Zillow cannot adapt

Yet. My prediction that marketing homes will become less a core component of Realtors’ job requirements may be coming true.

Take yesterday for example. I met a potential buyer for the first time. We had worked via email to determine a couple of areas and house requirements that “fit.” (at least an acre or so, at least 3,000 or so square feet, no more than ~30 minutes to Charlottesville/UVA) After looking at one development and listening to my client on the way, we decided that the first development would work. But – my potential client recognized the value of paying more for better quality construction. So – with my guidance, we eliminated the other two developments/houses from the equation and I took him to another development that was not on the list, but “fit” much better.

Zillow cannot know that the quality of construction of this builder is better than that builder. It cannot know that while this builder is better than most, he also has a tendency to deliver the product late (~two months) and that I as the Buyer’s Representative would have to guide my clients through this process.

Zillow cannot know from reading this article in the Daily Progress that Glenmore is a high-end development, and as such, its residents carry more “oomph” when they get organized against a proposed development.

Until Zillow can make the connections between similar developments, until Zillow can adapt while in the field, they will remain an accessory to, rather than a replacement for, a successful Realtor. Zillow cannot build relationships with other Realtors, lenders, etc.

Can Zillow have integrity?

Related reading: Sellsisus’ ongoing discussions about “unzillowables”

Update: Larry Cragun has an excellent post on Zillow today.

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