You might be able to buy your mattress online, get a car from a vending machine and sell your house without a local realtor, but that doesn’t mean you should. Real estate agent Audrey Wiggins urges those looking sell a home to avoid selling to online “iBuyer” companies like Open Door and now, Zillow. Here are a few reasons why Wiggins says that convenience doesn’t equal quality in the real estate world.
iBuyers Offer Less Money
iBuyer companies base their efforts around algorithms and quick cash offers, meaning you’ll end up with significantly less than market value for your home. Using a local realtor will ensure that you’re getting the most amount of money possible.
A Realtor Can Give Home Improvement Advice
Zillow can’t tell you that you should paint that lime green playroom a more neutral color. A local realtor can make recommendations for ways to sell your home faster and for the most money. They also understand the ins and outs of your space because they’re able to personally walk through and show you things that should be updated or improved. Realtors can also help you stage your home in a way that will help it sell faster. An algorithm isn’t doing all that.
iBuyer Companies Lack Personal Relationships
There’s little to no human contact when you’re selling to an iBuyer, and building a relationship with a realtor is important even after you close. If an unexpected issue pops up around your house, your realtor will likely know who to call. And if you’ll only be living in a space for a couple of years, you’ll know who to call when it comes time to put your home back on the market.
A Local Realtor Knows Each Town’s Lifestyle
And they’re able to refer clients to certain homes or neighborhoods based on that lifestyle. Local realtors know the area, and they take the time to get to know clients and recommend a neighborhood that fits their needs.
Wiggins agrees that Zillow can be a great tool for those looking to buy or sell a home, but it’s simply a resource for browsing.
“Nothing can replace the experience and wisdom of a realtor in the local market,” she says.
Audrey Wiggins is a realtor with Better Homes & Gardens areal Estate Lifestyle Partners. Learn more about her business here.
