🏡 Zillow Bans Private Listings: What This Means for Homebuyers and Sellers

🏡 Zillow Bans Private Listings: What This Means for Homebuyers and Sellers

In a significant move, Zillow has announced that starting May 2025, it will no longer display listings that are marketed privately before appearing on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). This policy targets "pocket listings", where properties are initially shared with a limited audience before being listed publicly.

🔍 What Are Pocket Listings?

Pocket listings involve marketing a property to a select group—such as through a brokerage's internal network or exclusive platforms—before it's available to the broader public. While this can create a sense of exclusivity, it often limits exposure to potential buyers.

📣 Zillow's New Policy Highlights:

• Transparency First: Any property marketed to the public (e.g., via yard signs, social media, or brokerage websites) must be listed on an MLS within one day to be eligible for display on Zillow.

• Lifetime Ban for Non-Compliance: Listings that don't adhere to this rule will be excluded from Zillow for the duration of their listing period.

• Re-Listing Possibility: If a seller changes agents after a non-compliant listing, the property may become eligible for Zillow again under the new representation.

🤔 Why This Matters to You

• For Buyers: This change aims to ensure equal access to property listings, reducing the chances of missing out on homes due to limited initial marketing.

• For Sellers: While private listings can offer targeted exposure, they might limit the property's reach. Zillow's policy encourages broader visibility, potentially attracting more offers.

💬 Industry Perspectives

Some industry leaders view this as Zillow reinforcing transparency in real estate. However, others argue it's a strategic move to maintain dominance over emerging private listing platforms. Amanda Orson, CEO of Galleon, suggests this could be Zillow's way of deterring competition from alternative listing services.

📅 Effective Date

This policy takes effect in May 2025. Listings not compliant with the new standards will be removed from Zillow and its affiliated platforms.

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🗓️ My Final Thoughts

This new policy shifts the landscape — giving buyers more access and helping sellers reach more qualified prospects. If you're planning to make a move this year, work with a REALTOR® who understands the new rules and how to use them to your advantage.

Let’s talk about your next step.

Charles Narcomey, REALTOR®
📱 808-250-0155
📧 [email protected]
🏡 Realty ONE Group Mountain Desert