Zillow rolls out new search tool targeting agent specialties

Seattle-based Zillow launched an online consumer tool that allows visitors to search for a real estate agent based on the professional’s published expertise on price, property type, service needed (buying agent or selling agent), specialties such as relocation or short sale and languages spoken.

Zillow first published agent reviews in 2010. Its new Agent Finder also includes sales, current listings and reviews for the past 12 months.

“Every day, agents tell us how important online reviews are to their marketing efforts, and how increasing their online presence has resulted in more business,” said Jay Thompson, Zillow’s director of industry outreach. “We’re thrilled to give agents another way to highlight their areas of expertise and local knowledge to connect with home shoppers on Zillow.”