2 May 2025
  

Cost To Develop Real Estate App Like Zillow in 2025

mm

Anushka Das

Twitter Linkedin Facebook
App Like Zillow

Are you searching for a fantastic property or a new home? Most people start by conducting an internet search, like using a real estate app. The 100 million-plus homes listed in the most sought-after locations in the United States showcase Zillow’s dominance as an industry leader in real estate. From buying a house to renting a first-time apartment in a city, the real estate app development helps millions of people achieve their American dreams.

Zillow’s influence goes far beyond the convenience it offers users; it has also altered consumer expectations and industry standards. With its transparency and openness about real estate information, Zillow has set a precedent for what a successful real estate app can achieve. The demand for similar applications is growing in today’s hyper-connected world, where digital tools drive decisions.

Are you curious about the cost to develop an app like Zillow? App development requires investment, so you may wonder how much it would cost to create an app like Zillow. The typical cost of developing a real estate application similar to Zillow ranges from $20,000 to $300,000. However, before you proceed, you can assess the factors and features that could impact your estimate.

Want to learn more about costs? In this post, you will discover how much it would take to create a real property app like Zillow.

What Is The Zillow App?

Zillow App

Zillow is a technology-driven real estate marketplace founded in 2006. It enables users to connect with real estate agents and find the best deals when buying, selling, financing, or renting a property. The app helps users determine what is required for a real estate transaction and aids them in finding the right solutions to meet their needs.

Property owners and real estate brokers advertise commercial properties and private residential spaces. Based on location preferences and amenities, Zillow is a popular real estate app in the USA, helping users find the right space at affordable prices.

Zillow is free for download on Android and iOS devices via Google Play and the Apple App Store. The app has been downloaded over 10 million times from the Android store and over 7 million times from the Apple store. It has received a 4.8/5 rating from iPhone users and a 4.7/5 rating from Android users.

Understanding Zillow’s Business Model

Zillow is primarily an online real estate marketplace that connects sellers, buyers, tenants, agents, and brokers. In essence, Zillow generates revenue through advertisements and premium services offered to real estate professionals. Below is an overview of Zillow’s business model:

Zillow

1. Real Estate Advertising

A significant portion of Zillow’s revenue comes from real estate brokers and agents who advertise their properties on the platform. Agents pay to display their listings, ensuring they are visible to potential buyers and tenants.

2. Premier Agent Program

The Premier Agent program is the core of Zillow’s revenue strategy. Agents purchase leads exclusively within their chosen zip codes, increasing their visibility and effectiveness on the platform.

3. Zillow Offers

Zillow Offers enables homeowners to sell their properties directly to Zillow. After acquiring homes, Zillow refurbishes and resells them, using its vast data analytics to create competitive offers for sellers.

4. Data and Analytics Services

Zillow monetizes its extensive real estate database by offering information and analytics to real estate professionals, investors, and other stakeholders. This includes in-depth market reports, neighborhood insights, and property valuation tools.

Why Develop a Real Estate App Like Zillow?

Today’s consumers expect comprehensive information when buying a home. As a result, realtors are increasingly turning to technology to streamline their business operations. Apps like Zillow stand out because they offer seamless management tools that address every aspect of the real estate industry, from data processing to transaction management. Zillow’s revenue was $2.31 billion in 2024, and they expect it to grow to $2.79 billion by 2026.

Zillow App

The data shows that the demand for advanced real estate software increases yearly. As a result, companies in the real estate sector have the potential to gain significant growth by developing real estate apps like Zillow. Here are a few more advantages of creating a real estate application:

1. Solid Online Presence

Building a strong online presence is essential in today’s digital landscape, with numerous competitors. By leveraging a feature-rich, robust mobile app like Zillow, you can create an impressive brand image and increase your visibility among potential buyers. Take advantage of this powerful effect and reap the benefits that mobile apps can offer your real estate business.

2. Centralized Information

Apps like Zillow provide a centralized platform for accessing vast property listings, complete with photographs, detailed descriptions, and price information. By storing all relevant data in one location, these apps enhance the user experience and increase the likelihood of interaction and conversion.

3. Integration of Modern Technologies

These apps integrate advanced technologies, such as Augmented Reality (AR) for virtual tours and machine learning to offer personalized suggestions. This increases user interaction and sets them apart from competitors.

4. Better User Experience

A smooth and efficient user experience can significantly impact the effectiveness of your real estate business. While having a website for your business is essential, it doesn’t offer the same quality experience. A well-designed real estate app with a user-friendly mobile interface provides an elegant layout that makes it easy for customers to find the property they’re looking for without compromising the overall customer experience.

5. Competitive Advantage

Making a name for yourself is challenging in the competitive real estate market. However, by offering a feature-rich real estate app with various options designed to meet the needs of both agents and users, you can create an enjoyable experience. This will positively impact your brand image and help you gain a competitive edge in the marketplace.

6. User Engagement and Retention

User accounts, saved searches, notifications, and personalized advice are all features that can boost customer engagement. Personalizing the user experience according to their preferences and habits can increase loyalty and retention.

