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Many people are unaware of the difference between the MLS and websites like Zillow and Trulia. There are a few things you should know about these sites before you begin searching for a home.
A long time ago, when brokers first started selling real estate, they were on their own and worked to connect buyers and sellers the best that they could. There was no rhyme or reason to how they did it and there was no process they followed. Eventually, brokers got together and agreed that sharing information was a great way to get a lot more business.
Eventually, this partnership evolved to the point that there was an MLS book that was published once a week or once a month with every available listing. After some time, this service moved online and became the MLS we know today. It allows agents to post a lot more photos and descriptive information, and makes sharing listings between brokers a whole lot easier.
Once the Internet became the primary source of information, various other home search sites popped up, including Zillow, Trulia, and Realtor.com. Brokers then began to share information with these sites as well as the MLS in order to give their listings more exposure.
The problem with these sites is the data feed. They are often inaccurate and outdated, as they do not get the same kind of close attention that the MLS does. To get accurate information, you're much better off talking directly to an agent who has full access to the MLS than you are using a third-party site.
If you want to browse homes on our MLS, visit AthensAreaHomeSearch.com. Or, just give us a call and let us know exactly what you're looking for. A few times, we've helped clients find the right home before they were even put on the MLS. It gives you a distinct advantage to work with us, as we'll hook you up with homes that aren't yet listed! Give us a call anytime. We're always here to help!
