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6 min read Jan 31, 2024

7 Best Real Estate Websites in Sacramento, CA (2024 Updates)

In Sacramento, CA, 47% of buyers search for properties online, while 18% contact a real estate agent. Moreover, 80% of buyers found the property descriptions and photos to be very useful online. This shows that more people are using real estate websites to find their dream home.

A good real estate website increases your chances of getting an offer. However, it comes with a hefty 6% agent commission that you have to bear. An FSBO real estate website eliminates the listing agent fee. So, you have to pay only the buyer’s agent commission, i.e., 3%.

Houzeo is one of California’s best FSBO websites. It offers maximum savings, advanced technology, 5-star customer service, and listing exposure.

We’ve spent thousands of hours researching and reviewing the best real estate websites in the City of Trees. Here are our rankings:

🏅 7 Best Real Estate Sites in Sacramento

  1. Houzeo: Best Technology
  2. Trulia: Expert Assistance
  3. Zillow: User Friendly App
  4. RE/MAX: Good Exposure
  5. Redfin: Best Tech Enabled Brokerage
  6. Coldwell Banker Homes: Best For Local Market
  7. Compass Real Estate: In-person Support & Technology

Reviews: Best Real Estate Websites in Sacramento

1. Houzeo

MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

Houzeo.com

Houzeo Logo
  • Listing Fee: $399
  • 5 Stars 4.9/5 (8,000+ reviews)

Houzeo offers 4 Flat Fee MLS packages.

  • Bronze Package – $399+: This package offers Houzeo listing only for 6 months with maximum photos.
  • Silver Package – $399+0.5% at closing: This includes everything that home sellers typically look for.
  • Gold Package – $429+ 0.5 at closing: It is Houzeo’s signature MLS package and includes all the technology Houzeo is known for Houzeo Showings, Houzeo Offers, and DigiTransact.
  • Platinum – $449+ 1% at closing: It includes the assistance of a licensed broker to help you with negotiations, disclosures, and closing.

👉 Our Take: We recommend Houzeo’s Gold plan for most home sellers. It gives you access to high-tech features like Houzeo Offers and Houzeo Showings.

» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is 100% online. You can finish listing formalities in less than 60 mins.

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. This is rare in today’s world.
  • 100% Online: Houzeo offers a complete online listing experience.
  • 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.

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 8,000+ home sellers.

Houzeo.com is Sacramento’s #1 real estate company, as it provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology.

Houzeo offers Sacramento’s FSBO home sellers affordable listing packages. Your home will be listed within 48 hours. Even if you’re new to selling FSBO, Houzeo’s offer management and showings tool will help you ace your real estate journey like a pro.

2. Trulia

Informative App

Trulia

trulia
  • Based in California
  • 3.5 Stars 3.2/5 (70+ reviews)

Trulia doesn’t charge users for features like browsing listings, photos, or contacting agents. However, renters do have to pay $29 rental screening fees.

👉 Our Take: Trulia is a good option for buyers and renters but does not offer much for sellers.

» What is Trulia Estimate?: Click here to get an actual value of your property.

Here are some advantages of Trulia:

  • Extensive Listings: Trulia covers several property types, allowing users to explore various options.
  • Neighborhood Information: Trulia keeps you updated with all the neighborhood information such as, crime rates, schools, amenities, etc. This helps you make informed decisions.
  • Agent Connectivity: You can connect with real estate agents directly through the platform. This service may benefit you, if you want to work with an agent.
  • Mobile App: They provide convenient access to property listings, saved searches, and notifications.
  • Local Coverage: It offers a comprehensive map and filters, which make it easier to look for local information about the property.
  • Best Calculators: Trulia has a mortgage, affordability, and refinancing calculator to serve you better.

Here are some red flags you need to consider before choosing Trulia:

  • Pricing Information: Trulia does not publicly disclose specific pricing information. For detailed pricing and package options, agents should contact Trulia directly.
  • Listings Can be Outdated: Sometimes even if the house is sold, the listing is not updated. This can mislead the buyers.

Trulia has a rating of 3.2 out of 5 stars from 70+ reviews on G2

»  Trulia Reviews: Click here to know the reason behind the 3.2 star review on G2.

Trulia is a dynamic, powerful, and easy-to-use house-hunting website in Sacramento. It offers the best home-buying features like a comprehensive map to narrow down your search based on price range, home style, number of bedrooms, and many more.

Trulia is Zillow’s subsidiary that aims to be the one-stop solution for all home buyers. However, it does not provide FSBO listings.

3. Zillow

Extensive Property Data

Zillow

Zillow
  • Free FSBO Listing
  • 1.5 Star 1.7/5 (300+ reviews)

Zillow offers the following listing plans for home sellers:

  • FSBO Listing on Zillow – $0: You can list your home for free on Zillow’s FSBO platform.
  • Zillow Premier Agent – 3% commission: This is the traditional way to sell your home. An agent assists you through the home sale process.

👉 Our Take: You can list your home on Zillow FSBO free of charge. So, you save money on agent commissions, which are 2.5% to 3% of the home sales price.

