Zillow is making it possible for home sellers and real estate agents to create virtual home tours for free.
3D Home uses artificial intelligence (AI) to power the process, which has been tested in a select number of markets since January 2018, with feedback that listings with 3D tours attracted more potential buyers, earning higher listing views and engagement than those without 3D media.
Using their iOS device, users will be able to capture 360-degree panoramic images of the home to display as a virtual tour and add it to any listing on Zillow in Canada and the US.
"Making 3D home tours available for sellers and agents to capture and add to any listing, for free, in the U.S. and Canada is a huge milestone in our work to make the real estate transaction a more seamless, on-demand experience for consumers," said Josh Weisberg, Zillow's Senior Director of Product Development, 3D and Computer Vision.
Fewer home visits
Zillow says the use of virtual tours means home buyers are able to cut down the number of home visits they make in person. And 3D Home gives sellers a new tool without the associated cost.
"Previously, 3D tours were only found on high-end or expensive homes, due to the high cost and time-intensive capture process. Now with 3D Home, adding an immersive experience to a home listing is fast, easy, and free, which benefits buyers and sellers at all price points," added Weisberg.
