The future is virtual

Whilst it may not be possible to visit your dream home in person, a virtual viewing brings it to you. Before virtual viewings we traditionally bought homes within a 20 minute viewing where on reflection we actually only remember a small part of a property’s detail.

Now you will be able to take a viewing multiple times at your leisure, and zig zag back and forth, to provide yourself with the assurance that a home is right for you.

We are not saying that you won’t need or want to view physically, we are just saying that it is an alternative option. It is also a reality… with us having sold on the back of a virtual viewing.

How do virtual viewings work?

The types of virtual viewing available vary massively.

Some have used 3D cameras that enable house-hunters to take a self-guided tour around a property using their mouse to do everything from standing at the kitchen sink and looking out of the window, to measuring the size of wardrobes in the bedroom. With the next step being the loading of the 3D images into an application such as Matterport to showcase clients homes.

In other cases, some agents have taken their own videos as they walk around a property themselves.

Some agents are also offering virtual appointments during which they talk potential buyers through a virtual viewing as they would if they were at the property in person.

The Matterport 360 virtual tour

Customers are able to walk through a 360 model at leisure too. Clicking on tags in order to see their specifications, for example: the oven, hob, a pressurised hot water system, underfloor heating, marble tiling etc

The types of virtual viewing available vary massively.

Some have used 3D cameras that enable house-hunters to take a self-guided tour around a property using their mouse to do everything from standing at the kitchen sink and looking out of the window, to measuring the size of wardrobes in the bedroom. With the next step being the loading of the 3D images into an application such as Matterport to showcase clients homes.

In other cases, some agents have taken their own videos as they walk around a property themselves.

Some agents are also offering virtual appointments during which they talk potential buyers through a virtual viewing as they would if they were at the property in person.

Each option has its merits and after detailed research Wardsmith & Co. are embracing Matterport virtual tours for future virtual viewings.

Our view at Wardsmith & Co.

As an online agency we understand the importance of presentation, and have been offering clients Matterport viewings before lockdown as an add on, the difference now is that it is now part of our standard package. So everyone will get to benefit.

For years customers have bought products online via promotional videos, and now that format is going to become the norm in property. Online viewings afford convenience and flexibility too.

A video tour flows naturally, just as if you were walking around in person. You can see the exact layout and how the property flows too.

How can I prepare my home for a virtual tour?

Our recommendation is to prepare your home as you would for a physical viewing. We would also recommend de-cluttering as much as possible, removing valuables and personal photos you would prefer not to on display.

Click here to download our Home Staging check list.

3D images capturing takes about 1 hour, depending on the size of the property, and it is best done on a day with good light, as how much light a property gets is one of the key things potential buyers look for.

Any eye-catching features, such as an antique fireplace or ornate banisters or kitchen appliances etc will also be showcased in your tour via tags.