How to have Zillow change home characteristics

Question

I have 2 properties listed on Zillow. One is a single family home on an acre with a detached duplex and triplex located on the same acre. I'd like the home be be characterized as single family home but it is listed as an apartment. Another property has a  500 sf bungalow that is attached to the main home at the roof line but does not share a wall with it. It is termed a townhouse. My property management company states Zillow wont change the description but has anyone been able to do this?

Jimmy Lieu · Answer

Hi Tom, I've seen this happen quite a bit. In many cases, Zillow pulls property type information from MLS data, county records, or other third-party sources, so sometimes the classification isn't something that can be changed directly through the listing itself. If the underlying public records or MLS designation show the property as a multifamily or attached dwelling, Zillow may continue displaying it that way even if the marketing description tells a different story. That said, I've heard of some owners having success by contacting Zillow support directly and providing documentation that supports the correct property type. It may also be worth checking how the property is classified in the county records and MLS, since that can be the root cause. Hopefully some others here who have dealt with unique property layouts can share their experience, because properties like yours don't always fit neatly into Zillow's standard categories.

Drew Sygit · Answer

two unit + three unit = 5 units => apartment

If you can't get a FNMA, FHA or VA mortgage on it, then it is NOT SFR.