by Brandon M. Scott
The digital age has transformed numerous industries, and real estate is no exception. Over the past few years, the real estate landscape has undergone a significant metamorphosis, with technology playing a pivotal role. The recent pandemic only accelerated this shift, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of property buying, selling and research.
Virtual Reality: The New Open House
The sun is beginning to set on weekends being reserved for open house visits, with potential buyers making a list of properties and checking it twice. Today, with just a click, one can embark on a virtual tour, exploring every nook and most of the crannies of a property from the comfort of their couch. These virtual tours, complemented by drones, property tours, and social media videos of every type capturing every perspective of the property by swiping a finger.
Virtual Staging: Envisioning a Home
Virtual reality extends to staging as well and has mixed support. It allows sellers to digitally furnish and decorate a property, helping potential buyers visualize the space better. This not only saves time and resources but also offers a customizable experience for the buyer. However, many buyers also need to see and experience the furniture in the property to envision themselves in it. Plus, virtual staging is new technology and as it advances so will the seamless application of it in photography.
The Rise of Online Real Estate Platforms
Companies like Zillow have been at the forefront of this digital revolution. Thanks to the National Association of Realtors, Zillow provides a plethora of information, from property listings to neighborhood insights, these platforms have made the home buying process more transparent and accessible, in part. The convenience of browsing properties, comparing prices, and even securing mortgages online has empowered buyers like never before. Yet aspects of the overall process and nuances of the transaction can be missed, so work with local professionals as you navigate your real estate transaction.
The New Normal or Just the Beginning?
While the pandemic might have been a catalyst, the shift towards digital platforms in real estate was inevitable. As technology continues to evolve, we can only anticipate more innovations that will further simplify and enhance the property buying experience. As we navigate this new digital era, one thing is clear: the future of real estate is here, and it’s online.
Brandon Scott is a licensed real estate agent in Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia. His license hangs with Keller Williams Capital Properties, DC. He’s been involved in the mortgage finance industry for the last 22 years in various fields. You can reach him by email at [email protected]. Subscribe to his YouTube Channel at RealTeaDMV