by Zillow | May 5, 2025 | Industry, News Feed
Even in today’s digital world where listings, 3D tours and market data are just a click away, it’s the agent who brings clarity, confidence and irreplaceable value for consumers.
We’re always learning from top real estate agents, exchanging insights on how they operate, drive success and grow teams. Through these conversations, we’ve discovered five strategies that consistently provide the perfect mix of tech and human touch that set agents apart.
1. Balance digital efficiency with personal connection
Despite the industry’s digital transformation, Zillow research shows 89 percent of sellers consider agents their most valuable resource — above websites (75 percent) or apps (64 percent). Personal connection remains essential, especially during emotional and complex transactions.
Tip: Use technology for routine tasks and data management, freeing your time for meaningful client interactions. Follow Up Boss CRM can help you deliver personalized experiences. The Smart List feature prioritizes client lists so you’re reaching out to those most likely to move at the right time. The Call Transcripts and Summaries AI tool automatically records and transforms every call into clear, actionable summaries with next-step suggestions.
2. Share personalized market insights
While it’s relatively easy for consumers to get their hands on raw housing market data, they need an experienced agent who can interpret this information for their specific situation and goals.
Tip: Create personalized market analysis reports that go beyond public stats. Develop neighborhood-specific insights or community changes that might affect long-term property values.
3. Win more listings with a premium digital experience
While relationships are important, buyers and sellers want an agent who uses technology to their advantage. Our research shows 71 percent of sellers are more likely to hire an agent who includes virtual tours and interactive floor plans in their services.
Tip: Zillow Showcase can help you win more listings in your market. Our data shows Showcase listings are 10 percent more likely to go pending within 14 days compared to similar typical listings on Zillow. They also sell for 2 percent more, a bonus of more than $7,000 on the average home. Showcase can help you develop a consistent visual brand across your listings to distinguish and elevate them.
4. Develop a compelling online presence
Buyers and sellers often research agents online before reaching out. A strong digital presence on social media and real estate websites helps them get to know you.
Tip: Start with a complete Zillow agent profile to highlight your expertise and personality. Agents using Zillow Showcase can add social media handles to their profile and incorporate Zillow Media Experts services, which create professional agent reels featuring you and your listings — optimized for video-centric platforms. These tools help build trust and demonstrate tech-savviness to potential clients.
5. Build trust
Consumers have told us trustworthiness and market knowledge are more important than an agent’s sales record. Positive client reviews consistently highlight agents “exceeding expectations,” “had my best interests at heart” and providing “exceptional service.”
Tip: Ask deeper questions about clients’ life goals. Create an “above and beyond” checklist for each client, identifying three unexpected ways you can deliver exceptional value.
The future of real estate excellence
Agents who combine technological efficiency with personal connection will consistently outperform. We’ve found the most successful agents serve as advisors who bring calm to uncertainty and strategy to major life decisions.
For those looking to stay ahead of the curve, don’t miss Zillow’s Unlock Conference this November. With your success at the center, this unique experience will help you make progress on your business goals — delivering tangible strategies, actionable next steps and valuable connections.
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by Zillow | Apr 28, 2025 | Industry, News Feed
April is National Fair Housing Month, a time to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring equal housing opportunities for all. This month and every month, it’s crucial to address the systemic barriers that have historically hindered equal access to homeownership. Zillow is at the forefront of this effort, leveraging its extensive housing data to highlight existing disparities and promote fair housing practices.
Privately listed homes disproportionately harm sellers of color
Private listing networks harm buyers, sellers, agents and the industry at large. Zillow research shows in 2023 and 2024, home sellers who opted to sell off the MLS typically lost out on nearly $5,000, selling their home for 1.5 percent less than those listed on the MLS. The impact was particularly severe in communities of color, where homes sold off the MLS in these areas typically sold for 3.2 percent less than MLS-listed homes — more than double the 1.2 percent loss in majority white neighborhoods. Read more here
Boosting Black homeownership: Build more housing, improve credit reporting
Homeownership is a critical factor in reducing wealth inequality, particularly for Black households. Fewer than half of Black households own their homes, and the rapid rise in home values during the pandemic, coupled with a doubling of mortgage rates, has further strained housing affordability, keeping many potential Black homeowners on the sidelines. Addressing these disparities requires intentional policies and interventions that target the barriers keeping Black households from homeownership. Read more here
Hispanic homeowners narrow home value gap to smallest margin on record
Hispanic homeowners have made strides in narrowing the home value gap with white homeowners over the past two years, regaining ground lost during the pandemic. The gap is now the narrowest ever observed. However, while gradual progress is being made in closing the gap, the jump into homeownership remains a significant hurdle for Hispanics. According to Zillow’s 2024 Consumer Housing Trends Report, Hispanics represent 18 percent of prospective buyers, but 13 percent of successful purchasers. Read more here
How can agents use this data?
- Promote equitable access to listings: Advocate for equitable access to listings to ensure that all clients, particularly those in communities of color, have fair market opportunities and can achieve higher sale prices.
