10 Creative Uses for 360 Photography in Real Estate

360 photography is transforming the real estate industry by offering immersive experiences that attract potential buyers and renters. In this blog, we'll explore some creative ways you can use 360 photography to make your real estate properties stand out.

1. Virtual Property Tours

Offer potential buyers and renters the ability to explore a property from the comfort of their own home. Virtual tours make it easier for people to get a feel for a place, helping them decide if it's the right fit for them.

With 360 virtual tours, prospective buyers can take their time and view a property at their convenience. This is especially beneficial for buyers with busy schedules or those who live far away. They can walk through the property room by room, experience the flow, and get a sense of the space without the need for an immediate physical visit.

Using advanced software like Matterport or 3D Vista, real estate agents can create stunning virtual tours that add significant value to their listings. These tools allow for seamless tours that include interactive elements, such as information tags and measurement tools, making the viewing experience even more engaging and informative.

2. Showcasing Neighborhoods

Highlight the property's surroundings, such as parks, schools, and shops. A 360-degree view of the neighborhood can provide insight into the local community and lifestyle.

Many buyers consider the neighborhood just as important as the property itself. By including 360 views of nearby amenities, local attractions, and community features, you can offer a more comprehensive picture of what daily life would be like in the area. Prospective buyers can visualize themselves in the community, leading to a more informed decision-making process.

Taking advantage of tools like the 360 Aerial Services can elevate the presentation of the surrounding areas. These aerial views not only display the property's location but also its proximity to key landmarks, enhancing its appeal to potential buyers.

3. Capturing Interior Details

Use 360 photography to emphasize unique interior features like custom-built cabinetry, intricate moldings, and spacious layouts. This immersive experience allows prospective buyers to appreciate the finer details of a home.

By highlighting special elements such as high-end appliances, luxurious bathroom fixtures, and bespoke design touches, 360 photography can effectively showcase the quality and characteristics that set a property apart. The ability to zoom in on these details can make a significant difference in a buyer's perception of the property’s value.

For example, the Ricoh Theta V camera allows for high-definition 360 photos that capture every nook and cranny, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed. Incorporate these visuals into your virtual tours to give buyers a complete, detailed view of the property's interior.

4. Open House Alternatives

In times when in-person open houses aren't feasible, 360 virtual open houses can offer a convenient and safe alternative. This allows buyers to tour properties at their own pace and revisit any rooms they like.

Open house events can sometimes be overwhelming, with multiple visitors vying for the agent’s attention. Virtual tours eliminate this issue by allowing potential buyers to explore the property without the pressure of a timed visit. This can result in a more thorough and relaxed viewing experience.

Implementing live virtual tours, where an agent guides the buyer through the property via video call, adds a personal touch to the remote viewing experience. This interactive method allows clients to ask questions and request specific views in real-time.

5. Highlighting Property Upgrades

Showcase new renovations and upgrades with 360 photography. This can include updated kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor spaces, giving buyers a full view of the latest improvements.

For sellers who have invested in substantial upgrades, 360 photography is an excellent way to highlight these enhancements in full detail. Buyers can see the craftsmanship and quality of materials used, which might not be as evident in traditional still photographs.

By incorporating before-and-after images alongside the 360 views, you can illustrate the extent and impact of the renovations, thereby justifying any increase in asking price. This approach provides transparency and builds trust with potential buyers.

6. Attracting International Buyers

360 photography allows international buyers to explore properties without the need to travel. This can broaden your market reach and attract buyers from across the globe.

As the real estate market becomes increasingly global, being able to offer virtual tours to international investors is a vital tool. Buyers from different countries can inspect properties thoroughly, making the purchase process more appealing and straightforward.

Platforms like Roundme allow international clients to experience properties in full 360 formats, removing geographical barriers and opening up new markets for real estate professionals.

7. Enhancing Marketing Materials

Incorporate 360 images into your marketing materials, including websites, social media, and brochures. This can make your listings more visually appealing and interactive.

With social media playing a crucial role in real estate marketing, integrating 360 photography can significantly boost engagement levels. Interactive 360 photos on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram can attract more views and shares, increasing your properties' exposure.

Creating interactive brochures or video tutorials with embedded 360 views can also provide a unique experience to potential buyers and clients, making your real estate marketing stand out from the competition.

8. Documenting Construction Progress

Use 360 photography to document and showcase the progress of new construction projects. This can provide buyers with an ongoing look at the building's development stages.

Regularly updating clients with 360 views of a construction’s progress can keep investors engaged and assured. They can see the advancements from foundation to finishing touches, maintaining transparency throughout the project's timeline.

Incorporate these updates into your project websites or development blogs, providing a visual timeline that potential buyers and stakeholders can follow. This often leads to higher trust and increased interest in pre-sale opportunities.

9. Rental Property Promotions

For rental properties, 360 photography can give potential tenants an accurate view of the space. This can help them decide if the property meets their needs before scheduling a visit.

Accurate VR views can be particularly useful for rental properties, as they can quickly filter out unsuitable matches. Renters can scrutinize every aspect of the property, reducing the chances of no-shows and saving time for both parties.

Virtual walkthroughs of rental properties facilitate a more informed decision-making process for tenants. It allows them to envision living within the space, understanding the layout, and considering the functionality of different areas.

10. Creating Engaging Social Media Content

Share 360 photos and virtual tours on social media platforms to engage your audience. Interactive content is more likely to capture attention and encourage sharing, boosting your property's visibility.

Social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook are the perfect venues for showcasing 360 virtual tours. Interactive posts generate more engagement than traditional images or videos, leading to increased exposure and interest.

Host live virtual tours or Q&A sessions on sites like Facebook Live to interact with potential buyers and provide real-time responses to their queries. This can help create a stronger connection and build trust with your audience.