S
outh Dakota real‑estate sites are being urged to delete property details that buyers rely on. Under state law, sellers must complete a disclosure form covering property condition before handing over keys. Yet many of those disclosures, including weather‑risk data, have already been removed from Zillow. The California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS) claims the data has impacted sales. Zillow statistics show homes flagged with flood risk sell at only 52 % of the rate for low‑risk listings, compared with 71 %. Keller Williams agent Tony Ratchford advises buyers to consult professionals before dismissing a property. “I represent your interests and ensure you acquire the right property. Zillow isn’t responsible for pre‑determining a home’s suitability,” he said. Ratchford warns that online flood‑zone labels can mislead buyers, indicating a risk that may affect only a distant corner of a multi‑acre lot, not the actual dwelling. “Seeing a flood zone on a website can inflate perceived risk, yet the building itself may be unaffected,” he explained. The removal of weather‑risk information from Zillow has sparked debate among industry stakeholders. While some argue that the data helps protect buyers, others contend that it may unfairly disadvantage sellers. Ratchford emphasizes that a single statistic cannot replace a comprehensive assessment of a property’s suitability. Buyers are encouraged to review flood maps and consult local experts to understand the true impact of flood risk on their prospective home today.