✏️ Editor’s Note: Realtor Associations, agents, and MLS’ have started implementing changes related to the NAR’s $418 million settlement. While home-sellers will likely save thousands in commission, compliance and litigation risks have significantly increased for sellers throughout the nation. Learn how NAR’s settlement affects home sellers.
About 47% of Illinoisans searched for properties online in 2023. That’s because these real estate websites allow you to add attractive photos and property descriptions. 80% of homebuyers find them useful when looking for their new home.
A good real estate website boosts your chances of getting an offer. But it comes with a hefty 6% agent fee. That is a whopping $24,000 on a $400,000 house! A Flat Fee MLS listing service like Houzeo can cut this in half. You pay only $12,000!
With its advanced tech and 5-star customer service, your home will be on the MLS within 24 hours. You can also hire professional real estate photographers via Houzeo to showcase your home’s best features online.
We’ve spent thousands of hours researching and reviewing the best real estate websites in Prairie State. Here are our rankings:
🏅 7 Best Real Estate Sites in Illinois
- Houzeo: Best Technology
- Trulia: Best Mobile App for Buyers
- Realtor: Most Accurate Data
- Redfin: Best Tech-Enabled Brokerage
- Coldwell Banker Homes: Best for Local Market
- Dream Town Realty: Good Local Coverage
- Century 21: Brand Recognition
Reviews: Best Real Estate Websites in Illinois
1. Houzeo
MOST ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY
Listing Fee: $3994.9/5
Houzeo offers 4 Flat Fee MLS packages.
- Bronze Package – $399+: This package offers Houzeo listing only for 6 months with maximum photos.
- Silver Package – $399+0.5% at closing: This includes everything that home sellers typically look for.
- Gold Package – $429+ 0.5 at closing: It is Houzeo’s signature MLS package and includes all the technology Houzeo is known for Houzeo Showings, Houzeo Offers, and DigiTransact.
- Platinum – $449+ 1% at closing: It includes the assistance of a licensed broker to help you with negotiations, disclosures, and closing.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Houzeo’s Gold plan for most home sellers. It gives you access to high-tech features like Houzeo Offers and Houzeo Showings.
» Houzeo Reviews: Houzeo is 100% online. You can finish listing formalities in less than 60 mins.
Houzeo is America’s #1 Flat Fee MLS service because of 4 reasons:
- Max Exposure: Your listing gets syndicated to popular real estate websites like Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and more.
- 5-star Customer Service: Houzeo has a fully staffed customer service desk available 6 days a week. Chats and emails are open 7 days a week.
- 100% Online: Houzeo offers a complete online listing experience. Its powerful property search app makes your home visible to interested buyers on the go.
- No Hidden Fees: In most states, you’ll be paying just a small flat fee to list on MLS by owner. And remember, all fees are disclosed upfront, so there are no Houzeo hidden fees. You get to bypass the listing agent commission.
- Free Home Value Estimator: Now, you can get a free home value estimate within 30 seconds. It helps you set a listing price.
There are no dealbreakers with Houzeo.
» Is Houzeo Good? Houzeo addresses all Houzeo complaints from home sellers.
Houzeo has 4.9 out of 5 stars from thousands of home sellers on Google and Trustpilot.
» Houzeo Reviews: Read why Houzeo is rated excellent by 10,000+ home sellers.
Houzeo.com is Illinois’s #1 ranked real estate website for its Flat Fee MLS service. Houzeo provides an unbeatable combination of max savings, 5-star customer support, and cutting-edge technology. To avail of these services you can purchase one of its packages.
In Illinois, the Bronze package costs $0. The Silver package costs $0 and the Gold package costs $0 . The Platinum package costs $0 .
📞 Need Help? Schedule a FREE Consultation
A Houzeo expert can answer all your questions regarding our packages.
Book a FREE Call
2. Trulia
Informative App
Based in California3.2/5
Trulia doesn’t charge users for features like browsing listings, photos, or contacting agents. However, renters do have to pay $29 rental screening fees.
👉 Our Take: Trulia stands out for its user-friendly interface and extensive property listings. It offers valuable tools like neighborhood insights and crime maps. Trulia is a good choice for those seeking a convenient home search experience.
