During the current coronavirus lockdown restrictions virtual property viewings are increasingly helping movers find their perfect home. The housing market remains open and essential in person viewings are permitted but they should be done virtually wherever possible.
Buyers and renters can take a peek behind a property's front door from the comfort of their Phone, Tablet or Laptop. A virtual viewing can be in the form of an interactive 3D tour, a pre-recorded video or a live walk- through conducted by the agent if the property is empty or the vendor is happy for them to do so. At Dinsdales we have been doing live walk through conducted by us and property video tours that are pre made to send via email.
Video Viewings
Even though you're not physically in the room, there are lots of ways you can gauge a property's condition from a video viewing. Take note of different aspects of the property including:
- The age of the Kitchen and Bathroom
- Visible cracks in the walls or ceiling, and signs of damp
- If the property has been recently painted
- Whether there is storage space, especially in the Kitchen and Bedrooms
- The view from the windows
- Condition of the windows and whether they are single or double-glazed.
Aerial views can be helpful as it can give you an idea of the properties surroundings.
Property Tour
If after watching the property tour you're still interested, you could follow up with the estate agent and ask for a livestream guided tour. These can be arranged through software such as WhatsApp, FaceTime or Skype for example. When having a live video tour, make sure you take advantage and ask questions like you would in person. You may ask questions like what the local amenities and neighbourhood is like.
Extra Research
Before making an offer take a look online. This will help you make an educated offer that the vendor may consider. The location always factors into the price of a property, make sure you know this before offering an amount that won't get considered.
Lets Compare
How do virtual viewings compare to in-person viewings?
Virtual viewings don't put you at risk, so in-person viewing should only be carried out when necessary. Property- seekers should follow government guidelines too, at any physical viewing social distancing and mask wearing need to be followed. Some people would argue you don't get the same feel in a virtual viewing as you do in-person however others say they're both as effective.