Must-Have Features of a Real Estate App Like Zillow

A well-designed app created by a mobile app development company in US is the first step toward creating a successful property app. Several key elements have made Zillow the leader it is today. If you’re planning to create a real estate app, here are the essential features you should consider incorporating:

Real Estate App

1. User Profiles

Real estate apps like Zillow offer tools targeted at different user groups, all within a single platform. Developers should allow users to create personalized profiles based on their roles as sellers, buyers, or real estate agents. This will enable users to perform various tasks specific to their needs.

2. Onboarding

The first actions users take after downloading a mobile app are critical. A simple onboarding process ensures that users don’t leave the app early. The onboarding process should focus on three main goals: explaining the app’s operations, guiding users through navigation, and maintaining their attention.

3. Search & Filters

Allow users to filter homes based on various criteria, including price, location, and number of rooms. Additionally, it provides the option to sort rental properties by keyword, property type, pet policies, and other relevant factors.

4. Property Details

Offer comprehensive details about each property, including a description, video walkthrough, photos, price, location, nearby landmarks, and more. Detailed property information makes listings more valuable and helps buyers make informed decisions. Additionally, consider researching the cost of marketing properties on apps like Zillow to offer affordable advertising solutions for real estate professionals and homeowners.

5. Photos & Street View

Include high-quality photos of the property and its street view to provide a complete overview. Implementing immersive 360-degree video or virtual tours can also enhance the user experience.

6. Database

The effectiveness and appeal of a real estate app like Zillow depend on the quality and accuracy of its data. To keep users engaged, the app must contain up-to-date and comprehensive information. Collaborating with local property brokers and experts is essential for maintaining a robust database.

7. Maps Integration

Enable users to view directions to properties, making it easier for them to visit. You can enhance this feature by adding smart map functionality, helping users understand their current location and discover nearby properties.

8. Visit Scheduling

Include a scheduling option that allows buyers to schedule appointments with agents for property viewings. This feature will help users stay organized and keep track of open houses or meetings with buyers and sellers.

9. Push Notifications

Push notifications offer a great marketing opportunity. Use them strategically to update users on new messages, price changes, or property information, keeping them engaged and informed.

10. Integration with Real Estate CRM

Integrating a Real Estate CRM system allows businesses to track sales leads or manage real-time customer interactions. This feature helps companies offer personalized services and news to clients, improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.

How Much Does It Cost to Develop a Real Estate App Like Zillow?

Developing a mobile app like Zillow can range from $20,000 to over $300,000. The price depends on various factors, including the project’s complexity, development timeline, target devices, and other considerations. The unique UI design, advanced features, and the platforms chosen for distribution can all influence the overall cost.

Several factors contribute to the pricing for an app like Zillow, such as the feature set, development stages, and the selected platform. As a result, estimating the exact cost can be challenging. Below is a breakdown of the typical cost ranges for developing a real estate app similar to Zillow:

Basic Real Estate App: $20,000 – $50,000

Intermediate Real Estate App:  $50,000 – $100,000

Advanced Real Estate App:  $100,000 – $300,000+

Factors That Affect The Development Cost Of An App Like Zillow

Zillow App Cost

Developing a real estate app is no easy task. Several factors influence the cost of creating such an application. Businesses must consider these factors as they play a significant role in establishing the proper budget. Awareness of these elements helps companies make informed decisions, cut costs without compromising quality, and create a real estate platform similar to Zillow that meets customer needs and user expectations.

In this section, we’ll examine the factors that influence cost. Understanding these factors will help you navigate the development process and estimate overall costs.

1. Platform

The choice of platform (Android, iOS, or cross-platform) dramatically impacts the cost of developing a real estate app. Developing native apps for Android or iOS can be expensive and may limit your audience. However, cross-platform development can save costs and allow businesses to reach both platforms.

Each platform has unique requirements and development environments requiring time and resources. By using leading cross-platform frameworks, you can reach more users while reducing costs and development time.

2. Design

User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design are crucial for user engagement and retention. A custom UI design tailored to your app’s requirements and brand will enhance the user experience but may also increase costs.

Hiring an experienced mobile app development company in US to create attractive and intuitive interfaces can be more expensive, especially if the design is more complex. Customizing and developing a unique design requires time, skill, and expertise, leading to a higher design budget.

3. Features and Functionalities

The features and functionalities of your app are key factors that influence the development costs of a real estate application. Basic features like property listings, search filters, and contact forms won’t add significant costs. However, advanced features such as AI-based recommendations, virtual tours, or live chat can increase cost and development time.

Location-based services, push notifications, and user analytics also require additional work and may increase costs. When adding new features, it’s essential to strike a balance; while they may enhance the user experience, they can also raise the overall development costs. Start with a core set of features to minimize expenses while delivering a valuable and engaging experience.

4. Development Team

Your development team’s choice and location significantly impact the overall cost. Mobile app developers with experience creating real estate apps or working with advanced technologies often command higher rates. While hiring a skilled team ensures better functionality and app quality, it may also increase the development cost. A well-qualified team experienced with apps like Zillow can make the difference in delivering a high-quality product.

