Zillow Is Not Your Realtor
Zillow is a great place to daydream, explore neighborhoods, and get a feel for what’s out there. But when it comes to actually buying or selling a home, Zillow is only a tool — not a strategy. And relying on it alone can leave you misinformed, misled, or even missing out. When it comes to one of the biggest financial moves of your life, strategy matters.
Why Zillow Leaves You a Step Behind
Zillow and other real estate websites pull information from MLS (Multiple Listing Service), but they aren’t always instant.
Here’s what Zillow doesn’t give you:
Instant MLS Updates: Agents receive updates in real-time, the moment a property hits the market.
Coming Soon Listings: Many homes are marketed to agents before they officially go live, giving their clients a head start.
Pocket Listings: Some homes never even hit Zillow. These exclusive opportunities are only shared within professional networks.
Local Insight: Pricing trends, seller motivations, and neighborhood dynamics that no algorithm can explain.
When you’re only scrolling Zillow, you’re playing catch-up while serious buyers with agents are already making moves. Zillow might show you a house. An agent gives you the opportunity.
What about the “Contact Agent” Button?
One of the most misunderstood features on Zillow is the big “Contact Agent” button. Many people assume that button connects you to the listing agent (the person actually representing the property).
But in most cases, it doesn’t.
Instead, Zillow sells that spot to advertising agents — agents who pay for leads. Clicking the button often routes you to someone who may not know the home, the neighborhood, or even the market. While those agents are licensed, they may not be the best fit for your needs — and they’re definitely not guaranteed to be the listing agent.
If you already have a trusted Realtor, contacting them directly — not through Zillow — ensures you get the right information and the right representation.
What You Agent Should Bring to the Table
Agents aren’t just gatekeepers to listings — they’re your partner in the process. Here’s what they add that no website can:
Accurate Information: MLS data is the most up-to-date source — and your agent gets it all instantly.
Market Insight: Agents don’t just show homes — they know which neighborhoods are heating up, which properties are overpriced, and how to spot hidden value.
Representation: An experienced agent knows how to craft competitive offers, negotiate terms, and protect your interests.
Guidance: A good agent will explain market shifts, help you avoid costly mistakes, and keep the transaction on track.
Network: From lenders to inspectors, agents connect you with trusted professionals who keep your deal moving smoothly.
The Bottom Line
Buying or selling a home isn’t about browsing photos — it’s about moving at the right time, with the right information, and the right representation. A good agent provides the access, speed, and strategy that no app can deliver.
So yes, Zillow is fun. But Zillow is not your Realtor.
Stop scrolling, start strategizing. Work with an agent to stop missing opportunities — and start getting results.