Here are some advantages of Trulia:
- Extensive Listings: Trulia covers several property types, allowing users to explore various options.
- Neighborhood Information: Trulia keeps you updated with all the neighborhood information such as crime rates, schools, amenities, etc.
- Agent Connectivity: You can connect with real estate agents directly through the platform. This service may benefit you if you want to work with an agent.
- Mobile App: It provides convenient access to property listings, saved searches, and notifications.
- Local Coverage: It offers a comprehensive map and filters, which make it easier to look for local information about the property.
- Best Calculators: Trulia has a mortgage, affordability, and refinancing calculator to serve you better.
Here are some disadvantages of Trulia:
- Incomplete Data: Some listings may lack details, such as neighborhood insights or detailed property histories.
- Outdated Listings: Sometimes even if the house is sold, the listing is not updated. This can mislead the buyers.
Trulia has a rating of 3.2 out of 5 stars from 70+ reviews on G2
» Trulia Reviews: Click here to know the reason behind the 3-star review on G2.
In 2015, Zillow acquired Trulia. As a result, Zillow and Trulia combined have a vast database of properties. Trulia differentiates itself by providing information based on user feedback.
Trulia’s database has detailed listing information such as neighborhood insights, crime rates, estimated monthly living costs, and other details. Additionally, it offers both agent and FSBO listings on its website.
3. Realtor.com
Verified Listing
Based in California1.6/5
Realtor.com does not charge home buyers or renters any fees for using their platform. However, they do charge real estate agents fees for listing homes on their platform.
The exact fees depend on the agent’s location and other factors, such as home size.
👉 Our Take: Realtor.com seems to be a comprehensive platform for home buyers, sellers, and renters. They offer a range of services such as home listings, neighborhood information, real estate news, and many more.
Here are some advantages of choosing Realtor.com:
- Accurate Listings: Realtor.com claims to have an up-to-date listings of homes for sale and rent.
- Neighborhood Information: Realtor.com provides information about neighborhoods, such as school ratings, crime rates, and local amenities.
- Home Value Estimator: It provides an online tool that estimates the value of your home based on recent sales and other factors.
- Mortgage Calculator: Realtor.com offers a mortgage calculator that helps you estimate your monthly mortgage payments. The estimation is based on the price of the home, down payment, interest rate, and other factors.
- User-Friendly Interface: Their easy-to-use interface makes it simple to search for homes and access other features.
- REALTOR Support: It is the official listing website of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). So, buyers can buy or rent a property through a Realtor.
Here are some major drawbacks that a user should be aware of.
- Offline Process: Realtor.com has manual and offline procedures which can be very complex and time-taking.
- Poor Reviews: Many of their users complained about their customer support and realtor’s services.
- Unwanted Calls: Once you inquired about a property on Realtor.com, you start getting unsolicited calls from their agents.
Realtor.com has a poor rating of 1.6 out of 5 stars from 1000+ users on Trustpilot.
Realtor.com was founded in 1995 as the Realtor Information Network (RIN). It was a closed network providing proprietary information to members of the NAR. It also has a lot of statistical data as it sources listings from 800 regional MLS systems.
Although Realtor.com has an easy-to-use interface, most of its process is offline which can delay your listing on the MLS.
4. Redfin
BEST TECH-ENABLED BROKERAGE
Listing Fee: 1% of Sale Price4.2/5
Redfin does not disclose its pricing on its website. Sellers will have to pay common closing costs.
- It offers 0.5% buyer’s rebate. To avail this, you’ll have to buy and sell with them.
👉 Our Take: Redfin offers 1 rebate option but with a strict clause. While, other real estate companies are willing to offer a higher rebate.
» Redfin Reviews: The reality of the buyer’s rebate.
Here are some advantages of choosing Redfin:
- Advanced Technology: With 3D walkthroughs and 40+ filters to narrow down your search, the Redfin app makes it easy to find the right home from anywhere.
- Paired With Local Agents: Local agents know their market better. This can help you secure a good deal.
- Home Tour: You can see updated listings every 5 minutes on their website. You can also schedule a home tour for the same day.
