Zillow vs. Real Life: How Accurate Are Those Estimates, Really?

We all know Zillow’s Zestimate tool, but how close are these automated estimates to the actual market value? Let’s dig into the pros and cons of online home valuation tools.

Pros:

• Gives a quick, free estimate

• Helpful for a general ballpark number

• Can be a starting point for buyers and sellers

Cons:

• Often lacks local market nuance

• Doesn’t factor in upgrades, condition, or unique features

• Can be off by thousands, sometimes tens of thousands

• Not a substitute for a professional appraisal

Tips:

• Use Zestimates as a guide, not gospel

• Always get a professional appraisal or agent’s market analysis before making decisions

Zillow can be helpful but trust real experts for the most accurate home values.