Augmented & Virtual Reality: the Future of Real Estate?

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have become highly sought-after technologies across many industries, and real estate is no exception. As social distancing remains important, these tools help minimize close contact, making home buying safer and more convenient. Discover how realtors are using AR and VR to enhance their clients’ experience.

Virtual Reality vs. Augmented Reality

Understanding the difference is key. Virtual reality fully immerses users in a virtual environment using headsets like Oculus Quest, cutting off the outside world. Augmented reality overlays virtual objects onto the real world, commonly via smartphones or AR headsets like Microsoft Hololens. In real estate, VR offers fully immersive property tours, while AR helps buyers visualize home exteriors, interior design, and renovations in their actual space.

Furniture, Style, & Design

IKEA pioneered AR furniture apps that let users place virtual furniture in their rooms before buying, improving realism with light and shadow effects. This surpasses 2D image placement apps by helping users better imagine furniture in their homes. Realtors can also use AR to help buyers envision changes to poorly designed interiors by virtually changing wall colors, removing outdated wallpaper, or adding artwork to make a space feel like their own.

View Exteriors in 3D

Visualizing the exact style and layout of a home remotely is challenging. AR and VR allow buyers to explore 3D models of properties and floor plans, even experimenting with potential renovations—all without being physically present.

How Does This Change Real Estate?

Reduce In-Person Showings

Buyers often request many showings before deciding. AR enables them to virtually explore homes first, ensuring only truly interesting properties require physical visits. This improves realtor efficiency and buyer decision-making.

Show More Properties in Less Time

AR and VR allow realtors to serve more clients without visiting every property in person. Clients can view multiple homes remotely, saving time on travel and increasing productivity.

Enable International and Cross-Country Showings

Realtors can showcase homes to out-of-state or international buyers through virtual tours, cutting travel costs and time for everyone. Some buyers may even skip in-person visits altogether.

Stay Ahead of Competition

As AR and VR become standard, adopting these technologies now helps realtors stand out. Offering safe, fast, and engaging property views keeps clients happy and gives you a competitive edge.

Engage Clients and Allow Them to Customize Their Visits

Let clients personalize their virtual home tours by selecting furniture layouts and adding interactive elements. This helps them emotionally connect with the space and envision their future life there.