- Support affordability initiatives: Leverage data to support initiatives that improve access to down payment assistance, credit-building programs, and affordable housing construction, thereby helping clients overcome financial barriers.
- Stay current: Use Zillow’s commitment to promoting fair housing and its extensive research data to stay informed about market trends, advocate for policy changes, and provide clients with the most up-to-date information to guide their real estate decisions.
By shining a light on these issues, Zillow aims to foster a more inclusive and equitable housing market for everyone. For more insights and detailed reports, visit Zillow Research.
This post was originally published on this site
by Zillow | Apr 14, 2025 | Industry, News Feed
Every agent knows that early interest in a listing is key to a successful sale. But how can you measure whether your listing is generating the right level of engagement? Zillow’s latest analysis of views, saves and shares provides clear benchmarks that indicate how quickly a home is likely to sell — and whether it will go for top dollar.
When buyers show interest in a listing on Zillow, it’s a strong signal that the home is likely to sell quickly. High engagement means more competition, helping sellers secure the best possible offers. For agents, these real-time insights offer a valuable pulse on market demand, allowing them to guide their clients with confidence.
Key benchmarks for agents
Since Spring 2023, the median home listed on Zillow went pending in 15 days and sold for 98 percent of the initial list price.
- 250+ views per day → Typically under contract in one week; 75 percent go pending in two weeks.
- 500+ views per day → Often sells above list price.
- 5+ saves per day → Likely under contract in a week.
- 10+ saves per day → Strong indicator of a sale above list price.
- 10+ shares per day → Majority go pending in a week.
- 20+ shares per day → Often sells over asking.
These numbers give agents a real-time feedback loop. If a listing isn’t hitting these benchmarks, it’s a signal to adjust pricing, positioning or marketing efforts.
Why broad market exposure matters
The data reinforces a key truth: Listings that reach the widest audience attract stronger offers and sell faster. Publicly listed homes on top consumer platforms like Zillow drive more engagement, helping sellers secure the best possible outcome.
How agents can maximize listing engagement
To ensure your listings reach these engagement benchmarks, consider these best practices:
- Craft compelling listing descriptions. Zillow research shows homes with features like outdoor TVs, soapstone countertops and outdoor showers often sell at a premium, while homes with frameless showers and terrazzo flooring tend to sell faster than expected.
- Use high-quality visuals. Professional photography and 3D tours increase buyer engagement, leading to more saves and shares. Most sellers say they are more likely to hire an agent who includes virtual tours and/or interactive floor plans in their services (71 percent). For example, active Zillow Showcase listings drove 81 percent more page views, 80 percent more saves, 90 percent more shares, compared to similar nearby non-Showcase listings on Zillow.
- Monitor and adapt. If engagement is lower than expected, consider adjusting pricing or refreshing the listing details to drive renewed interest. Zillow’s Housing Market Predictions for 2025 indicate that buyers will have more time to consider their options and more leverage in negotiations, suggesting that sellers need to be flexible and responsive to market conditions to maintain interest in their listings.
The takeaway for agents
Transparent listings aren’t just good for buyers and sellers — they’re good for business. When listings are publicly available and widely marketed, they generate more engagement, attract stronger offers and sell faster. By using engagement data and ensuring listings receive maximum exposure from day one, agents can better serve their clients, close deals faster and build a reputation for results.
This post was originally published on this site
by Zillow | Sep 3, 2024 | Industry, News Feed
Whether it’s refining your business model, mastering new technologies, or discovering strategies to capitalize on the next market surge, Inman Connect New York will prepare you to take bold steps forward. The Next Chapter is about to begin. Be part of it. Join us and thousands of real estate leaders Jan. 22-24, 2025.
In today’s rapidly evolving real estate market, Realtors are constantly seeking strategies that not only boost immediate sales but also ensure sustainable growth for years to come.
One such strategy — building a robust referral network — has proven indispensable, effective regardless of market conditions.
Why focus on referrals?
In an industry where trust is the currency and relationships are the backbone, the power of referrals is monumental. Imagine a scenario where every client you delight becomes a vocal advocate for your business, where your reputation precedes you, opening doors and building bridges before you even step foot through them. This is the ecosystem you cultivate with a strong referral network.
Referrals amplify your marketing efforts organically and help build trust with prospective clients before you even meet them. A referral comes with a built-in level of trust and a higher likelihood of conversion, compared to leads generated through other channels.
Here’s how focusing on referrals can transform your business: and why events like Inman Connect New York and Inman Connect Austin can be game-changers in how you approach this strategy.
Building a referral network:
- Deliver unforgettable service: The journey starts with service that goes beyond satisfactory. Exceptional is your benchmark, creating memorable experiences that clients are eager to share and setting the stage for referrals.
- Maintain visibility: Engage and re-engage through regular, meaningful communication like newsletters and social media interactions, ensuring your name remains top-of-mind.
