Why Your Zillow Zestimate Is Wrong And Costing You Thousands

It’s easy to get swept up by the magic number that pops up on Zillow—the infamous “Zestimate.” You see $750,000 on your screen, and suddenly, it’s not just a number. It’s your number. You tell your friends. You start making plans. You need that number to be real.

But here’s the harsh truth: the market doesn’t care about what’s on your screen.

• Your neighbor’s identical house just sold for $675,000.
• Three similar homes are sitting unsold at $680,000—45 days and counting.
• Buyers vanish the moment the price tag crosses $700,000.
• Appraisal comps are all pointing to $675,000.

And yet, you list at $750,000. Why? Because Zillow said so.

Here’s how that story usually goes:

• Week 1: “We’re just testing the market!”
• Week 4: “Why aren’t we getting showings?”
• Week 8: First price cut to $725,000.
• Week 12: Desperation drop to $699,000.
• Week 16: Sold for $650,000 to a wholesaler who smelled a deal.

Let’s break down the real cost of chasing a Zestimate:

• Lost carrying costs: $12,000 (4 months of waiting)
• Lost appreciation: $8,000 (the market moved up while your home sat)
• Lost negotiating power: $5,000 (buyers sense desperation)

The bottom line? That “free” number on your computer screen could cost you tens of thousands. Trust the real market, not just a website’s guess. When it comes to selling your home, there’s no substitute for expert advice and local knowledge.