If you’ve been searching for homes on Zillow lately and feel like something’s missing — you’re not wrong. As of May, Zillow has implemented a major change to the way listings appear on their platform, and it could be keeping you from seeing your dream home.
Here’s what you need to know:
Zillow’s New MLS Policy: What Changed?
Zillow now follows the National Association of Realtors' Clear Cooperation Policy, which states:
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If a home is marketed to the public in any way — even through a yard sign, social media post, email to potential buyers, or a brokerage's website — it must be listed on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) within one business day.
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If it’s not on the MLS within that 24-hour window, Zillow will permanently ban the listing from appearing on its site.
This means that if an agent markets a home on Instagram but waits a few days to put it on the MLS — Zillow will block it from showing up, forever.
Why It Matters for Buyers and Sellers
Zillow says this new rule promotes transparency and ensures all buyers have equal access to homes for sale. That’s a good thing — but it also means casual browsers relying on Zillow might miss out on great homes that were banned due to delayed MLS entry.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes — office exclusives are still allowed. These are homes marketed only to agents within the same brokerage and not to the general public.
So, How Do You See Every Home for Sale?
Work with an agent who has full MLS access — like me.
As a licensed Realtor in San Diego and Chula Vista, I can show you:
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Homes listed on and off Zillow
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Office exclusives and coming-soon properties
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The complete MLS inventory in real time
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Properties marketed before they’re available to the public
Don’t Miss Out — Work with a Local Pro
I’m Gilbert Gomez, your trusted local real estate expert with full MLS access. If you're serious about buying or selling in San Diego or Chula Vista — you deserve to see every opportunity.
Call me today at (619) 366-7464
Visit: www.listwithgilbert.com
DRE #02113096 | Premier Agency RE
Email: yourbetteragentgilbert@gmail.com