Z
illow's New Rules: A Shift in the Real Estate Landscape

    As of May, Zillow will enforce new standards for listings on its platform, aligning with the Clear Cooperation Policy (CCP) but potentially clashing with the National Association of Realtors' (NAR) "delayed marketing" policy. This move is part of a broader effort to create an even playing field for all buyers.

    The CCP requires listings to be submitted to the multiple listing service within 24 hours of being publicly promoted. Zillow's new standards will bar listings that are publicly promoted but not made widely available via the MLS from its platform, starting in May. This means that if a seller wants to market their home on social media or through yard signs, they must also make it available to all buyers through the MLS.

    "This is our implementation of the Clear Cooperation Policy," said Errol Samuelson, Zillow's chief industry development officer. "Our belief is that if a listing is going to be marketed to a buyer or a subset of buyers, it really needs to be made available to all buyers."

    The new policy has sparked debate, particularly around the Multiple Listing Options for Sellers (MLOS) provision, which allows sellers to temporarily keep their home off the Internet Data Exchange. Zillow considers social media and other forms of public marketing as potential conflicts with this policy.

    eXp Realty, a launch partner for Zillow's new move, sees it as an opportunity to deliver value and build trust with its clients. "Our commitment is about creating a more efficient, trustworthy, and open marketplace," said eXp Realty CEO Leo Pareja.

    Zillow hopes that other brokerages will follow suit, recognizing the benefits of equal access to listings for all buyers. Research has shown that off-MLS listings can cost sellers thousands of dollars per home, with communities of color disproportionately affected by this practice.