Zillow Retires the Two-Tab Toggle: What NC Brokers Need to Know — and Tell Their Clients

Back in 2021, Zillow split its search results into “Agent Listings” (MLS feeds) and “Other Listings” (FSBOs, auctions, new-construction floor-plans, etc.) to comply with NAR’s optional “no-commingling” rule.

The move pleased some MLSs but frustrated consumers who assumed they were already seeing every available home. Four years later—and after plenty of lobbying, PR pieces and even a high-profile lawsuit—Zillow is reversing course.

What’s Changing Right Now

• Single default search view. In markets where the local MLS has dropped the no-commingling restriction, every listing type now appears in one blended feed.

• Roll-out began December 2024 and is still expanding. Zillow says “the majority of major metro areas” have already flipped to the new experience.

• MLS momentum is growing. Large MLSs such as Bright MLS (Mid-Atlantic) and Stellar MLS (Florida) rescinded the rule in 2024, accelerating the shift.

Zillow’s Rationale (in Their Own Words)

“Consumers want and expect a single-search experience, where all available homes for sale can be viewed seamlessly… We applaud the many MLSs that have revoked the no-commingling restriction.” —Matt Hendricks, VP Industry Affairs, Zillow

“We’re excited that a growing number of MLSs are adopting policies that allow for commingled display… The majority of major metro areas are now seeing the single search experience.” —Zillow statement to Inman

What This Means for Your Buyers

1. More inventory at first glance. Clients will suddenly see FSBOs and auction properties without toggling tabs or filters. Make sure they understand which listings are not in the MLS and may have limited data accuracy or showing instructions.

2. Representation still matters. Reinforce that a non-MLS listing doesn’t come with built-in agent cooperation. Explain how you’ll handle offers, disclosures and compensation when the seller isn’t represented.

3. Set expectations on data delays. Even with commingling, some MLS-only fields (agent remarks, broker compensation) remain hidden on consumer portals. Encourage serious house-hunters to lean on your MLS search feed for the fullest picture.

What This Means for Your Sellers

• FSBO visibility jumps. Homeowners flirting with “do-it-yourself” now gain equal shelf space on Zillow. Position your full-service value—pricing strategy, negotiation expertise, liability protection—as the differentiator.

• Competitive landscape shifts. Listing through the MLS still syndicates everywhere (including Zillow) plus delivers broker cooperation. Remind sellers that wider agent exposure often offsets the perceived savings of going solo.

Action Steps for NC Brokers Right Now

Task	Why It Matters	How to Communicate
Verify your MLS policy on commingling	Not every NC MLS has flipped yet	Send a quick reminder: “In our market you will/won’t see all listings in one view yet—here’s why.”
Update buyer & listing presentations	Reflect the new blended search	Add one slide: “Zillow’s results just changed—here’s how we guide you through the noise.”
Refresh your website IDX feed or app demo	Show clients you provide the same (or better) one-stop search	Record a 30-second screen-share walking through your portal’s filters and alert tools.
Train your team on FSBO protocols	More FSBO eyes = more FSBO calls	Share a script: “We’d love to preview the home with you; here’s how agency, earnest money, and commission work when the seller is unrepresented.”

Bottom Line for Skyline Students

Zillow’s rollback gives consumers what they’ve always wanted: one screen with everything. That creates opportunity and confusion. The agents who win will 1) know their local MLS policy cold, 2) educate buyers on the pros and cons of each listing type, and 3) articulate their value to sellers now competing side-by-side with FSBOs. Start having those conversations today—before the next portal update lands.

What do you think about Zillow showing FSBO listings in the same feed as MLS listings? Sound off in the comments or share with a colleague in an upcoming CE Class!

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Refernces

Hancock, Harvey. “Zillow Begins Rolling Back its Two-Tab Search Experience.” Online Marketplaces, April 23 2025.

Anderson, Taylor. “Listings Are Quietly ‘Commingling’ on Zillow Again After 4-Year Hiatus.” Inman, April 22 2025.