»  How Does Zillow Work? Read further to learn the process of Zillow.

Here are some advantages to choosing Zillow:

  • Free Listing: You can list your home on Zillow’s FSBO website free of charge.
  • Free Cancellation: You can cancel your Zillow listing without any additional charges or hidden costs.
  • Market Exposure: It is one of the most popular real estate websites, with millions of visitors each month. This means that your listing will be seen by a large number of potential buyers.
  • Nationwide Coverage: Zillow FSBO is present in all 50 states in America.
  • Easy To Use: Zillow’s website and mobile app are easy to use and navigate. Users can search for properties by location, price, features, and other criteria.

Zillow has some major drawbacks that a user should be aware of.

  • Slow Listings: Your listing can take up to 72 hours from the time you submit your property details.
  • Inaccurate Zestimate: Zestimate, Zillow’s property valuation tool is often inaccurate. This misleads both buyers and sellers.
  • Limited Support: Zillow’s customer support may not match the level of personalized guidance offered by other FSBO companies.
  • Lead for Real Estate Agent: Your listing information gets sold to Zillow’s agents. You’ll get calls not from buyers but from agents.
  • Hide FSBO Listings: Zillow hides FSBO listings behind agent listings. FSBO listings are hidden 2 clicks away and get almost no traffic.

Zillow has a poor rating of 1.7 out of 5 stars from 300+ reviews on Trustpilot.

» Zillow Reviews: Read further to know why customers are dissatisfied with Zillow services.

Zillow is the most popular real estate website in San Jose. It extracts the data from the top MLS platforms. Buyers and agents can view the listings directly on the platform.

As a For Sale by Owner in the market, you have complete control over pricing, negotiation, and decision-making. You can set your schedule, conduct showings, and manage the sale process at your convenience.

4. RE/MAX

Good Exposure

RE/MAX

RE/MAX
  • 3% - 6% Commission
  • 1.5 Star 1.1/5 (300+ reviews)

RE/MAX has its headquarters in Orlando, FL. The company does not disclose agent commissions on its website. However, based on reviews you may have to pay 3% to 6% as commission.

  • No corporate fee is involved with RE/MAX referrals. You can choose the agents or vice versa and set the terms of your agreement.

👉 Our Take: RE/MAX is known for its reputation and credibility. The company’s agents will guide you throughout the entire selling process. However, the huge commission can be heavy on your pocket.

Key features of RE/MAX are:

  • Global Reach: RE/MAX has 100,000 agents, and its network is spread over 100 countries.
  • Competitive Home Pricing: Agents at RE/MAX will conduct an in-depth evaluation and a CMA of your property to price your home competitively.
  • Additional Service: RE/MAX Collection and RE/MAX Commercial offer specialized tools and advertising programs to luxury and commercial real estate professionals.

Here is a drawback of RE/MAX:

  • Poor Customer Reviews: RE/MAX has many customer complaints. Previous customers have also said that their home-selling process got delayed.

RE/MAX has a poor rating of  1.1 out of 5 stars from 300+ users on Consumer Affairs.

RE/MAX has 125,000 agents across the country and was named the top real estate brokerage franchisor by the Franchise 500 for the year 2020. They have a wide presence in Sacramento.

Customers have given good reviews to RE/MAX’s real estate agents for their professionalism, in-person support, and ability to bring in good offers.

5. Redfin

BEST TECH-ENABLED BROKERAGE

Redfin.com

redfin-logo-DRB
  • Listing Fee: 1% of Sale Price
  • Available in 80+ U.S. Markets
  • 4.25 stars 4.3/5 (66+ reviews)

Redfin does not disclose its pricing on its website. Sellers will have to pay common closing costs.

  • It offers 0.5% buyer’s rebate. To avail this, you’ll have to buy and sell with them.

👉 Our Take: Redfin offers 1 rebate option but with a strict clause. While, other real estate companies are willing to offer a higher rebate.

» Redfin Reviews: The reality of the buyer’s rebate.

Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:

  • Advanced Technology: With 3D walkthroughs and 40+ filters to narrow down your search, the Redfin app makes it easy to find the right home from anywhere.
  • Paired With Local Agents: Local agents know their market better. This can help you secure a good deal.
  • Home Tour: You can see updated listings every 5 minutes on their website. You can also schedule a home tour for the same day.
  • Nationwide Coverage: Redfin covers 80+ markets in the US.

Here are some limitations we found with Redfin.

  • Strict Rebate Criteria: Clients who sell and buy with Redfin within one year get a rebate of 0.5%.
  • No Freedom in Agent Selection: You get an agent assigned automatically without having a choice in the matter.
  • Agents Are Less Incentivized: Unlike traditional agents who work for commission, Redfin agents get a fixed salary. This can demotivate them from offering you additional services.
  • 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 66+ reviews on Google.

» Redfin Reviews: The Reality of the 1% Fees, Pros, Cons, and Alternatives!

Redfin is Sacramento’s best discount real estate brokerage that specializes in home buying. Also, it offers a ‘Redfin Refund’ where if you sell or buy with them you get a refund.

