If you're planning to sell your home in Chicago, recent changes to Zillow's listing policies could significantly impact your strategy. As of May 28, 2025, Zillow has implemented new Listing Access Standards requiring any property that is publicly marketed—via a yard sign, social media, or brokerage website—to be listed on a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) within one business day. Listings that do not comply will be removed from Zillow and Trulia.
At Camille Canales Group, we’re committed to helping our clients navigate these updates while maximizing visibility and flexibility. These changes may affect how we test price points and generate early interest, particularly through private networks, which have long served as valuable tools for sellers in the Chicago real estate market.
Understanding Zillow’s Listing Access Standards
Zillow’s policy closely aligns with the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Clear Cooperation Policy, which was designed to ensure that listings marketed to any segment of the public are made equally available to all potential buyers through the MLS. The stated goal is to increase transparency and reduce "pocket listings" that might limit exposure or access to certain buyers.
However, it’s worth examining Zillow’s motivations. Since the platform primarily pulls data from MLS feeds, requiring listings to be placed on the MLS ensures Zillow maintains control of listing visibility. By mandating that all marketed listings appear on the MLS, Zillow effectively sidelines private listing networks—platforms where we often test pricing strategy, engage high-intent buyers, and work with experienced agents to generate early buzz.
Enforcement Timeline: What Sellers Need to Know
Enforcement of the policy began on May 28, 2025. If a listing is marketed publicly but not added to the MLS within one business day, Zillow will issue a warning. After three such violations, the listing will be removed. This strict timeline means Chicago home sellers must decide early in their strategy whether they want the broad exposure of the MLS—and by extension Zillow—or the strategic benefits of private pre-marketing.
The Chicago Perspective: Transparency or Restriction?
The Chicago real estate market is diverse and competitive. While Zillow’s new standards aim to create a level playing field, they may also be seen as limiting flexibility for sellers. At Camille Canales Group, we often recommend private networks for their ability to:
-
Test pricing strategies discreetly
-
Target listings to motivated, pre-qualified buyers
-
Leverage relationships with experienced local agents
-
Build early momentum without saturating the market
These tools are particularly effective in high-demand neighborhoods or with unique properties. Restricting their use may mean some sellers lose the ability to customize their listing strategy.
Countermove: Homes.com Boosts Listings Blocked by Zillow
Interestingly, Homes.com has responded by offering a "Boost" feature for listings excluded from Zillow and Redfin. This move may appeal to sellers and agents seeking greater control over their listings, although it doesn’t fully replace the visibility Zillow offers.
As always, at Camille Canales Group, we tailor our approach to your unique goals—whether that means leveraging the MLS from day one or beginning with private marketing to gauge interest and set the right price.
Camille Canales Group: Trusted Advisors in the Chicago Market
Real estate in Chicago isn’t one-size-fits-all. And listing platforms shouldn’t dictate how you sell your home. Camille Canales and the Camille Canales Group offer nuanced strategies that reflect your priorities—whether it’s broad exposure, pricing flexibility, or targeted buyer engagement.
Our expertise allows us to help you choose the right approach for your home, factoring in both industry regulations and evolving platform policies.
Ready to Sell Your Chicago Home?
If you're ready to sell your home in Chicago—or just exploring your options—reach out to Camille Canales Group. We’ll help you build a strategy that complies with the new Zillow Listing Access Standards while also considering the benefits of private marketing.
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Phone: 773-377-9200
