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6 min read Jan 29, 2024

7 Best Real Estate Websites in Seattle, WA (2024 Updates)

In Seattle, WA, 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 Washington’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 Emerald City. Here are our rankings:

🏅 7 Best Real Estate Sites in Seattle

  1. Houzeo: Best Technology
  2. Zillow: Most Accurate Database
  3. Homes.com: Best Mobile App for Buyers
  4. Trulia: Best Mobile App For Buyers
  5. Redfin: Best Tech Enabled Brokerage
  6. Washington Waterfronts: Waterfront Properties
  7. RE/MAX: Good Exposure

Reviews: Best Seattle Real Estate Websites

1. Houzeo

MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

Houzeo.com

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

Houzeo offers 4 Flat Fee MLS packages.

  • Bronze Package – $379+: This package offers Houzeo listing only for 6 months with maximum photos.
  • Silver Package – $399+: This includes everything that home sellers typically look for.
  • Gold Package – $379+ 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 – $349+ 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:

  • 100% Online: Houzeo offers a complete online listing experience.
  • 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.
  • 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 5,000+ home sellers.

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

Houzeo offers Seattle’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. 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 Seattle. It extracts the data from top MLS platforms and assists buyers and agents to view the listings directly on the platform.

Sites like Zillow provides an on-demand buying experience. However, Zillow has poor customer reviews and record-breaking debacles.

3. Homes.com

Online Home Buying Site

Homes.com

Homes.com Logo
  • Snap and Search Feature
  • 3.5 Stars 3.1/5 (100+ reviews)

Homes.com is free to use for homebuyers and renters. However, real estate agents can pay to advertise their listings on the website.

👉 Our Take: Homes.com is a valuable resource for homebuyers and renters. The website provides extensive property listings and tools for home searches.

Here are some advantages of choosing Homes.com:

  • Extensive Listings: Homes.com aggregates listings from a various sources. This gives users access to a wide range of properties.
  • Snap and Search Feature: It allows you to take snapshots of the home you like. Later, the app will match the snapshot with similar homes in your area.
  • Advanced Search Filters: You can filter your search results based on various options, such as price, location, features, and amenities.
  • Saved Searches: You can save your searches and receive email alerts when new listings that meet your criteria are added to the website.
  • User-friendly Interface: The website is easy to use and navigate, even for first-time homebuyers.

Here are some red flags of Homes.com:

  • Sells Leads: Homes.com sells home buyer and seller contact info to real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and lenders.
  • Listing Accuracy: Homes.com aggregates listings from multiple sources, potentially leading to inaccuracies or outdated information.
  • Limited Agent’s Information: It does not provide direct contact information of listing agents. Instead, users have to submit a contact form through the website.

Homes.com has a rating of 3.1 out of 5 stars from 100+ users on Trustpilot.

Homes.com is one of the leading MLS listing sites in Washington. It offers over a million listings, which attracts a large number of homebuyers.

It is partnered with several local MLS organizations, which increases the value of the listings here. You have to pay the average real estate agent commission of 6%. Through Homes.com you can not save on realtor commissions.

4. 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 Seattle. 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.

5. Redfin

BEST TECH-ENABLED BROKERAGE

Redfin.com

redfin-logo-DRB
  • Listing Fee: 1.5% of Sale Price
  • Available in 80+ U.S. Markets
  • 1.5star 1.5/5 (130+ 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. They have a strict clause for this rebate. There are other real estate companies, who 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 1.5 out of 5 stars from 130+ reviews on Consumer Affairs.

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

Redfin is Seattle’s best discount real estate brokerage that specializes in home buying. It also offers a 0.5% refund if you sell and buy a house with Redfin within a year.

Redfin is a good option for anyone who wants to save as much money in the house-buying process as possible. But make sure to check the customer reviews first.

6. Washington Waterfront Real Estate

EXCLUSIVE WATERFRONT LISTINGS

Washington Waterfront Real Estate

Washington Waterfronts Real Estate
  • Great marketing & sales specialists
  • 5 Stars 5/5 (30+ Reviews)

Washington Waterfront Real Estate specializes in marketing and selling waterfront properties for over 10 years. They assist buyers and sellers with Puget Sound Waterfront properties, beach homes, beachfront and lakefront houses.

Pricing is not disclosed on the website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.

👉 Our Take: The company has received positive feedback from customers. The agents are knowledgeable. They have made transactions for their customers easier and more convenient.

Here are some advantages to choosing Washington Waterfront:

  • Local Coverage: It offers a comprehensive map and filters, which make it easier to look for local information about the property.
  • Property Tracker: They provide a property tracker that gives similar property email notifications.
  • Market Statistics: Washington Waterfront provides a detailed report on market statistics. It includes the average price, average days on the market, average price reduction of a house, and many more.
  • Skilled Agents: They have incredibly knowledgeable, experienced, and professional agents. Their agents are well-versed in the local waterfront real estate market.
  • Positive Customer Reviews: They have been rated 5 out of 5 on Google.

Here are some disadvantages of Washington Waterfront Real Estate.

  • No Mobile App: Washington Waterfront does not provide any mobile application service to its customers.

Washington Waterfront Real Estate has a 5 out of 5 rating on Google (30+ reviews)

Washington Waterfront Real Estate is one of the best real estate websites. It has more than 10 years of specialization in selling and buying properties.

It offers the best waterfront properties in Washington. They have good coverage and a strong network. They provide features like property tracker, map search, and many more.

7. 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 Seattle. 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.

Types of Real Estate Websites in Seattle

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 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: Best 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 Seattle?

You can choose the best real estate websites in Seattle 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 Seattle?

Houzeo.com is the #1 real estate website in Seattle 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 access features of Houzeo’s web platform on any device.

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

What are the best real estate websites Seattle?

The best real estate websites in Seattle, WA are Houzeo, Realtor.com, Zillow, Trulia, and Redfin.

Are there fees for real estate websites in Seattle?

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.

Are real estate websites safe in Seattle?

Yes, real estate websites are safe as long as you find the right ones. However, there are scam sites, so make sure to do your research before providing any personal details regarding property or payment.

Real Estate Websites Seattle Washington

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