Zillow is changing the game
A few days ago, I referenced Zillow in a post about price appreciation in I’On. Zillow made it possible for me to (easily) assess comparable price appreciation in I’On versus the rest of I’On’s zip code. Nice.
Every place in the U.S. doesn’t have the same level of accuracy as the Charleston-area (Atlanta is woefully inaccurate). Nevertheless, I definitely like the direction Zillow is going. Atlanta and other cities may not be spot-on yet, but I am guessing that won’t be too far off.
Here’s one more reason to be impressed: Today, I happened to notice their “Bird’s Eye View” feature. Bird’s Eye View = Awesome. Here’s what Zillow has to show you about my old house in I’On. Not satisfied with the north-facing view? Want a little more? Check it out from another angle.
The thing that most impresses me about Zillow so far is how focused they are on putting information in the hands of the consumer. And this is changing the game. As Zillow’s popularity (and functionality) increases, they are putting more and more pressure on real estate brokers to deliver exceptional service and insight.
In the short-term, this is going to be painful for some brokers. Access to MLS isn’t going to get anyone any business. But in the long-term, services like Zillow and Craigslist (where I sold my last three personal homes) are going to be fantastic for both the industry and the consumer.
They’re making the industry stronger by making it harder for inferior real estate professionals to get business. Why hire a mediocre performer when you can sell it or buy it on your own? This is good for both the homeowner, the homebuyer, and the true professionals with ability, passion, and a history of delivering exceptional service.
UPDATE: For more on Zillow’s “Bird’s Eye View”, visit their blog.
Hi Geoff, it’s David from Zillow,
Thank you — this review made my day. We’re are working on Atlanta.
David - I noticed some new sales data in my neighborhood in Atlanta. Looks like y’all are making progress. Very glad to see it!