Zillow Group wants to be a one-stop shop for renters.
The company released a new set of online tools allowing users to apply and pay for apartments, according to Inman. But StreetEasy, the company’s platform in New York, won’t have the features yet.
Zillow will allow renters to pay $29 to submit an application multiple times.
It will include an Experian credit report, eviction history and background check. The platform is available to property managers and landlords whose buildings have fewer than 50 units, according to Inman.
“Renters tell us they want the entire rental process to happen online, from search to application to payment,” Zillow president Jeremy Wacksman told Inman in a statement. “However, most landlords don’t have the resources to offer these services.”
Zillow seeks to replace the individual rental applications and credit checks that can cost renters up to $100 each.
The company has been growing its offerings this year. Zillow expanded its “Instant Offers” program this year, becoming a direct player in the market by buying and selling homes. Under the program, agents who participate in Premier Agent, Zillow’s agent advertising program, can be picked to broker the sales on behalf of Zillow and other buyers. [Inman] — Meenal Vamburkar