MLS Accuracy - Where Are The Pictures?
Every home buyer likes to look for homes on the
internet these days. Unfortunately, the process is not always as rewarding as
it could be. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about internet
listings which help explain.
Q: Are all available homes shown?
A: Generally, yes, but it depends on the site.
For the widest, most up to date selection visit your local Realtor Association
website or a site which can access the local MLS. These sites should have all
the local MLS listings.
Q: A home I saw on the internet was actually
already sold. Why?
A: When a home sells the listing agent or
company must update the information in the MLS system. This process can take
several days or longer. You often won't know if a property is really still
available until your Realtor investigates it for you.
Q: Why don't the listings all have pictures?
A: The problem, again, is in updating time.
When Realtors enter the listings they also enter the picture (or pictures) if
available. Otherwise, they add a picture when they get one or let the MLS
service take it. The latter takes longest - up to 10 days or more.
Q: Why aren't there more "virtual
tours"?
A: Some homes really don't need or aren't
helped by this type marketing. Also, many Realtors have not become comfortable
using the technology. As a result the majority of listings are not yet being
presented this way.
Q: Where are the street addresses?
A: In Houston, it is a home seller's option to
display their property address on the web. Many will, some will not. If a
property does not have an address displayed your Realtor will provide it for
you.
Q: Can I rely on the room sizes and other data?
A: No, not necessarily. MLS data is compiled
from various sources and is intended to be accurate. However, people make
mistakes and data sources may or may not be reliable. In particular, room
sizes and square footage should only be used as
approximations.
Q: So, what's the best solution for a Houston
home shopper?
A: Try the Blakeman Properties internet search
site. It links directly into the Houston Association of Realtors MLS database.
Additionally, it features a handy input form to obtain added information on
listings of interest via email. Click on the link below:
http://www.blakemanproperties.com/listings.htm
First Published 9/11/00 (1/13)
