Why 44% of Home Searches Start Online (and What to Do Next)

If you’re preparing to search for homes for sale in Redlands, CA, this year, you’re not alone. At least 44% of home searches have begun online since 2018, a trend that has transformed the way people invest in Redlands real estate. Located in the heart of San Bernardino County, Redlands is a thriving city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and plenty of natural beauty.

So whether you’re relocating to the area or investing in a second property there, get to know everything you can expect from searching for properties online, from how to go about it in the best way to avoiding pitfalls and figuring out what’s next.

When it comes to searching for a new home, it's no secret that the internet has become a go-to source for many people. In fact, 90% of buyers use online resources to find homes at some point during the process. While there are certainly some drawbacks to relying solely on online home searches, for many people, online home searches provide a quick and easy way to begin the process of finding their dream home.

 

An online home search provides a level of convenience that was previously unheard of. Within minutes, buyers can view dozens of properties, compare prices, and learn about different neighborhoods in Redlands, CA, all from the comfort of their own homes. This saves a significant amount of time and energy that would have been spent driving around town or calling multiple real estate agents.

 

With access to hundreds of homes for sale in Redlands, CA, online, buyers have a much wider range of properties to choose from than they would by relying solely on local classifieds or word-of-mouth. This means that online buyers are more likely to find a property that meets their specific needs and preferences. Online listings also provide a wealth of information that can be incredibly helpful, from square footage and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms to high-quality photos that provide an accurate representation of the property.

While online home searches offer numerous benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider.

 

Sometimes, scammers target homebuyers, creating fake listings or using deceptive tactics to trick buyers into sending them money or personal information. By relying solely on online home searches, buyers may be more vulnerable to these types of scams.

 

While online home searches offer a wide range of properties to choose from, the listings may not always be comprehensive. Some sellers may choose not to list their property online or may list it on a limited number of sites. This means that buyers who rely solely on online listings may miss out on potential properties that could be a great fit for them.

 

Though online listings often include photos and even virtual tours of a property, it can still be difficult to get a true sense of a home’s size and layout. This is especially true for properties that have unique features or floor plans that are difficult to capture in photos. Without seeing the property in person, buyers may have a hard time assessing whether a home is right for them.

If you're looking to buy a home in Redlands and plan on using online home searches, there are several things you can do to make the most of your search.

 

Online home search platforms typically allow users to set filters and search parameters to target homes in their price range or with the features they're looking for. Taking advantage of these tools can help buyers quickly and efficiently find properties that meet their needs.

 

As buyers browse through online listings, they’ll need to keep track of properties that catch their eye. Many real estate platforms allow users to save properties or create custom lists to help them keep track of their favorites. This can be a helpful way to stay organized and focused as they continue their search.

 

While online home searches can be a great starting point, it's important to work with a reputable Redlands real estate team to ensure a smooth and successful investment experience. Take the time to read online reviews and ratings of different teams in your area to find a reliable partner who can provide valuable guidance and support.

After conducting an online home search, what do you do next? There are several important steps to take to ensure the remainder of the process goes off without a hitch.

 

While online home searches can be a great tool, they can never replace the expertise of a professional real estate team. The right team will be able to offer insight into home prices and market conditions as well as how to submit offers and negotiate your terms. So after you start your search online, look for a team in Redlands to get personalized assistance and guidance.

 

Though online listings can give valuable information and photos of a property, they can’t substitute seeing a home in person. Buyers should always schedule viewings of properties that interest them to get a better sense of the home’s size, layout, and condition. This can help buyers make a more informed decision when it comes time to submit an offer.

 

When buying a home in Redlands, buyers should consider researching the surrounding neighborhoods and areas as well. This will help them get a better sense of the community, schools, and amenities available, impacting their ultimate decision about where to put down roots. 

Online home searches offer buyers incredible benefits, from convenience and options to targeted search parameters and photos. But to make the most out of your home search in Redlands, it’s essential to balance online research with professional guidance from a local real estate team. With expert knowledge of the Redlands market, Brimm Realty has helped hundreds of home buyers find their forever homes in the area. So when you’re ready to figure out your next step, book a consultation with the Brimm Realty Group.