Savannah Ga Real Estate - Online Home-Searching

The percentage of buyer clients I have worked with this year who came through online searches has risen to 50% from 10% last year. I expect that percentage to rise to 80% in 2008.

The way people look for services has definitely changed. I am constantly receiving feedback from online home-searchers regarding what they need and expect, and I am constantly learning about needs and wants from doing my own information searches online.

Ease of use is a biggie. I know when I search online for information I want to get it fast and easy. I don’t mind registering to receive information, but I don’t want to jump through too many hoops or I get frustrated and move on.

Richness of information is important, too. I have found that many sites offer just enough information to create more questions than I had to begin with. This is alright to a degree because I know that a site can’t answer every possible question, but I want to at least have most of my questions answered or a function where I can receive additional information in a reasonable amount of time.

Contact information being accessible is important. I want to know that a human being is behind the site and that a human response is a few clicks away.

Whether a site is “pretty” or not is not of grave importance, although simplicity of design is attractive, and cluttered, busy, flashing sites are a visual and intellectual turn-off. I don’t want to enter a three-ring circus when all I want is functionality and simple design.

Many clients have commented on quick response and I believe this is the main key. Although I have some online lookers who seemed bothered when I respond, the great majority are thankful that I acknowledge their visit and offer my help. However, I only respond when someone has registered for information. I know, also, that a big attraction of online searching is that people want to anonymously search and gather information without being attacked by sale pitches.

The internet is evolving and it amazing to witness the year to year advances. At first it seemed like an overwhelming challenge to keep up with the rapid changes, but now that I am connected it is a fascinating and fun ride.

If you ever have any suggestions regarding this site, feel free to voice your opinion – I welcome the constructive criticism.