Max Ruso • August 20, 2025

Optimize Your Zillow Listings in 7 Easy Steps

Over 200 Millions of potential clients search Zillow monthly. Is your listing getting noticed?

Think of Zillow as a giant property market or an internet listing service, packed with property listings. Yours could be perfect, but it needs to stand out.


We'll show you how to:

  • Craft catchy titles and descriptions that grab attention.
  • Showcase your properties with amazing photos and tours.
  • Use special keywords words to get seen by the right audience.
  • Be friendly and responsive to build trust.
  • Boost your listing (optional) for even more reach.


By the end, you'll have a plan to attract qualified clients!


Understanding the Zillow Algorithm

Think of the algorithm as a judge picking the best listings to show. It loves listings that:


  • Speak the client's language: Use relevant keywords in your title, description, and amenities. Think "spacious balcony" or "pet-friendly." By using the right words, your listing pops up when clients search for what they want.
  • Get people excited: Do they click on your photos, ask questions, or schedule tours? The more engagement your listing has, the higher it climbs in the rankings.
  • Tell the whole story: Missing details like photos or rent estimates make the judge frown. Fill in all the blanks with clear information and avoid leaving anyone guessing.
  • Look good, feel good: High-quality photos, detailed descriptions that highlight unique features, and quick responses to inquiries and reviews make your listing stand out. 
  • Stay fresh: Regularly update your listing with new info and photos. 


Bonus Tip:
Zillow Premier Agent is like a secret weapon for property managers. It gives you special tools to attract clients and understand what they're looking for.

Remember, the judge's rules can change. But by focusing on these key points and keeping your listing top-notch, you'll be well on your way to getting noticed, attracting amazing clients.


Step-by-Step Guide for Optimizing Your Listings on Zillow

Following is the step-by-step guide for the optimization of your Zillow Listings.


Keyword Research and Targeting

Zillow uses keywords to understand what clients are looking for. Think "sunny balcony" or "pet-friendly." By sprinkling these words throughout your listing, you make it easier for clients to find you!


Finding the Right keywords: Google Keyword Planner and Zillow itself can help you find the popular search terms. Imagine what kind of place your ideal clients would describe, and use those words!


Using Words Wisely: Use them naturally in your title, description, and amenities, making it clear and easy to read. Both clients and the Zillow appreciate good writing!


Bonus Tip: Check out your competitors’ listings! See what keywords they use and how they rank. Borrow their good ideas and add your own uniqueness as well


By using the right keywords, you'll attract the perfect clients on Zillow. 


Compelling Titles and Descriptions

Titles and descriptions that grab attention, pack info, and contain the right keywords is necessary for your meaningful existence on Zillow.


Titles: Picture a catchy newspaper headline. Be clear, short, and highlight what makes your place special.

Good example: " Sunny Studio Haven in Downtown! Steps from Park!" (Keywords: sunny, studio, downtown, park)

Bad example: "Apartment for Rent - Available Now" (Boring, no details)


Descriptions: Tell your story! Start strong, then dive into details using keywords naturally. Highlight cool features, perks, and the neighborhood.


Good example: Imagine sunny mornings in your spacious studio! This charming downtown has modern finishes, a cozy balcony, and is steps from fun cafes & parks. Laundry in-unit & pet-friendly! Don't miss out - message me for a tour! (Keywords: spacious, modern, balcony, pet-friendly, laundry)

Bad example: "2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, near park." (Vague, no personality)


Remember the call to action! Tell clients what to do next, like contacting you, scheduling a tour, or visiting your website.


Bonus tip: Use emojis for fun and personality!

By following these simple tips, you'll craft titles and descriptions that hook clients and make your listing the catch of the day!


High-Quality Photos and Videos

Imagine scrolling through Zillow. Which apartment catches your eye? The blurry one with bad lighting, or the one with clear, bright pics showing everything? Easy choice, right? Good photos and videos!


So, how do you take good pics? Open the blinds, let the sun in, and make sure everything is clean. Think of it like taking a great selfie for your place! Use a good camera or phone with good lighting, and don't forget to steady your hand.


Don't just show one angle! Take pictures of everything: the living room, the bedroom, the kitchen, even the cool balcony or park nearby. A short video tour is like taking clients on a virtual walk-through, making them feel right at home.


Remember, quality over quantity. A few amazing pics and videos are better than many blurry ones. Hire a professional if you can, but even with your phone, you can create pics that wow!

By using good photos and videos, your listing start attracting more clients. So, grab your camera, discover your inner photographer, and watch your listing shine!


