Today, almost every sector has enhanced its user experience with technology and digital resources. For the mortgage and real estate industries, adapting to the changes with technology was a must. Technological advances, the convenience of digital tools, and mobile apps have increasingly gained momentum over the last few years. Since the pandemic in 2020, it became even more apparent that FinTech and Digital access for Real Estate is here to stay. Here are some of the most popular and emerging tech tools for 2022.
HOMEBUYING MOBILE APPS
House hunting has become even easier with apps such as Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and Trulia. Search for available homes, list your home, and learn about the market all on the go.
Zillow continues to stand above the rest due to its robust home inventory and additional services. Newer sites like Homesnap may be one of the most interactive tools. You can connect with your spouse, family members or friends to share homes, data, and more through regular messaging making it super easy. It also features a MLS-powered search that is quick to update listings accurately. In todays market, knowing the most recent status of a home is crucial to you winning the bidding war…or not.
By using mobile apps for your home search, you are expanding your options while saving time. Based on your preferences, you can set up filters, save searches, engage with agents and sellers, and the experience will be custom to you and your purposes.
REAL ESTATE EDUCATION AND INFORMATION
After the rollercoaster that was the housing market the last two years, being up to date is essential. Whether you already own a home, or are looking to buy, sell, rent, or invest in real estate, you must learn about the market.
Resources such as BiggerPockets are great to have on hand to educate yourself on real estate. With over 2 million members, you can connect with agents, lenders, contractors, and other professionals. Or you can join a forum or community that relates to your needs. Stay up to date with their library of resources including guides, glossaries, blogs, webinars, and more. Put education into your own hands!
DIGITAL LENDING
Mortgage companies had to act fast when the pandemic hit to keep the financing ball rolling. Digital solutions became a priority when in-person meetings weren’t available. Features like automated underwriting, eSignature, and secure file sharing made the lending process so much simpler and available to be done at any time and any place.
Keeping the efficiency in mind is a priority for FinTech companies like Blend, Earnest, Roostify and OppFi. They are committed to the future of lending for a seamless customer experience. Your lender may already have a process in place. Ask them upfront and your mortgage experience will immediately feel like a breeze.
TOOLS FOR SELLING
Do you plan on selling your home this year? Many homebuyers are looking for houses that are already smart. New constructed homes tend to be built with smart devices, home automation, or eco-conscious amenities. Existing homes can become more appealing to buyers by investing in smart features and devices.
Items such as voice activation, smart appliances, smart lighting and heating devices, home automation and security are all top of mind for prospective buyers this year. Not only does it save the owner money, but the contribution to the planet is something to feel good about.
The home-buying and selling process has gotten smarter with ever-evolving technology. While it is possible to go from point A to Z digitally, some aspects are much easier face to face. Real Estate and Mortgage professionals are available for in-person services. Make sure to check specifics from company to company as each have their unique protocols. There are benefits to both digital and in-person connections. Do what is best and what is most comfortable for you!
*This article is intended to be accurate, but the information is not guaranteed. Please reach out to us directly if you have any specific real estate or mortgage questions or would like help from a local professional. The article was written by Sparkling Marketing, Inc., with information from resources like Investopedia, TheBalance, Forbes.
