I asked this question a little over a year ago and, to my dismay, too few agents. I continue to marvel at the ever evolving technology that allows us to see just about everything in and around the property, but which cannot replace the feel, smell and ambiance that you take in when you physically walk a property. Way too many new and seasoned agents cite traffic congestion, other appointments and competing priorities as their refusal to maintain a current awareness of the available inventory in the market area they serve. 
New agents who haven’t formed many habits yet, are starting the bad habit of preferring to surf the MLS and virtual tours for their market knowledge, instead of getting to know neighborhoods in the market area. In my opinion, the time savings is undermining their long-term market understanding and success. Consumers now have access to most of the information we do and see the same photos and virtual tours.
If you are not previewing, you need to ask yourself this question: what is your value added difference to financially pre-approved purchaser who knows the neighborhood market as well or better than you do since they have probably driven by every home of interest?
Do you still preview? Is it worth your time?
Dave Rosenmarkle
Broker Owner
Highland Realty
(703) 538-2566
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