97% of buyers search for homes online – a crucial factor for sellers seeking exposure. Also, with over 51% homes bought online, knowing where to look is key for buyers.
Houzeo, Illinois’s best home buying and selling website, is all you need! For sellers, Houzeo offers Flat Fee MLS plans for max exposure and huge savings. Meanwhile, buyers can filter through 57K+ homes for sale in Illinois – all in one place.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The 7 top real estate websites in Illinois are Houzeo, Clever Real Estate, Realtor.com, Redfin, Coldwell Banker Homes, Dream Town Realty, and Century21.
- Houzeo is the best real estate website in Illinois. It offers affordable Flat Fee MLS packages with 5-star customer support. Additionally, buyers can browse through over 57K+ houses for sale in Illinois. 🏡
- Clever Real Estate offers sellers low fees and expert guidance, while buyers get cashback opportunities and agent support.💲
- The best real estate website is 100% online, offers quick listing, robust search filters, virtual tour options, and a mobile app for real estate on the go.📱
Reviews: Best Real Estate Websites in Illinois
1. Houzeo
MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
Listing Fee: $399Houzeo offers 3 FSBO MLS listing packages:
- Silver Package – $199: You can list your property on the MLS with 24 photos and for 6 months. It also becomes visible on Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, etc. You can also make unlimited changes to your listing.
- Gold Package – $249: You can post the maximum number of photos, avail licensed broker assistance, get access to seller disclosures, and a premium yard sign.
- Platinum Package – $299: You get virtual full assistance from a licensed broker and a 12-month listing term.
Based on the plan you choose, there's an additional 0.5% to 1.25% due at closing.
Houzeo is America’s #1 Flat Fee MLS service because of 4 reasons:
- Max Exposure: Your listing gets syndicated to popular real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and more.
- 5-star Customer Service: Houzeo has a fully staffed customer service desk available 6 days a week. Chats and emails are open 7 days a week.
- 100% Online: Houzeo offers a complete online listing experience. Its powerful property search app makes your home visible to interested buyers on the go.
- No Hidden Fees: In most states, you’ll be paying just a small flat fee to list on MLS by owner. And remember, all fees are disclosed upfront, so there are no Houzeo hidden fees. You get to bypass the listing agent commission.
- Free Home Value Estimator: Now, you can get a free home value estimate within 30 seconds. It helps you set a listing price.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
» Is Houzeo Good? Houzeo addresses all Houzeo complaints from home sellers.
Houzeo has 4.9 out of 5 stars from thousands of home sellers on Google and Trustpilot.
» Houzeo Reviews: Read why Houzeo is rated excellent by 10,000+ home sellers.
Houzeo.com is Illinois’s #1 ranked real estate website for its Flat Fee MLS service. Houzeo provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology. To avail of these services you can purchase one of its packages.
In Illinois, the Bronze package costs $499. The Silver package costs $249 +0.5% at close and the Gold package costs $299 +1% at close. The Platinum package costs $349 +1.25% at close.
2. Clever Real Estate
In-Person Realtor Assistance
Listing Fee: 1.5%For home sellers, Clever Real Estate offers services like:
- 1.5% Discounted Commission: You get to list your property on the MLS for 1.5% of your home’s sale price instead of paying the traditional 3% agent fee.
- Full-Service Support: You get in-person agent assistance that will help you price your home for sale, market it, handle showings, negotiate, and close the deal.
- Top Agents: Clever connects you with top-rated, high-performing agents, to ensure that your home sale is managed by experienced professionals.
Clever Real Estate offers the following benefits for home buyers:
- Agent Matching: You get connected with top buyer agents who possess local expertise and market knowledge.
- Cash Back Program: If your home qualifies for this program, you receive $250 cash back when you buy with Clever, and $500 when you sell with them too.
Here are the reasons why Clever Real Estate can be a good choice for you:
- No Upfront Fee: You don’t pay to list your property for sale. The commission is due only when your home sells.
- Full-Service Agent Assistance: You match with a full-service local agent who uses creative ways to market your house and helps with the paperwork too.
