By Stephen McCarthy
When you find a property you like on Zillow or any real estate website, it’s easy to click the link and wait for a reply. However, the success rate with this approach can be hit or miss. Sometimes, you’ll be connected directly to the listing agent, who responds quickly and professionally.
More often, though, your inquiry is routed to a random agent who may have no connection to the property—and the response might be delayed or never come at all. That’s because sites like Zillow sell leads to agents, meaning your request is likely going to someone who simply paid for the opportunity to receive inquiries, not someone familiar with the listing. This can be frustrating for serious buyers. And if you click on multiple listings, you may end up fielding calls from several different agents.
If you find a property that interests you online, the best move is to contact your own agent. Find someone you trust and respect, and make them your go-to resource. A good agent will understand your preferences and can quickly identify the most reliable source of information for any property.
Keep in mind that online listings can be outdated or misleading. A skilled agent can spot red flags right away—like a “no pets” policy on a home when they know you have a dog—saving you from wasting time on unsuitable options.
Ultimately, a good real estate agent helps you cut through the noise and focus on the listings that truly fit your needs. Serious buyers work with serious agents. So when a property catches your eye, send the link to your agent and let them guide you through the next steps.
