You’ve probably heard someone say, “Well, Zillow says my house is worth…” more times than you can count. Zestimates come up in just about every real estate conversation these days, but relying on them can be a risky game. Many people find themselves asking, “Are Zestimates real?” or “Can you trust Zillow estimates?” These are important questions, especially if you’re navigating the Charleston real estate market.

Zillow’s Zestimate is created through an algorithm that pulls from public records, user updates, and recent nearby sales. While it’s a quick way to get a general idea, it’s not a substitute for:

• A professional appraisal
• A Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) by a local expert

Zestimates are often too high. Many sellers assume that inflated number is their home’s value, which can lead to disappointment when the market doesn’t respond the same way. Even Spencer Rascoff, the former CEO of Zillow, famously sold his own home for far less than its Zestimate. His property sold for $1.05 million, while the Zestimate peaked at $1.75 million shortly after. They also don’t account for unique neighborhood features like proximity to a great school or a recently updated interior that an algorithm can’t properly value. Buyers may feel homes are out of reach, and sellers may price too aggressively and miss real opportunities.

Charleston’s real estate market is distinctive. From historic downtown to beachside communities, each neighborhood has its own pricing nuances. Because Zestimates rely on generalized data, they miss these hyperlocal factors, leading to:

• Overpriced listings
• Extended days on market
• Missed opportunities

If you’re serious about buying or selling a home in Charleston, getting a CMA from a trusted local realtor is a must. It reflects real-time market trends and helps you make confident decisions. According to Zillow, the median error rate is 1.9% for on-market homes, but that jumps to 7.1% for off-market properties. That can mean a difference of tens of thousands of dollars.*

Pro tip: Take Zestimates with a grain of salt. They’re a starting point, not a final answer. For a true picture of your home’s value, nothing beats a local expert’s eye, especially in a market as nuanced as Charleston.

Zillow estimates can be a helpful starting point, but they’re not the final word. Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re moving up, scaling down, or relocating locally, I’ll help you market it effectively and reach the right buyers. As a Charleston native, I know how to balance local insight with strategy. For reliable, local guidance, reach out. I’m here to help you navigate buying or selling in Charleston with clarity, confidence, and care.

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