Zillow Group(Z) - 2025 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Zillow reported total Q1 revenue of $598 million, up 13% year over year, exceeding expectations by$ 15 million [9][25] - Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 was $153 million, with an EBITDA margin of 26%, reflecting a 200 basis point year over year improvement [11][25] - The company achieved positive GAAP net income of$ 8 million, representing 1% of revenue, marking a significant milestone [26] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - For Sale category revenue was $458 million, up 8% year over year, with residential revenue growing 6% to$ 417 million and mortgages revenue increasing 32% to $41 million [9][27] - Rentals revenue reached an all-time high of$ 129 million, up 33% year over year, driven primarily by multifamily revenue growth of 47% [10][28] - The number of multifamily properties on Zillow increased by 38% year over year, reaching 55,000 by the end of Q1 [18][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Zillow's average monthly unique users reached 227 million, significantly outpacing competitors with four times the app engagement [7] - The company reported 37 million unique visitors to Zillow Rentals in March, solidifying its position as renters' number one preference [19] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Zillow is focused on executing its differentiated housing super app strategy, aiming to monetize a larger share of the total addressable market [6][9] - The company is expanding its enhanced markets, with a goal of increasing connections within these markets to over 35% by the end of the year [12][83] - Zillow is integrating its Premier Agent and Zillow Home Loans offerings to create a seamless experience for buyers and sellers [13] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving full year 2025 goals of low to mid-teens revenue growth and continued EBITDA margin expansion despite macroeconomic challenges [6][23] - The company anticipates accelerating rentals revenue growth of approximately 40% for the full year 2025, driven by strong demand and strategic partnerships [32][33] Other Important Information - Zillow's cash and investments at the end of Q1 were $1.6 billion, down from$ 1.9 billion, primarily due to share repurchases [30] - The board approved an additional $1 billion share repurchase authorization, reflecting confidence in the company's financial position [31] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is driving the accelerating revenue growth in the rentals business? - Management highlighted the execution of their strategy to build a comprehensive marketplace, resulting in increased inventory and audience engagement [40][42] Question: How should investors assess Zillow's growth relative to the market? - Management noted that Zillow's growth outperformed the market, particularly in the residential and for sale categories, despite macroeconomic noise [48][50] Question: What are the mechanics of the partnership with Redfin? - Management clarified that there was no transfer of contracts; Zillow had to win the business, which has resulted in significant property count growth [66][72] Question: What is the industry reaction to the new listing access standards? - Management reported positive early reactions from the industry, with many brokerages supporting the principles of transparency in real estate [96] Question: What factors contributed to the lower than expected EBITDA expenses in Q1? - Management indicated slower hiring and lower marketing expenses than anticipated were the primary reasons for the variance [98]