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Never Ask "Is This Property Still Available" Again!

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Lakefront Living Realty, LLC 9511082

Zillow is one of the most popular real estate websites, providing users with access to millions of property listings, home values, and other related information. However, many people have raised concerns about the accuracy of Zillow's data. Prompting many consumers to always ask an agent: "Is this property still available?". Below, we will explore the reasons behind Zillow's inaccuracy and why www.lakefrontliving.com is always 100% accurate.

close up of a woman holding a home for sale sign

Why is Zillow not 100% accurate?

  • Data lag: Zillow relies on public records and MLS data to compile its database of homes. However, this information is not always updated in real-time. This results in data lag. Causing some properties to be listed as available when they are not or vice versa.
  • Lack of human verification: Zillow's data is mostly automated, with minimal human verification. This lack of oversight can lead to errors in property information. Incorrect square footage and number of bedrooms, to name a few.
  • Outdated algorithms: Zillow's algorithms may not always accurately predict home values, resulting in inflated or deflated estimates. These estimates are based on data such as recent home sales, current listings, and other factors. They do not always take into account unique features or conditions of a specific property.
  • Improperly recorded: Zillow may also not show homes as sold if the transaction was not recorded in public records or the MLS. This can lead to properties appearing as available when they are not, which can frustrate both buyers and sellers.

lakeFrontLiving.com is always 100% accurate!

  • A specialized focus: Unlike Zillow, www.lakefrontliving.com specializes in lakefront properties, providing a more comprehensive and accurate database for buyers and sellers interested in this market.
  • Human verification: Each property listing on www.lakefrontliving.com undergoes human verification to ensure accuracy and consistency in property information.
  • Automated removal:
    Once a property is under contract and all the contingencies have been met, the property is automatically is removed from the site, leaving only those that can still be be purchased.
  • Personal touch: www.lakefrontliving.com works with agents who are experts in the lakefront property market. These agents provide personalized service to buyers and sellers, ensuring that the information provided is accurate and up-to-date.

If you are interested in buying or selling a lakefront property, www.lakefrontliving.com may be the better option for you You'll never have to ask those 5 words again!.

 

Posted by Scott Freerksen "The Lake Guy"

Comments(7)

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Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

Hi Scott,
The accuracy, or should I say inaccuracy, of Zillow would be laughable if it weren't so horribly misleading. It values my home at more than twice its actual market value. If I didn't know better, I'd get stars in my eyes about selling and buying something I can't even begin to afford.

Apr 15, 2024 07:52 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Oswego, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Good morning Scott. Zillow is in a cloud of its own and many MLS's are not far behind. Timely information is hard to come by and local agents are the best source. Enjoy your day.

Apr 20, 2024 05:42 AM
Michael J. Perry
Fathom Realty - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA Relo Specialist

Zillow created Havoc several years ago by putting Pre Forclosure Houses on their website and not telling the owners .

Apr 20, 2024 05:54 AM
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good morning Scott,

I'm so glad that Carol Williams featured your post in her Saturday series as I missed it. Zillow really does a disservice to both buyers and sellers through their inaccurate reporting of listings and sold properties!

Apr 20, 2024 06:47 AM
Hannah Williams
HomeStarr Realty - Philadelphia, PA
Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376

SCOTT FREERKSEN  Don't make me laugh. I have called Zillow so many times it is not even funny. They have my name right, even my website name, but they have me working at the wrong Real Estate company and the wrong phone #. They called me to try and sell me I told them to change it and they said they could not I had to call  this # and I say good bye ---  Glad Carol Williams featured your post it was great 

Apr 20, 2024 08:40 AM
Jeff Dowler, CRS
eXp Realty of California, Inc. - Carlsbad, CA
The Southern California Relocation Dude

Scott:

Unfortunately, despite the inaccuracies Zillow continues to have strong appeal for buyers as sellers. Making any decisions about buying and selling based on Zillow is a huge mistake and you've shared some good reasons why.

Jeff

Apr 20, 2024 09:49 AM
Leanne Smith
Dirt Road Real Estate - Golden Valley, AZ
The Grit and Gratitude Agent

Recently I had a caller ask me why Zillow didn't provide accurate information.  I attempted to explain to him the information comes from the MLS IDX feed and that information comes from the real estate agent. This particular person wasn't interested in a logical explanation.

Apr 21, 2024 05:48 AM