From October 1st, national estate agency Strutt & Parker is offering free ‘Virtual Viewings’ to their first 1,000 newly listed clients in the UK.
Using the latest virtual reality technology, Virtual Viewings allow prospective homebuyers and tenants a new way to view properties where they are fully in control of a virtual 360° view of the whole property with the ability to walk from room to room. A fully immersive 3D walk-through experience is also available with the use of a 3D headset.
Guy Robinson, Head of Estate Agency at Strutt & Parker, says: “We want to offer our clients the very best possible service, harnessing all that technology has to offer. Virtual Viewings puts the needs of our clients, buyers and tenants first, in a world where so many people are time poor.”
Although VR has been used in the property industry for some time now, Strutt & Parker are the first estate agents to offer it as part of their set marketing package. Imported from America, Matterport cameras offer cutting edge technology that are a huge leap forwards from grainier attempts at 3D modelling of previous years, providing one of the most accurate digital representations.
The multiple sensors scan each room’s spatial depth and distance to construct a 3D model where each nominated room can be walked through with 360 degree orientation. Using the 3D ‘dolls house’ view, users are able to smoothly navigate through the home, gliding past each room in crystal clear definition; entering and exiting rooms, going up and down stairs, even exploring outdoor spaces such as terraces and gardens. This can be viewed on any digital device as well as through 3D headsets for an even more immersive experience.
Simon Roberts, Head of Strutt & Parker's Gerrard Cross office, says. “Our own statistics show that it can take up to 25 viewings per property to sell a home, not including the time it takes to present a home for a visit. A Virtual Viewing is produced just once at the outset and thus creating an online ‘viewing ready’ property 24/7, 365 days a year. It means that those buyers who are not sure about booking a viewing in person, or simply just don’t have the time, can explore a home at their own convenience online, therefore being able to make a much more informed decision about what to do next. It also means less disruption for the seller, with the potential to filter out less committed viewings.”
“Ultimately, the Matterport service is all about making the home buying process as easy and efficient as possible. Moving house can be very stressful, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve our service. Gerrards Cross is a thriving and fast paced market - I understand first-hand how important it is to be available and flexible to meet the needs of buyers and homeowners.”
If you are considering selling your property, and you would like a bespoke service with an experienced agent, please do get in touch.
Strutt & Parker is selling 82 Kings Road, the first house to be offered a free Virtual Viewing as part of the marketing plan.