Zoopla vs Rightmove: what is the difference?

If you’re looking to sell your property, you may be considering using Zoopla or Rightmove.

We explore what you need to consider, including the pros and cons.

What is Zoopla?

Zoopla is one of the UK’s top property portals, offering an all-in-one platform for buyers and sellers.

Launched in 2007, Zoopla has built a reputation for making house hunting and listing easy. Whether you are looking for your next home or selling a property, Zoopla’s simple search engine makes it easy to navigate options, from homes for sale to rental listings.

Beyond property searches, Zoopla provides home value estimates, local guides, and mortgage comparisons.

It’s designed for property seekers and professionals, like estate agents and landlords, who list homes on the site. Zoopla caters to everyone from first-time buyers to seasoned investors.

What is Rightmove?

Rightmove is another powerhouse in the UK property portal scene. Founded in 2000, Rightmove is known as the go-to platform for buyers, sellers, and estate agents and offers one of the largest property databases in the country.

In addition to property searches, Rightmove provides property valuation tools, area insights, and a detailed look into market trends.

It’s a useful resource for both buyers and sellers who want to stay informed on pricing and market shifts. Estate agents and landlords pay to list properties, with pricing varying based on the level of service and number of listings.

Zoopla and Rightmove run on a subscription model, with premium options for agents looking to increase visibility. Property seekers can browse for free to check out a huge selection of homes and market insights.

What are the key differences between Zoopla and Rightmove?

When comparing Zoopla and Rightmove, several key differences stand out:

• Pricing for agents: One significant difference between Zoopla and Rightmove is their pricing structures. Zoopla tends to be the cheaper option for estate agents and landlords looking to list properties. Rightmove’s larger audience and market dominance come at a higher price, making it a more premium choice for agents looking for extra exposure.
• Market reach and popularity: Rightmove draws a larger audience, meaning properties listed here typically get more visibility. While Zoopla also attracts plenty of users, Rightmove’s broader reach often results in faster transactions for agents.
• Time to sell or rent a property: Thanks to its extensive audience, properties on Rightmove usually sell or rent faster than those on Zoopla. For sellers and agents looking for quicker results, this can be a key factor in choosing between Rightmove and Zoopla.

What are the pros and cons of Zoopla?

Here are the benefits and downsides of this property portal:

Pros

• Affordability for estate agents: Zoopla is generally more affordable for agents and landlords looking to list properties. This makes it particularly appealing to smaller estate agents who may find Rightmove’s prices steep.
• User-friendly interface: Zoopla’s website and app are known for their user-friendly design. Whether you’re searching for properties or listing them, Zoopla’s interface simplifies the process.
• Additional services: Zoopla doesn’t just focus on property listings; it also provides helpful resources like home value estimates, area insights, and mortgage comparison tools, making it a more rounded platform for users.

Cons

• Less market reach: While Zoopla has a large user base, it doesn’t match the sheer size of Rightmove’s audience. Properties listed on Zoopla may not get as much exposure as they would on Rightmove, potentially leading to slower sales.
• Less frequent updates: Some users have noted that property information on Zoopla can be slower to update compared to Rightmove, meaning that listings may not always reflect the most current availability.

What are the pros and cons of Rightmove?

These are Rightmove’s advantages and disadvantages:

Pros

• Unrivalled market reach: Rightmove is the most visited property portal in the UK. Its vast audience means your property has the potential to be seen by more buyers or renters, increasing the likelihood of a quick sale or lease.
• Extensive property data: Rightmove offers detailed property and market insights, making it easier for buyers and sellers to understand market trends and make informed decisions. The platform’s comprehensive data tools are a big plus for investors and property professionals.
• Speed of transactions: Given its market dominance, properties on Rightmove tend to sell or rent out faster than on other platforms, including Zoopla. If you’re in a hurry to sell, Rightmove could be the better option.

Cons

• Higher fees for agents: Rightmove tends to be more expensive for estate agents compared to Zoopla. This higher cost might not always be justifiable for smaller agencies or those listing a few properties.
• Cluttered interface: Some users find Rightmove’s interface more cluttered than Zoopla’s, making the user experience slightly less seamless.

Rightmove vs Zoopla: which is better for me?

Choosing Zoopla or Rightmove depends on your needs. If you’re an estate agent, it boils down to budget versus exposure. 

Rightmove is pricier, but according to LDT, it gives you the widest audience, ideal for larger agencies. Zoopla is more affordable, which appeals to smaller agencies or those with fewer properties, but you might wait longer to make a sale.

For property hunters, it’s less about cost (since both are free to use) and more about what feels right for you.

Zoopla has a simple, user-friendly interface, while Rightmove provides more listings and detailed market data. Many agents use both property portals, so if you want the widest choice, you can browse both.

It’s all about striking a balance between what’s most important to you—price, speed, or user experience.

Get expert financial advice

Whether you choose Rightmove or Zoopla depends on your priorities.

If you’re looking for maximum exposure and faster sales, Rightmove's larger audience might be your best bet. On the other hand, Zoopla offers more affordable options and valuable tools for both buyers and sellers.

Ultimately, using both property platforms could give you the widest reach and the best chance of a successful property transaction.

Let Unbiased match you with a qualified financial adviser or mortgage broker to help you make informed, strategic decisions for your financial wellbeing.