- Zero Commitment Process: You can interview as many agents as you like before choosing one. If it still doesn’t feel right, you can simply walk away.
- Nationwide Agent Network: Clever works with top-rated agents from major brokerages like Keller Williams and RE/MAX. They cover all 50 states.
There are no red flags with Clever Real Estate. However, note that your experience largely depends on you agent and the quality of service they provide.
Clever Real Estate has a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 3,583 reviews on Trustpilot.
» Clever Real Estate Reviews: Find out more about what Clever Real Estate offers and how much you can save with them.
Clever connects you with full-service agents whose local expertise helps you streamline your home sale for reduced fees. If you are buying a home with Clever, you may qualify for cashback. Plus, you get an agent to guide you through the entire buying process!
3. Realtor.com
Verified Listings
Pay Commission on Sale/PurchaseFor home sellers, this is what Realtor.com offers:
- Agent Matching Service: Realtor.com connects you with local real estate agents using an algorithm. This helps you find an agent as per your selling needs.
- Multiple Selling Options: You can explore different ways to sell your house. For example, list with an agent or sell to a company that buys houses for cash.
- Standard Packages: Based on the location, property size and advertising options you choose, you pay real estate commission to the agent listing your home.
Home buyers benefit from these tools and services which Realtor.com offers:
- Advanced Search Options: You can search for properties using various criteria like property type, number of bedrooms, and specific neighborhoods.
- Neighborhood Information: You have access to data on housing market trends, recently sold homes, and local information like school district reviews.
- Buyer Guides: The platform offers extensive resources and guides for homebuyers. It also provides helpful information on mortgages and insurance.
Here are some advantages of choosing Realtor.com:
- Up-to-Date Listings: Homes listed reflect current availability. This reduces the chance of outdated or sold listings.
- NAR Affiliation: Licensed by National Association of Realtor’s (NAR’s), Realtor.com allows buyers to connect with licensed agents for support.
- User-Friendly Interface: The website offers an easy-to-use platform for buyers to search for properties.
- Neighborhood Information: Realtor.com provides information about neighborhoods, such as school ratings, crime rates, and local amenities.
Here are some major drawbacks that a user should be aware of:
- Customer Complaints: Several users complain about difficulties with cancellation processes, and poor or unresponsive customer service.
- Unsolicited Calls: Inquiries can trigger repeated calls from multiple agents, even without clear consent.
- Less Control for Sellers: You need to connect with an agent or use partner cash offer programs. You lose control over the listing process.
Realtor.com has a rating of 1.2 out of 5 stars from 1,000+ users on Trustpilot.
Listings from traditional agents as well as Flat Fee MLS services appear on Realtor.com, giving sellers wide exposure. Some features and support may be limited compared to full-service brokerages. Nevertheless, buyers benefit from accurate data, interactive maps, advanced filters, and mortgage tools which help them make informed decisions.
4. Redfin
Refund/Rebate Program
1-1.5% Listing FeeFor home sellers, Redfin.com has three main features:
- 1.5% Listing Fee: Redfin charges a 1.5% discounted listing fee. This fee is further reduced to 1% if you also buy a home with a Redfin agent within a year.
- Professional Assistance: The standard package includes services from listing to closing, that is, from pricing assistance to closing coordination.
- Redfin Concierge: For high-value luxury homes, Redfin offers services like home staging, deep cleaning, and select renovations for additional costs.
Redfin.com offers these features for home buyers:
- Technology-Driven Search: Redfin offers powerful search tools, including map-based searches, saved searches, and instant updates on new listings.
- Redfin Agents: Some Redfin agents may offer a different incentive structure than traditional commission-based agents, making negotiation possible.
- Refund/Rebate Program: In some markets, buyers receive a portion of the buyer’s agent commission back as a refund at closing.
Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:
- Cost Savings: You pay significantly lower than the traditional 3% listing/seller agent commission. Plus, you could qualify for a rebate.
- Professional Marketing: Professional photography and 3D walkthroughs are a part of Redfin’s standard package. This enhances a home’s online presence.
