hideaways, you can browse homes, condos, or quaint refuges. You specify the desired parameters, and only properties that meet those strictures will pop up. Big Island homes for sale are listed along with homes available on the other islands in the state of Hawaii. 

Smart Home Technology

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Whether buying or selling a home, smart technology has positioned itself as appealing to both. 25 percent of Americans possess some type of smart home product. Millennials, especially, feel that they save time and money through its usage.

When homes have Smart Home Technology products in place, it is more likely to be a draw to buyers, and sellers are more likely to get top dollar for their homes. Because smart technology impacts home values so much, it should be taken into consideration when realtors determine home values. Not only will homes sell for more money, but they will likely sell faster than a comparable home without the technology.

Potential buyers are much more interested in a home that has the increased safety of a smart home security system or energy efficiency. Also popular are smart thermostats to control the heat and automated lights that can be remotely controlled. It is as simple as downloading an app on your smartphone that can integrate different connected products and allows you to manage them from remote locations.

Websites

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Realtor’s websites and real estate sites, such as Zillow and Trulia have changed the way people buy and sell property. The vast majority of people initially view homes online, even higher valued homes, prior to contacting a real estate agent. While most home buyers prefer to actually see the property in person, many online tools help them narrow the search. As an example, living outside Hawaii does not have to be an obstacle to purchasing a property there. High end homes, such as those for sale on the Big Island in Hawaii, make use of technology to market to people who would otherwise not know about these homes.

Local Realtor websites have become more savvy as the bottom line of their businesses have become more dependent on the bells and whistles contained within, such as animation, vibrant colors, and appropriate links to helpful information for the consumer. A full featured property search showing listings from all local real estate brokers, relocation tips, community information, or tips on packing all give consumers information that is pertinent to their choice of a realtor. The more realtors offer indispensable information and guidance to consumers, the more likely they are to get their business.

The Mortgage Process

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Applying for a mortgage today is so much simpler than it was even a few years ago. Often, you never have to see a lender. The application is made online, papers are signed online, monies are transferred automatically, and credit reports are obtained electronically. Paper forms are almost a thing of the past.

Streamlining the process makes it more convenient for the client and the loan officer. Buyers are more in control of the process. The internet allows them to evaluate the various options available, such as adjustable vs. fixed rates, down payment possibilities, terms of the loan, how interest works, and debt-to- income ratio. This is an education for buyers in itself.

Potential buyers have access to the many resources available online to help them become knowledgeable about the mortgage process so that they are more confident when they begin the process. It behooves the consumer to know as much as possible before actually going ahead with any transaction. A real estate agent’s ability to help clients understand some of the technical information is always a plus and adds legitimacy to the process as well as confidence in the agent.

Working with an Agent

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Generally, home buyers prefer to make major decisions, such as a home purchase, with the assistance of a realtor. Having someone responsible for the paperwork, and the order in which it is due, can be very comforting. Knowing that someone is taking care of the myriad details required during a real estate transaction removes a lot of stress from the client and practically insures a positive review for the realtor.

Technology has definitely affected the way we live and function. Consumers expect more automation in their homes. They want movie theaters, man caves, ability to view their homes via cameras while they are away, and a whole plethora of modern conveniences that they perceive as making their lives better. We realize that the global reach of the internet has made it simpler to view available properties no matter where the potential client lives. Simply navigate to our Property Search to start now.