Metro Detroit

WHY THE INTERNET IS NOT REPLACING REALTORS

May 28, 2013

While the ability to search online has a had dramatically profound effect on many industries over the past 10 years (travel agents, we’re looking at you), real estate agents still seem to be as important as ever.  Sure, most people – roughly 90% – may start their search for a new home online, but the overwhelming majority prefer to use a Realtor when it comes time to move forward with the purchase.  It makes sense.  For many people, their home will be the largest monetary investment they make in their lifetime and with so many decisions – and so much paper work – it’s intimidating to go it alone.

I came across an article via Bloomberg Businessweek from earlier this year I thought was worth sharing.  It details how Realtors have remained relevant and provides some background on newer players in the real estate market such as Zillow, Trulia & Redfin.