Aptly integrates directly with Zillow through the Zillow Lead API, making it easier than ever to manage rental leads and communicate with prospects. This ensures you receive accurate lead contact information, simplifies your workflows, and helps you capture leads without relying on Zillow email parsing.
Why This Matters for Property Management Teams
Previously, Zillow leads were sent to your inbox as emails that Aptly had to “parse” — think of parsing like opening a stack of paper applications and manually typing the details into your system.
- Zillow often masked the lead’s real phone number and email address, meaning you couldn’t directly follow up with the prospect.
- Parsing errors could lead to missed or incorrect lead details, adding extra work for your team.
With the Zillow Lead API, Aptly now receives leads directly from Zillow, just like receiving a secure digital file instead of a paper stack.
This means:
- ✅ Real phone numbers and emails — no more hidden contact details.
- ✅ Faster and more accurate lead capture with fewer errors.
- ✅ A smoother prospect experience because you can follow up right away.
Who Can Use This Integration
- You do NOT need to use Aptly syndication to benefit from this feature — it works for all Aptly users who receive Zillow leads.
- If you do use Aptly syndication, property mapping will be automatic and highly accurate.
- If you don’t, Aptly will match properties based on address — this still works, but it may require some manual adjustments. (See: Alternative Naming)
Once the Zillow Lead API integration is enabled for your account, you must turn off Zillow email parsing in Aptly.
- If both are active, you could receive duplicate leads or mismatched data.
- We’ll provide clear steps below to check and disable email parsing below.
Step-by-Step Setup Guide
Because Zillow supports multiple connection methods, setup depends on how your team currently syndicates listings. Follow the steps below that match your situation.
Step 1: Locate the Zillow Lead API Settings
- In Aptly, navigate to Settings.
- Go to the Listings Board section.
- Select Syndication — this is where Zillow Lead API options live.
Step 2: Decide Which Connection Method You’ll Use
There are two common ways to enable the Zillow Lead API. Your method depends on whether you use Aptly syndication. Regardless of which option, you’ll need to enable Syndication to update settings.
Option A: Per Syndication Feed (Most Common & Easiest)
- Zillow automatically sends data for all properties syndicated through Aptly.
- Pros:
- Simplest setup — no need for direct communication with Zillow.
- Safe and reliable, as it stays connected once enabled.
- Steps:
- Contact Aptly Support (help@getaptly.com) to confirm you are set up for this connection.
- Our team will coordinate with Zillow to complete the activation.
Option B: Per Company (Manual Request to Zillow)
- You (the property management company) must contact Zillow directly and request that they send lead data to a specific Aptly URL.
- Important note:
- If you use another feed provider besides Aptly, Zillow may reset your settings, which can disrupt the connection.
- This is outside of Aptly’s control.
- Steps:
- Reach out to Zillow’s support team at Rentalfeedinquiries@zillowgroup.com .
- Request they send your lead data to the URL provided by Aptly.
- Once Zillow confirms, Aptly will begin receiving your leads directly.
Step 3: Turn Off Zillow Email Parsing
After your Zillow Lead API connection is live:
- Go to Inbox > Inbox Rules > Email Parsers.
- Locate the Zillow parser.
- Delete the parser to prevent duplicate or incorrect leads.
Step 4: Test Your Connection
- Post a test listing on Zillow or wait for a new inquiry.
- Check Aptly to confirm:
- The lead appears immediately.
- The real phone number and email address are visible.
- The correct property is mapped.
If something doesn’t look right, see the troubleshooting tips below.
Known Limitations
Scenario | Impact | Workaround |
You do NOT use Aptly syndication. | Property mapping may be less accurate. | Double-check property matches and adjust manually if needed. See: Alternative Naming. |
You have multiple syndication feeds. | Zillow may override settings or reset them unexpectedly. | Monitor your Zillow connection regularly and re-confirm settings with Zillow if needed. You should only have 1 syndication feed. As soon as one is turned on, the other must be turned off. |
Zillow email parsing is still active. | Duplicate or mismatched leads. | Turn off Zillow parsing immediately after API activation. |
Troubleshooting Tips
Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
Leads aren’t showing up in Aptly. | Zillow hasn’t finished sending data yet. | Confirm setup with Aptly Support and Zillow. |
Property information looks wrong. | You aren’t using Aptly syndication, so address matching may be off. | Manually select the correct property in Aptly. |
Duplicate leads appearing. | Zillow email parser is still active. | Turn off Zillow parsing in Settings. |
Summary
The new Zillow Lead API makes leasing workflows simpler, faster, and more accurate by sending complete, direct lead data to Aptly.
- You’ll have access to real contact information to connect with prospects immediately.
- No more messy parsing or masked emails and phone numbers.
- With proper setup and by turning off Zillow email parsing, you’ll be ready to make the most of this powerful update.