How is Redfin Different from Trulia and Zillow?

Question

While all 3 these sites are essentially real estate search engines, Redfin differs from its competitors Trulia and Zillow. Redfin adds the real estate sales component to the mix and combines real estate search with real estate sales. Yes Trulia and Zillow allow agents to advertise on their sites, but Refin has an organized sales system as a part of its design. Redfin actually offers brokerage services and access to live agents. Neither Trulia nor Zillow have this sales component built in.

Redfin has raised approx $26 MM since the site went live in the Summer of 2005, right before the real estate meltdown. Redfin has been a little controversial among realtors, since it is truly an online real estate company. Because of the Company’s success, many wonder if real estate market will eventually become one big platform modeled after Redfin? Or are we already in the midst of this evolution in real estate? Please share your opinion.

Source: http://www.crunchbase.com/company/redfin

Xing Zhu · Answer

Redfin offers rebates to buyers.
Redfin is only for certain states.

Karen Margrave · Answer

One thing I've noticed on Redfin in southern California is that they often advertise the lisitngs from MLS that aren't necessarily affiliated with their company in any way. Jake Kucheck have you noticed that too?

Corey Dutton · Answer

I wonder if we are already programmed to use the online marketplace to buy and sell...?

Jake Kucheck · Answer

Of course if Redfin agents routinely get their offers passed over by traditional listing agents... all the technology in the world won't make them a viable business model.