Why Virtual Property Viewings Are the Future of Renting: A Comparative Guide

The competition in property management has introduced new technologies, and one of the most important tools is virtual property viewings. More convenient, more flexible, and a far better alternative to just visiting the property, virtual viewings have quickly risen to become one of the most preferred methods for renting a flat. In this blog post, I’ll explain why virtual property viewings are the way forward for renting and take a look at some of the best platforms offering these services.

The Rise of Virtual Property Viewings

As property viewings go virtual, it’s important to understand why this is becoming the new normal. The shift to virtual platforms for different operations was significantly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which made physical touring of properties partially or completely unfeasible. Virtual property viewings emerged as essential, allowing tenants to view properties from the comfort of their homes.

A HomeViews report shows that virtual property tours are not just a passing trend but a lasting change in the industry. They benefit potential tenants by providing extensive information about properties without requiring physical travel. This is especially helpful in competitive areas where properties may be rented out quickly.

Benefits of Virtual Property Viewings

Convenience for All Parties

• Tenants can schedule multiple viewings in a short time frame without the need to coordinate with landlords or agents.
• Landlords can advertise their properties to a broader audience, including international clients, without needing to conduct numerous physical presentations.

Immersive Experience

• High-quality 3D tours, such as those offered by PropertyLoop, provide a more immersive experience than static images. Tenants can explore every corner of a property, gaining a better understanding of its layout.
• Platforms like Sun Seeker even allow tenants to see how sunlight interacts with the property at different times of the day, offering a unique perspective that’s hard to capture with traditional viewings.

Time and Cost Efficiency

• Virtual tours eliminate the need for multiple physical visits by tenants and repeated showings by landlords.
• Landlords can invest in a professional virtual tour once and use it repeatedly to market the property to numerous potential tenants, saving both time and money.

Comparing Virtual Viewing Platforms

1. PropertyLoop vs. OpenRent

• OpenRent provides basic viewing options, but PropertyLoop steps up with photorealistic 3D tours. While OpenRent enables standard arrangements for viewing properties, PropertyLoop offers a fully immersive experience that allows tenants to see every corner of the property. This is particularly beneficial in competitive rental markets where decisions need to be made quickly.

2. Home Made and Tepilo

• Other platforms like Home Made and Tepilo also offer virtual viewing options. Home Made operates primarily in the mid to high-end rental market and provides fast and efficient online previews popular among working professionals. Tepilo, known for its modern estate agency services, also offers virtual viewing facilities, catering to technologically inclined renters.

Enhancing Tenant Experience with Virtual Viewings

Virtual property viewings don’t just offer convenience; they significantly enhance the tenant experience. Tenants can revisit properties multiple times without needing repeated physical visits, which is especially valuable for those relocating from another town or country.

According to a PropertyLoop study, 95% of renting consumers are more likely to interact with a listing that includes a 3D tour. This engagement leads to faster rental turnovers and more satisfied tenants.

Why Landlords Should Consider Virtual Viewings

For landlords, the benefits of virtual viewings extend beyond just attracting tenants. Virtual tours can:

• Increase Property Exposure: By showcasing properties online, landlords can reach a global audience, including international tenants who may not be able to visit in person.
• Reduce Vacancy Periods: Properties that are easy to view and explore virtually tend to attract tenants faster, reducing the time a property sits vacant.
• Enhance Property Marketing: A well-made virtual tour can be a powerful marketing tool, helping properties stand out in a crowded market.

Conclusion

Virtual property viewings are revolutionizing the rental market, offering unparalleled convenience and efficiency for both landlords and tenants. As more platforms adopt this technology, it’s clear that virtual viewings are not just a trend but the future of renting.

At Tenant Link, we’re committed to staying ahead of industry trends and providing our clients with the best tools available. Whether you’re a landlord looking to showcase your property or a tenant searching for your next home, virtual viewings are a service worth considering. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in your property management journey