Why Realtors Should Rethink Zillow—and How to Market Without It

April 24, 2025  •  Leave a Comment

Zillow has long been a dominant force in real estate, promising leads, exposure, and simplified marketing. However, for many agents, the relationship feels increasingly one-sided. Rising costs, reduced control, and a system that often favors Zillow more than the listing agent have left many realtors wondering: Is it time to walk away from Zillow?

The Problem with Zillow

📉 You’re Paying for Your Listings – Agents are being charged to promote listings they already worked hard to secure. Leads are often sold to competing agents on the same listing.

👥 Lead Scrambling – Zillow often redirects buyer leads to Premier Agents, even if they aren’t the listing agent, creating confusion for consumers and frustration for sellers.

💸 Skyrocketing Costs – Monthly fees for advertising on Zillow continue to rise, while ROI has become less predictable.

🧩 Loss of Control Over Branding – Your professional media, client relationships, and listing efforts are ultimately presented under Zillow’s branding, not yours.

How to Cut Out Zillow—And Win

Build a Strong Personal Brand – Your brand should be what buyers and sellers associate with trust and results, not a third-party platform. Invest in a solid brand identity across your website, social media, and print materials.

Own Your Online Presence – Use your IDX-integrated website to showcase listings and capture leads directly. Tools like kvCORE, Sierra Interactive, or Showcase IDX can power your site without relying on Zillow.

Utilize Social Media Strategically – Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube allow you to connect directly with buyers and sellers through videos, market updates, property tours, and testimonials.

Leverage Google Business Profile – Optimize your Google Business Profile to drive organic traffic, collect reviews, and show up in local searches—without paying Zillow.

Partner with Media Experts Who Support You – Berridge Media provides high-quality photography, video, drone footage, 3D tours, and floorplans—content you can use anywhere, anytime, without needing a Zillow subscription.

Take Back Control of Your Listings

Zillow doesn’t build your business—you do. It’s time to stop renting visibility and start owning your marketing. With the right media, strategy, and systems in place, you can generate leads, build trust, and close deals without giving another dollar to Zillow.

📩 Need help making the shift? Contact Berridge Media to power your listings with pro-level content that works, with or without Zillow.

 


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