Why are properties listed on several different websites at different prices? We've heard this question many times from buyers and sellers alike. So, we thought we would clarify.

First of all the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) can only be accessed by licensed Realtors. This is where the information on active properties is the most accurate & has the freshest data. For you to receive the best data, you can have a Realtor sign you up for a search on the MLS. Then any new listings that are activated with your search criteria will be emailed directly to you.

Real Estate company web sites use IDX services that will have the listings fed to their sites from the MLS. The information is updated anywhere from on the hour to every 24 hours. The "Search Listings" link on this page will take you to such a site.

Other websites require the agent to supply data to them manually. Many agents use these sites but some do not. Occasionally the data isn't updated When a price improvement is implemented.  We have several places where we have to change the price. Have we made mistakes & missed a site? We have. We have systems and checklists in place to prevent it from happening too often.

It's in the best interest of a seller to be on as many sites as possible. More than 80% of home buyers start their search on the Internet. If you have questions about information you've read on the Internet just ask a Realtor for further explanation. Remember; you can't always believe everything that you read.