Home Truths: Inside the Future of Real Estate with the CEO of Zillow

Zillow CEO Jeremy Wacksman joins Leadership Next to unpack the forces reshaping American real estate — and the friction threatening its transparency. In a wide-ranging conversation, Wacksman addresses the industry lawsuit brought by Compass and defends Zillow’s stance on keeping property listings open and accessible to all. He explains how the current system — a uniquely American one that allows any buyer or agent to view every listing — is now at risk. With home prices nearly doubling since the pandemic and affordability out of reach for many millennials and Gen Z buyers, Wacksman outlines how Zillow is leaning into AI, computer vision, and immersive virtual experiences to create “super listings” that streamline the buying process. He also shares Zillow’s strategy for supporting buyers long before they’re ready to transact, highlighting the role of casual browsing in shaping the future of homeownership. Wacksman discusses the emotional weight of buying a home, why nearly half of buyers report crying during the process, and how Zillow is building tools to ease the burden. He also opens up about the company’s remote-first culture, the power of retreats to foster creativity, and why he champions a “career jungle gym” over a traditional ladder.