A Realtor's recommendation

A client of mine recently asked me, "Inna, you're always sharing real estate market news - where do you get these stats? Do you pay for a service that keeps you up-to-date? Is it available only to Realtors, or can I get access too?" I was flattered by the question, and then I gave her my answer. Later, I decided to share that answer with everyone else here on my website. I figured, if one client had the question and asked, surely many others have the same question, but don't get a chance to ask!

If you've read any of my market updates in the past, you know that I stress the difference between LOCAL and NATIONAL real estate markets frequently. It's important to stay up-to-date on both fronts because 1) local markets very often are different, or completely opposite, from national market trends, and 2) it's important to keep local trends in perspective of the bigger picture that unfolds at the national level. Keeping both the local and national markets in view gives the most thorough understanding, in my professional opinion.

Local Market Data

For local market data, the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is my go-to. The MLS is a database of information accessible only by real estate professionals; it's where Realtors go to publish their sellers' homes for sale, and it's where Realtors go to find homes for their buyers. It's where Zillow, Redfin, and other websites get all of their information. And every local area has its own MLS. In fact, in California alone there are ten different MLS systems! And as a Realtor who works in both the Northern and Southern California markets, I have access to those local MLS systems.

So for local market data, your best bet is to work with a Realtor who can provide you the local data you need to stay well-informed... a Realtor like me! I provide regular updates on the local market right here at innaEstates.com And if you have a specific question - for example, "What is the highest price that a condo has ever sold for in Fullerton, California?" or "Which month tends to have the most home sales in Sacramento, California?" - I encourage you to reach out and ask! I will be delighted to find a specific answer to your specific question.

National Market Data

For national market data, Altos Research is my go-to. Altos Research is a data company used mostly by Realtors, but they're available to non-Realtors as well. Altos Research gathers all MLS data across the United States, and presents it with their expert analysis. (As of this writing, there are approximately 600 MLS systems in the US!) Altos does a fantastic job of sticking with just the data, and avoiding sensationalist headlines; they're not just looking for clicks and views like so many other news sources. In other words: it's a data-based news source you can trust for unbiased information.

I get most of my Altos Research information from their YouTube channel, located here: https://www.youtube.com/@AltosResearch. They provide a market update every Monday. Below is their most recent update for the week of March 17 - give it a look and I think you'll see why I recommend them so highly. And if you need a second opinion on anything real estate-related, you know who to call - I welcome your questions or comments anytime!

Sources:

1. https://mlsimport.com/multiple-listing-services-mls-in-california/#Major_MLS_Systems_in_California