- Nationwide Coverage: Redfin covers 80+ markets in the US.
Here are some limitations we found with Redfin.
- Strict Rebate Criteria: Clients who sell and buy with Redfin within one year get a rebate of 0.5%.
- No Freedom in Agent Selection: You get an agent assigned automatically without having a choice in the matter.
- Agents Are Less Incentivized: Unlike traditional agents who work for commission, Redfin agents get a fixed salary. This can demotivate them from offering you additional services.
- Poor Customer Reviews: Customers have complained that agents are often unreachable and unprofessional.
Redfin has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 60+ reviews on Google.
» Redfin Reviews: The Reality of the 1% Fees, Pros, Cons, and Alternatives!
Redfin is one of the largest discount brokerages in the US. David Eraker, David Selinger, and Michael Dougherty founded the company in 2004. Since 2017, Redfin has been a publicly traded company.
Redfin offers great services at lower rates. It operates nationwide through its network of agents. You will be paired with a local agent if you choose to use Redfin’s services. However, you don’t have the privilege to select a specific one.
5. Coldwell Banker Homes
Best For Local Market
3% - 6% Commission1.9/5
Coldwell Banker does not disclose pricing on its website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.
To get an exact figure about your commission, contact your local Coldwell Banker office.
👉 Our Take: Coldwell Banker is one of the oldest real estate franchises. It has a global network and offers a wide range of services. However, the traditional agent commission can burn a hole in your pocket.
Here are some advantages of choosing Coldwell Banker:
- Good Presence & Reach: They have 94,000+ affiliated sales agents and a diverse network of over 3000 offices.
- Technology Integration: They have developed a tech suite. This includes RealVitalize®, AARP® Real Estate Benefits by Anywhere, CB Estimate®, and more.
- Strong Brand Recognition and Loyalty: They attract more customers and referrals due to their long history and reputation in the real estate industry.
Here are some disadvantages of Coldwell Banker:
- Additional Costs: There are additional costs for signs, advertising, photography, etc.
- Platform Issues: Previous customers have reported issues related to their agent platform.
Coldwell Banker has an average rating of 1.9 out of 5 stars from 170+ users on Consumer Affairs.
Coldwell Banker is a real estate franchise that operates nationwide. It provides commission-based services. It is owned by Anywhere Real Estate, with headquarters in Madison, New Jersey.
Coldwell Banker has a long history and reputation in the industry, dating back to 1906. It offers real estate services through its diverse network of 94,000+ agents.
6. Dream Town Realty
🎯 LOCAL FOCUS
3% - 6% Commission3.9/5
Dream Town Realty is a full service real estate brokerage. The pricing is not disclosed on their website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.
👉 Our Take: Dream Town Realty is one of the first local brokerages with an online presence. From traditional printed brochures to social media presence, their in-house marketing arm will you sell your home quickly.
Here are some advantages of choosing Dream Town Realty:
- User-Friendly Website: Dream Town Realty is one of the first local brokerages with an online presence. Their website is easy to navigate.
- Digital Marketing: They offer services like 3-D home tours and professional photography.
- Experienced Brokers: Dream Town Realty has 450+ exceptional brokers. They all are well versed with Chicago real estate market.
- Personalized Experienced: Dream Town Realty follows a “Boutique Model”. This model analyze your goals and accordingly personalize your services.
- Additional Services: This includes regular local market updates, neighborhood maps, building directories, photos and videos of neighborhood properties, mortgage services, and more.
Here are some red flags of Dream Town Realty, that could make your experience less satisfactory.
- No Mobile App: It does not have convenient services like a mobile app.
- Average Customer Reviews: Previous customers have complained about Dream Town Realty not being upright.
Dream Town Realty has a 3.9 out of 5 stars from 100+ users on Yelp.
Dream Town Realty is a brokerage firm, operating since 1998. They have a team of approximately 400 brokers across Illinois. Their Boutique Model analyzes your goal and offers personalized services.
However, many customers have reported poor service. Also, despite having an online presence they do not have any mobile application for their customers.
