Blogs Level the Playing Field for Consumers

Blogs are proving themselves to be an important resource for real estate consumers, with many blogs containing previously unavailable information regarding neighborhoods, properties, and even service providers such as real estate agents. Blogs are reporting on both the good (how great a neighborhood or broker is, for instance), the bad (e.g., a development which is overpriced or poorly maintained), and the ugly (warning buyers away from incompetent or dishonest brokers).

Much of the qualitative information found in both blog posts and comments is not readily available elsewhere, and is being provided by objective market observers and consumers, as opposed to salespeople with an agenda. I have been studying numerous real estate blogs over the last year or so and must say that I am intrigued by the medium's potential for consumers.

I am an inveterate information junkie. When I am shopping for a TV, computer or other electronic gadget, my first stop on the information highway is reading the comments made by purchasers on websites such as newegg.com or buy.com. When making travel plans I can't help but read the reviews about various hotels and resorts on web travelsites. Can you imagine being in the market for a home or condominium and having the ability to get these same types of objective reviews from residents, owners and market insiders? Blogs have his capability, and it will only be a matter of time before their full potential is realized.

Real Estate Blogging for Real Estate [CNNMoney.com]