Spencer Rascoff

Jack, We just wanted to comment on your point, "The first step in this process would be to provide a comprehensive, trade-driven website that shared detailed information to satisfy the consumer need. This would be the central 'go-to' resource for Realtor information for the consumer, with the listing agent's information and broker's information front and center." Zillow provides this today. For consumers, Zillow provides data on more than 100 million U.S. homes, enabling homeowners, buyers, sellers and renters to connect with real estate and mortgage professionals best suited to meet their needs. With more than 23 million unique visits to Zillow’s websites and mobile applications in December 2011, consumers clearly are clamoring for this information on Zillow. For listing agents, once they create a free profile on Zillow, their profile picture, contact link and rating, if applicable, appear at the top of the buyer’s agent list. So, in addition to appearing as the listing agent, the agent receives four free placements on the page instead of one.

Bernice, Spencer from Zillow here. Another excellent article. I definitely agree that online valuations like the Zestimate are just a starting point, and consumers should definitely seek advice from an agent or an appraiser in order to get a better sense for what their home is worth. Here's a video with more info on the Zestimate, and its limitations: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vuloq6S6MLM

Kris (I think that is your moniker of choice?) You are such a witty writter! Spam is big reason why communication thru social media like Facebook and Twitter is gaining in popularity. Much more control over your 'inbox'. Keep up the great writing, your posts are fun to read. Sara B at Zillow