How Technology Is Revolutionising the Way Property Viewings Are Conducted
Property managers are working in exciting times, with new technology-driven methods of conducting viewings emerging regularly. There are real benefits to embracing technology to significantly reduce the time and costs involved in finding potential tenants.
Here are the top technological trends that are beginning to take the real estate industry by storm and that will significantly reshape how viewings are conducted in the future.
Remote Viewings
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many industries (property management included) have had to rethink their day-to-day processes and lean on technology more than ever before. As a result, video and 3D virtual tours, which have become common in the last few years to substitute in-person viewings, now accompany photos in many online property advertisements. Using a desktop computer, tablet or smartphone, prospective tenants can have a bespoke viewing at their convenience.
Where will technology take us next?
VR technology has begun to revolutionise the industry. Using a VR headset paired with hand controllers, renters can “move” through the space as they would in person. With this technology, we envision open homes and property viewings becoming totally remote in the future - allowing for multiple viewings to occur simultaneously. This will, in turn, increase the amount of regular foot traffic and widen the pool of prospective tenants. Property managers will also benefit from a reduction in travel time, giving them more time to spend on other tasks!
Smart Lock Technology
The emergence of smart lock technology will also change the real estate landscape significantly. Controlled by owners and agents through an easy-to-use mobile app, smart locks offer more flexibility and security for everyone. In just a few simple clicks, users can lock and unlock properties, generate one-time access codes, control visitor timing, and keep a log of anyone coming in and out.
Forget the bulky lockbox dangling on the front door. With smart lock technology, individuals will be able to conduct discreet open homes whilst increasing the value of their home by adding a feature that is transferrable to whoever decides to call it home.
Automated Cleaning Systems
With a lot of foot traffic, on-site property viewings can bring in a steady stream of dirt and dust. While regular cleaning services will do the trick, a lot of agents are now considering investing in automated cleaning systems such as robot vacuums and mopping devices. With advanced scheduling features and accurate navigation systems, it’s a simple way to tidy up after a busy day.
Smart Home Systems
Lighting, thermostats, security cameras, alarm systems, and more, smart home systems can be programmed to anticipate and react to a homeowner or agent’s needs. Much like the trends discussed earlier, the digitisation and automation of smart systems will allow property managers to curate personalised experiences that cater to everyone’s needs, all whilst offering future owners and tenants the prospect of comfort, savings, and security.
Final Thoughts
Technology is changing the way we live, work, and manage our day-to-day tasks. Renting and buying property is becoming a lot more efficient, stress-free, and, in the case of attending and conducting property viewings, hands-off for everyone involved.
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Credit note: This article was originally written by Propertyscouts and published by MRI Software.