The internet can be your best resource or your biggest distraction when buying your first home. In this episode, David Sidoni breaks down how to use online research the right way — without falling for clickbait, myths, or bad advice. Learn how to combine your own research with your Realtor’s expertise to find the perfect neighborhood and home faster.

Most first-time buyers start their home search online — and that’s okay, as long as you know how to use those tools wisely. David explains how to separate helpful data from sales-driven misinformation, showing you what to look for (and what to ignore) when browsing sites like Zillow, Redfin, or Google Maps.

You’ll learn how to research neighborhoods, compare amenities, and spot trends without getting lost in research overload. David also shows why your “unicorn Realtor” is still the key player who helps interpret that data correctly, so you don’t waste months chasing inaccurate listings or bad information.

By the end of Step 8, you’ll understand how to bring your online findings into productive conversations with your team — turning your curiosity into confidence.

“Your internet stalking skills finally come in handy — but use them wisely. Work with your Realtor, not against them.”

HIGHLIGHTS:

• How to use online tools to explore neighborhoods and listings without wasting time
• The difference between real data and clickbait
• Why Zillow estimates aren’t the same as real home values
• How to make your Realtor partnership stronger through smart research
• The mindset shift from “DIY buyer” to “informed co-pilot”

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David Sidoni, the "How to Buy a Home Guy," is a seasoned real estate professional and consumer advocate with two decades of experience helping first-time homebuyers navigate the real estate market. His podcast, "How to Buy a Home," is a trusted resource for anyone looking to buy their first home. It offers expert advice, actionable tips, and inspiring stories from real first-time homebuyers. With a focus on making the home-buying process accessible and understandable, David breaks down complex topics into easy-to-follow steps, covering everything from budgeting and financing to finding the right home and making an offer.

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