Optimize your MLS Search

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The growth of the internet has changed how we shop for real estate. These days most shopping starts online, where hundreds of real estate web sites offer a glimpse of the local market. Although many different web sites exist, there are basically 3 types of tools that you can use to shop online. Self-directed search Self-directed search tools allow you to identify properties matching your own specific criteria. Common criteria include the location, size, age, and style of the home, as well as features such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms.   You can define your target location by specifying a city, a zip code, an MLS area, or even the name of a specific street. Many search tools now offer a map-based solution. If you know the MLS number for a property that is of particular interest to you, you can enter that number into any of the above search pages to quickly locate the online listing. Self-directed search with automatic updates This option adds convenience to your property search by sending you an email when properties that match your criteria enter the market. When a property matching your criteria becomes available, you receive an email update with a link to the property details. If the property is one that you would like keep an eye on, you can add it to your list of favorite properties, along with any other properties that are of interest to you. Both the auto update and favorite properties list are available with any search settings that you choose to save.  Realtor-Assisted Search You may find a realtor-assisted search to be your best option if you have very specific criteria for your future home. All realtors have access to the local MLS database so that they can create customized searches according to a client's specific needs. For example, the search option below identifies homes for under $400,000 with at least 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 2000 finished square feet - all located within a specific elementary, middle school and high school district.  Dozens of other specific criteria are available with the realtor-assisted search, depending on a client's needs. For example, the search settings below could be ammended to only include homes with a 2 car attached garage, hardwood floors, and a fenced yard. As with the self-directed search, your realtor can save your search settings so that you receive an email whenever a property matching your criteria becomes available. He can also help you keep track of your favorite listings. If you wish, your realtor can visit any property that is a potential match to make sure there is a good fit between the property and your needs. A service-oriented realtor will be mindful of your needs and time, and a serve as a great ally in your search for your new home. About us This information is provided courtesy of Dan Miller and Shawn Kriewaldt of Keller Williams Realty and DaneCountyMarket.com. For more information, please contact Dan at 608-852-7071 (danielmiller@kw.com) or Shawn at 608-212-5743 (shawnkriewaldt@kw.com). Don't forget: if you're buying or selling, whether your timeline is 3 months or 3 years, we can help. Track the Market and Search for Real Estate You can receive our articles and monthly updates via email. Just go to our newsletter sign-up, enter your email address, and select your topic(s) of interest. Our real estate search tools are easy-to-use. Learn how you can simplify your search by saving your search settings, receiving email updates, and tracking your own list of "favorite" properties.  Search for South Central Wisconsin Real Estate Now Email this article to a friend: Email To: Email From: Name of Sender: Optional Message: Please enter the numbers/characters in the picture for verification *  Back