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The digital era has dramatically changed the way consumers shop, and the real estate market is no different. Agents from an earlier era would hardly recognize how homebuyers are finding MLS listings these days. This is especially true with the younger demographic of millennials, who were born between 1981 and 1996. This changes how agents need to advertise their listings. If you’re beginning your real estate career or simply shifting gears, understand how the process has changed and how it will affect your approach.

A Guide to MLS Listings in the Digital Era

How Millennials Search

According to the National Association of Realtors, 44% of all buyers looked for properties online first in 2018, with a whopping 99% of millennials searching online. The typical buyer used mobile devices to search for MLS listings, looking at information and photos to determine whether they were interested in scheduling a showing. They also reported that millennials are the largest group of first-time homebuyers, at 65%.

MLS listingsThe features that buyers found most useful when looking online were (in order of most to least useful): photographs, detailed information, floor plans, virtual tours, and real estate agent contact information. Millennials often communicated with their agents via email or text messaging.

The Importance of an Agent

Working with a real estate agent is still a priority for buyers of all ages, whether buying or selling. Agents know the area well, so they can help buyers narrow down their search to properties that fit their needs. Otherwise, it’s easy to spend hours each week sorting through irrelevant properties. But it’s imperative that you bring your A-game in your online presence. Professional, engaging photos are more important than ever for MLS listings, and social media savvy—complete with hashtags—will present you as an accessible, personable agent.

While the search itself has become more independent, agents still provide a valuable service before and after meeting the client for the first time. They may communicate digitally much more often today, but they still open the door to show clients properties they like, submit offers, negotiate, ensure all complicated real estate laws are followed, and handle the piles of paperwork. 

 

When you’re ready to begin your real estate career, the team at EXIT Realty Upper Midwest will provide the guidance and support you need to succeed. They have offices throughout Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, North Dakota, and South Dakota with team opportunities in every office. With this brokerage, you’ll find a new level of success finding clients and selling your MLS listings. See their offices online and call (651) 505-3570 to talk about your career.

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