The big headline this week is Zillow Drops Matterport, a move that signals a significant change in the real estate media landscape. As Zillow and CoStar square off over 3D tour licensing, agents, MLSs, and photographers are caught in the crossfire. Meanwhile, the mortgage world is debating a shift to single-bureau credit checks, and new data shows down payments are holding steady while higher-income buyers continue to dominate the market. These stories offer critical insight for professionals navigating 2025’s evolving housing market.
Zillow Drops Matterport: A Real Estate Tech Power Play
In a bold and controversial move, Zillow has removed Matterport virtual tours from its platforms, including Zillow.com and StreetEasy. The decision stems from recent API restrictions following CoStar Group’s 2024 acquisition of Matterport for $1.6 billion. CoStar, in turn, has accused Zillow of violating licensing terms and infringing on intellectual property.
The result is widespread confusion among real estate professionals. Many MLSs have warned that listings using Matterport or CoStar-branded media could face fines or takedowns if licensing isn’t clarified. Agents and photographers are scrambling to understand what’s allowed—and what risks their listings might face.
Zillow is now pushing its proprietary “3D Home Tour” as an alternative, but critics question its quality and flexibility. As the dust settles, other virtual tour companies like Giraffe360 and iGuide are gaining attention as potential replacements. Agents are advised not to panic—but to stay informed and adjust quickly.
TransUnion Slams Single-Bureau Model for Mortgage Credit Checks
Read the Full Story → Scotsman Guide
TransUnion is pushing back hard against the mortgage industry’s growing interest in using a single credit bureau for loan underwriting. The tri-merge model—using data from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—has long been standard, but some lenders and regulators are exploring alternatives to reduce costs.
TransUnion warns that relying on a single bureau could create blind spots in borrower profiles and lead to riskier loans. Their analysis suggests some borrowers could pay up to $6,000 more over the life of a mortgage due to less accurate credit assessments.
While cost-cutting is a priority in a tight market, many industry voices agree that data quality should come first. With the future of mortgage credit models under review, this debate is far from over.
Down Payments Plateau as Higher-Income Buyers Dominate
Read the Full Story → MPAMAG
New data reveals that the average down payment on U.S. homes has plateaued around $30,000—or about 14% to 15% of the purchase price—even as home values remain historically high. This signals that affordability remains out of reach for many lower-income and first-time buyers.
Meanwhile, the market is increasingly dominated by higher-income borrowers, many of whom can bring more cash to the table. Their ability to navigate high interest rates and competition gives them an edge, further widening the accessibility gap.
As a result, real estate professionals may need to recalibrate marketing strategies and financing solutions to reach underserved buyer segments—or lean into premium-market opportunities.
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Loan Officer Perspective
These stories reveal key market shifts that mortgage pros can’t ignore. First, the Zillow–Matterport fallout might slow transaction timelines if listings are pulled or downgraded, which means communication with agents becomes even more critical. Second, the credit-reporting debate highlights how even back-end decisions can impact pricing, risk, and client experience. Third, the plateau in down payments offers both a challenge and an opportunity—creative financing options and buyer education will set great LOs apart.
Real Estate Agent Perspective
Agents need to act fast on the media changes. Ensure your listings are compliant and consider switching to supported 3D tour tools. This not only protects your business but gives you a marketing edge when competitors may be scrambling. Understanding how credit and down payment dynamics are shifting also helps you coach buyers more effectively—especially as higher-income clients take center stage. Adjust your listing presentations and buyer consultations accordingly.
Home Buyer & Seller Perspective
If you’re a home buyer, this is a moment to ask questions: How will your credit be evaluated? What tour tools are being used in your listing? Are your down payment expectations realistic in today’s market? Sellers should ask their agent whether their listing media is compliant and competitive. To get ahead in this complex landscape, connect with the pro who shared this post—they can walk you through your options and help you move forward confidently.
Frank’s Thoughts
Man, what a week for behind-the-scenes drama. But here’s the thing: this is where pros shine. When media platforms, credit models, and buyer trends start shifting, there’s one guaranteed path to success—be the calm in the chaos.
Your value isn’t just in knowing the answers, it’s in guiding clients through uncertainty. That’s what wins trust and repeat business. And let’s be honest—this industry never stops moving, so learning to adapt fast is a superpower.
Lean in, don’t stress out. You’ve got this. Your clients are counting on you—and they’re lucky to have you in their corner.
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