{"id":9432,"date":"2022-12-12T13:54:00","date_gmt":"2022-12-12T13:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/?p=9432"},"modified":"2026-01-13T17:43:03","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T17:43:03","slug":"what-in-the-world-is-a-zillow-zestimate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/what-in-the-world-is-a-zillow-zestimate\/","title":{"rendered":"What in the World are Zillow Zestimates?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"bsf_rt_marker\"><\/div>\n<p><em>Updated 08\/14\/2024<\/em><br><br><a href=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/moving-to-a-new-city-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">When moving<\/a>, it&#8217;s important to know a home&#8217;s worth when buying or selling. One way to gain perspective on your home&#8217;s market value is to use a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zillow.com\/how-much-is-my-home-worth\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zillow Zestimate<\/a>. A Zestimate uses data from various sources (such as public records and user-submitted data) to calculate your home&#8217;s market value.<br><br><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zillow.com\/?utm_medium=cpc&amp;utm_source=google&amp;utm_content=1471764169|65545421228|kwd-570802407|603457706088|&amp;semQue=null&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQjwn9y1BhC2ARIsAG5IY-6WY7wqirDzGuXcceRyf-zVjYzBFFRCQOcmi5GrcPJ9Bae-EBkCTjAaAhNDEALw_wcB\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Zillow<\/a>, a popular real estate and rental marketplace, provides this tool. Here, we&#8217;ll discuss how Zestimates work, their accuracy, and tips for using them effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\"><h2>Table of Contents<\/h2><nav><ul><li><a href=\"#h-understanding-zillow-zestimates\" >Understanding Zillow Zestimates<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-calculations\" >Calculations<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-factors\" >Factors<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-accuracy\" >Accuracy<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-pros-and-cons-of-zillow-zestimates\" >Pros and Cons of Zillow Zestimates<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-pros\" >Pros<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-cons\" >Cons<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-tips-for-using-zillow-zestimates\" >Tips for Using Zillow Zestimates<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-influencing-a-zestimate\" >Influencing a Zestimate<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-seeking-professional-advice\" >Seeking Professional Advice<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-agents-and-appraisers\" >Agents and Appraisers<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-faqs\" >FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/nav><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-a81bb671 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2022\/12\/Zillow-Zestimate-576x1024.png\" alt=\"Graphic reading, &quot;Moving Blog. What in the world is a Ziilow Zestimate?&quot;\" class=\"uag-image-9927\" width=\"444\" height=\"789\" title=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" role=\"img\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-understanding-zillow-zestimates\">Understanding Zillow Zestimates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Zestimates rely on a blend of public data, user-submitted data, and various other factors to estimate a property&#8217;s market value. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-calculations\">Calculations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Zillow creates an unbiased calculation of how your property fairs in today\u2019s market. The program uses the number of bathrooms and bedrooms, the age of the house, property tax, location, square footage, and more.<br><br>Zestimates also takes data from recently sold homes in the area to estimate a home&#8217;s value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-factors\">Factors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Several factors can influence the accuracy of Zillow Zestimates, including property uniqueness and market volatility. Because of this, these should be considered alongside other sources of information, such as other estimate websites and professional advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-accuracy\">Accuracy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A Zestimate&#8217;s accuracy heavily depends on the property\u2019s location and available data. When a property has a lot of data available to the public, Zillow can use that information to accurately predict what a home is worth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-uagb-image aligncenter uagb-block-edcff1c4 wp-block-uagb-image--layout-default wp-block-uagb-image--effect-static wp-block-uagb-image--align-center\"><figure class=\"wp-block-uagb-image__figure\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/handing-key-with-sold-sign-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Person handing out a house key in front of a &quot;SOLD&quot; sign\" class=\"uag-image-19138\" width=\"552\" height=\"828\" title=\"handing-key-with-sold-sign\" loading=\"lazy\" role=\"img\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros-and-cons-of-zillow-zestimates\">Pros and Cons of Zillow Zestimates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Zestimates have lots of <a href=\"https:\/\/unionstreetmedia.com\/benefits-drawbacks-zillow\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">great qualities<\/a>, but there are also downsides:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-pros\">Pros<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Convenient for new homeowners.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Free to access.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Offer a quick and accessible estimate of a property\u2019s value.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Helps set expectations for a property.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-cons\">Cons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Often inaccurate.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Relies on publically available data.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Zestimate algorithm doesn&#8217;t consider a home&#8217;s target market.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It&#8217;s not the same as getting advice from a professional.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tips-for-using-zillow-zestimates\">Tips for Using Zillow Zestimates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When researching, it&#8217;s important to use this tool as a starting point. It is rarely an all-encompassing measure of a property&#8217;s value. Consider it alongside other resources and seek professional guidance for a better understanding of a home&#8217;s value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-influencing-a-zestimate\">Influencing a Zestimate<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Property owners can boost their home\u2019s value and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mortgages.com\/buying-house-and-owning-home\/how-increase-your-zillow-zestimate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">increase their Zestimate<\/a> price. A sustainable and healthy market can boost a home&#8217;s value by about 3-4% yearly, meaning your property could be worth more than last year.<br><br>Home improvements also help increase a property&#8217;s value. With some simple updating of your home\u2019s siding, roof, deck, carpet, and more, you can increase your home\u2019s worth.<br><br>Of course, your home&#8217;s value mainly depends on buyer demand. Like in any market, your value will increase if the demand is higher than usual. If the demand isn\u2019t there, even with those improvements, it will decrease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/real-estate-agent-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A real estate agent and couple discussing a document\" class=\"wp-image-19135\" srcset=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/real-estate-agent-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/real-estate-agent-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/real-estate-agent-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/real-estate-agent-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/real-estate-agent-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-seeking-professional-advice\">Seeking Professional Advice<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A Zillow Zestimate is designed to give users an idea of a home&#8217;s worth. However, it&#8217;s not an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.investopedia.com\/articles\/pf\/12\/home-appraisals.asp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">official appraisal<\/a>. An appraisal is a professional&#8217;s opinion and is always required when a mortgage is involved.