Computer home buying and selling?

There is a new service about to be launched that is being touted as a way for a buyer and seller to get together on a house deal on line. The details are in the news section on the right side of the BLOG (Current Real Estate News) and the company is called Real Umbrella.

Understandably people who have had a bad experience with a Realtor might welcome this approach. And, if both parties are seasoned real estate investors or people who have bought and sold many homes over the years, it might work out.

Even though you are hearing this from a Realtor, let me give you a couple of things to consider before plunging ahead with a computer house sale.

To protect yourself you are going to need several qualified professionals to help even if you don't use a Realtor. Two that come to mind immediately are a home inspector and a reputable title company.

The home inspector will alert you to potential or actual problems with the home that you might miss and the title company will ensure that you get clear title to the property (necessary for any mortgage).

Also, without a way to check on comparable home values or to see other similar homes that are for sale, you will miss out on really thoroughly shopping the market for possibly even a better deal. Besides, if you are a buyer, Realtor services are at no cost.

I'll keep an eye on this and let you know how it pans out.

Build a better mouse trap . . .

Richard