# 5 Best Real Estate Apps to Help You Find Your Next Home or Investment Property


The real estate industry has been deeply transformed by technology in recent years. One of the main drivers of this transformation is the emergence of specialized websites and apps that simplify the process of searching for a home or investment property.

These platforms provide comprehensive solutions, blending user-friendly interfaces with extensive real estate databases. Let's delve into two exceptional apps that stand out in this domain.

## Zillow

Zillow is a giant in the real estate app market, attracting over 36 million unique monthly visitors and hosting more than 150 million property listings. This app is a favorite among both house hunters and real estate investors for several reasons.

Firstly, its vast property database is easily navigable, allowing users to sift through countless listings with ease. The app's user interface is intuitive, making it simple for users to find properties that meet their specific criteria, whether they're looking for a cozy suburban home or a lucrative investment property.

Zillow doesn't just stop at listings. It offers a wealth of market insights, covering crucial factors like location, school districts, rental income potentials, and detailed property valuations. These insights are invaluable for making informed decisions, especially for those new to the real estate market.


## Redfin

Redfin is another powerful player in the realm of real estate apps, known for its substantial inventory database and user-friendly search functionality. Operating as a full-service real estate brokerage, Redfin goes beyond the typical app functionalities. It allows users to delve deeply into the home buying, selling and [renting processes](https://hackmd.io/@fcmA-QoDRrqKciNZUKALqQ/B1CN6A0j9?utm_source=preview-mode&utm_medium=rec) directly through the platform.

This integration of services makes it a one-stop-shop for those looking to purchase or sell properties. What sets Redfin apart is its commitment to providing high-quality services at a reduced cost. The app offers a reduced listing fee, which ranges between 1% and 1.5%, significantly lower than the standard agent commission rates.

This feature is particularly attractive to sellers seeking to maximize their profits. Moreover, Redfin offers a rebate to buyers, which can be used to cover part of the closing costs, providing a financial advantage in the often expensive home buying process.

## Rent.com

Specializing in rentals, Rent.com is an indispensable resource for those seeking rental properties. The platform excels in its comprehensive approach to the rental market, featuring an extensive selection of [apartment rentals](https://www.rent.com/illinois/chicago-apartments). For instance, in Chicago alone, Rent.com lists over 12,377 properties, providing a broad spectrum of choices for potential renters.

The site’s functionality allows for easy filtering by location, price range, and the number of bedrooms, tailoring the search to individual needs and preferences. Beyond its vast database, Rent.com's listings are detailed, often showcasing properties with high-end amenities. Such amenities significantly enhance the living experience, offering comfort and convenience to renters. Rent.com also provides insights into the surrounding neighborhoods, highlighting local attractions and lifestyle options.

For example, listings in the Lakeview area of Chicago detail proximity to Lake Michigan, Wrigley Field, and a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. This information is invaluable for renters who prioritize location and community feel in their housing search​​​​​​.


## HomeSnap

HomeSnap is a unique real estate app available on iOS and Android, primarily aimed at connecting home buyers with their ideal properties. It offers a novel approach to house hunting by allowing users to snap a photo of a home to access its information.

This innovative feature enhances the convenience of property searching, enabling users to gather details about a house instantly while on the go. HomeSnap is also a valuable tool for real estate agents, who use a different version of the app to assist buyers throughout their property
search journey.

The app's built-in messaging features facilitate communication, allowing users to discuss properties with family members and agents directly within the app. This feature streamlines the search process, making it more organized and efficient. The app's user-friendly interface and practical functionalities cater to modern home buyers who value speed and efficiency.

## Trulia

Trulia differentiates itself in the real estate market with a strong focus on neighborhood features, offering over one million real-time MLS-based listings. This platform caters especially to those who value community and environmental aspects in their property search.

Its user-friendly interface and simplified design make navigating through listings straightforward, emphasizing ease of use. Trulia stands out with its visualization tools, particularly in breaking down monthly property costs, aiding buyers in understanding the financial implications of their investment. Moreover, you can easily customize your property search with its strong search features.

Tailor your search based on your lifestyle preferences, like how close you want to be to amenities. This makes it easier for users who are on the lookout for a property that fits their unique lifestyle and neighborhood preferences.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, an experienced investor, or just looking for the perfect rental, we hope this overview will help you find and secure a property perfectly suited to your needs.

By Mike Johnston