Step-by-step guide to real estate app development with expert insights from IMG Global Infotech
The real estate industry is undergoing a massive digital transformation. Buyers, sellers, and agents increasingly rely on mobile apps to browse listings, connect with professionals, and make informed property decisions. One of the most popular and successful examples in this space is Realtor.com, a real estate platform that has set the benchmark for intuitive design, user experience, and comprehensive features.
If you're looking to develop an app like Realtor, you're stepping into a highly promising market—but success will depend on strategy, features, design, and the tech partner you choose. In this blog, we break down the full roadmap to creating a Realtor-style real estate app with expert tips from IMG Global Infotech, one of India’s top real estate app development companies.
Why Build a Real Estate App Like Realtor?
Apps like Realtor offer a convenient, fast, and data-driven way for users to search for homes, compare prices, explore neighborhoods, and contact agents. With millions of people preferring mobile over traditional channels, real estate apps offer:
- Enhanced user engagement
- Simplified property search and booking
- Location-based recommendations
- Digital interaction between buyers, sellers, and agents
- Improved business visibility and lead generation
As a result, real estate apps are not only a tool for convenience—they're a key growth engine for modern property businesses.
Step 1: Market Research & Business Model
Before jumping into development, understand your market:
- Are you targeting buyers, sellers, agents, or renters?
- Will your app be nationwide or hyperlocal?
- What’s your business model—subscription, commission, freemium?
You can choose from several models:
- Aggregator model like Realtor or Zillow
- Agent listing model
- Buy/rent with in-app booking
- Freemium model with premium listings or agent profiles
IMG Global Infotech helps startups and enterprises identify the best-fit model by analyzing market gaps, user expectations, and competitor strengths.
Step 2: Define Core Features
Realtor-like apps are powerful because of their feature-rich environment. Let’s look at the must-have features for a similar real estate app:
User Features:
- Easy sign-up/sign-in (email, mobile, social login)
- Property search with advanced filters (price, type, location, size, etc.)
- Geo-location based property suggestions
- Map integration for nearby listings
- 360° virtual tours and image galleries
- Save favorites and compare listings
- Contact agent / schedule property visit
- Push notifications for new listings and price drops
Admin & Agent Features:
- Agent registration and profile management
- Property listing and management dashboard
- Analytics and performance tracking
- Lead management tools
- Customer communication dashboard
IMG Global Infotech ensures each feature is seamlessly integrated, scalable, and optimized for performance.
Step 3: UI/UX Design
User experience is a major differentiator in the real estate industry. Your app should be easy to use, visually appealing, and responsive on all screen sizes.
Key UI/UX principles:
- Minimalist design with large visuals
- Search and map view on a single screen
- Quick filters and results refresh
- Consistent color theme and typography
- Accessibility features (voice search, large icons, etc.)
The design team at IMG Global Infotech creates intuitive and conversion-focused interfaces that keep users engaged and encourage property inquiries.
Step 4: Choose the Right Tech Stack
The technology behind the app impacts performance, scalability, and long-term maintenance.
Suggested tech stack:
- Frontend: React Native or Flutter for cross-platform development
- Backend: Node.js, Django, or Laravel
- Database: MongoDB, MySQL, or Firebase
- APIs: Google Maps API, payment gateway (if needed), property data APIs
- Cloud: AWS or Google Cloud for hosting
- Admin Panel: Angular or Vue.js-based dashboard
IMG Global Infotech selects tech stacks based on your project size, features, and budget to ensure you get a future-ready solution.
Step 5: Development Process
At this stage, your development team starts building the app based on wireframes, APIs, and database structure. A good process includes:
- Agile methodology with regular sprint updates
- Frontend and backend development in parallel
- Continuous integration and testing
- Regular client feedback loops
IMG Global Infotech uses an agile approach that keeps you involved throughout the project lifecycle—from ideation to deployment.
Step 6: Testing & Quality Assurance
To compete with apps like Realtor, your app must work flawlessly across devices and platforms. Testing ensures reliability and performance.
Types of testing:
- Functional Testing
- UI/UX Testing
- Load & Stress Testing
- Security & Data Privacy Testing
- Device Compatibility Testing
IMG Global Infotech performs rigorous QA to identify and fix bugs before the final release.
Step 7: Deployment & Post-launch Support
Once testing is complete, the app is published to the App Store and Google Play Store. But the real work begins post-launch.
Post-launch essentials:
- App Store Optimization (ASO)
- User feedback collection
- Regular feature updates
- Security patches
- Marketing campaigns
With dedicated support from IMG Global Infotech, you’ll receive maintenance services, analytics tracking, and performance enhancements to keep your app growing.
Estimated Cost & Timeline
Cost to develop an app like Realtor ranges between $20,000 to $60,000+, depending on:
- Features and functionalities
- Platform (iOS, Android, or both)
- Complexity of design and backend
- Number of user roles (buyers, agents, admins)
Timeline ranges from 10 to 20 weeks for full development and testing.
IMG Global Infotech offers customized packages to fit every budget—from startups to large enterprises.
Why Partner With IMG Global Infotech?
With 10+ years of experience in mobile app development, IMG Global Infotech has built a strong reputation for creating high-performing real estate platforms. Their team delivers quality, speed, and strategic value across every phase of development.
What you get:
- Tailored real estate app solutions
- Affordable pricing with no compromise on quality
- Scalable, secure, and modern technology stack
- 24/7 support and maintenance
- Expertise in design, development, and digital marketing
End Note
Developing an app like Realtor is more than just listing properties—it's about offering a seamless experience that connects people to their dream homes. With a smart strategy, the right tech partner, and user-first design, you can create a real estate app that thrives in today’s competitive market.
Ready to bring your real estate app idea to life?
Contact IMG Global Infotech today for a custom quote and expert consultation!