Change can be a good thing, but when large sums of money and a potential home are involved – are people willing to swap the security of an actual viewing for a virtual one?

It’s fair to say the events of the last two years have required us to move away from familiar ways of working, and venture into new ways of doing things. From remote working to Zoom meetings, home schooling to virtual parties – there is no denying the place that video technology has in our lives post pandemic.

Viewing a property is one area that has seen a considerable change in direction. With COVID restricting access to people’s homes, and the unimaginable prospect of buying a property sight unseen – virtual viewings have quickly become commonplace in the property market. With the convenience of being able to view a house from the comfort of your own home, it is no surprise to see virtual viewings becoming a standard practice for prospective home - owners.

In a restriction free life, it’s fair to suggest virtual viewings won’t replace actual viewings – however there is room for them to supplement the process. Given the large sums of money involved, not to mention the emotions involved when buying a home – very few people will feel comfortable purchasing a property without stepping foot in it.

Instead, virtual viewings should streamline the process. If a potential buyer views a house online and then loses interest, it is likely they would do so at a later stage anyway. However, if a potential buyer has a virtual viewing, and then decides to see the house in person, there is higher chance of them buying the property. Less physical viewings, but a higher conversion rate.

There are three ways for prospective buyers to view a property online: virtual viewings, video tours and virtual walk-throughs.

The most popular method is a virtual viewing. Using a smartphone or tablet and connecting via a popular video conferencing app like WhatsApp, Facetime or Zoom – sellers show buyers around their home, sometimes with the help of an agent who is also on the call.

A video tour creates a cutting-edge video – photo and videos are put together to create a 360-degree experience, letting the prospective buyer see every angle and take a virtual walk through.

For a truly immersive experience, the virtual walkthrough is the true winner. Viewers can view the property at their own leisure - anytime, anywhere – on an interactive 360 walkthrough. Estate agents use high-definition virtual 3D imaging cameras, creating an interactive digital twin and a floorplan that buyers can explore in their own time. With accurate floor plans, high quality photography and measuring tools – the property is opened to more people, including overseas buyers.

There is no doubt that an improved marketing asset like virtual viewing technology will generate increased interest, help push engagement and ultimately result in more sales. Where they can really add value is in the efficiency they offer – helping to weed out the time wasters and reduce the time spent arranging physical viewings. More time to finalise sales for the agent, less disturbance to the vendors.

With more house buyers seeking availability of virtual tours as part of their property search, the future of virtual viewings seems assured. With even more technology on the horizon, the future looks not secure, but exciting. From “virtual staging” where prospective buyers can select and place virtual furniture, fixtures and fittings, to virtual reality headsets showcasing the views that they can expect to see – there is no doubt that virtual viewings are a great way to start the property journey.

Apex creates intuitive and engaging software solutions that help people work more effectively. We help property professionals across the globe save time, cost and increase productivity. To find out how we can help you with your virtual viewings, call us on 0203 875 4468.