Trulia and Zillow; A Merger of Inaccuracies

One of a real estate agent’s largest pet peeves is having contracted clients continually rely on potentially out of date and incorrect data from online sources other than the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS). I typically counsel my buyers to stop surfing information websites that are not affiliated with local agent associations or the regional multiple listing service because it can be an effort in futility.

The MLS data an agent shares with a client is typically the most current and accurate information available to them in their search for a new home. Regular data received through either Trulia or Zillow can be found to have incorrect value estimates as well as being outdated. Many times the homes showing as active listings on either site are under contract, pending and closed.

Don’t get me wrong, 75-90% of all people now rely on the Internet as they start either the buying or selling process. There is definitely a place for the online information services I’ve listed above, but the real work takes place with boots on the ground using a licensed, qualified and tested expert in the field.