For those wanting to move to Malibu, sometimes it’s difficult to figure out where to start when looking for houses for sale in Malibu CA. Usually on a broad search, the first thing people will encounter are websites like Zillow and Redfin displaying a list of the houses for sale in Malibu CA. However browsing these websites when searching for you next dream home is something that most realtors in Malibu advise against. Here is a list of potential reasons why you may not want to use these websites. (All pictures provided in this article are of active listings for homes in Malibu California)
- Data isn’t up to date. Zillow and Redfin scrub the web and websites like the MLS for data on homes. They have limited access to this data and thus you are not getting the full picture what what is happening on the market
- They lack the tools and information that Real Estate Agents have. Although Zillow and Redfin have access to the MLS, the information they can provide is limited. The tools for search queries, extensive information about the homes, and direct knowledge on the state of the property such as any zoning issues, permits etc are not available for those looking to buy a home
- Clickbait Advertisements. Often when looking for a home, Zillow and Redfin will put paid ads from other realtors not even related to the listing up at the top, hiding the contact information for the agent listing the home who you are truly trying to work/get in contact with. These agents are usually less experienced than a seasoned agent thus they pay for ads to try get in between deals. These agents are often not from the local area and do not have the knowledge to help you navigate the specific market environments for the homes you are looking to purchase.
- No access to off market listings. Many listings are held off Market and only local realtors have access to this knowledge. You may be missing out on better deals and better properties that are a closer fit to your criteria.
So when using websites like Zillow and Redfin, you are always missing the full picture not only on the specific properties but the market as a whole
What we suggest for finding Houses for Sale in Malibu California.
Finding the right Malibu Real Estate Agent.
When searching for houses for sale in Malibu, we suggest taking the time to find the right agent in Malibu. The things you want to consider are
Working with a local agent.
Local realtors understand pricing trends and can identify the best properties for buyers. They have strong connections with the community and other agents for off-market listings.
- Local agents are familiar with the best shopping, restaurants, beaches, schools, and local amenities.
- Realtors also have specializations like some who specialize in certain neighborhoods who have more knowledge about HOA’s, regulations, beach access, and zoning laws.
- Also try to find the right agency that fits your needs.
- Agencies vary in buyer access, marketing tools, and brand identity.
- Consider how an agency packages and markets your property.
- A great agency to consider is Sotheby’s if you want a focus on luxury real estate and global connections. Here at Shen Realty Sotheby’s we provide local expertise combined with strong marketing strategies and tools exclusive to Sotheby’s and the Shen Realty team (contact us for more detailed information)
Tour the Neighborhoods you wish to find houses for Sale in Malibu CA.
Sometimes it’s difficult to get the full picture from images online on a website. The different neighborhoods in Malibu can vary greatly from parking, access to your home, geography (cliffside estates, stilt homes on beaches, mountain retreats etc). Without touring the neighborhoods, you can often have a much different image in your head due to the spruced up photos of a home you may find online. You may also want to be closer to a market, you might consider how close is the nearest school, what kind of shopping is nearby, what’s the neighborhood like in the summer and are there crowds? These are all things you should consider.
Taking advantage of Open houses when looking for Houses for Sale in Malibu CA.
Usually on a Sunday, you can tour Malibu and get an idea of the local inventory. The types of homes in Malibu can vary greatly based off of where you are looking to live. For example, the homes in Malibu West all look very different by just looking at the photos, but you will find that the homes here all fit usually one of 3 architectural layouts consistent throughout the neighborhood. Homes on Point Dume are usually gated, and private. They are much bigger and often unique and different from the next, oftentimes being custom built properties. You may want to live on the beach, but after touring one of the stilt homes in Eastern Malibu, you may change your mind and want a little more sand and privacy that the beach homes in Western Malibu tend to offer. These are all things you will learn after touring some of the open houses in Malibu.
Navigating the Malibu real estate market requires the right strategy and an expert by your side. Whether you're browsing online listings, attending open houses, or networking within the community, staying proactive is key to finding your dream home. But if you truly want to make the process seamless, working with a trusted local expert is the best decision you can make.
If you're ready to find the perfect property, Shen Realty, the Top Realtor in Malibu, is here to help. As a dedicated Malibu Real Estate Agent, we provide insider knowledge, exclusive listings, and expert guidance tailored to your needs. Contact us today and let a Top Real Estate Agent in Malibu, CA, turn your dream home into a reality!