First-Time Homebuyer Guide to Using Zillow Effectively

Zillow is where most first-time buyers start looking, and it's a useful tool when you know what to trust and what to double-check.

Set up your search properly

• Price: search slightly above and below your budget, since listing prices aren't final.
• Must-haves only: beds, baths, and home type. Skip nice-to-haves at first so you don't hide good options.
• Draw your area on the map instead of relying on city names.
• Keywords: the keyword filter searches descriptions, handy for things like "garage" or "fenced yard".

Save searches and get alerts

Save your search and turn on instant alerts so you hear about new listings quickly; good homes can go fast. How to set up Zillow alerts covers the settings.

Read each listing like a buyer

• Price history: price cuts and relistings tell you how the home has sold so far. Red flags in price history.
• Days on market: a long time on the market can mean room to negotiate.
• Price per square foot: the fastest way to compare homes of different sizes. Zillow Price/SqFt adds it to every listing card.
• Taxes and HOA fees: these change your monthly cost as much as price does.

Treat the Zestimate as a starting point

The Zestimate is an automated estimate, and Zillow itself publishes its error rates, which are higher for homes not on the market. Use it for a rough idea, and rely on recent comparable sales for real decisions. How to run your own comps.

Before you make an offer

1. Get pre-approved so you know your real budget.
2. Estimate the full monthly cost with the mortgage payment calculator.
3. Work with a local agent for comps, disclosures, and negotiation.
4. Never skip the inspection.