Virtual Tours and 3D Matterport Scans

Ever wished clients could explore your place without leaving their couch? That's the magic of virtual tours and 3D Matterport scans! They let clients feel like they're already there, making them more likely to rent your place.


Why are they so cool? Busy clients love checking out places online, saving them time and effort. Virtual tours are like video walkthroughs, showing each room and its features. But 3D Matterport scans are even better! They facilitate the clients to explore every corner, from any angle, feeling right at home – even before visiting!


What's the benefit? More people interested in your place, less time answering questions, and happier clients who know what to expect. Plus, no need for tons of in-person showings, saving you time and hassle.


How do they work? Virtual tours can be made with special cameras or even your phone, and they feel like a smooth walk-through. 3D scans need special equipment, but the final model is amazing – like a tiny, interactive version of your place!


Bonus tip: Mix virtual tours with great photos and descriptions to make your listing extra tempting!

By adding virtual tours and 3D scans, you're not just showing your place – you're giving clients a cool, convenient, and engaging experience that makes your listing stand out. 


Responding to Inquiries and Reviews

Think of Zillow inquiries as your conversations with potential clients. How you respond matters!


Promptness is key: Answer inquiries quickly, ideally within 24 hours. Remember, clients might be contacting multiple listings, and fast replies show you're interested and reliable.


Professionalism matters: Be polite, friendly, and informative. Answer their questions clearly and address any concerns. Avoid negativity or defensiveness, even if someone leaves a less-than-ideal review.


Positive reviews are gold: Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews! They build trust and make your listing more visible on Zillow. Respond to positive reviews with thanks, showing you appreciate their feedback.


Negative reviews happen: It's okay! Respond professionally, acknowledge their concerns, and offer solutions if possible. Showcasing how you handle problems can actually help you win clients.


Remember, Promptness, professionalism, and appreciation go a long way. Treat inquiries like potential clients, and your listing will shine brighter than ever!


Leveraging Zillow Premier Agent

Zillow Premier Agent (ZPA) can be your ultimate way to attract more clients and boosting your visibility. 


What's the benefits?

  • Get more leads: Premier Agent prioritizes your listing, making it more visible to potential clients searching for your property type.
  • Visibility Boost: Get premium placement in search results, standing out in competition.
  • Analytics & Insights: Get valuable data on renter behavior and market trends. Know exactly what clients are looking for and adjust your listings accordingly, maximizing your chances of success.
  • Advanced Tools:  ZPA empowers you with tools like lead management and automated communication, streamlining your workflow and saving you precious time.


ZPA is an investment that pays off. It equips you with the tools and visibility you need to attract more qualified leads, convert them into your clients, and ultimately, succeed on Zillow. 


Additional Tips and Tricks

You've learned the key moves to optimize your listings, but let's extract Zillow's true potential with some additional tips & tricks:


Social Media Power: Share your listings on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and local groups. Imagine more people seeing your awesome place, right?


Target the Right Clients: Pay a little to reach clients who really want what you offer. Think "modern downtown studio" ads for people searching for just that!


Keep it Fresh: Update your listings with new pics, descriptions, and info often. Search engines and clients love fresh content, just like we love new things!


Track & Test: Use Zillow's tools to see what works best. Try different keywords, descriptions, and photos to find the combo that attracts the most clients.


Remember: It's a journey! Stay updated, experiment, and track results to achieve Zillow success


Conclusion

Here's how to make Zillow work for you and attract amazing clients:


  • Keyword Targeting: Sprinkle relevant words throughout your listing so clients can find it easily.
  • Catchy Words: Write titles and descriptions that are clear, short, and interesting. 
  • Picture Perfect: Take bright, clear photos and videos that show off your place's best features. Consider a virtual tour so clients can feel like they're already there!
  • Respond promptly: Respond to messages and reviews quickly and politely. 
  • Upgrade Your Tools: Zillow Premier Agent can help you get more leads and stand out from the crowd. 
  • Bonus Tips: Share your listing on social media, target ads to the right people, and keep your listing fresh with new info and pictures.


Remember, Zillow is like a game! Track your results, try new things, and keep learning. By following these tips, you'll turn your Zillow listing into a success.


Want more about Zillow? Book your personalized consultation on making your Zillow listing standout!


SAVE YOUR

TIME

With our innovative platform, you’ll save time when you most need it, while serving your customers. 
LEARN MORE

SAVE YOUR
TIME

With our innovative platform, you’ll save time when you most need it, while serving your customers. 
LEARN MORE

SAVE YOUR
TIME

With our innovative platform, you’ll save time when you most need it, while serving your customers. 
LEARN MORE