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The world of real estate is no stranger to the unexpected, the quirky, and the downright bizarre.
But while most of us might stumble upon an odd listing every now and then, there's one social media page that has made it its mission to curate and showcase the zaniest homes listed on Zillow: Zillow Gone Wild.
The Rise of Zillow Gone Wild
Launched in 2021 by New Yorker Samir Mezrahi, Zillow Gone Wild quickly became a sensation across multiple platforms, boasting a whopping 1.8 million followers on Instagram alone. From a house constructed entirely of huts in Virginia to a pristine mid-century modern gem in Florida, the page has consistently delivered a blend of awe, amusement, and aspiration to its dedicated audience.
But what makes Zillow Gone Wild stand out in the vast sea of online content? It's perhaps the perfect blend of our collective fascination with real estate and the human love for the unusual. As Loren Ruch, HGTV's head of content, aptly puts it, millions are "obsessed with scrolling through outrageous and over-the-top properties on social media while dreaming about where they would like to live."
From Social Media to the Silver Screen
Now, this viral sensation is set to make its television debut. HGTV has announced a nine-episode series dedicated to Zillow Gone Wild. Each episode promises to be a visual treat, taking viewers on detailed tours of three unique homes listed on the market. But it's not just about the homes; the show aims to delve into the stories behind these properties, introducing us to the buyers, sellers, and the rich histories that make each listing truly one-of-a-kind.
The anticipation builds up to an hour-long season finale where the wildest home will be unveiled. And for those curious about the business side of things, the series will also shed light on the sale details of each property and the innovative strategies real estate professionals employ to market these unconventional homes.
A Testament to Digital Creators
Zillow Gone Wild's journey from a social media page to an HGTV series is a testament to the power of digital content in today's age. It represents a growing ecosystem of online real estate content creators who are turning listings into entertainment. While monetizing such content has been a challenge for many, as highlighted by a previous Inman study, Mezrahi's success story with Zillow Gone Wild might just pave the way for others.
Zillow, the online real estate giant, has expressed its excitement and support for the show, promising more details in the near future. As the lines between entertainment and real estate blur, one thing is certain: Zillow Gone Wild is set to redefine how we view property listings.
So, whether you're a real estate enthusiast, an HGTV fan, or just someone who loves a good dose of quirky content, gear up for a wild ride with Zillow Gone Wild on HGTV. The world of real estate has never looked this entertaining!
What's your favorite show on HGTV? Drop a comment below or share with a colleague in an upcoming CE Class!
References
Verde, B. (2023, September 13). Social media favorite Zillow Gone Wild greenlit for new HGTV show. Inman.