Zillow

Zillow is a real estate and rental marketplace company that operates in the United States. It was founded in 2006 by Rich Barton, Brad Hunt, and Scott Schneider. The company's platform allows users to search for real estate listings, view property details, and connect with real estate agents. Zillow also provides estimates of a property's market value, often referred to as the Zestimate, which is based on a variety of data points, including recent sales of similar properties.

Zillow's services include buying and selling homes, as well as renting properties. The company offers tools for homeowners to track their home's value, research neighborhoods, and find local real estate professionals. For renters, Zillow provides listings for apartments and houses, along with tools to help manage rent payments and lease agreements.

The company has faced criticism and legal challenges over the years, including allegations of price manipulation and data privacy concerns. In 2019, Zillow settled a class-action lawsuit with the Federal Trade Commission over its Zestimate service, agreeing to pay $72.5 million to resolve claims that the estimates were misleading.

Zillow is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol Z. The company has expanded its services to include mortgage rates, home improvement guides, and a platform for real estate investors. As of 2021, Zillow operates in 49 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, with a significant presence in major metropolitan areas.