7. Century21
💫Brand Recognition
3% - 6% Commission1/5
Century 21 is one of the world’s largest real estate brokerage firms. It operates in every U.S. state and in 82 other countries.
Pricing is not disclosed on the website. This means you might end up paying the traditional 3% to 6% commission.
👉 Our Take: We recommend Century21 to first-time home seller. Along with listing, you will get access to contract reviews, offer management, closing, and a lot more.
Here are some advantages to choosing Century 21:
- Global Coverage: Century21 operates in every U.S. state and 82 other countries.
- Market Exposure: It has good brand recognition and over 14,000 independent franchise real estate brokers.
- Professional Real Estate Agents: According to previous customers, Century 21 agents are highly professional.
- Best for First-Time Home Sellers: You get to access your listing, review your contract, the closing process, and a lot more.
Century 21 has some major drawbacks that a user should be aware of.
- No Discounts: The agent’s fees at Century 21 are usually high. They do not offer any discounts or rebates.
Century 21 has an average rating of 1 out of 5 stars from 100+ users on Consumer Affairs.
Century 21 is a global real estate franchise company with over 14,000 offices. It was founded in 1971 and has become one of the most recognizable brands in the real estate industry.
It is known for its innovative marketing and technology. However, many customers have reported delayed services and high agent fees.
Types of Real Estate Websites in Illinois
Real estate websites in Illinois can be categorized into 6 main types:
- Home Selling Websites: These websites provide maximum exposure to the property and make the sale in a short time. They also help sellers price their homes competitively and attract potential buyers.
- Home Buying Websites: These websites help buyers search for properties online. Perfect home-buying sites must provide efficient tools, adequate resources, and impressive features to work on.
- Best Rental Websites: Rental websites also allow property owners to lease their properties and reach out to potential customers.
- Best Property Search Websites: The best house-hunting websites help you search for all types of properties online. This includes homes, rental properties, plots, ranches, and commercial properties.
- Best MLS Listing Websites: The best MLS listing sites help you list your property online for free or for a small listing fee. Top real estate websites share your listing details with other sites, giving your property more exposure.
- Best Real Estate Investor Websites: These websites help investors with property resources, price trends, and community forums.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate Website in Illinois?
You can choose the best real estate websites in Illinois based on these factors:
- Strong Technology: Websites with robust technology can make selling or buying a house faster and more efficient. Look for features like virtual tours, professional photos, and user-friendly interfaces.
- Responsive Customer Service: Having good customer service can make your real estate transaction go smoothly. Find a website that offers prompt and helpful customer service.
- Maximum Exposure: Find a website that will give maximum exposure to your property. This could also include an MLS listing, social media sharing, and customizable yard signs.
Why Houzeo is the #1 Real Estate Website in Illinois?
Houzeo.com is the #1 real estate website in Illinois for:
- Max Exposure: It gives you access to the MLS, Zillow, Trulia, Realtor.com, Redfin, and 100s of other real estate websites.
- 100% Online: Easy listing, fast changes, online showings, and online offers.
- 5-star Customer Service: You get assistance from the list to close with Houzeo Concierge.
- No Listing Commission: In most states, you’ll be paying just a small flat fee to get access to the MLS.
- Real Estate on the Go: The Houzeo Mobile App allows you to list your property, manage showings, compare offers, and even counter an offer.
Eager to Know How Houzeo Works?
We have got you covered. Check out how Houzeo works and how you can list your property on the MLS with Houzeo.
How to List on MLS With Houzeo?
5 Easy Steps to List on MLS with Houzeo by owner
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best real estate websites in Illinois?
Houzeo, Trulia and Realtor are the top contenders for best real estate websites in Illinois. However, Houzeo provides unique packages that can help home sellers with a quick and smooth home sale experience.
Are there listing fees for real estate websites in Illinois?
Yes, almost all real estate websites charge listing fees from sellers. Some even charge convenience fees to the renter who wants to apply for an apartment. Websites like Houzeo offer listing services at an affordable flat fee in Illinois.
Are real estate websites safe in Illinois?
Yes, real estate websites are safe as long as you find the right sites. However, there are scam sites, so make sure to do your research before you venture in.
