Tips for Conducting Property Searches on HAR and Zillow

When it comes to searching for properties online, not all websites are the same. An advantage that living near Houston offers is being familiar with conducting property searches on HAR. HAR is operated by the Houston Association of Realtors and is a leading website for prospective home sellers, buyers, and renters. According to Experian Marketing Services, HAR.com is the only local site that regularly ranks in the top 20 real estate sites in the country, according to Experian Marketing Services and the site was the number two real estate site in Texas in January 2014. The site updates its listings every 5 minutes!  

Zillow continues to be a widely recognized platform, offering a comprehensive database spanning across the country. On both Zillow and HAR you can tailor the search criteria.

The advantages of using HAR include:

• More accurate local listings can be found.
• Users will find local real estate news and trends.
• Contact information for leading local Texas realtors.
• Resources specific to the needs and interests for individuals living across Texas.
• Resources for connecting with local mortgage lenders.

By using HAR, the search results information is tailored to your local needs.

Searching Online Properties

Searches can be done by typing an address in the search bar. You can even choose to opt-in to receive notifications for new listings coming to market in a selected region.

But which options are available if your heart wants a certain home that isn’t on the market?

When your heart wants what your heart wants, it’s time to reach out to your local real estate agent. Your agent will have resources available, including access to the MLS (multiple listing association’s service), to bring you closer to keeping an eye on this desired property.

Here’s how MLS works:

1. Choose a local real estate agent, preferably someone who is a buyer’s agent and knows the neighborhood where your favorite home is located.
2. The agent will set up alerts for this property as well as similar homes meeting your criteria such as price range, location, size, number of room, and any necessary requirements.
3. If/when the home is listed for sale, the agent will contact you.

This is a free service to you. Agents are happy to help you keep an eye on homes that may come to market. If you like, the agent could contact the homeowner to inquire if they would be interested in selling. Schedule an appointment today to discuss how to get started.

Since 2004 Sara Lyn Nguyen continues to bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise about buying and selling real estate around the Houston area to those she serves. Sara is a multi-year award winning REALTOR® and relocation specialist where her clients trust her to have up-to-date information on the real estate market. She has been one of Gary Greene’s Multi-Million Dollar Top Producers, and citywide was the #2 Top Producing agent in 2020, #3 in 2021, and #2 in 2022. When it’s time to buy, sell, invest, or relocate speak with a trusted professional knowledgeable in the homes and neighborhoods of Fort Bend/Sugar Land and the surrounding region.