Top Real Estate Websites

September 29, 2025

2025 Rankings & Reviews

The real estate market is always moving, always competitive, and increasingly digital. Whether you are selling a home in San Diego, renting an apartment in New York City, or investing in a property in Austin, your success depends on where your listing appears online. Today, an astonishing 97% of home buyers begin their search online, and that number is even higher for younger demographics.

But not all websites are created equal. Some dominate with sheer traffic. Others stand out for accuracy or data. Still others specialize in rentals, luxury homes, or commercial properties. With dozens of platforms competing for attention, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

That’s why we’ve created the definitive 2025 guide to the top real estate websites. We’ll break down which platforms matter most, how they compare, and what these trends mean for landlords, sellers, and investors.

How We Ranked the Best Real Estate Websites

To make this list, we didn’t just look at popularity. Rather, we considered five key factors that directly affect outcomes for property owners:

MLS Exposure: Does the site syndicate listings across the major portals like Zillow, Redfin, Realtor.com, and Trulia
Pricing Transparency: Are costs straightforward, or hidden in commissions and add-ons?
Ease of Use: How user-friendly are the search filters, mobile apps, and listing setup tools
Reputation: What do reviews on Google, BBB, and Trustpilot reveal
Market Reach: Does the platform perform well in hot metropolitan areas?

With these factors in mind, let’s look at the top platforms shaping real estate in 2025.

Summary of the Top Real Estate Websites for 2025

Platform	Best For	Pricing	MLS Exposure	Pros	Cons
Zillow / Trulia	Buyer reach	Free (MLS-linked)	Yes	Massive traffic	Competitive; agent ads dominate
Redfin	Buyers & data	Lower commission	Yes	Analytics, real-time updates	Service varies by city
Realtor.com	Accuracy	Commission-based	Yes	MLS-backed, trusted	Less engaging design
Houzeo	FSBO sellers	$200–$350 flat fee	Yes	Affordable MLS access	DIY heavy, add-ons cost
Apartments.com	Rentals	Free & premium	Yes	Best rental exposure	Not for home sales
Compass	Luxury	Commission	Yes	Premium marketing, concierge	Higher cost
Century 21	Traditional	Commission	Yes	Nationwide brand	Legacy systems
ForSaleByOwner.com	DIY sellers	Flat fee	Limited	Low cost	Less reach
LoopNet	Commercial	Tiered	Yes	Great for offices, retail	Not residential
Facebook Marketplace	Free exposure	Free	No	Quick, free	Low credibility

#1: Zillow & Trulia: Maximum Reach

No conversation about online real estate can start anywhere but Zillow. In fact, along with its sister site, Trulia, Zillow commands the largest share of buyer and renter traffic. As a result, millions of people browse this website’s listings every month. Therefore, appearing on Zillow is almost non-negotiable if you want visibility.

A Zillow listing typically guarantees exposure. For example, properties listed through the MLS are automatically syndicated to the platform, meaning sellers and landlords don’t have to lift a finger. Additionally, its rental manager tool has also become a standard for landlords across the state, allowing easy posting and tenant applications.

However, the advantages come with challenges. Zillow’s popularity makes it a crowded marketplace. In many cases, your property may be competing against hundreds of similar listings, and agent ads often appear directly on your property’s page, sometimes confusing buyers about who the actual listing agent is. Nonetheless, despite these drawbacks, Zillow’s dominance makes it indispensable for any property owner.

#2: Redfin: Data and Speed

If Zillow wins on traffic, then Redfin wins on data. The company has built its brand as a hybrid of a tech platform and a brokerage. Specifically, features like the Hot Home label use predictive analytics to flag properties most likely to sell quickly, while Redfin’s pricing insights give both buyers and sellers added confidence that they’re making informed decisions.

When it comes to sales speed, Redfin consistently reports that its listings sell faster than the broader market. While the exact number of days on market varies by region and season, Redfin homes generally move more quickly than comparable listings on other platforms, thanks to its MLS integration, brokerage support, and real-time technology. By contrast, For Sale By Owner (FSBO) properties often take longer to sell, since they lack the same exposure and agent resources.

Ultimately, Redfin’s model appeals to both buyers seeking deeper insights and sellers aiming for a quicker turnaround. The only drawback is coverage: in major metros like Los Angeles and San Diego, the experience is robust, whereas in smaller or rural markets, service may be more limited.

#3 Realtor.com: Accuracy and Trust

Where Zillow has traffic and Redfin has data, Realtor.com has accuracy. Backed by the National Association of Realtors, Realtor.com pulls listings directly from MLS feeds. This makes it one of the most reliable platforms for up to date and correct information.

For buyers frustrated by stale or duplicate listings on other sites, Realtor.com offers peace of mind. Sellers also benefit from the credibility the brand carries. While the platform’s design isn’t as flashy or interactive as its competitors, the tradeoff is reliability. For many buyers, especially in detail-oriented markets like Silicon Valley, accuracy is the top priority.

#4: Houzeo: Top Choice for FSBO Sellers

Houzeo is often the go-to choice for sellers pursuing the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route. The platform stands out with its flat-fee model, giving homeowners affordable access to the MLS without the traditional commission costs. This makes it especially attractive for budget-conscious sellers who want to maximize their profit margins.

However, Houzeo leans heavily toward a do-it-yourself approach: while it provides the tools and listing exposure, sellers are responsible for managing much of the sales process themselves, from handling showings to negotiating offers. For confident, hands-on sellers, it’s a cost-effective way to compete in the market, though those seeking full-service guidance may find it demanding.

#5 Apartments.com: Rental Powerhouse

While most platforms focus on buying and selling, Apartments.com dominates the rental space. In expensive states like New York and California, where many residents rent long before purchase, Apartments.com has become essential for landlords.

