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Agent Files Antitrust Suit Accusing Zillow of Steering to Mortgage Unit and Charging Up to 40% Fees

Zillow denies wrongdoing, asserting consumers choose their own agents and lenders.

A new lawsuit against Seattle- based Zillow alleges that the web-based real estate marketplace used its monopoly power to charge high referral fees and pressured agents to channel homebuyers into its lending business. (Dreamstime/Dreamstime/TNS)
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Justice

Overview

  • Filed Jan. 16 in the Western District of Washington, the class action by agent Stephanie Dupuis targets Zillow’s Premier/Preferred/Flex programs and seeks damages, injunctive relief, and a jury trial.
  • The complaint alleges an illegal tying arrangement linking lead access to Zillow Home Loans, with agent ratings in Follow Up Boss tied to ZHL pre‑approvals that influence referral volume.
  • Dupuis claims her team was penalized for refusing to steer clients, citing capped leads, low FUB ratings tied to ZHL pre‑approvals, and a December 2025 termination of Zillow Showcase access.
  • The filing says fees in the Zillow Preferred program can reach 40% of an agent’s commission, which the plaintiff contrasts with an industry norm of roughly 25%.
  • The case adds to ongoing legal pressure that includes consolidated consumer suits in the same court and an FTC and state action over separate conduct, while Zillow says it will defend against the allegations.