Discover Key Takeaways from the 2025 Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report for Agents

The 2025 Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report (CHTR) is here, packed with fresh insights to help agents better understand today’s market and the clients they serve. This year’s report reveals critical data about what buyers want, how they’re facing challenges, and how prepared agents can play an even bigger role in their journeys. 

Here are some highlights from the report: 

• Virtual Tours and Interactive Floor Plans: A significant 71% of buyers prefer agents who offer virtual tours and interactive floor plans, highlighting the growing demand for digital tools in property exploration. 

• First Point of Contact: Being the first agent a buyer contacts is crucial, with 47% of buyers choosing the first agent they reach out to, emphasizing the importance of quick responses and proactive engagement. 

• First-Time Buyers Shop Around: 35% of first-time buyers contact three or more agents before deciding, suggesting they’re more cautious and want to explore options before committing. 

• The Role of Online Resources: 23% of buyers discover agents through real estate websites or apps, with 7% using social media or search engines, highlighting the need for a strong online presence. 

• Referrals Still Matter: Despite the rise of digital platforms, 22% of buyers choose agents based on personal recommendations, underscoring the lasting value of referrals. 

Additional Insight: While the 2025 Zillow report highlights key preferences, it's equally important to consider the flip side of these statistics. For example, while 71% of buyers prefer agents offering virtual tours and interactive floor plans, 29% don’t prioritize these tools, suggesting they may value other factors like personal connections or in-person showings. 

Similarly, 47% of buyers choose the first agent they contact, but that leaves over half of buyers (53%) still open to other agents. This opens the door for agents to impress clients later in the process through strong communication, knowledge, or a personalized approach. 

For first-time buyers, the 35% who reach out to multiple agents may imply that many are overwhelmed or uncertain about their options. However, it also means that 65% of first-time buyers are more likely to settle on the first agent they connect with or find someone who meets their needs quickly. 

Lastly, despite online resources playing a significant role in agent discovery, 77% of buyers still don't rely solely on websites or social media. Referrals also remain a trusted source, with 22% hiring an agent based on a recommendation. This shows that word-of-mouth and relationships continue to influence the decision-making process. 

For real estate professionals, these insights can shape effective strategies to enhance how you connect with clients and improve how you guide them through their process. Dive deeper into the full report to uncover more valuable data that can elevate your practice. 

Access the full Zillow Consumer Housing Trends Report for Agents Here.