In the bustling city of Chicago, searching for your dream home has never been easier. With 47% of buyers turning to online platforms and 80% finding property descriptions and photos invaluable, real estate websites have become an essential tool in the home buying process.
However, with the traditional real estate agent model comes a hefty 6% agent commission. But fear not, for there is another option - FSBO (For Sale By Owner) websites. These platforms eliminate the listing agent fee, allowing you to pay only the buyer's agent commission, which typically amounts to 3%.
Among the top FSBO websites in Illinois, Houzeo stands out. With its maximum savings, advanced technology, 5-star customer service, and extensive listing exposure, Houzeo is an excellent choice for home sellers.
But what about the other real estate websites in the Windy City? After countless hours of research, we have compiled a list of the best options for you:
Reviews: Best Real Estate Websites in Chicago
1. Houzeo
Houzeo.com is Chicago's #1 real estate company, offering an unbeatable combination of maximum savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology.
Houzeo provides affordable listing packages for FSBO home sellers in Chicago. Your home will be listed within 48 hours, and their offer management and showings tool will guide you through your real estate journey like a pro.
2. Trulia
Trulia is a dynamic, powerful, and user-friendly house-hunting website in Chicago. It offers an array of home-buying features, including a comprehensive map to help you narrow down your search based on price range, home style, and number of bedrooms.
As a subsidiary of Zillow, Trulia strives to be the ultimate solution for home buyers. However, it does not provide FSBO listings.
3. Realtor.com
Realtor.com stands out with its vast database sourced from 800 regional MLS systems, making it the most accurate real estate resource in Chicago.
As the official listing website of the National Association of Realtors (NAR), Realtor.com is packed with valuable statistical data. However, its manual and offline procedures can be complex and time-consuming.
4. Redfin
Redfin is Chicago's premier discount real estate brokerage, specializing in home buying. They even offer a 'Redfin Refund' that provides a refund if you sell or buy with them.
Keep in mind that Redfin has a relatively slow listing process, taking around 18 days to list on the MLS. If you're looking for a quicker turnaround, platforms like Houzeo can list your house within 24 to 48 hours.
5. Coldwell Banker Homes
Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC is a full-service real estate brokerage in Chicago. With a history dating back to 1906 in San Francisco, their Full-Service Marketing System showcases their reliability, professionalism, and commitment to providing top-notch services.
Nevertheless, it's essential to consider the mixed customer reviews before deciding to work with Coldwell Banker Homes.
6. Dream Town Realty
Operating since 1998, Dream Town Realty is a brokerage firm with a team of approximately 400 brokers across Chicago. They analyze your goals and offer personalized services.
However, some customers have reported poor service experiences. Additionally, despite having an online presence, Dream Town Realty does not offer a mobile application for their customers.
7. Century21
As one of the largest real estate brokerage firms in Chicago, Century21 boasts over 14,000 independent franchises and provides expansive market exposure across all 51 states of the US.
Be aware that some customers have reported delays in services and the absence of discounts or rebates when working with Century21.
Types of Real Estate Websites in Chicago
Real estate websites in Chicago can be categorized into six main types:
- Home Selling Websites: These platforms offer maximum exposure for selling properties quickly. They assist sellers in pricing their homes competitively to attract potential buyers.
- Home Buying Websites: Ideal for buyers, these platforms provide efficient tools, comprehensive resources, and impressive features to streamline the home-buying process.
- Best Rental Websites: Rental websites allow property owners to lease their properties and reach out to potential customers.
- Best Property Search Websites: These websites enable users to search for various property types, including homes, rental properties, plots, ranches, and commercial properties.
- Best MLS Listing Websites: Ideal for sellers, these platforms allow them to list their property online for free or for a small fee, providing greater exposure.
- Best Real Estate Investor Websites: These websites assist investors with property resources, price trends, and community forums.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Website in Chicago?
When choosing a real estate website in Chicago, consider the following important factors:
- Maximum Exposure: Look for a website that provides your property with maximum exposure, including MLS listing, social media sharing, and customizable yard signs.
- Strong Technology: Opt for websites with robust technology that makes selling or buying a house faster and more efficient. Features like virtual tours, high-quality photos, and user-friendly interfaces are essential.
- Responsive Customer Service: Seek websites that offer prompt and helpful customer service to ensure a smooth real estate transaction.
Why Houzeo is the #1 Real Estate Website in Chicago?
Houzeo.com holds the top spot as Chicago's #1 real estate website due to the following reasons:
- Max Exposure: Houzeo gives you access to MLS, Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and hundreds of other websites, ensuring maximum exposure for your property.
- 100% Online: With easy listing management, quick changes, online showings, and online offers, Houzeo simplifies the entire process.
- 5-star Customer Service: Houzeo Concierge provides expert assistance from listing to closing, ensuring superior customer support.
- No Listing Commission: In most states, Houzeo charges only a small flat fee to grant you access to the MLS, saving you significant listing commissions.
- Real Estate On the Go: The Houzeo Mobile App allows you to access all the features of Houzeo's web platform from any device, making it convenient and effortless.
In conclusion, finding the perfect real estate website in Chicago is crucial for a successful home buying or selling experience. With these top options at your disposal, you can confidently navigate the real estate market and find your dream home in the Windy City.
