With Covid-19 still having a significant impact on the world, the property sector, like all other sectors, has had to make changes to accommodate best practice. Whilst the UK housing market remains open, the popularity of virtual viewings, at least initially, has grown considerably.
Whilst a physical, in-person viewing is going to be necessary at some point, a virtual viewing can be very useful in the early stages and can save you a lot of wasted time. You might even uncover a hidden gem that might otherwise not have made the cut for a speculative in-person appointment to view.
Virtual viewings can take several different shapes.
There is the ‘live walkaround’ where an agent or homeowner literally walks around the home, videoing and talking as they go. This can be done easily on Zoom, What’s App, Skype or Messenger these days if you own a smartphone. The big advantage to the live viewing is that you can still ask questions whilst viewing and even ask for that extra door to be opened which on a pre-recorded viewing might not be possible.
The pre-recorded viewing might incorporate 3D video or stills, enabling you to take more time looking, in detail, at everything and anything. From a seller’s perspective, a pre-recorded or 3D viewing offers them the ability to really up the production values, improve the lighting and tidy-up the kids things, offering the property in its best light, literally. Some 3D viewings even have measuring tools which can help you decide if that wardrobe will fit in the second bedroom!
Aerial Shots & Video might be reserved for larger properties due to cost, but where they are offered, an aerial shot can be really useful for checking out the neighbourhood, local transport links and amenities. It also helps you check out the neighbour’s garden for old bicycles and unkempt lawns!
Remember to ask specific questions either during the live viewing or after your initial 3D inspection. Make notes so that you don’t forget. And remember, be specific. ‘How old is the kitchen?’ or ‘when was the boiler installed’? Require specific answers.
Finally, remember that whilst you are viewing virtually, you can always check out Google Maps and Google Earth and check similar house prices on any of the main online property websites like RightMove or Zoopla.
Recent posts
Decorating Tips for Selling Your Property
16 days ago
Selling up? It’s important to make your house as appealing as possible to potential buyers. Good decorating can help with first impressions, and increase the perceived value of your property.
20 Budget-Friendly Activities
25 Aug 2023
With the cost of living affecting so many of us, we have made a list of budget-friendly activities and ideas for you.
Moving and Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Move
21 Jul 2023
Moving soon? It's never too early to get organised! Be prepared and avoid unwanted stress by checking out our list of tips to get you ready for moving day.
What is the UK Inflation Rate?
27 Jun 2023
Inflation simply put, is the increase in the price of something over time. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) tracks the prices of hundreds of everyday items and these items are updated to reflect shopping trends.
Debt Consolidation into a Mortgage
20 Jun 2023
We are often asked if it's good advice to consolidate “unsecured” debt (credit cards and loans etc) into your mortgage, the answer is, sometimes.
Parking Rules Explained
16 Jun 2023
When you’re looking to buy a home, and you own a car, you ideally want to know the rules on parking in the area. Parking rules can be confusing, even for the most experienced of drivers! This is why we have written this blog to help you.
Sources of Deposit to Buy a Property
6 Jun 2023
There are several potential sources you can consider when it comes to getting together a deposit to buy a property. Providing proof of the source of your deposit is a key requirement in the application process and will need to be given to both the lender and the solicitor.
More information
Trusted by
