STONE, STAFFORDSHIRE – Many individuals, like Katie Smith, find themselves glued to property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and On the Market, despite having no immediate plans to move. Katie, a 30-year-old from Stone, confesses to her addiction to “Rightmove stalking,” where she compulsively browses through listings multiple times a day. For Katie, the allure of peeking into various homes, akin to being a modern-day peeping Tom, provides a sense of pleasure and escapism.
The captivating allure of these property websites extends beyond just potential homebuyers and sellers. Users like Katie are drawn to the appeal of envisioning themselves in different properties, triggering the brain’s reward systems by tapping into the dopamine system. The high-quality photos, badges like “Highlight” or “Just added,” and floor plans contribute to users like Sam Kennedy Christian from Kent indulging in “bedtime scrolling” sessions to quench their thirst for escapism.
Even amidst concerns from some estate agents about the high advertising costs on platforms like Rightmove, the allure and impact of these property portals persist. Despite the possible limitations these costs impose, many agents acknowledge the necessity of being present on these platforms due to the sheer volume of users browsing through listings regularly. The average agent spends a significant amount per month to maintain a presence on these portals, underscoring the value they place on maximizing visibility.
Property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla remain bullish about the future, citing a recovering market confidence as mortgage rates decline. This optimism aligns with the growing number of homes for sale on these platforms, attracting a diverse range of users, from idle browsers to genuine buyers. Whether one is fantasizing about unattainable castles, checking property values, or actively seeking a new home, the appeal of these portals continues to resonate with individuals across different spectrums.