The platform’s strength comes from syndication. A single listing on Apartments.com is pushed to affiliated rental sites like ApartmentFinder and ApartmentHomeLiving, multiplying visibility. It also integrates tools like tenant screening and online applications, simplifying the rental process for both landlords and tenants.

The limitation is obvious: Apartments.com doesn’t support home sales. But for rentals, whether you’re advertising a Los Angeles studio or a Sacramento duplex, it remains the market leader.

#6 Compass: Luxury Branding

In luxury markets, brand image matters as much as exposure. Compass has quickly established itself as the go-to for high-end listings, especially in Beverly Hills, Malibu, and San Francisco.

Compass speaks to luxury buyers through sleek technology and concierge-level services. Its marketing campaigns feature premium photography, video, and staging support. Sellers in luxury markets value this because presentation often determines whether a multimillion-dollar property stands out or gets overlooked.

As a result, the cost is higher commissions. But for sellers in the luxury segment, Compass provides something most platforms don’t: a polished, prestige-driven experience.

#7: Century 21

Traditional brokerages such as Century 21 continue to leverage their brand recognition and nationwide reach. While some of their systems can feel outdated compared to tech-first competitors, they remain highly competitive in suburban and mid-market areas. For sellers who ultimately value reputation and personal service over cutting-edge tools, Century 21 still carries weight in the real estate scene.

#8: ForSaleByOwner.com

ForSaleByOwner.com caters to homeowners who want to sell independently and avoid traditional agent commissions. The platform provides basic tools for FSBO listings at a low cost, but it lacks the robust MLS syndication offered by competitors like Houzeo. As a result, reach can be limited. Therefore, it is best suited for sellers in strong local markets where demand is already high.

#9: LoopNet

LoopNet dominates the commercial real estate space, serving as the go-to platform for office, retail, and industrial listings across business hubs. Its scale and specialization provide unmatched visibility for investors and companies. This helps ensure that commercial properties are seen by the right audience.

#10: Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace provides free exposure and quick leads, particularly for rentals and lower-priced listings. Its accessibility and local reach make it a useful supplemental channel for landlords and sellers. Still, credibility issues and frequent scams limit its effectiveness as a serious option for higher-value transactions.

Trends in Real Estate Websites (2025)

Several trends are reshaping how people buy, sell, and rent homes in 2025.

The first is the growth of flat-fee MLS services like Houzeo. What started as a fringe option has now become mainstream, rising from just 5% of listings in 2018 to an expected 22% this year. This reflects a growing interest in cutting costs and bypassing traditional commissions.

The second trend is AI-powered search. Zillow and Redfin have invested heavily in technology that better matches buyers with homes. Instead of endless scrolling, buyers now receive personalized suggestions that feel closer to what they actually want.

Third, virtual tours have become standard. In competitive markets like San Francisco and Los Angeles, buyers expect 3D walkthroughs before they ever schedule an in-person showing. Sellers who skip this step risk being overlooked entirely.

Finally, rental platforms are expanding. With affordability pushing many people to rent longer, sites like Apartments.com are growing in importance. Social media also plays a role: while nearly half of buyers still begin on Zillow or Trulia, 7% now start on platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Among Gen Z buyers, that share is even higher.

Finally, buyers are overwhelmingly mobile-first. More than 60% of home searches in the state begin on a phone, not a laptop. Whether it’s browsing Zillow during a commute or scheduling showings via Redfin’s app, convenience is king. Mobile friendly platforms with smooth apps are winning loyalty, while clunky, outdated websites risk being ignored entirely.

What This Means for Property Owners

So what does all of this mean if you own property?

For sellers, the takeaway is clear: online exposure is critical, but it’s not enough by itself. The platforms matter, but success still comes down to strategic marketing.

For landlords, relying solely on Apartments.com or Zillow Rentals isn’t enough anymore. Partnering with a property manager like Good Life Property Management ensures your rental is advertised across multiple platforms, screened with the right tools, and filled quickly with quality tenants.

For investors, platforms like Redfin and Realtor.com provide valuable analytics. But pairing that data with Good Life’s on-the-ground expertise ensures that investments are made in neighborhoods with sustainable long-term growth, not just short-term hype.

For sellers and landlords, the lesson is clear: listings that leverage virtual tours, appear in AI-powered recommendations, and perform seamlessly on mobile have a built-in advantage. Technology doesn’t just enhance the buying experience it also determines which properties get the most eyes and the fastest offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best real estate website?

Zillow dominates traffic, but Redfin and Realtor.com provide more accurate, data-driven insights.

What’s best for rentals?

Apartments.com is the rental leader, but Zillow Rental Manager is also strong. A property manager adds long-term efficiency.

Do I need an agent if I use these sites?

Websites provide exposure, but negotiations, contracts, and pricing strategies still benefit from professional real estate agent support.

In conclusion…

Real estate in 2025 is digital-first. Zillow provides maximum reach, Redfin delivers analytics and speed, Realtor.com ensures accuracy, Apartments.com rules rentals, and Compass leads luxury. Other platforms fill niches, but none alone guarantee success.

That’s why Good Life Property Management ensures your property is listed on the right platforms, marketed with professional care, and managed for long-term returns.

Contact Good Life today and let us maximize your property’s visibility and performance in California’s competitive market.

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Steve Welty

Steve Welty is the founder and CEO of Good Life Property Management. Since its establishment in 2013, Steve and his team have made owning rental property easy for over 1,400 San Diego homeowners.Their purpose is Life Improved–creating opportunity, enjoyment, and impact for their community is what matters most. DRE #01744610