- Advanced Technology: With 40+ filters to narrow down your search, the Redfin app makes it easy to find the right home.
- Local Agent Assistance: Local agents know their market better and can help you secure a good deal.
Here are some limitations we found with Redfin:
- Minimum Fees are Applicable: The 1.5% commission is a minimum percentage and varies by market.
- No Freedom in Agent Selection: You get an agent assigned automatically without having a choice in the matter.
- Service Variation: Redfin agents often handle a high volume of clients. This may limit personalized attention and reduce the range of services you receive.
- Poor Customer Reviews: Customers have complained that agents are often unreachable and unprofessional.
Redfin has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 60+ reviews on Google.
» Redfin Reviews: The reality of the 1% fees, pros, cons, and alternatives!
Redfin delivers a tech-forward real estate experience. You get services like home pricing guidance, professional photography, and digital marketing. Redfin also serves as a home-buying tool as it lets users schedule showings and connect with local agents. However, you don't get to select your agent yourself.
5. Coldwell Banker Homes
Best For Local Market
Up to 6% CommissionColdwell Banker offers the following services which benefit home sellers:
- Buyer Connections: Your agent connects you with potential buyers through industry-leading programs. This helps your home get the exposure it deserves.
- Seller’s Assurance Program: There are programs that cover the upfront costs of home improvements, renovations, and staging, which you pay for on closing.
For home buyers, these are the services Coldwell Banker provides:
- Buyer Guarantee/Ultimate Service: This covers a structured home-finding process that includes buyer counselling, market analysis, etc.
- Home Warranty & Insurance: Buyers can receive information on homeowner’s insurance options and home warranty details.
- Relocation Assistance: Coldwell Banker provides relocation and referral services for buyers moving to a new area.
Here are some advantages of choosing Coldwell Banker:
- Good Presence & Reach: They have 94,000+ affiliated sales agents and a diverse network of over 3,000 offices.
- Value Added Services: Programs like RealVitalize®, AARP® Real Estate Benefits by Anywhere, and CB Estimate®, boost the clients’ real estate journey.
- Strong Brand Recognition: In business since 1906, Coldwell Banker attracts clients and referrals due to their good reputation in the real estate industry.
Here are some disadvantages of Coldwell Banker:
- Traditional Commission Rates: As a full-service brokerage, you must pay the standard real estate commissions, which are the usual 6%.
- Agent Consistency: As a large franchise, the quality of agents and the level of service can vary across different offices and individual agents.
- Communication Issues: Some customer reviews mention issues with agent communication, including slow responses or a lack of detailed explanations.
Coldwell Banker has an average rating of 2.4 out of 5 stars from 200+ users on Consumer Affairs.
Home sellers in Florida appreciate Coldwell Banker Realty for its comprehensive marketing strategies and effective home valuation tools. As one of Florida's most up-to-date real estate platforms, its vast database helps buyers find ideal homes. However, some clients report that agents can be occasionally unresponsive.
6. Dream Town Realty
🎯 LOCAL FOCUS
3% - 6% CommissionDream Town Realty is a full service real estate brokerage, which has recently merged with Baird & Warner. The pricing is not disclosed on their website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.
👉 Our Take: Dream Town Realty is one of the first local brokerages with an online presence. From traditional printed brochures to social media presence, their in-house marketing arm will you sell your home quickly.
Here are some advantages of choosing Dream Town Realty:
- User-Friendly Website: Dream Town Realty is one of the first local brokerages with an online presence. Their website is easy to navigate.
- Digital Marketing: They offer services like 3-D home tours and professional photography.
- Experienced Brokers: Dream Town Realty has 450+ exceptional brokers. They all are well versed with Chicago real estate market.
- Personalized Experienced: Dream Town Realty follows a “Boutique Model”. This model analyze your goals and accordingly personalize your services.
- Additional Services: This includes regular local market updates, neighborhood maps, building directories, photos and videos of neighborhood properties, mortgage services, and more.
Here are some red flags of Dream Town Realty, that could make your experience less satisfactory.