5. Third-Party Integration

Integrating third-party services can enhance the performance of your real estate app but comes with additional costs. Standard integrations include payment gateways, mapping services, CRM platforms, and social media tools. Each integration requires custom API development, which can add complexity and increase the overall development cost.

6. Development Time

The time it takes to build an app will impact the overall price. Complex apps with sophisticated capabilities will increase the duration, raising costs. This includes design, programming, and testing. The more extended development timeframes usually result in increased expenses.

7. Custom Designs

Designing custom-made designs to fit the app’s branding and user experience is a significant factor in the development costs. High-quality, bespoke designs ensure a unique and engaging user experience. The process involves bespoke graphics, animations, and branding components, which could increase the cost of your project.

8. Quality Assurance And Testing

Quality assurance and app testing are crucial in the real estate app development process. The app must be safe, user-friendly, and smooth. The method includes testing the app’s functionality, usability, and effectiveness. Businesses can design an MVP and conduct MVP testing to ensure a successful app launch.

When you add various options, evaluating the app will take some time. Testing and quality control shouldn’t be overlooked since they reduce maintenance costs and ensure the best user experience. This is essential for boosting business after the app launches.

How to Monetize Your Real Estate App Like Zillow?

You’ve already determined the cost and the factors that can impact it. Now, discover methods for earning profits when you create an application similar to Zillow.

Real Estate App

1. In-App Advertising

Advertising can earn you money. Firms offering services such as architects, interior designers, and furniture dealers might be interested in placing advertisements about their products on your real estate app, such as Zillow. Additionally, you can show ads to customers in specific sections of the mobile app, generating income through these partnerships.

2. Featured Listings

The paid plan is for those wishing to have their names and properties at the top of the application so that as many users as possible can see them. They will show the houses unless they are on a paid plan and paid featured listing.

3. Commission-Based App

As an agent, you may earn a commission for each property sold. A good example is receiving an amount from sellers for each home they offer. The broker would pay fees for properties advertised through real estate applications such as Zillow.

4. Premium Subscription

You can offer premium subscription plans for individuals who want additional features and benefits. These plans could provide features like an ad-free experience, notifications for new listings, and access to additional tools. You could also offer packages allowing extra property listings per month or advanced analytics and features unavailable to free users.

Tips To Reduce Real Estate App Development Costs

If you’re looking to develop an app that is more sophisticated than Zillow but are unsure if it’s within your budget, we’ve got your back. We have ideas for reducing real estate app costs without losing high-end quality. If you follow these suggestions, it will help you save cash and offer a superior user experience. The following tips can help:

Real Estate App Costs

1. Choose The Right Development Team

Select a team for development that can balance cost and high quality. Choose teams located in areas where the cost of living is less expensive and don’t sacrifice quality. If you pick the correct team, you will reduce up to 20-30% of development expenses.

2. Prioritize Necessary Features And Functionalities

Concentrating only on the key elements essential to the application’s performance is critical. Too many features may be expensive and time-consuming. Prioritize features that reduce development costs and focus on the most essential aspects.

3. Leverage Cost-Effective Frameworks and Tools

Select tools and frameworks that accelerate the development process. This will reduce the requirement for creating the code entirely from scratch. This helps reduce the development time, leading to 25-40% savings.

4. Outsource Non-Core Services

Outsource certain services, such as content creation, testing, and other development-related tasks, to freelancers or agencies that specialize. This can lead to up to 20% savings, as you can tap into expertise while allowing your in-house team to focus on essential tasks.

5. Regular Review and Budget Adjusting

Review the budget regularly throughout the process and adjust it if necessary. This will help avoid unnecessary expenditures and ensure you correctly use your budgetary resources.

Conclusion

Growing Market

The blog shows you the cost of building a real estate application like Zillow. The real estate app industry is constantly moving towards producing substantial income. Zillow is a prime example of success in this space, and you can achieve similar success by integrating the key features that Zillow offers. The app makes it extremely convenient and easy to access millions of homes, apartments, and properties. Zillow, as a mobile application, dominates the web-based real estate market in the USA.

The cost of developing an app like Zillow is influenced by the growing demand for real estate technology and the need to enhance user experience. Furthermore, an estimate of the cost discussed above will assist you in developing your app. Monetization strategies that you could employ to generate revenue include advertising, lead generation, and data licensing. Thanks to technological advancements and changing customer tastes, the development of real estate applications is expected to continue.

Partner with Techugo, a leading app development company, to turn your vision into reality. Hire Techugo today and build a powerful, feature-rich real estate app!

Related Posts

app like Unacademy
2 May 2025

How Much Does It Cost to Build an App Like Unacademy in 2025?

The educational platform has experienced enormous growth over the past few years. Unacademy, along with Byju’s and Coursera, is establishing digital l..

mm

Shifa Akbar

app like qiwa
1 May 2025

How to Develop an App Like Qiwa KSA: Key Factors, Cost Breakdown, and Monetization Strategies

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 targets development of a dynamic digital system which will establish the country as an international pioneer in technologic..

mm

Anushka Das

Envelope

Get in touch.

We are just a call away

Or fill this form