Introduction
Selling your home can be a daunting process, with many homeowners unsure about when or how to list their property on the market. The decision to sell involves significant financial implications, personal preferences, and timing considerations. Zillow’s “Make Me Move” feature once provided homeowners with an alternative to the traditional listing process by allowing them to test the market without fully committing to selling. Though Zillow has since discontinued the feature, it remains a popular topic of discussion. In this blog, we’ll explore the concept of “Make Me Move” listings, why Zillow discontinued Make Me Move, and alternatives for homeowners who want to test the waters before officially listing their home.
What Was Zillow Make Me Move?
The Zillow “Make Me Move” feature was an innovative tool that allowed homeowners to set a price for their property without listing it for sale in the traditional sense. Homeowners could post their homes as “make me move” listings on Zillow, indicating that they would consider selling if offered their desired price, even if they were not actively looking to sell. This tool gave homeowners flexibility and allowed them to gauge interest in their property.
What are Make Me Move Homes?
Make Me Move homes were properties listed by homeowners who weren’t necessarily ready to sell but were open to considering offers at their specified price point. These listings were unique because they did not come with the same level of commitment as traditional real estate listings. Sellers retained control over whether or not to accept offers, and potential buyers were made aware that the homeowner was only willing to move under certain conditions.
Why Did Zillow Discontinue Make Me Move?
In 2019, Zillow announced that it would discontinue its popular “Make Me Move” feature, much to the disappointment of many users. So, why did Zillow discontinue Make Me Move? There are a few reasons that might explain this decision:
- Shifting Business Model: Zillow’s business model evolved to focus more on its iBuyer program, where Zillow itself would make offers on homes. The Make Me Move feature did not align with this shift.
- Data Accuracy Concerns: Make Me Move listings were not as reliable as traditional listings. Homeowners could set unrealistic prices, leading to a lack of serious offers and mismatched expectations between buyers and sellers.
- Low Engagement: Many homeowners who used the Zillow Make Me Move feature never followed through on selling their homes. This low conversion rate may have contributed to Zillow’s decision to retire the service.
Does Zillow Still Have Make Me Move?
As of 2019, Zillow no longer offers the Make Me Move feature. However, homeowners looking for a Zillow Make Me Move alternative have several other options to explore. While Zillow no longer supports this specific service, real estate markets have adapted, and there are new ways for homeowners to test the market before committing to a full listing.
Make Me Move Real Estate: Alternatives to Zillow’s Feature
While Zillow no longer supports Make Me Move, there are alternatives available to help homeowners explore their options:
- Pocket Listings: A pocket listing is a property that is for sale but not publicly listed on MLS (Multiple Listing Service). This method is typically used by homeowners who want to quietly market their property to a select group of potential buyers.
- iBuyer Programs: Many companies, including Zillow itself, have embraced iBuyer programs. In this model, homeowners can receive direct offers from companies willing to purchase their property quickly, often without needing to list the home publicly.
- For Sale By Owner (FSBO): If you’re not ready to list your home with an agent but still want to gauge interest, FSBO might be a good option. This method allows homeowners to test the market by listing the property themselves.
- Real Estate Agents: Partnering with a real estate agent who specializes in off-market sales can help you test the market. Agents have access to a network of potential buyers and can negotiate offers without the need for a formal listing.
What Are Make Me Move Homes Today?
Even though Zillow no longer has the Make Me Move feature, the concept of Make Me Move homes still exists in real estate in different forms. Make Me Move homes today are typically off-market properties where the seller may be willing to sell but is not actively pursuing a sale. Sellers of these homes often set higher prices, reflecting their willingness to move only under favorable circumstances. Some websites and services now cater to this niche market, offering homeowners and buyers the chance to connect without a formal listing.
Tips for Homeowners Testing the Market
If you’re a homeowner considering testing the market before officially listing your home, here are a few key tips to keep in mind:
- Set a Realistic Price: One of the biggest challenges with Make Me Move listings was unrealistic pricing. It’s important to set a price that reflects your property’s value while allowing room for negotiation.
- Consult a Real Estate Professional: Even if you’re not ready to list, talking to a real estate agent can help you understand market trends and set a price that attracts potential buyers.
- Prepare Your Home: Even though you may not be committed to selling, it’s a good idea to make your home presentable. Small repairs, decluttering, and cleaning can help your home appeal to buyers.
- Be Open to Offers: Testing the market means you may receive offers that you didn’t expect. Be open to negotiating with potential buyers, even if the offer doesn’t exactly match your asking price.
Zillow Make Me Move Alternatives to Consider
While the official Zillow Make Me Move feature is no longer available, alternatives like pocket listings, iBuyer programs, and FSBO offer homeowners a way to test the waters. If you want to take advantage of these tools, consider researching local real estate trends and working with an experienced agent who can help you navigate the off-market or alternative listing landscape.
Conclusion
Zillow Make Me Move once offered a valuable service for homeowners looking to test the market before listing their homes. Although the feature is no longer available, there are plenty of alternatives that allow you to explore potential sales without committing to a full listing. Whether you explore pocket listings, iBuyer programs, or simply take a For Sale By Owner approach, the key is to stay informed about market trends and work with professionals who can guide you through the process.
The real estate world is always evolving, and while Zillow may have discontinued Make Me Move, the idea of testing the market before making a firm decision is more accessible than ever. By carefully considering your options and staying realistic about your home’s value, you can make informed decisions and potentially attract offers without officially listing your property.
