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5 Key Apps To Help You Find a New Home

October 25, 2012
5 Key Apps To Help You Find a New Home

Navigating the Home Buying Process

The experience of purchasing a home is often associated with significant stress. For many individuals, a house represents the largest financial investment they will make.

Finding a property that perfectly aligns with one’s requirements can also prove challenging. When considering a purchase involving substantial funds, the desire to avoid compromise is understandable.

Homeowners aspire to secure a residence that fosters happiness and a life free from regret.

Leveraging Smartphone Technology in Your Home Search

Fortunately, modern smartphones offer tools to streamline and alleviate the difficulties inherent in the home buying journey.

Numerous applications are available designed to simplify the process of locating suitable properties. While much of the information these apps provide is accessible online, their portability offers a distinct advantage.

Benefits of Using Real Estate Apps

  • Convenience: Access vital property details directly on-site during viewings.
  • Efficiency: Quickly compare properties and make informed decisions.
  • Reduced Stress: Empower yourself with information throughout the process.

These applications can contribute to a more enjoyable home buying experience and increase the likelihood of discovering your ideal home.

Ultimately, utilizing these resources can help you locate the house you’ve been dreaming of.

Realtor.com Real Estate Search (Windows, Android, iOS)

Realtor.com stands as a highly popular real estate application, and its widespread use is well-justified.

The app is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features designed to streamline the home-buying process.

Key Features

A particularly useful function is the price-reduction filter. This feature proactively displays properties in your vicinity that have undergone recent price adjustments.

Identifying price reductions can assist in locating sellers who are eager to negotiate.

  • The application also provides access to foreclosure listings.
  • Recently sold properties are readily available for review.
  • Detailed area searches are supported.

Each property listing typically includes an extensive collection of photographs.

For individuals actively engaged in a home search, this application is an essential tool to have at their disposal.

It simplifies the process and provides valuable insights into the current market.

Walk Score (iOS) [No Longer Available]

Walk Score was a useful iOS application designed to evaluate the walkability of different locations.

In cities and towns, where reliance on automobiles is often reduced, understanding the proximity of amenities is highly beneficial.

Importance for Home Buyers

For individuals in the process of purchasing a home, the convenience of nearby services can be a significant factor.

For example, if daily coffee is a necessity, knowing the location of the closest coffee shop can greatly influence the decision-making process regarding a potential property.

The application provided a walkability score, indicating how easily daily errands could be accomplished on foot.

Benefits of Walk Score

  • Helped users assess the convenience of a location.
  • Provided valuable information for those seeking to minimize car usage.
  • Aided in the home-buying process by highlighting nearby amenities.

Ultimately, Walk Score empowered users to make informed decisions about where to live, based on their lifestyle and preferences.

Zillow Real Estate (Windows, Android, iOS, BlackBerry)

The Zillow application provides access to properties not always found on other platforms. A unique aspect of Zillow is its Make Me Move function.

Understanding the Make Me Move Feature

This feature enables homeowners who are considering selling to list their properties. It functions as a preliminary inquiry, allowing them to gauge interest and potentially sell if a suitable offer is received.

Because these homes aren't formally listed on the open market, they remain exclusive to the Zillow platform. This presents an opportunity to discover properties that may not be visible elsewhere.

Standard Features

In addition to this exclusive access, Zillow incorporates all the typical functionalities expected from a leading real estate application.

  • Comprehensive search capabilities are included.
  • High-quality property photos are readily available.

Zillow offers a comprehensive experience for those seeking to buy or sell a home, combining unique features with standard tools.

Trulia (Android, iOS)

For those seeking a new home, Trulia represents a powerful and convenient resource. The application boasts an intuitive and visually appealing user interface, streamlining the property search process.

Utilizing GPS technology, Trulia efficiently identifies properties located near your current location. This functionality facilitates a rapid and uncomplicated search experience.

Key Features

  • A particularly valuable aspect of Trulia is its alert system.
  • These alerts are customized based on your specified search criteria.
  • You will receive automatic notifications whenever a new listing becomes available that aligns with your preferences.

This immediate notification system provides a significant advantage. It allows prospective buyers to view new properties promptly and potentially submit an offer before widespread interest develops.

Being among the first to view a listing can be crucial in a competitive housing market. Trulia’s alerts empower users to act quickly on promising opportunities.

The app’s ability to deliver timely updates ensures you won’t miss out on potential dream homes. It’s a proactive approach to house hunting.

Real Estate by Smarter Agent (Windows, Android, iOS, BlackBerry)

The Real Estate by Smarter Agent application is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, Android, iOS, and BlackBerry.

Customized Agent Apps

A key benefit of this app lies in its customization options. Real estate agents can create bespoke applications tailored to their individual branding and preferences.

This allows agents to differentiate themselves and provide a unique experience for their clients, streamlining the home search process.

Standard Application Features

Even if an agent hasn't developed a custom app, a standard, free version is readily available.

This application provides comprehensive search functionality, enabling users to locate their ideal property with ease.

Users can expect a user-friendly interface and access to high-quality property photos.

The app ensures a seamless experience for those seeking a new home, regardless of whether a custom or standard version is utilized.

Finding Your Dream Home: A Summary

For individuals engaged in a property search, several applications are available to streamline the process and enhance the experience. Each of these tools offers unique functionalities designed to assist in locating an ideal residence.

Ultimately, the selection of an application – or even utilizing multiple platforms – can significantly contribute to a successful home-buying journey, potentially alleviating the pressures often associated with this major life decision.

Key Benefits of Utilizing Home-Searching Apps

  • These applications can simplify the often-complex process of finding a suitable property.
  • They provide access to a wide range of listings, potentially uncovering options you might otherwise miss.
  • Features within these apps can help manage your search, track preferences, and stay organized.

Should the challenges of home shopping feel overwhelming, these apps are designed to reduce stress and improve the overall experience.

Image Credit: Shopping cart and house on blue background via Shutterstock

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