REX vs Zillow: Quick Comparison for Home Buyers and Sellers

If you’re hunting for a new place or trying to sell, you’ve probably heard of REX and Zillow. Both promise to make the process easier, but they work very differently. In this guide we’ll break down how each service runs, where they shine, and what you might want to watch out for.

How REX Works

REX markets itself as a tech‑driven broker that skips the traditional commission structure. Instead of paying a 6% fee to a local agent, you usually pay around 1.5% to 2% in a flat fee. The platform uses big‑data tools to match you with homes that fit your budget, and a small team of agents handles the paperwork.

Because REX focuses on online leads, you’ll get a dashboard where you can see listings, schedule virtual tours, and chat with an agent in real time. The service is most popular in big metro areas where data can pinpoint homes that might not show up on generic sites.

One downside is that you lose the personal touch of a neighborhood‑savvy realtor. If you need help with local zoning questions or want a hands‑on guide through a tricky negotiation, REX’s digital agents might not have the same depth of experience as a seasoned local broker.

Zillow’s Strengths

Zillow has been around for years and is one of the most visited real‑estate sites on the web. Its biggest advantage is the massive inventory: you can browse everything from apartments to luxury estates, and its “Zestimate” tool gives a rough idea of a home’s value.

The platform is free to use for buyers, and sellers can list properties without paying a fee (though they can pay for featured placement). Zillow also offers a network of agents you can contact directly, so if you prefer a traditional broker you can still find one through the site.

However, the Zestimate isn’t a definitive appraisal. It’s calculated from public data and can be off by thousands of dollars in some markets. Relying solely on it for price negotiations can lead to surprises.

Both platforms have mobile apps that let you swipe through listings, set price alerts, and even request a virtual showing. The real choice comes down to how much you value lower commissions versus the depth of local expertise.

If you’re comfortable handling most of the paperwork yourself and want to shave a few thousand dollars off the sale price, REX might be the better fit. If you prefer a huge selection, free access, and the option to talk to a local agent at any time, Zillow’s the safer bet.

Bottom line: test both tools. Look at a few similar homes on each site, compare the price estimates, and see which interface feels easier. The more information you gather, the stronger your negotiating position will be, no matter which platform you end up using.