Z
illow’s new Virtual Staging lets Showcase listings instantly re‑style photos with modern, Scandinavian, farmhouse, or empty‑room options, powered by the company’s 2024 acquisition of Virtual Staging AI. Senior VP Josh Weisberg says it “brings our AI strategy to life” and helps agents stand out; Showcase homes sell $7,000 more on average and attract 30% more listings. The feature complements Zillow’s SkyTour aerial view.
Restb.ai launched a Document Compliance tool that scans PDFs for buyer‑agent compensation language, flagging high, medium, or low risk. Oregon’s RMLS, the first adopter, now serves 14,000 users. The solution cuts review time and costs, building on Restb.ai’s Photo Compliance platform that already serves 900,000 agents.
ZestyAI updated its Severe Convective Storm models to adjust risk scores when owners complete roof or structural upgrades. Insurers can correct data, simulate future risk, and homeowners benefit from accurate pricing. The feature extends to hail and wind models used in 20+ states, per co‑founder Kumar Dhuvur.
Windermere Real Estate, the largest western brokerage, partnered with Local Logic to embed neighborhood insights into its search. The suite includes Local Content, Local Search for lifestyle filters, and NeighborhoodWrap for SEO‑friendly community pages. COO Brooks Burton notes the partnership helps buyers understand community life.
Maverick Systems, a data‑analytics startup, formed an advisory board with Laura O'Connor (former JPAR president), Ruel Macaraeg (Ernst & Young AI), and Marci James (former Realtor.com/NAR marketing). The company now serves 25 MLS markets—about 25% of U.S. agents—and $3.5 B in annual sales, offering a recruitment dashboard that outperforms competitors.
