Zillow Group's Q1 EPS Lags Estimates, Revenues Rise Y/Y

Core Insights - Zillow Group reported first-quarter 2025 adjusted EPS of 41 cents, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 43 cents, but reflecting a year-over-year increase of 13.9% [1] - Total revenues reached $598 million, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $588.6 million, and showing a 13% year-over-year improvement [2] - The company experienced growth in for-sale revenues, rental revenues, and mortgage revenues, although increased sales and marketing expenses impacted overall results [1][4] Financial Performance - For-sale revenues increased by 8% to $458 million, while residential revenues rose by 6.1% to $417 million, supported by growth in premier agent offerings and new construction [2] - Rental revenues grew by 33% year over year to $129 million, driven by a 47% increase in multifamily revenue [3] - Adjusted EBITDA margin improved by 200 basis points to 26%, amounting to $153 million, due to revenue growth and cost discipline [3] Expenses and Costs - Sales and marketing expenses rose by 19.3% year over year to $198 million, attributed to higher personnel and marketing costs [4] - Cost of revenues increased by 13% year over year to $139 million, influenced by higher amortization of website development costs and lead acquisition costs [4] Balance Sheet - Zillow ended the first quarter of 2025 with $1.6 billion in cash and investments, a decrease from $1.9 billion at the end of the previous quarter [5] Future Outlook - For Q2 2025, Zillow expects total revenues between $635-650 million and adjusted EBITDA between $140-155 million [6] - For-sale revenues are projected to improve in the mid-single digits, with rental revenues expected to increase by over 35% year over year [7] - The company anticipates mid-teens revenue growth for 2025, with rental revenues expected to grow around 40% year over year [8]