How the VR Experiences Works in Real Estate

The implications of COVID-19 has resulted in a real estate industry that is rapidly adopting various proptech tools to facilitate a more user friendly experience. Virtual reality has transformed the real estate industry, by providing affordable and efficient property tour experiences without requiring in-person inspections. Additionally, virtual reality has revolutionised off the plan development sales allowing virtual interior tours to be shared with interested buyers before  new projects are even completed. One of the main selling points of VR tours is its convenience and affordability, requiring a few simple steps that result in an accurate, customisable, depiction of any property. 

The VR Process

The VR  process involves transforming 2D floor plans and images into realistic, interactive, 3D renders. By working closely with the architects, interior designers and/or project developers, the VR team  creates a digital representation of the property, including an accurate depiction of the size and orientation of the building, exact finishes and colours,  and furniture/decor for home staging purposes. 

Step 1: Files, Materials and Documentation

A series of required materials and documentation form the basis of virtual reality renders as they provide the VR team with an overview and basic understanding of the property. These materials help to communicate the overall layout, the size of each area, the finishes throughout the home, colours  and  location of furniture pieces that will be installed. As a result,  render’s  are as accurate and realistic as possible.

The materials that are required may include:

• CAD Files: Computer Aided Design (CAD) files are computer generated models that enable designers to view objects and surroundings from a variety of angles, and to stimulate them in real-world conditions. 
• Floor Plans: Floor plans and floor plates assist  in developing and understanding the structure of the project, the sizing of, and location of each area/room, and where large objects are to be placed. Floor plans should include accurate dimensions of the overall property, as well as each room and  major inclusions.
• Schedule of Finishes: A schedule of finishes should outline the material types,   colours, sizing, placement and design of specific objects that will be included throughout the interior and exterior of the building. 

Various additional files which may  be required include:

• CGIs or 2D Renders: Computer generated images (CGIs) are software generated 2D images, which help the VR team visualise how the final product should look  ensuring  the 3D render is as similar as possible. The CGIs will generally include the colour, location and size of all decorations that are included throughout the entire property.  
• 360 Degree Panoramic Exterior Photos: Professional grade panoramic exterior photos, usually taken with drones at each level of the building, allow for the exterior surroundings of the property to also be included in the VR render. Such material will be incorporated into windows, doors and balconies to create a realistic depiction of the exterior and surroundings of the property.
• Reference Photos: Pictures of similar designs, finishes, and furniture items will help the design and production team gain a better understanding of how the final product will look, further ensuring accuracy in the virtual depiction of the home.

For a more detailed description of the materials, files and documentation that is required, read our blog posts on the essential materials and the optional materials that may be utilised in creating virtual reality property renders.

Step 2: The VR Design and Production Team Create the Renders

After the materials are provided, the VR team will then base their digital 3D renders on the design and reference files that have been provided. The timeframe required for each render will depend on the size of the project and the level of detail that is to be included. On average, renders will require approximately 3 weeks for a draft to be completed.

Step 3: Review, Adjust and Finalise the VR Render

A major benefit of virtual reality tours is the ability to customise and edit the renders in an affordable and efficient manner. This means that features such as the finishes, colours and decor can be adjusted to accurately reflect the end product. Once the design is finalised, the production team will then share the render digitally.

Step 4: Digitally Showcase Properties to Buyers

Once the virtual reality renders are completed, virtual tours can be instantly provided to interested buyers via a sharable link Potential buyers are then able to digitally walk through, and interact with the property from any location and at any time, thus creating a more flexible and convenient property buying experience and a greater digital marketing reach. 

DragonVR

Virtual reality property walkthroughs are a simple, yet effective, tool that has revolutionised the real estate industry. At DragonVR, not only do we prioritise affordable and efficient renders with fast turnaround times, but we have a dedicated team that works closely with clients to ensure accuracy and customisation.. Contact the team today to get a quote and learn more about how VR can improve the experience for both you and your customers!