How-to · Updated October 11, 2026
How to get more out of Zillow
Practical steps that work for most people. Menus and labels change, so look for the closest match on the site.
Search like a pro
- Start with a tight area. Draw the neighborhood on the map instead of typing a city name.
- Set filters you can’t compromise on (price, beds, home type) and save the search with alerts turned on.
- Open the price and tax history on every listing. Repeated price cuts or a recent sale tells you more than the headline price.
- Cross-check the Zestimate with recent comparable sales a few streets away, then ask an agent to confirm.
If you own a home
- Claim your home in your account.
- Correct the facts. Add real bedrooms, bathrooms, square footage and upgrades, since the estimate uses them.
- Compare to sold prices nearby, not only to the Zestimate.
Before you hit “Contact agent”
Inquiries sent through Zillow may be routed to agents who advertise on the platform, not necessarily the agent who holds the listing. If you want the listing agent, find their name on the listing and contact them directly. Share only what you want agents to have.
Rental scam checklist
Walk away if: the landlord is “out of the country”, asks for a deposit before you see the unit, wants payment by wire, gift card or crypto, or the price is far below similar homes.
Verify ownership in county records, tour in person or by a live video call, and pay only by traceable methods once you have a signed lease.
Protect your privacy
Review your account settings and notification choices. Use a separate email address if you do not want agent follow-ups on your main inbox. Read Zillow’s privacy policy to see how inquiry data is shared.