Book a Property Valuation
logo

How Virtual Reality is changing the property sector

Posted on: Wednesday, July 10, 2019

In today’s fast-moving technological age, new developments in tech are constantly being introduced that are having a significant impact on the property sector. The most recent is the introduction of virtual tours and virtual reality (VR). While VR is by no means a new concept, rapid advancement in augmented reality technology has meant that it is now at the point of having an impact on consumers’ day-to-day lives. 

What differentiates virtual reality from augmented reality?  

Augmented reality provides an additional layer of 3D content to the user’s actual surroundings, while VR fully submerges the user into a created environment and virtual world. By wearing a headset, the user is transported to another place offering them a 360-degree view of their simulated surroundings. 

According to statistics, around 95% of home buyers use the internet as their initial search method when looking for a property, with approximately half of buyers purchasing a home that they found online. The integration of VR is adding to the experience and making it far easier. 

What are the benefits of virtual reality?

The applications of VR within the property sector are limitless and it offers benefits to both estate agents and their clients. With most people viewing between five and seven homes before they make an offer, VR can save a lot of time and money. 

It will also make it far easier to look for homes in other parts of the country or abroad without the need to travel. Buyers can virtually tour multiple properties from the comfort of their own home in a matter of minutes. The process will allow potential buyers to check through several properties and quickly narrow down the field to a few choice homes that they would like to take a second look at in person.  

VR can also be an excellent tool for new build developments when the property has not yet been built. A virtual tour will turn imagination into reality, offering the potential buyer a look into what the home will look like once it is finished. Buyers will be able to view an off-plan property, make comments or suggestions and get an idea of the space and how it works before ground has been broken. 

Although the majority of people have heard of VR, not everyone has had the privilege of actually experiencing it first-hand. While the technology is in place, it will still be a while before we see everyone searching for a property this way. However, that said, it is becoming more mainstream and accessible and there are already elements of VR that are already being used by the general public, such as Google Street View, which allows the user to visit city and suburb streets that they have never actually set foot on. VR headsets are also becoming far more commonplace in many households.

What can we expect from virtual reality in the future? 

Technology commentators say that in the near future we will see the introduction of haptic or kinaesthetic communication to VR. Using forces and sensations, the technology will replicate the sense of touch and allow users to see their hands in the virtual world. The user will be able to open doors and cupboards, interacting with their virtual surroundings when viewing a property.  

Further developments are also being made to introduce the other senses into the VR world as well,  such as smell and taste. During a VR viewing, the buyer will be able to smell the freshly brewed coffee or baking cookies, which will have a subconscious effect on their opinion of the property. These aspects could be used to simulate the same emotional response in buyers, as they would if used in home staging during a viewing in person. 

However, even with the advancement in technology and possible application, it remains to be seen whether the virtual world will ever truly rival the actual experience of shopping for a home in person. 

Search for a property online today!

If you are looking for a new property, let us help you.

Head over to our website to start your property search today or view our property valuation tools!

What Our
Clients Say

"

I would highly recommend Hardings. Their knowledge of the local area is outstanding, and they give honest and reliable advice. They have always been my partner of choice when buying and selling.

Rhiannon Prothero

"

Have used Hardings for many year on both personal and commercial property deals. Have always found them to be transparent, honest, authentic, and a pleasure to work with. Will continue to use in the future.

TB

"

I would highly recommend Hardings Estate Agents. They have excellent knowledge of Windsor and the surrounding areas, and are extremely professional, responsive and courteous. I would not hesitate to using them again the future. I recently dealt with Milica who was instrumental in securing us our new home in Windsor as well as the sale of our existing property. She was a fab negotiator and a real pleasure to work with from beginning to end. Thank you!

Jonathon Beresford

"

Hardings of Windsor managed our purchase with complete professionalism and went over and above in my opinion to manage the transaction and chain, resulting in a really smooth purchase. Milica at Hardings constantly provided timely updates and managed respective solicitors and the chain effectively, always responding quickly to queries. The whole transaction would not have happened without Milicas' focus on making all parties comfortable and satisfying all queries, not only professional but a delightful and welcoming personal approach that was a constant throughout. Thanks Hardings! Thanks Milica!

Stuart Blatch

"

I would recommend using Hardings estate agents when buying or selling your property. Dominic (Scully) was always available, helpful and genuinely interested in my purchase and always calm and compassionate. If I ever move again my first choice will be Hardings.

Cath Powell

"

Dom and the team at Hardings were so helpful and efficient when I purchased my flat - friendly and professional service and kept us up-to-date the whole way through the process. It was my first time buying and so was very nervous but they helped me feel at ease.

Freppell

"

We bought and sold through Hardings and can't recommend their professional service enough. The whole Team are really lovely, we were kept informed throughout the process and never had to chase anything.

Natalie Quint

"

I used Hardings when I bought my property as well as when I sold it and the service has been fantastic both times. I very much recommend Hardings!

Therese Jouini

"

We recently purchased our new home with Hardings Estate Agents. The whole team there were very helpful and flexible with us, arranging viewings quickly on the same day. They were always quick to respond and if ever our point of contact was not there, the service did not change as they work well together as a team. We received a personalised service, which allowed the sale to proceed quickly. Thank you all and we recommend Hardings Estate Agents without hesitation.

Mike B

"

What a pleasure it was to deal with Milica from Hardings. She sourced the perfect property for me and my family (while we were still abroad) and worked endlessly to put the deal together. I would give more than 5 stars if at all possible!

C D

"

Fantastic customer service and made what could have been stressful a total breeze. Dominic and Louisa were brilliant in helping me and my parents buy and sell our houses - reliable, helpful and thoughtful. Thank you!

Eloise Harris

"

Thank you, Dominic and Louisa - having not moved for over 30 years you helped me all the way, step by step. You were always polite, communicative, reassuring and very supportive. Would recommend Hardings wholeheartedly.

Anna Bowen
How Much is Your Property Worth?

How Much is Your Property Worth?

A senior member of our sales team will visit your property to discuss current market trends and how your home; based on size, condition and location should be pitched to achieve the best possible price and buyer. Coupled with an excellent understanding of the local market we do a detailed analysis of what else has sold and what is coming onto the market so we can give you the best chance to capitalise on your biggest asset.

Book a Valuation