Real estate has changed, not just because of prices or interest rates, but because of technology. And in a community-driven place like San Luis Obispo County, knowing how to use that technology matters just as much as having access to it.

Research Goes Beyond Listing Sites

Zillow and Redfin are a starting point, not the full picture. 

Today’s buyers are looking beyond:

  • Google Maps and Street View for neighborhood context
  • Local Facebook groups, Instagram, and TikTok to understand the feel of a community

You can learn a lot by seeing what locals share (events, concerns, pride points) long before you step foot in a house.

Bicyclist rides in San Luis Obispo hills

Sellers: Digital First Impressions Matter

Most buyers meet your home online before they ever see it in person. Professional photography, video walkthroughs, and thoughtful descriptions aren’t extras anymore. They’re essential.

In San Luis Obispo County especially, buyers are often relocating or buying second homes. Your digital presentation needs to communicate lifestyle, not just square footage.

Social Media as a Community Lens

Social platforms aren’t just for marketing; they’re a research tool. They show how people live, what they value, and what they complain about. That information helps buyers make more confident decisions and sellers position their homes more effectively.

Technology Is a Tool, Not a Replacement

Data can guide decisions, but it can’t replace local knowledge. The best outcomes come from blending tech-savvy research with real, on-the-ground insight.