4 Reasons to Google Your Address

Posted by Donna Tucker // January 27, 2015

When getting your home ready to sell, one important resource of information that’s often overlooked is the internet. In today’s world of digital technology, Google is often used as a quick and reliable source of information. As a homeowner looking to sell, it’s important to know what information is out there about your home. If nothing else, it gives you a chance to see your home from a potential buyer’s point of view.

Not convinced? Check out these four reasons why you should do a quick Google search of your home:

First impression? Street view!

Google allows buyers to get a real view of your home without even leaving the comfort of their home!
Google’s street view is only updated every 1-3 years, so any recent outdoor renovations may not be visible in the current picture – it’s good to note that in your advertisement.
Satellite view gives buyers a chance to look at the entire property, and compare your lot to the neighbors.

Nearby businesses that could pose potential risks

A satellite view can also show buyers what companies and industries are in your neighborhood. Another quick search can help them determine if the industrial companies give off any harmful pollution to the air or water supply.
A database of in-home drug labs is available from the Drug Enforcement Administration. Are there any in your neighborhood, and if so, how many?
It’s important to know this information ahead of time, and not be surprised when buyers bring it up as potential arguing points.

How good is your HOA?

Moving into a neighborhood with a homeowners association might be more than you signed up for, and it may be too late before you realize it.
A Google search or scan of Yelp reviews can answer these types of questions: What kind of problems do current owners have with their HOA? Are they reliable and timely when it comes to fixing maintenance problems? How does the HOA increase the feeling of community among the neighbors?

Community development and planning

Google users and buyers are interested in what the community is doing in terms of development.
What projects are in development for your community? Do you live near the area where major construction may be happening?
How are city council meetings run? What types of projects need permits?
These searches also help buyers figure out how these development plans could impact their daily schedule, such as new shopping centers or freeways, and your location in relation to these new projects.