Virtual Property Viewing: 5 Useful Tips for Property Agents
Having difficulty reaching your sales quota? Here are 5 tips to help you conduct virtual property viewing like a pro!
Depending on where you are from, local government policies could affect how property agents conduct real estate showings. Some may allow a limited number of clients to visit the show unit, while others may implement strict lockdowns with no possibility of on-site viewings. Hence, real estate agents must adapt to the current changes and challenges amidst the ongoing global crisis.
Most real estate agents adapt to the situation by changing how they conduct their businesses. One of the most popular trends nowadays is using virtual viewings to meet the required sales quota. While virtual viewings are no longer new, conducting one requires digital tools and expertise. A virtual open house is a great solution for the current pandemic situation, especially for agents with clients who are abroad or are unable or uncomfortable visiting a physical showroom unit.
If you believe virtual viewings can be too costly or complicated, that is no longer the case with the technologies within our reach today. You might be surprised to learn how easy it is.
For agents who want to increase their sales revenue despite the community restrictions, virtual property viewing may be the answer. Here are 5 tips to successfully conduct virtual property viewings like a pro.
Maximize available tools
Most people think they must invest in expensive cameras and microphones to host an online meeting. The good news is you can now simply use your smartphone and a messaging app such as Zoom, Facebook Messenger, or WhatsApp to connect with your clients online.
If you want to be a bit more creative, you can even record or live stream the showroom online. Having a video of the property will help market and promote the listing better to your target clients. If you are a property agent, you may consider using Facebook, YouTube, or our new application, ViuLive. ViuLive is an innovative video solution that supports multi-dimensional live streaming. This unique feature will help capture multiple angles of your property when promoting them virtually. Click here to learn more about our live streaming app.
Practice or stick to a script
Before you start your virtual property viewing session, practice your sales script (or create one if you don’t have any). Although having a sales script is still a highly debated topic, it offers many benefits. A sales script can help you sound more confident, give you a place to start, help you remember important details and client pain points. It will make it easier to overcome price objections.
If you’re not yet ready to host a virtual viewing, you can practice with your colleagues, partners, friends, or family. Devise a script that will help you construct the flow of your future conversations with clients—what to do and how to explain them. Practicing with a “client” will not only help you feel more comfortable but also provide valuable feedback on how you can improve your presentation.
Even if you are already familiar with different technologies. You are an expert at hosting traditional viewings; combining these elements with a great presentation will help you drive successful conversions.
Prepare your clients before the actual viewing
One of the major challenges of virtual property viewings is the limited view that cameras can capture as compared to the human eye. A camera can’t capture every square meter available on the property. Therefore, it is important to provide images and information about the property for the client to study before the actual scheduled virtual meeting. They will have a better understanding of the property and identify the areas they would like to see more of.
A digital brochure or property photos should do the trick. Adding a short video tour will boost the property’s marketability. According to statistics, property listings with video promotions receive 403% more inquiries than listings without a video.
Your clients should be able to get a rough picture of the property. This will help them formulate their questions, which they can ask on the viewing day. It will also help you focus on what clients want to see more of rather than what you assume they might like.
Treat your virtual viewings like traditional viewings
Just because it’s conducted virtually online doesn’t mean you should treat it differently. Start your viewings as you would with a traditional one by arriving early and dressing appropriately. Most importantly, be yourself and present it as you always did in a physical meeting with clients. There is no need to change the way you present yourself just because the format has changed.
Explain the lifestyle and environmental aspects of the property
Real estate agents must explain the property’s lifestyle and environmental aspects to the clients. This can be a challenge since videos don’t always do a great job of conveying the vibe and ambiance of a property. This is where you need to come in and set the scene. Don’t just focus on the residence’s facts and figures, especially if it is intended to be used as the client’s vacation or second property. Seize the clients’ attention throughout the presentation by making them feel and understand why the property is special. Even though you communicate online through your phone or computer, always create an emotional connection between your client and the property.
Conclusion
With the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic, it remains uncertain as to when community restrictions will be fully lifted. But this does not have to stop you from promoting your properties and reaching that sales quota. Hosting a virtual property viewing online will boost your listing’s exposure and increase your lead conversion.
If you’re ready to host your virtual open house, here is a recap of the 5 tips that will help you conduct virtual property viewings like a pro:
- Maximize available tools
- Practice or stick to a script
- Prepare your clients before the actual viewing.
- Treat your virtual viewings like traditional viewings.
- Explain the property’s lifestyle and environmental aspects.
Do you have any other tips to add to our list? Share your virtual property viewing experiences with us in the comments section below!
FAQs
Why is social media marketing important for real estate agents?
It widens an agent’s reach beyond traditional cold calling and print ads, connecting them directly with property seekers who now research and house-hunt primarily online.
Which social media platform works best for real estate agents?
Facebook is among the most widely used platforms among agents, followed by LinkedIn, while Instagram’s photo and video features make it especially effective for showcasing property listings.
Can social media actually generate real estate leads?
Yes. Industry reporting has found social media to be a major source of high-quality leads for agents, typically trailing only referrals.
How does social media help agents build trust with clients?
Sharing day-to-day content, answering common buyer questions, and posting consistently helps agents build a personal connection and demonstrate local market expertise, which encourages trust.
Is social media marketing expensive for real estate agents?
No. Organic social media marketing requires little to no financial investment, making it one of the most cost-effective tools available to agents building their brand.
How can agents use social media to track competitors?
Following industry hashtags and monitoring competitors’ posts, engagement, and campaigns lets agents benchmark their own performance and refine their strategy.
Ready to grow your listings with social media?
List your properties on Ziba Property and pair your social media strategy with a platform built to connect you to serious buyers and renters searching Dubai’s property market today.
About the Author
Muhammad Amir is a real estate writer at Ziba Property, covering the Dubai property market. His work focuses on helping agents and buyers navigate industry trends, from digital marketing strategies to the local buying process. This piece draws on real estate industry reporting to help Dubai-based agents strengthen their social media presence and connect with today’s increasingly online property seekers.
