How do I learn the market?

[Lee Pedrazas]

How can I learn my market without access to real estate agents' CMAs?

Recent sales prices aren't listed with the tax office. I need to be able to estimate ARV, but without cmas or the ability to look up sales prices with the tax office this seems impossible.

I would get an agent, but I'm not ready to actually buy anything. I'm 23 and in school full time over the summer and again in the fall with almost no break. I should be ready to purchase next summer. I just need to be able to learn the areas around town in the mean time.

Any suggestions? The more specific the better. Should I stick to one area or neighborhood at a time until I learn that one (or at least learn the listing prices)?

I need help...

I don't like the online appraisal sites like zillow and the rest. I don't feel comfortable with their results. Do any of you routinely use one of those sites with success?? For my area the recent sales VS zillow estimates are way off.

All advice appreciated.