Question: Should people looking to buy use websites to find a home?

Answer: Searching for a home online can give buyers a sense that they understand the market and current pricing. Unfortunately, however, many of the websites people commonly use underestimate the market value of homes — especially homes in Hawaii. I recently looked at a few Hawaii listings on one national site. One estimated the value of a three-bedroom condo at $642,000. It will sell soon for $685,000. The same site suggested a price of $733,000 for a home nearby. That house recently sold for $830,000.

Statistics from the National Association for Realtors show that while approximately 90 percent of people started their home searches online, 87 percent of buyers in 2015 used a real estate agent or broker when purchasing a home. Seventy-two percent of those would definitely use that same agent again.

Q: What is the best way to start searching for a home?

A: The best way to start a home search is to find a real estate professional who works in and knows your target area. I recently did a test on one of the websites that is currently being widely advertised on television. I asked for information about a home in Kailua and got a quick text reply. The agent is licensed in the state but does not work often in the area and does not represent the seller or the broker selling the home. This person had not visited the home and had no more knowledge than I had of the home’s characteristics and value.

Many of the popular national home search websites can be good for viewing photos of homes and for gathering information about square footage and schools, but they are often not current or accurate. Many of them are lead-generating machines for real estate agents and/or brokers who may or may not know the area and the home.

Q: What are some websites that people can trust?

A: Again, I would go to and trust your agent. A good agent will set you up to receive automatic emails directly from the local MLS system. Your agent will create a portal for you to do your own research, to view and compare homes and to save and follow favorites. More importantly, a good agent will not only think “outside the box” for possibilities for you, but will often know about listings before they hit the open market. The personal touch, creativity and market knowledge that only an experienced real estate professional can bring will often give you the leg up you need in a market that is tight and competitive for buyers.

Q: What are some of the best ways to find a home?

A: Look to your real estate agent or the listing agent for the most current and accurate information. If you can, talk to friends or associates to help you find a good agent. If you are new to the area, I would go to open houses and talk to the agent there. You will find you click with some agents more than others. Start early in your home buying process to develop trust and a good working relationship with an agent who will have your best interests at heart.