Zillow is a hugely popular and influential online platform for real estate browsing, but it’s not the only one out there. Many real estate sites offer similar services, sometimes with their own unique twists to attract customers.
**How Zillow Works with MLS**
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a centralized database that lists properties for sale or rent by real estate brokers and agents. The MLS offers the most accurate and current information about properties, including price, location, features, and more. It also promotes cooperation among real estate professionals.
Through agreements with thousands of MLSs, Zillow showcases a vast and diverse inventory of properties, which boosts user traffic and generates leads for real estate agents. On Zillow, users can filter and sort listings by criteria like price, size, type, and amenities. It also offers real estate statistics and info useful for both buyers and agents.
However, Zillow isn’t an MLS member, so it doesn’t need to adhere to MLS rules and standards. This means some listings may be outdated, inaccurate, or incomplete. Zillow might prioritize sponsored listings, affecting the exposure of other properties. Plus, real estate agents might have to pay fees to display their listings or connect with potential buyers.
**Other Real Estate Sites Like Zillow**
While Zillow is a big player, many other sites provide similar or distinct features and services to meet the needs of buyers, sellers, and agents. Here are 11 notable alternatives:
1. **Realtor.com**
As the official site of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), Realtor.com has direct access to MLS data, ensuring the most current and accurate listings. It offers home value estimates, property details, and neighborhood information. It also advocates for homeownership and property rights.
2. **Redfin**
Redfin is a real estate brokerage that updates its listings every 15 minutes with data directly from the MLS. It offers video tours, virtual open houses, 3D walkthroughs, and lower fees than traditional brokers, along with rebates for buyers and sellers. Redfin’s agents are paid based on customer satisfaction, not commission.
3. **Trulia**
Owned by Zillow, Trulia focuses on neighborhood insights like crime rates and school ratings. It also provides home value estimates, property details, and allows users to ask and answer questions about properties and neighborhoods. Trulia has a mobile app for exploring nearby homes using augmented reality.
4. **Homes.com**
This platform displays listings from the MLS as well as for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) and foreclosure properties. Homes.com offers tools for home buying and selling, mortgage calculators, home improvement tips, and moving guides. The mobile app lets users search using voice, text, or photos.
5. **HomeFinder**
HomeFinder simplifies the buying and selling process by displaying MLS listings as well as FSBO and new construction properties. It offers home alerts, valuation reports, and listing enhancement packages. Users can search using GPS, map, or photo via its mobile app.
6. **Apartments.com**
Specializing in rentals, Apartments.com lists apartments, condos, townhomes, and houses for rent. It provides property details and renter reviews, along with tools like rent calculators and renter tips. The mobile app lets users search using filters, maps, or videos.
7. **Movoto**
Movoto is a real estate brokerage with MLS data that updates every 5 minutes. It offers video tours, virtual open houses, and 24/7 agent assistance. Movoto charges lower fees than traditional brokers and provides rebates for buyers and sellers.
8. **Century 21 Real Estate**
This global franchise offers listings of residential and commercial properties from its network of agents. It provides property details, market reports, home staging tips, and a mobile app for property searches using filters, maps, or augmented reality.
9. **RE/MAX**
As a global real estate franchise, RE/MAX lists residential and commercial properties from its network of agents. It offers market trends, home buying and selling guides, and a mobile app with voice search.
10. **LoopNet**
Focusing on commercial real estate, LoopNet lists office, retail, industrial, multifamily, and land properties for sale or lease. It provides market data and tools for commercial real estate professionals, including a mobile app for property searches using filters, maps, or photos.
11. **ForSaleByOwner.com**
This platform allows homeowners to sell their homes without an agent, displaying FSBO listings verified by the platform. It offers home value estimates, listing creation tools, marketing materials, and legal forms, with a mobile app for managing listings.
**Choosing the Best Real Estate Site**
While Zillow is dominant, it may not suit everyone’s needs. Depending on individual preferences, other platforms might offer more accurate, updated listings or more tailored services. Buyers, sellers, and agents may prefer alternatives for enhanced features, localized listings, and professional support.
**Key Features to Consider**
When selecting a real estate site, whether you’re a buyer, seller, or a real estate professional, consider the following features for a comprehensive and user-friendly experience:
– **MLS Integration**: Ensures current and comprehensive listings with real-time updates.
– **Agent Support**: Tools for managing listings, scheduling open houses, and tracking performance.
– **Mobile Functionality**: Full access via a mobile app or responsive design.
– **Detailed Listings**: High-quality photos, virtual tours, and floor plans.
– **In-depth Property Info**: Comprehensive details about the property, neighborhood, and market trends.
– **Advanced Search Filters**: Specific criteria for filtering properties.
– **User-Friendly Interface**: Easy navigation and access to information.
– **Customer Support**: Reliable support via phone, email, or live chat.
– **Community Insights**: User reviews and neighborhood information.
– **Security**: Strong measures to protect user data and privacy.
**FAQs: Sites Like Zillow**
– **What’s the best real estate website?**
The best site depends on your needs. Realtor.com offers the most accurate listings directly from MLS. Redfin is great for tech-driven, low-fee service with high satisfaction. Zillow is comprehensive and user-friendly but has its limitations.
– **Which sites do real estate professionals prefer?**
Sites like Realtor.com and Redfin are favored for their direct MLS integration and support for professional ethics and interests. They offer comprehensive tools and accurate, timely listings.
– **What apps focus solely on commercial real estate?**
LoopNet is the go-to for commercial real estate, offering detailed listings and market data.
– **What advantages do niche platforms offer over Zillow?**
Niche platforms like ForSaleByOwner.com and Apartments.com provide more specialized listings and targeted tools, offering a more tailored user experience.
– **How can international buyers benefit from sites like Zillow?**
International buyers can access detailed property information, including photos and neighborhood insights, making it easier to compare properties remotely. Some platforms also offer tools like currency conversion and guides for international buyers.
