S
an Antonio – A Zillow article has drawn criticism from local experts. The site’s Zestimate tool reports that 53 % of U.S. homes lost value in the past year. In the San Antonio metro, 1.3 % of homes dropped 5 % or more below the price they were last purchased for, and the 2025 projection raises that figure to 4.5 %. Real‑estate veteran Katie Ross, chair of LERA MLS, says Zillow’s findings omit critical information. Because Texas is a non‑disclosure state, sale prices are not reported to Zillow, so the algorithm cannot use the most accurate data. To determine a home’s purchase price, buyers must ask the seller or work with an agent who has MLS access. Ross explains that Zillow’s valuation relies on a generic algorithm that ignores local nuances. “Texas functions like its own country,” she says, “and the algorithm doesn’t account for unique features such as a three‑car garage versus a two‑car garage.” She stresses that a realtor evaluates amenities and recent comparable sales to arrive at a more precise value. While Zillow’s estimates provide a ballpark figure, Ross cautions they may not reflect the true market value. The article also cites statistics from several metro areas across the country, but the lack of disclosure in Texas means those numbers may be less reliable.