It’s already all over the real estate blog world, but Zillow has released their latest update.
Here’s an email I received from Drew Meyers from Zillow.com (me and a zillowan other people, I’m sure)
I’m guessing you might have already heard, but I thought I’d mail you anyway regarding the new version of Zillow that we shipped last night, which includes the ability for homeowners to update and add information about their home, such as a recent remodel or the existence of a waterfront view. From the search page, there are now dynamic heat maps as well. I think the new features are pretty cool- check this post on our blog for more info- http://www.zillowblog.com/zillow_blog/2006/09/zillows_databas.html
The heat maps have always been very cool. “Scrollability” seems like a logical next step. I love the heat maps. Of course, they are based on “Zestimates” which are still somewhat suspect….
And that brings us to the next point. Zillow now allows home owners to update and add info. Does Zillow show your house with one bath instead of two? (it does on my house) You can edit that now. You do have to “prove” you own the house, though I think just about anyone could figure out a way around this “security”. Seems like potential for abuse.
Many real estate agents fear Zillow. I think that’s silly. Automated valuations will probably never be perfect. There are just too many factors that aren’t available via public record.
The guys at Rain City Guide have their typical excellent review. There’s value in those comments too. And of course there is Sellisus’ scruitny and detailed commentary.
And a lot of my pals at ActiveRain have chimed in with their thoughts. (and if you haven’t joined ActiveRain, what are you waiting for?)
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John Schneider 09.20.06 at 9:05 pm
This is the logical next step to commoditization of home purchases
and sales - the only way that a strictly internet based model
can really work.
Whether or not it’s good for the buying/selling public is a question
yet to be answered. But one thing is certain, there’ll be a lot of
confusion along the way. Hang on.