Utilise video content and stop muting your business potential
Virtual viewings became a necessity during the height of the coronavirus pandemic. With in-person viewings banned, estate agencies had to utilise video technology and streaming to provide potential renters and home buyers with the next best thing.
But are virtual viewings really the next best thing – or could they be the very best thing? Read on as we debate a future for virtual viewing and utilising video content as an estate agency beyond the pandemic.
The ways to provide virtual viewings
If you asked a handful of estate agencies how they provided virtual viewings during the pandemic, you’d probably receive a handful of different answers.
As these types of viewings were predominantly rare before the pandemic, most businesses had not set up a preferred way to provide them.
Some options to provide virtual viewings are:
- Live viewings - an estate agent walks around the property using video streaming technology with the client
- Virtual tours – using existing imagery, a designer can create a virtual tour somewhat similar to what you find on Google Maps – or in our Google Street View integration service
- Video tours – pre-made professional video tours that have been edited and enhanced before being uploaded to the estate agency website
- VR or 3D tours – specialised cameras and software are used to create a more virtual experience that could include a virtual reality headset or 3D imagery
Save wasted time and money with more virtual viewings
There is an argument that estate agencies should continue to offer virtual tours to prospective renters and buyers.
By using one of the methods above, the business can save time and money on commuting to different locations to provide in-person viewings. This is still true if the estate agent uses a live viewing method because they could record the first viewing and re-use it.
Many clients may also prefer this method for the same reasons.
It should be used as an option rather than to oust in-person viewings because some clients will want to see the property in person, however virtual viewings may become a fantastic way to save time on unprofitable initial viewings, especially in the rental market.
Using virtual viewings within listings
Another option is to add virtual viewings and video content directly to property listings. If you add the video content within the listing directly, it will allow property seekers to access what they need without having to contact you first. Thus, you will only receive communications from hot leads that are more likely to buy or rent.
This could become an additional service you can provide (and maybe sell) to your landlords and sellers. If you already offer professional photography as a way to highlight a property’s benefits, then adding a virtual tour will be even more powerful.
Video content is renowned for being more stimulating than other forms of content. But it is also known to increase trust between consumers and a business. And building trust with those seeking, and selling, property is absolutely essential to get their business.
Boost SEO with video content
Another reason to keep using video content, and use more of it – if you need another – is that it can boost your Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) performance.
Google recognises that video content is consumed heavily and desirable to people using the internet, and thus, it “gives points” to websites that use it often. Therefore, by using video content in listings or other parts of your estate agency website, you are improving your chances of being seen and noticed by your market.
Professional video content from WEBPRO Estate
WEBPRO Estate recognises the importance of video content to estate agencies, especially in the form of virtual property tours. And that’s why we offer to create professional videos for your website that get results.
Our videographers are highly experienced – and just a call away. Contact our team to discuss your video content needs.
Recap: Virtual tours are not just for the pandemic. Estate agencies should continue to utilise virtual tours and video content to save on business processes and enhance their website’s performance. They have the power to build consumer trust and increase search engine rankings.
P.S. WEBPRO Estate can assist with your video content creation, including professional virtual property viewings. Speak with our team to find out how.
