Do you spend much time reading online comments? If so, are you primarily seeking information, connection, or entertainment?
For whatever reason, do you find yourself reacting emotionally, perhaps taking sides?
A recent encounter prompted me to address each of those questions.
Eavesdropping?
It all began when my husband and I went to a restaurant where we were seated quite close to another table with a large group. One of the guys had a voice that carried, so while I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop on their conversation, I caught a remark from him that made me smile.
He said, “Zillow is my social media,” adding, “I just wish it had a comment section!”
In case you are unfamiliar with it, Zillow is one of the leading platforms in the US for residential real estate listings. The estimated and actual prices, photos, and descriptions for properties shown throughout the country would provide fertile ground for comments.
Gossiping?
Amused by the notion, I began to think of all the ways people would chime in. Freely offering their opinions, some would strive to come across as experts or insiders. Further, to balance out any negativity, parties with a vested interest in selling (or leasing) the property would jump in with words of praise.
Regarding a 1920s’ cottage:
- “It’s in the historic district. Perfect area if you like hanging out with snobby, judgmental neighbors who sit on architectural boards that tell you what color to paint your shutters.“
- “You will also pay more for the location. Look around for much better deals!”
- “Preserving the history and ambiance of the neighborhood has allowed homeowners to invest here with confidence. Turnover is low, and sales prices in this neighborhood have steadily outpaced comparable homes in other parts of town.”
- “The teenaged daughter was always playing around with a Ouija board. If you get a creepy vibe inside, don’t be surprised.”
- “That outdoor shed is what sends shivers up and down my spine. I’ll pass!”
- “That’s all nonsense, but the house has other issues. My daughter and son-and-law were going to put in an offer until I pointed out some dealbreakers. The kitchen is large but poorly designed. There’s no good spot for a pantry. And it’s too wide open to the rest of the downstairs. If you left a few dirty dishes in the sink, your entire house would look messy. Also, all that painted cabinetry will get old before you know it. Those bathroom tiles will be out of style in a couple of years too. I could say more but wouldn’t want to dissuade anyone who really loves the place. It is a cute cottage.”
- “I love the cabinet colors! Very fashionable! You could easily paint them if you chose to later. But I am not a fan of that beige carpet in the bedrooms. The hardwood floors underneath must have been in terrible shape not to refinish them.”
- “This historic cottage is a real gem. It won’t be on the market long!”
- “Granny called. She wants that atrocious ceiling fan back.”
- “The vintage touches add so much charm.”
- “Grandpa also called, only he wants his recliner. Why didn’t they drop that thing off at Goodwill when they were staging the family room?”
- “A lovely home and a wonderful community! This cottage is treasure.”
What would anyone gain from such chatter?
Gathering Intel?
Without question, the remarks would allow individuals to vent, judge, feel superior, and/or sit back and enjoy the show. In terms of decision making, it does seem that serious buyers and agents should have their own checklists and perform their due diligence.
Sure, if a young couple didn’t have an assertive parent or conscientious realtor looking out for their best interests, some of the viewpoints expressed online could prompt them to do more research. That said, the posted comments could also be misleading and provoke bad choices.
You likely see where I’m going with this.
When we’re “gathering intel” for whatever purpose, are comment sections—especially those that contain more snark than substance—the most reliable sources?
Thanks, Funny Guy!
Since overhearing the funny guy in the restaurant and subsequently playing the mental game of “If Zillow had a comment section,” I have become more cognizant of what’s grabbing my attention online.
In my book, taking time to talk to individuals directly based on what they can bring to the discussion beats eavesdropping on a bunch of strangers who are motivated to speak out … yet who knows why.
Sallie W. Boyles, a.k.a. Write Lady
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