EMERYVILLE, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--Dec 31, 2008 -- Phoenix-proper, nearby Scottsdale and Chandler, Ariz. were the nation's hottest markets in 2008 for prospective homebuyers, according to a recent survey of most-searched ZIP codes in 35 U.S. markets served by popular online search and brokerage site ZipRealty (NasdaqGM:ZIPR - News) (www.ZipRealty.com). Overall, five of the top-ten most searched neighborhoods were in Phoenix and the surrounding areas.

In a volatile year for the housing market, ZipRealty's data analysts surveyed the most searched homebuyer markets across its extensive database and identified those most popular to consumers. In addition to Phoenix, others in the top-ten included: Irvine and Huntington Beach, Calif. (both in Orange County), Summerlin and Henderson (both suburbs of Las Vegas), and Atlanta-proper. See below for full list.

 
Most Searched ZIP Codes in ZipRealty's 35 Markets

1. Phoenix - Phoenix
2. Phoenix - Scottsdale
3. Phoenix - Chandler
4. Orange County - Irvine
5. Las Vegas - Summerlin
6. Phoenix - Mesa
7. Orlando - Orlando
8. Phoenix - Gilbert
9. Atlanta - Atlanta
10. Las Vegas - Henderson - Green Valley

ZipRealty also identified the most popular areas among the site's top ten metro markets. For San Francisco Bay Area, the bedroom community of Fremont topped the list, while in Los Angeles, Santa Monica was most popular. Newton grabbed the top spot in Boston, and Irvine again made the list for Orange County. Here is the full list:

 
Most Popular Community Searches in Top Ten Metropolitan Areas

1. San Francisco - Fremont
2. Los Angeles - Santa Monica
3. Boston - Newton
4. Orange County - Irvine
5. San Diego - Chula Vista
6. Miami - Fort Lauderdale
7. Seattle - Bellevue
8. Dallas - Dallas
9. Chicago - Naperville
10. New York - Manhattan

"Even with the slowdown in home sales, it's important to remember how many people are still looking, and this survey provides a snapshot as to where they were looking in 2008," explained CEO Pat Lashinsky. "As we move in to 2009, ZipRealty will continue to provide the most accurate information and tools to help home buyers and sellers, and make the process as transparent and easy as possible."

About ZipRealty, Inc.

ZipRealty is a full-service residential real estate brokerage firm. The Company utilizes its user-friendly Web site and employee real estate agents to provide homebuyers and sellers with high-quality service and value. ZipRealty's Web site provides users with access to comprehensive local Multiple Listing Service home listings data, as well as other relevant market and neighborhood information. The Company's proprietary business management system and technology platform help to reduce costs, allowing the Company to pass on significant savings to consumers. Founded in 1999, the company operates in 35 major markets in 20 states and the District of Columbia. For more information on ZipRealty, visit www.ziprealty.com or call 1-800-CALL-ZIP.

     Aimee Grove
     Allison & Partners
     415-706-1906
     aimee@allisonpr.com
      
     John Oldham
     ZipRealty
     510-735-2805
     joldham@ziprealty.com