CoStar Acquires Vexcel to Boost Property Data Tools
The company’s latest acquisition aims to improve the data powering its property sites like Apartments.com and Homes.com.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Commercial
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CoStar reported $952 million in total revenue for the third quarter of 2026, driven by growth across its commercial and residential segments. The company also announced the acquisition of Vexcel, an imaging provider that gathers property data across 45 countries using cameras and AI.
Why it matters
This move signals a push to consolidate property data and AI-driven insights, which could influence how users interact with online listing platforms. By integrating tools like Vexcel, CoStar aims to accelerate its observation capabilities, potentially impacting how properties are listed and valued.
CoStar achieved $492 million in commercial revenue and $460 million in residential revenue during the quarter. Meanwhile, lead flow from Homes.com to Apartments.com saw a 450% increase, while the company raised its 2026 adjusted EBITDA guidance to a midpoint of $830 million.
The players
CoStar
A major provider of real estate information and marketing platforms that operates sites including Apartments.com and Homes.com.
Vexcel
A global imagery and data collection firm that utilizes camera technology and AI to monitor properties in 45 countries.
Zonda
A housing data and analytics firm acquired by CoStar to bolster its residential market intelligence.
The details
CoStar is integrating AI, such as ChatGPT, to direct user traffic directly to its property transaction sites. The acquisition of Vexcel allows the company to leverage advanced camera technology and automated processing to capture granular, up-to-date data on real estate assets. This strategy aims to sharpen the accuracy of property information available to users on platforms like Apartments.com and Homes.com.
Timeline
Q3 2026 marked the period where CoStar recorded $952 million in revenue.
Full year 2026 is the period for which the adjusted EBITDA guidance was raised.
End of 2028 is the target date to reach an adjusted EBITDA of $1.25 billion.
The Home Front
This acquisition reflects the broader trend of real estate platforms scaling via AI-powered data collection and cross-platform traffic integration. Such consolidation changes how information is aggregated, potentially shifting the accuracy and accessibility of property data for prospective renters and buyers.
Homeowners and renters can expect to see more data-rich listings as companies like CoStar refine their property observation technology. Keep an eye on your local rental or home search site to see if improved AI-generated tools make it easier to verify property details or site features.
The takeaway
The consolidation of property data and AI tools is rapidly changing how real estate information is presented online. As these technologies evolve, shoppers should verify key property details independently rather than relying solely on automated platform insights.
Further reading
For more on the changing landscape of digital property marketplaces, visit Commercial.
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