Introduction
The popularity of virtual house viewing has increased over the last few years. It allows potential renters to see rental properties without being physically present and decide if they want to proceed. This method of viewing became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person viewings were restricted. Despite improving, the demand for virtual house viewing continues to rise. As a result, tenants now expect the option to view properties online before visiting in person. In some cases, tenants may even decide to rent a property based solely on the virtual house viewing without visiting it in person. This is especially common in densely populated and competitive areas where the rental market is particularly fierce.
About virtual house viewing
A virtual house viewing is when someone considering buying or investing in a property takes a virtual walk through the house with the assistance of the agent or seller using digital platforms like Zoom, Facetime, or other software.
Virtual house viewing offers a multitude of options for exploration. With the ability to experience a 360-degree tour of your property, conduct a drone survey of the exterior and surrounding areas, and even walk through a video or engage in an interactive virtual reality experience, it is suitable for properties of various sizes. This virtual journey has the potential to showcase the intricate aspects of the property as well as any possible disadvantages.
What is the purpose of utilizing virtual house viewing?
Our data reveals that selling a home typically requires 25 viewings. With a virtual house viewing, a property only needs to be prepared and recorded once, creating an online “viewing ready” property accessible every hour of the day, every day of the week, and every day of the year. As a result, this will eliminate unnecessary viewings that won’t lead to potential buyers and minimize the time needed to get ready for each viewing.
What is the process of virtual house viewing?
Virtual house viewing is a commonly used method for tenants to check out a property remotely using a desktop computer, laptop, or tablet. In theory, they could also use their mobile phone, but in reality, the small size of the screen makes this option less appealing.
Broadly speaking, online virtual house viewing can be divided into two types: pre-recorded walkthroughs and guides, and live virtual viewings.
Previews and online tours through the use of videos offer potential renters a more accurate understanding of the property. These videos contain edited walkthroughs of each room, showcasing the space, arrangement, and general atmosphere of the property, helping individuals decide if they want to rent or buy the unit. These videos are not live and can be watched at any time. Additionally, certain advanced virtual house tours allow viewers to explore the property in a 360° interactive scan, giving them the freedom to navigate as they please.
Virtual house viewing operates similarly to in-person viewings but from a distance. It provides prospective renters with a live walkthrough of every room. The viewing will be planned and conducted by either the letting agent or landlord, who will use conferencing technology like WhatsApp or Zoom to showcase each room via a smartphone or tablet. Multiple parties can participate in the call, which is advantageous if joint tenants are not physically together during the appointment. This option is especially appealing to tenants with inquiries about fixtures, location, or the rental process in general, as they can ask questions and receive immediate responses.
Did virtual house viewing exist before the lockdown?
Virtual house viewing has been available for several years, especially since smartphones and tablets became popular. It was gradually becoming more popular before the lockdown, but the number of virtual house tours increased significantly during the lockdown due to the necessity. Landlords, agents, and tenants have all come to appreciate the convenience of virtual house viewing. Some potential tenants may choose to book a virtual house viewing if they live far away and need to move promptly, while others may use it as a way to get a first look at the property before scheduling an in-person viewing.
What occurs if you discover a defect after you have moved in?
In case tenants discover a flaw that wasn’t noticeable when viewing the property online, they have the right to discuss the matter with their landlord. If the problem is significant and the landlord refuses to resolve it, it could give tenants valid reasons to pursue additional actions. This may include terminating the rental agreement before the agreed time or compelling the landlord to fix the issue.
The advantages of virtual house viewing
Virtual house viewing provides the opportunity for individuals to explore a house or apartment from any location as long as they have the necessary technology. This enables property owners and agents to conduct viewings with a broader audience, expanding the potential pool of interested renters.
For renters, virtual house viewing allows them to view multiple properties and effectively manage their house-hunting time, which can be especially crucial in a competitive market. These tours offer a secure and convenient method to schedule and conduct viewings with prospective tenants regardless of their location.
The drawbacks of virtual home viewing
There are certain restrictions when it comes to virtual house viewing, and numerous renters would rather see the property in real life instead of on the internet. The individual guiding the viewing might intentionally hide fewer desirable features of the property from being seen.
Renters may not believe they are receiving a thorough and accurate perception of the property. Additionally, there is a possibility of technological malfunctions, which could jeopardize the viewing process.
Some feedback for virtual house viewing
Virtual house viewing is a convenient way to see a property without having to travel.
Virtual house viewing can be a good way to get a general overview of a property before scheduling an in-person viewing.
Virtual house viewing can be helpful for people who are unable to physically visit a property, such as those who are overseas or have mobility issues.
Virtual house viewing cannot replace the experience of seeing a property in person.
It can be difficult to get a sense of the scale and layout of a property from a virtual house viewing.
It can be difficult to see the condition of a property’s finishes and fixtures in a virtual house viewing.
Conclusion
Overall, virtual house viewing can be a great way to get a general overview of a property without having to physically visit it. However, it is important to keep in mind that they are not a replacement for an in-person viewing. There are simply some things that you cannot see or feel in a virtual house tours that you can in person.