- No Mobile App: It does not have convenient services like a mobile app.
- Average Customer Reviews: Previous customers have complained about Dream Town Realty not being upright.
Dream Town Realty has a 3.9 out of 5 stars from 100+ users on Yelp.
Dream Town Realty is a brokerage firm, operating since 1998. They have a team of approximately 400 brokers across Illinois. Their Boutique Model analyzes your goal and offers personalized services.
However, many customers have reported poor service. Also, despite having an online presence they do not have any mobile application for their customers.
7. Century21
💫Brand Recognition
3% - 6% CommissionCentury 21 is one of the world’s largest real estate brokerage firms. It operates in every U.S. state and in 82 other countries.
Pricing is not disclosed on the website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Century21 to first-time home seller. Along with listing, you will get access to contract reviews, offer management, closing, and a lot more.
Here are some advantages to choosing Century 21:
- Global Coverage: Century21 operates in every U.S. state and 82 other countries.
- Market Exposure: It has good brand recognition and over 14,000 independent franchise real estate brokers.
- Professional Real Estate Agents: According to previous customers, Century 21 agents are highly professional.
- Best for First-Time Home Sellers: You get to access your listing, review your contract, the closing process, and a lot more.
Century 21 has some major drawbacks that a user should be aware of.
- No Discounts: The agent’s fees at Century 21 are usually high. They do not offer any discounts or rebates.
Century 21 has an average rating of 1 out of 5 stars from 100+ users on Consumer Affairs.
Century 21 is a global real estate franchise company with over 14,000 offices. It was founded in 1971 and has become one of the most recognizable brands in the real estate industry.
It is known for its innovative marketing and technology. However, many customers have reported delayed services and high agent fees.
Types of Real Estate Websites in Illinois
Real estate websites in Illinois can be categorized into 6 main types:
- Home Selling Websites: These websites provide maximum exposure to the property and make the sale in a short time. They also help sellers price their homes competitively and attract potential buyers.
- Home Buying Websites: These websites help buyers search for properties online. Perfect home-buying sites must provide efficient tools, adequate resources, and impressive features to work on.
- Best Rental Websites: Rental websites also allow property owners to lease their properties and reach out to potential customers.
- Best Property Search Websites: The best house-hunting websites help you search for all types of properties online. This includes homes, rental properties, plots, ranches, and commercial properties.
- Best MLS Listing Websites: The best MLS listing sites help you list your property online for free or for a small listing fee. Top real estate websites share your listing details with other sites, giving your property more exposure.
- Best Real Estate Investor Websites: These websites help investors with property resources, price trends, and community forums.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Website in Illinois?
You can choose the best real estate websites in Illinois based on these factors:
- Strong Technology: Websites with robust technology can make selling or buying a house faster and more efficient. Look for features like virtual tours, professional photos, and user-friendly interfaces.
- Comprehensive Support: If you’re selling FSBO, you should look for 5-star customer support, negotiation assistance, and more. Also, buyers should expect assistance with financing and access to home inspectors, title companies, and legal guidance.
- Maximum Exposure: Find a website that will give maximum exposure to your property. This could also include an MLS listing, social media sharing, and customizable yard signs.
👉 Get your home on the MLS within 48 hours, with Illinois’ #1 real estate website!
Why Houzeo is the #1 Real Estate Website in Illinois?
Houzeo.com is the #1 real estate website in Illinois for:
- 100% Online: Easy listing, fast changes, online showings, and online offers.
- 5-star Customer Service: You get assistance from the list to close with Houzeo Concierge.
- No Listing Commission: In most states, you’ll be paying just a small flat fee to get access to the MLS.
- Real Estate on the Go: The Houzeo Mobile App allows you to list your property, manage showings, compare offers, and even counter an offer.
- Max Exposure: It gives you access to the MLS, Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and 100s of other real estate websites.
Eager to Know How Houzeo Works?
We have got you covered. Check out how Houzeo works and how you can list your property on the MLS with Houzeo.
How to List on MLS With Houzeo?
5 Easy Steps to List on MLS with Houzeo by owner