Redfin has a very slow listing process. It takes almost 18 days to list on the MLS as per Redfin’s listing agreement. But, services like Houzeo will list your house on MLS within 24 to 48 hours.

6. Coldwell Banker Homes

Best For Local Market

Coldwell Banker Homes

coldwell banker adv
  • 3% - 6% Commission
  • 1.5 Star 1.9/5 (100+ reviews)

Coldwell Banker does not disclose pricing on its website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.

To get an exact figure about your commission, contact your local Coldwell Banker office.

👉 Our Take: Coldwell Banker is one of the oldest real estate franchises. It has a global network and offers a wide range of services. However, the traditional agent commission can burn a hole in your pocket.

Here are some advantages of choosing Coldwell Banker:

  • Good Presence & Reach: They have 94,000+ affiliated sales agents and a diverse network of over 3000 offices.
  • Technology Integration: They have developed a tech suite. This includes RealVitalize®, AARP® Real Estate Benefits by Anywhere, CB Estimate®,  and more.
  • Strong Brand Recognition and Loyalty: They attract more customers and referrals due to their long history and reputation in the real estate industry.

Here are some disadvantages of Coldwell Banker:

  • Additional Costs: There are additional costs for signs, advertising, photography, etc.
  • Platform Issues: Previous customers have reported issues related to their agent platform.

Coldwell Banker has an average rating of 1.7 out of 5 stars  from 100+ users on Consumer Affairs.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC is Sacramento’s full-service real estate brokerage owned by Realogy, started in 1906 in San Francisco.

Their Full-Service Marketing System shows that they are reliable, professional, and committed to providing services.

However, they have poor customer reviews that should be considered before working with them.

7. Compass Real Estate

BEST FOR IN-PERSON SUPPORT & TECH

Compass

compass_200x90
  • 3% - 6% Commission
  • 4.5stars 4.24/5 (20+ reviews)

Compass does not disclose pricing on its websites. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.

  • Agents’ commissions vary according to their region of operation.

👉 Our Take: Working with Compass agents will guarantee you sell your property for top dollar.

Compass offers good service in the states they are available in:

  • Market Exposure: Compass promotes your property using print, digital, and social media.
  • Compass Concierge: This includes everything from staging and painting to cosmetic renovation. You will not be charged a fee until your home sale has gone through.
  • Private Listings: The company has a separate section named ‘private exclusive’. These are off-market listings. The sellers decide the information they want to share.
  • Cloud-Based Software: From the initial meeting to closing, agents have all the tools at their fingertips to streamline the process.

In our research, we came across some deal breakers with Compass.

  • Limited Coverage: Compass Real Estate is only available in 17 states.
  • Traditional Realtor Commission: The company follows the traditional realtor commission model. This means you will end up paying a 6% commission.

Compass Real Estate has an average rating of 4.24 out of 5 stars from 20+ reviews on Agent Advice.

It combines technology with talent to make home search and selling easier. Compass listings take fewer days on the market than the industry average, per their website.

However, they have limited coverage, and since they follow traditional realtor commissions, you will end up paying a 6% commission.

Types of Real Estate Websites in Sacramento

Real estate websites can be categorized into 6 main types:

Types of Real Estate Websites
  • 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 WebsitesThese 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 WebsitesRental websites also allow property owners to lease their properties and reach out to potential customers.
  • Best Property Search WebsitesThe 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 WebsitesBest MLS listing sites help you list your property online for free or for a small listing fee. These best real estate listing websites list on other MLS to provide greater exposure to the property.
  • Best Real Estate Investor Websites​​: Websites for real estate investing help investors with property resources, price trends, and community forums.

How to Choose the Best Real Estate Website in Sacramento?

You can choose the best real estate websites based on these important factors:

  • Maximum Exposure: Find a website that gives maximum exposure to your property. This could also include an MLS listing, social media sharing, and a customizable yard sign.
  • Strong Technology: Websites with robust technology can make selling or buying a house faster and more efficient. Look for features like virtual tours, high-quality photos, and user-friendly interfaces.
  • Responsive Customer Service: Having good customer service can make your real estate transaction go smoothly. Find a website that offers prompt and helpful customer service.

Why Houzeo is the #1 Real Estate Website in Sacramento?

Houzeo.com is the #1 real estate website in Sacramento thanks to its combination of max savings, 5-star customer service, and cutting-edge technology.

  • Max Exposure: It gives you access to the MLS, Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and 100s of other websites.
  • 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.

Check out how does Houzeo work and know why Houzeo is the best for sale by owner sites out there:

Houzeo Reviews

Real People, Real Stories

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best real estate websites Sacramento?

The best real estate websites in Saramento, CA are Houzeo, Trulia, Zillow, RE/MAX, and Redfin.

2. Are there fees for real estate websites in Sacramento?

Yes, almost all real estate websites charge listing fees from sellers. Some even charge convenience fees to the renter who wants to apply for an apartment. Although there are websites like Houzeo that offer listing services for free.

3. Are real estate websites safe in Sacramento?

Yes, real estate websites are safe as long as you find the right sites. However, there are scam sites, so make sure to do your research before you venture in.

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