Choosing Your Equipment
Selecting the right 360-degree camera and platform can elevate your virtual tour game. Tools like Matterport or Ricoh transform physical spaces into immersive virtual experiences, streamlining the home-buying process.
The Ricoh Theta V is a solid choice, offering quick and efficient capture at an affordable price between $250 and $500. It can shoot a 2,000-square-foot house in under ten minutes.
Matterport, priced around $250 to $400, scans entire rooms and creates 3D dollhouse-like floor plans. It's slower to upload but provides detailed views where viewers can navigate through the home like a video game.
Hosting Platforms
- Ricoh360 Tours
- Immoviewer
- Matterport's own platform
Immoviewer offers near-instant uploads, while Matterport takes 24-48 hours to process.
Shooting Tips:
- Start with exterior shots from across the street and in the yard.
- Inside, place your camera mid-room at eye height.
- Ensure all lights are on and blinds are open.
- For larger rooms, take extra shots to capture the full space.
After uploading, many platforms auto-arrange photos for a smooth tour experience. Use editing tools to enhance images, add tags, and highlight features. Then, share your tour on MLS, social media, and through email campaigns to reach potential buyers.
Preparing the Property
Think of yourself as a top set designer, transforming a humble abode into a masterpiece that screams, "Buy me now!"
Decluttering
Channel your inner Marie Kondo and remove anything that doesn't "spark joy." The goal is a clean slate where potential buyers can project their future dreams.
Cleaning
- Polish every corner
- Wipe down surfaces
- Make carpets look brand new
- Clean windows are non-negotiable – they're the all-seeing eyes of your home
Lighting and Staging
Open blinds and turn on lights to show off the space in all its glory. Make sure every light works flawlessly, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Now it's time for staging. Punch up your space with chic, tastefully coordinated decor. Make beds with fresh linens, fluff pillows, and straighten all frames, lamps, and accessories. If your space has a standout feature – like a built-in bookcase or cozy fireplace – make sure it takes center stage.
Exterior Preparation
- Ensure lawns are manicured
- Remove cars from the driveway
- Hide trash cans from view
Buyers might fall in love at first click, but the first in-person look should seal the deal.
These careful steps ensure that your property isn't just another house on the list—it's the one buyers can't resist.
Conducting the Virtual Tour
With your property prepped, it's time to capture some virtual magic. Before starting, plot out your route.
Exterior Shots
- Capture the entire house from across the street
- Move closer for intimate shots of the front and back yards
Interior Photography
- Place your camera in the middle of each room at eye level
- Keep blinds either all up or all down
- Ensure windows are clean and lights are on
- For large rooms, take extra shots from different sides
Matterport users: Pay extra attention to corners and entryways, as the camera creates a 3D map. Set up carefully in hallways and doorways to ensure a seamless flow through the home.
Post-Shooting Process
- Upload to your chosen platform
- Review your tour
- Use editing tools for any necessary touchups
- Add tags and highlight key features
- Ensure optimal order of images
Remember, conducting a virtual tour isn't just about capturing a home; it's about creating a compelling story that makes buyers feel the magic of living there. With these steps, you're ready to showcase your property in its best light.
Publishing and Marketing the Tour
Now that your virtual tour is ready, it's time to get the word out. Think of this as rolling out the red carpet for your home's grand premiere.
Social Media Strategy
- Craft eye-catching posts for Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn
- Use high-quality photos and engaging captions
- Utilize Instagram Stories and Facebook Live for quick walkthroughs
Multiple Listing Services (MLS)
Add your tour to MLS, pairing high-quality images with vivid descriptions. Use keywords like "immaculate," "turnkey," "spacious," and "modern" to attract potential buyers.
Email Campaigns
- Create campaigns with virtual tour links
- Use compelling subject lines and engaging content
- Include GIFs or short video teasers to pique interest
LinkedIn Strategy
Share your virtual tour on your business profile and in relevant groups. Write a post detailing the home's unique aspects and why it's a fantastic investment.
Text Message Marketing
Send out links to the virtual tour with short, enticing messages.
Open House Integration
If planning an open house, combine it with your virtual tour. Send exclusive invites with the tour link so potential buyers come prepared with questions.
Influencer Partnerships
Consider partnering with local influencers or real estate blogs to amplify your reach. An endorsement from a trusted voice can introduce your property to new audiences.
By leveraging these various channels, you're not just posting links – you're building excitement and buzz around your property. With this comprehensive approach, your virtual tour is set to shine and attract potential buyers.
- National Association of REALTORS®. 2022 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report. 2022.
- Troncoso I, Zhang M. The Impact of Virtual Tours on Home Sales: Evidence from a Natural Experiment. Harvard Business School Working Paper. 2022.
- Frank A. The Impact of 3D Tours on Real Estate Transactions. Matterport Research Report. 2020.
- Turner J. The Evolution of Virtual Tours in Real Estate. Second Century Ventures White Paper. 2021.