Zillow is often the first name that comes to mind when we think about browsing for homes. But does being popular mean it’s your best option? Not necessarily.

The real estate sector is more vast than you can think. So, there are many other platforms that bring unique features and services to the table. Let’s take a closer look at 10 alternatives to Zillow and see what sets them apart.

Best Alternatives To Zillow

1. Redfin

Redfin is a full-service real estate brokerage, not just a listing site. The agents over here have lesser commissions as compared to traditional agents.

When it comes to app features, Redfin is not behind. You can experience all common attributes in a real estate app, such as 3D virtual tours, real-time data updates, appointment booking, etc. You can even handle nearly all your paperwork digitally. Since the app is tech-driven, some might miss the personalized experience of working closely with a traditional agent.

2. Realtor.com

Realtor is an app officially owned by the National Association of Realtors. So, the data is always accurate and up-to-date. Due to its partnership with MLS (Multiple Listing Services), it has one of the greatest inventories.

If you prefer a straightforward home search without excessive bells and whistles, Realtor.com is a solid choice. The interface is straightforward to start with. You can directly connect with real estate agents in your area. As the app utilizes MLS data, you can have in-depth property insights. 

3. Trulia

Trulia, owned by Zillow, is explicitly made for buyers who want a deeper understanding of neighborhoods. The detailed community insights data is the main highlight of this platform. It features heat maps showing crime rates and school ratings. You can even view the ideal commute timings through the area. 

Trulia even provides value knowledge resources like blogs to guide first-time homebuyers and sellers. You can even use the mortgage calculator tool for financial planning. 

That makes Trulia an excellent platform to start with. But keep in mind that Trulia operates under Zillow’s umbrella itself. So, you can expect some overlap in the data.

4. UpNest

UpNest is a platform that flips the traditional home-selling model. It lets top real estate agents compete for your business. Therefore, this one is a good choice if you’re looking to save on commissions without sacrificing service quality.

Both buyers and sellers get custom offers from top agents in their area. The pricing is quite transparent, so you can compare different agent commissions. If you are dealing with a top-tier property, you can opt specifically for premium agents that offer quality support. Similarly, the platform offers a highly-personalized real estate experience as compared to other alternatives. 

5. HotPads

The major highlight of HotPads is that it works both for buyers and renters. Its strength lies in its advanced filters that help users narrow down listings to exactly what they’re looking for. You can filter based on various factors like commute time, neighborhood, school districts, and so on. It even offers an easy-to-use map view to visualize listings in specific areas.

HotPads is the first one on this list to focus specifically on rental properties. So, compared to Zillow, the options for buying a home might feel limited.

6. Homesnap

Homesnap is a futuristic, tech-oriented platform for real estate dealings. It is perhaps the only app that lets users fetch data about a property through just its photo. You can snap any home with the app to see crucial details like ownership history, market value, size, etc.

The listings will be automatically updated since it is synced with MLS data. Anyone who wants immediate information about a property must try out this platform. Apart from that, the platform even offers advanced collaboration tools in the platform to share the listings with agents. 

7. CoreLogic Matrix

Just like Homesnap, CoreLogic Matrix is yet another data powerhouse. Real estate professionals are the main target audience of this MLS platform. Still, buyers can also avail the benefits indirectly through detailed reports.

The home value estimates are highly accurate. You can make use of the insight into market trends and comparative property analysis to make an informed decision. Even agents use it to make tailored suggestions to clients. 

Are you a data-driven buyer or seller? If yes, give CoreLogic Matrix a try.

8. NeighborhoodScout

As the name suggests, NeighborhoodScout is a platform that focuses on locality-based research. With it, you can have an in-depth view of what life is like in different areas. 

You can check the community's sense of locality through insightful user reviews on the platform. Even demographic and lifestyle data is shown to help you make an informed decision. In case you are relocating to a new area with your family, you need to ensure a strong, secure community. And that’s exactly where NeighborhoodScout can help you!

9. Opendoor

Opendoor is an iBuyer platform created for those who value speed and convenience over profits. With it, you can instantly sell your home without wasting time on showings or negotiations. Most deals are closed quickly with cash offers. 

The platform charges a service rather than the commission-based pricing of the traditional agents. Opendoor simplifies selling. But the rate will be way lower than what you would get on the open market.

10. Orchard

Orchard is a user-friendly platform for both buyers and sellers. What sets it apart from other real estate apps is its unique feature that allows non-contingent cash offers for new homes. 

It offers many standout features to prep and stage your home for showings. You can arrange for updates or repairs through the app, to increase your property value. Orchard is one of the few platforms that combines traditional real estate support with tech-forward tools. 

Key Factors To Look For While Choosing

Just like the property, the app you choose for buying or selling has a great steak in the deal. Check out some factors to consider in a platform:

1. Accuracy of the Data: Nobody wants to waste their valuable time on outdated data. So, always give a preference to platforms that are integrated with MLS (like Realtor.com).

2. Area Insights: In case you’re searching for a home relocation, you need to know the ins and outs of an area before jumping in. Check whether the platform offers such data or, at least, user reviews. 

3. Geographic Coverage: Make sure that the platform operates in your desired area. Nationwide platforms like Zillow and Realtor.com cover most regions. But others, like CoreLogic Matrix, have a more localized focus and are only available in some areas.

4. Cost Savings: Consider the selling price and your expected profit in the deal. If the figure is too low, go for platforms that offer reduced commission charges. Otherwise, try out apps that charge a flat service fee in exchange for a simplified selling process.

5. Easy-to-use: Look for platforms with a clean interface and advanced filters that give a better user experience.

6. Technological features: Advanced features can make the selling and buying process way faster. For example, the 3D virtual tour feature avoids the need for showings and speeds up the selling process. So, always choose futuristic platforms that offer more technological features. 

Comparative Analysis of Alternatives To Zillow

Now that you understand the various factors to consider, let’s take a closer look at which platform excels in specific areas and how to choose the right one based on your priorities.

Real Estate Platforms and Their Features

Platform	Main Feature	Target Audience
Redfin	Lower commission fees and digital paperwork tools.	Dealers who love tech solutions.
Realtor.com	Accurate MLS-based data.	Data-driven dealers.
Trulia	Community heatmaps with location-based insights.	Buyers that want neighborhood details.
UpNest	Lower commission for agents.	Cost-conscious sellers.
HotPads	Advanced filters for property search.	Renters and niche buyers.
Homesnap	Photo-to-data home searches.	On-the-go home hunters.
CoreLogic Matrix	Data-driven market insights.	Buyers working with agents.
NeighborhoodScout	In-depth neighborhood reviews.	Relocators and lifestyle-focused buyers.
Opendoor	Instant home selling without hassles.	Sellers who want to quickly sell off a property.
Orchard	Facilitates buy-and-sell service.	Homeowners who want to improve property value through upgrades.

Conclusion

The online real estate sector offers far more than just Zillow. All you need to do is weigh the crucial factors and pick the right platforms that align with your priorities.

But why go through all these alone? At One Team, we have a dedicated team to help you at every step of the process, right from listing to closing. Contact us now!