Foxtons has launched an in-branch virtual reality viewings service.
Currently being trialled in its Islington office, the technology was two years in development with digital agency UI Centric.
When rolled out across the network, potential buyers will be able to visit a Foxtons branch and virtually view a property without needing to go through the usual hassle of scheduling an actual viewing.
This is arguably not quite a first in the industry.
The process used by Foxtons works by the agent photographing the property in 3D.
When in-branch, consumers wear a set of 3D goggles that allow them to turn their head to explore a room.
Buttons on the side of the goggles help navigate from room to room.
There is also an option to take a tour of the communal facilities where applicable, as well as to explore an interactive floor plan highlighting the details of the apartment’s layout
Foxtons chief information officer Dan Rafferty said: “Whilst the need to physically visit a property will remain strong for the foreseeable future, VR can be the most convenient and cost-effective way to start or narrow down the property search for an individual, without compromising on the experience.
“We are now approaching a stage of extending this functionality to all of our offices, featuring all of our properties where possible, offering our customers the option to virtually view multiple properties over a coffee in one of our local offices.”
The Islington branch currently has a St George’s Fulham Reach development available for viewing.
A promotional video can be viewed here
Comments (4)
Distance selling regulations?
Great idea or is it? Seen something like it “work in progress” some years ago, works for the best showhouse, otherwise can be counterproductive. I have no doubt the IT guru’s will praise the idea but it has many failings which makes me wonder if the public are ready for it, not the idea but the reaction if its not a showhouse.
So you enter office, like the look of the property, view it in VR and then book an appt to view it in R. Or you see the property online, call the office, make an appt to come in and view it in VR? #pointless
Not sure I’d be willing to buy without the R check
Would be very handy for investors if it’s online
The one glaring issue is that if you use it as a lead to a viewing, buyers can be very disappointed if the feel and presentation isn’t “as was” on the VR. Try using it on a property that’s rough and ready! Even better next time you are taking any property on, photograph all four walls and then in isolation view each photo and ask yourself … does it look nice, is that going to drag customers in to view or reject. Should only be used as a tool to get a viewing. You would have to use it selectively and then the issue arises when the vendor of the grubby house ask why not for them.