- Express appreciation: Never underestimate the power of a sincere thank you. Acknowledging a referral with gratitude encourages a continual partnership that thrives on mutual respect.
- Utilize smart technology: Utilize tools such as advanced CRMs to maintain connections effortlessly, ensuring no client feels neglected. Modern tech solutions, especially those leveraging AI, can predict client needs and timing, making your interactions timely and more impactful.
- Actively expand your network: You know what they say: Your network is your net worth. Attending events like Inman Connect give you the time and space to make genuine connections in a short amount of time. And ultimately, lead to more deals.
The Inman Connect experience
Why attend Inman Connect? These events are more than just conferences; they’re a nexus of innovation and inspiration. They offer a platform for:
- Expert-led insights: Sessions are designed to dive deep into the mechanics of referral strategies, enriched by real-world applications and success stories from those who’ve mastered the art.
- Peer connections: It’s where deals are made, partnerships are formed, and future referrals are born. Networking here means you’re growing your referral base with every handshake.
- Revitalization and inspiration: It’s easy to get caught in the grind. Inman Connect offers a fresh perspective that will rekindle your passion and drive for the real estate profession.
Embracing the future, and growing your network, with Inman Connect
As the industry stands on the cusp of significant shifts—from technological advancements to changing market dynamics—Inman Connect positions you at the forefront.
Opportunities to join us:
- Inman Connect Austin, October 9, 2024: A more intimate, yet supercharged one-day event.
- Inman Connect New York, January 22-24, 2025: The flagship event experience with 3,000+ industry pros and 50+ sessions over three days.
These cities, emblematic of innovation and resilience, provide the perfect backdrops to explore and harness the full potential of referral strategies.
Inman Connect isn’t just about keeping pace; it’s about setting the pace.
Whether you’re looking to refine your approach to the luxury market, integrate cutting-edge tech into your daily operations, or simply find better, more effective ways to connect with clients, these events promise to equip you with unparalleled insights and tools.
Join us at Inman Connect and start writing your next chapter in real estate. Don’t just keep up with the industry—set the pace.
Step into the next chapter of your career with industry leaders who will boost your confidence and success. This is your invitation to turn every introduction into a lasting impression and every client into a stepping stone towards greater success.
Register now and secure your place at the forefront of the real estate industry. The next chapter is yours to write—make it extraordinary with Inman Connect.
Register for Inman Connect Austin—October 9, 2024.
Register for Inman Connect New York—January 22-24, 2025.
by Zillow | Aug 29, 2024 | Industry, News Feed
CHICAGO (August 29, 2024) – The National Association of Realtors® is proud to announce that Tether RE won the sixth annual Pitch Battle competition at the 2024 Innovation, Opportunity & Investment (iOi) Summit.
NAR’s strategic investment arm, Second Century Ventures, presented this year’s Pitch Battle in Chicago, where participating companies were given the chance to demonstrate their groundbreaking tools and resources designed for the commercial and residential real estate markets.
The grand prize went to Tether RE, a startup that provides a suite of tools to enhance the safety and productivity of real estate professionals. The platform combines advanced safety features with essential productivity tools, ensuring agents are protected from initial contact to closing while streamlining their day-to-day tasks.
“This year’s Pitch Battle showcased exceptional innovations that are setting new benchmarks in the real estate sector,” said Dan Weisman, NAR director of innovation strategy. “The ingenuity displayed by Tether RE represents the progressive strides we support at the iOi Summit and NAR’s ongoing efforts to enhance the services provided to real estate professionals and consumers alike. We congratulate Tether RE on their outstanding achievement.”
Tether RE co-founder Vanessa Martin began the winning pitch by highlighting the critical need for enhanced security measures within the real estate industry.
“Last year alone, 30,000 real estate agents were victims of violent crimes,” she said.
Martin explained Tether RE’s core features, including 24-hour safety monitoring, client verification, SOS alerts, proximity safety timers, and fall and crash alerts. Additionally, the platform enhances agent productivity by integrating essential tools such as turn-by-turn navigation, automatic mileage and expense tracking, and personalized agent branding.
“We are proud of the platform we’ve created, and we know it will help agents when they need it most,” Martin said. “It’s time to focus on what matters, because the most important part of any deal is making it home safely.”
Tether RE will be awarded $15,000 and a booth at NAR’s annual conference in November (NAR NXT).
The Pitch Battle’s Crowd Favorite, as voted on by the in-person and virtual audience, was awarded to Tuesday, a social MLS app built exclusively for agents.
Tuesday CEO Coleton Boyer illustrated how the company’s mobile-first approach has streamlined real estate market intelligence into a user-friendly social feed.
“It’s the energy of your Tuesday meeting, the ease of your Instagram feed and the exact same data you get on the MLS,” Boyer said.
To see the full list of 2024 Pitch Battle finalists, visit ioisummit.realtor/pitch-battle.
About the National Association of Realtors®
The National Association of Realtors® is America’s largest trade association, representing 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. The term Realtor® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.
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