[ghaff]

Everything from Zillow to online property listings to Google StreetView to just the Web generally probably makes it hugely easier to get a feel for the market, find properties, and scout locations than when I bought my house. But, based on friends who have bought and sold relatively recently, I'm not sure the process of actually making a purchase is much easier or cheaper and that's where the stress really lies. (Well, that and just inflated property values in locations many consider prime.)