<br><br>While an appraisal is <a href=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/how-much-does-moving-cost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">costly<\/a>, it is almost always more accurate and comprehensive. If you are selling your property, a professional&#8217;s opinion is a great way to decide how much to put it on the market for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-agents-and-appraisers\">Agents and Appraisers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Consulting with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.travelers.com\/resources\/home\/buying-selling\/10-reasons-why-you-may-need-a-real-estate-agent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">real estate professionals<\/a> (such as agents and appraisers) is a safe way to consider your options when making a big decision. Their expertise and insights can offer a more comprehensive understanding of a property\u2019s value.<br><br>Real estate agents will likely provide context beyond what Zillow Zestimates offers. Their local market knowledge, understanding of property nuances, and negotiation experience can significantly benefit both buyers and sellers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/blueprint-of-home-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Three people inspecting a blueprint of a home\" class=\"wp-image-19141\" srcset=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/blueprint-of-home-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/blueprint-of-home-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/blueprint-of-home-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/blueprint-of-home-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/9\/2024\/08\/blueprint-of-home-2048x1365.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-conclusion\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Zillow Zestimates are a valuable tool in the real estate market, providing quick and accessible estimates of a property\u2019s value. Zestimates use public data, property information, and market conditions to calculate <a href=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/how-are-moving-estimates-done-at-unimovers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">accurate estimates<\/a>.<br><br>While Zestimates are very helpful, they also have some cons. It is an <a href=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/10-reasons-to-move-to-iowa-from-an-expensive-state\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">easy and cheap<\/a> way to find the value of a home. However, it is often inaccurate, relies on public data, and doesn&#8217;t consider a home&#8217;s target market.<br><br>While they offer essential insights, it\u2019s important to understand their limitations. Never use this tool without also seeking professional guidance. That way, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the property&#8217;s worth.<br><br>Zillow Zestimates have undoubtedly changed how people approach real estate transactions, constantly providing valuable insights and accessibility. When used with professional guidance, Zestimates are a fantastic tool that can help buyers and sellers <a href=\"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/real-estate-housing-market-2023\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">navigate the housing market<\/a> with greater confidence and understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs\">FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-69668427171aa\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Can I influence my Zillow Zestimate?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>You can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zillow.com\/learn\/influencing-your-zestimate\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">influence your Zillow Zestimate<\/a> by ensuring that the information about your property on Zillow is accurate and up to date. This includes updating details such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and any recent renovations or improvements. Providing additional information, such as high-quality photos and a detailed description of the property, can also help improve your Zestimate&#8217;s accuracy.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-69668427171ad\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How can I provide feedback on a Zillow Zestimate for a property?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>You can quickly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zillow.com\/z\/info\/contact-us\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">provide feedback<\/a> on a property&#8217;s estimate. First, visit the property&#8217;s page on Zillow. Then, scroll down to the &#8220;Zestimate&#8221; section. Click on the &#8220;Zestimate details&#8221; link. You should see an option to &#8220;Provide feedback on Zillow&#8217;s Zestimate&#8221; on the Zestimate details page. Finally, click on that option and follow the prompts to provide your feedback on the Zestimate for the property.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-69668427171ae\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Are Zillow Zestimates updated regularly?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes, Zillow Zestimates are <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zillow.com\/z\/zestimate\/#:~:text=The%20nationwide%20median%20error%20rate,data%20in%20a%20home&#039;s%20area.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">updated regularly<\/a>. The data used to calculate (like recent sales and property information) is constantly updated, positively affecting their accuracy. Zillow aims to provide users with the most up-to-date information on property values through regular updates to the Zestimates. However, note that the frequency of updates may vary based on the availability of new data for a specific area.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-69668427171af\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Do real estate professionals consider Zillow Zestimates when working with clients?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/zillow.zendesk.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/202110004-How-can-real-estate-pros-work-with-the-Zestimate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Real estate professionals<\/a> often consider this tool when working with clients. They use it to quickly estimate a property&#8217;s value, using the information in conjunction with their own expertise. By considering other factors, real estate professionals are more likely to provide a comprehensive analysis of a property&#8217;s value.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-69668427171b0\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How should I use Zillow Zestimates when buying or selling a home?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>When buying or selling a home, you can use this as a <a href=\"https:\/\/zillow.zendesk.com\/hc\/en-us\/articles\/4402325964563-How-is-the-Zestimate-calculated\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">starting point for research<\/a>. It&#8217;s essential to interpret it as an initial estimate of a property&#8217;s value and consider it alongside other resources. Supplement this tool with guidance from real estate professionals such as agents and appraisers. Their expertise can offer a more comprehensive understanding of a property&#8217;s value by considering local market dynamics and nuances.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Updated 08\/14\/2024 When moving, it&#8217;s important to know a home&#8217;s worth when buying or selling. One way to gain perspective on your home&#8217;s market value is to use a Zillow Zestimate. A Zestimate uses data from various sources (such as public records and user-submitted data) to calculate your home&#8217;s market value. Zillow, a popular real [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":68,"featured_media":9631,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"_has_post_settings":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[486,487,484,485,1202,1201],"class_list":["post-9432","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides","tag-house-hunting","tag-renting-a-house","tag-zestimate","tag-zillow","tag-zillow-zestimate","tag-zillow-zestimates"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9432","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/68"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=9432"}],"version-history":[{"count":65,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9432\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":27915,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/9432\/revisions\/27915"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9631"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=9432"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=9432"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/unimovers.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=9432"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}