Doorsteps opens platform to consumers

Doorsteps, a service that allows agents to help buyers research and organize their home purchases, is now offering free tools directly to consumers, the company said today.

Launched in 2012, Doorsteps has until now been marketed to real estate agents who pay a flat fee of $25 a month to sign up buyers, who use the system to complete the many steps to completing a home purchase.

Now, would-be homebuyers who aren't yet working with an agent can sign up and use the system for free. The Doorsteps platform also acts as a forum that connects homebuyers to agents, lenders and other service providers like movers and inspectors.

"The goal (of the platform) was to ensure every Doorsteps user had unparalleled insight about how to optimize each decision in their own best interest," said Doorsteps founder Michele Serro in a statement.