Optimizing MLS® searches for Single-Family Homes and Condos!

The Ultimate Guide to an Efficient and Effective MLS® Search for Homes and Condos

Searching for a home should be strategic, streamlined, and stress-free! As a real estate professional, organizing your MLS® search criteria efficiently helps you find the best homes for your clients faster. Whether you’re looking for single-family homes or condos, having a well-structured approach ensures you maximize every search. Let’s dive into the best ways to optimize your MLS® search for efficiency and accuracy!

🏡 Single Family Home Search: Key MLS® Criteria

✨ High-Priority Filters (Start Here!)

1. Price Range – Set your client’s budget range.
2. Location – Narrow it down by Region, Area, Community, and Zone.
3. Building Type – Detached, Semi-Detached, Bungalow, Bi-Level, etc.
4. Style – 2 Storey, 1.5 Storey, 4-Level Split, etc.
5. Year Built – Define age preferences (newer vs. character homes).
6. Lot Characteristics – Shape (Rectangular, Pie, Corner) & Size.
7. Basement & Suite Potential
   • Finished/Unfinished
   • Secondary Suite? Yes/No
   • Separate Entrance? Yes/No
   • Garage Suite/Garden Suite? Yes/No
8. Garage & Parking
   • Attached, Detached, RV Parking
9. Total Floor Area (Above Grade)
10. Number of Bedrooms & Bathrooms

🏠 Functional & Lifestyle Enhancements

• Heating & Cooling (Forced Air, In-Floor Heating, Heat Pump, AC?)
• Exterior Type (Vinyl, Stucco, Hardie Board, Brick, etc.)
• Roof Type (Shingles, Metal, Flat, etc.)
• Fireplace? (Gas, Wood, Electric)
• HOA Fees? Yes/No, Inclusions?
• Site Influences & Amenities (Golf, Backs onto Green Space, River Valley Views, Parks, Trails, No Back Lane)
• Occupancy Type (Owner-Occupied, Vacant, Tenant-Occupied)

🏙️ Condo Search: Key MLS® Criteria

✨ Must-Have Condo Search Filters

1. Price Range – Keep it realistic for buyers.
2. Location – Region, Area, Community, Zone.
3. Condo Type – Low-Rise, High-Rise, Townhouse, Loft, Penthouse.
4. Unit Features
   • Floor Number (for high-rise buyers)
   • End Unit? Yes/No
   • Total Floor Area (Square Footage)
   • Unit Exposure (North, South, East, West)
5. Year Built

🏰 Condo-Specific Essentials

6. Condo Fees & What’s Included (Heat, Water, Electricity, Internet, Security, etc.)
7. Parking Details
   • Parking Type: Titled, Assigned, Underground
   • Visitor Parking: Yes/No
8. Balcony/Terrace? Yes/No
9. Storage Unit Availability
10. Building Amenities (Gym, Concierge, Pool, Rooftop Patio, Social Rooms)
11. Pet Policy (Pet Friendly? Restrictions on Breed, Size, Number?)
12. Short-Term Rental Rules (Airbnb Allowed?)
13. Elevator Access? Yes/No
14. Proximity to Transit (LRT, Bus Routes)
15. Walkability to Shops & Restaurants
16. Occupancy Type (Vacant, Owner-Occupied, Tenant-Occupied)
17. Reserve Fund Information (Date of Last Study, Amount Available)

🔥 Power Search Strategy for REALTORS®

• Group criteria into tiers:
  • Tier 1: Non-Negotiable (Price, Location, Type, Size)
  • Tier 2: Desirable (Garage, Suite Potential, Amenities)
  • Tier 3: Lifestyle Preferences (Views, Site Influences)
• Save multiple templates for different buyer types:
  • First-Time Home Buyers
  • Investors (Suite Potential, Low Condo Fees)
  • Downsizers (Elevator, Low Maintenance)
• Set up Auto-Notifications for New Listings

With this efficient search strategy, you’ll save time, help clients faster, and close more deals. Want to discuss optimizing your search further? Let’s connect!

ARIVL: Your Real Estate Adventure Awaits!