The traditional rental search experience has long relied on filters—but according to Zillow, that model is no longer enough. In this conversation, Jennifer Petoskey, Director of Product Management at Zillow, explains how AI is reshaping how renters find and evaluate homes.
Rather than narrowing options through rigid filters, Zillow’s AI-powered experience introduces a more guided, conversational approach. Petoskey notes that renters often avoid heavy filtering out of fear of missing out on great listings. By enabling a back-and-forth dialogue, AI helps users explore options more freely while still surfacing the most relevant properties.
This shift allows renters to better understand trade-offs—such as cost versus location or space—through clearer, real-time guidance. At the same time, the platform captures richer insights into renter preferences, improving both the user experience and the value delivered to partners. As AI continues to evolve, Zillow’s approach signals a broader move toward more intuitive, personalized decision-making in real estate.