The homebuying process has never been more tech-friendly. Whether you're searching for the perfect home, calculating your mortgage payments, or getting pre-approved, technology can make the process faster and easier. Here are five must-have tech tools that every homebuyer should use in 2024.

1. Zillow & Redfin – Home Search Made Easy

Zillow and Redfin are two of the most popular real estate platforms, providing up-to-date home listings, price estimates, and market insights. Both apps allow buyers to filter searches by price, location, home features, and even commute times.

• Zillow offers Zestimate home value estimates, virtual tours, and direct connections with agents.
• Redfin provides in-depth market data, competitive pricing insights, and lower listing fees for sellers.

Why You Need It: These platforms help you explore available homes, track price trends, and set alerts for new listings that match your criteria.

2. Mortgage Calculators – Know What You Can Afford

Before falling in love with a home, it’s crucial to understand what you can afford. Online mortgage calculators—such as those from Bankrate, NerdWallet, and MPS Mortgage LLC—help estimate your monthly payments, including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.

Why You Need It: These tools provide instant insights into different loan scenarios, helping you make informed decisions before you apply for a mortgage.

3. Home Affordability Tools – Plan Your Budget Wisely

Affordability calculators, like those from Realtor.com and NerdWallet, take a more comprehensive approach by factoring in your income, existing debts, and lifestyle expenses. These tools can help determine:

• The maximum home price within your budget
• How much you’ll need for a down payment
• Your estimated debt-to-income (DTI) ratio

Why You Need It: This tool ensures you stay within a comfortable financial range and avoid overextending your budget.

4. Digital Mortgage Pre-Approval Platforms – Speed Up the Process

Platforms like MPS Mortgage LLC, Rocket Mortgage, and Better.com offer online mortgage pre-approvals in minutes. These tools allow you to submit financial documents, get a pre-approval letter, and understand your loan options—all from your phone or laptop.

Why You Need It: In a competitive market, having a pre-approval ready gives you an edge over other buyers and speeds up the closing process.

5. Google Maps & Walk Score – Evaluate the Neighborhood

Beyond the home itself, the location is just as important. Google Maps provides street views, traffic patterns, and nearby amenities, while Walk Score rates a neighborhood’s walkability, bikeability, and access to public transit.

Why You Need It: These tools help you assess the livability of a neighborhood, ensuring it fits your lifestyle needs.

Final Thoughts

With these five tech tools, homebuyers in 2024 can navigate the market with confidence. Whether you're searching for homes, estimating your mortgage, or getting pre-approved, leveraging technology will save you time and help you make smarter decisions.

If you're ready to start your homebuying journey, I can help you secure the right mortgage—fast and hassle-free!