Because of the ongoing worldwide pandemic, we have seen a lot of changes. We had to modify and adjust our way of life to avoid getting ill. One of the most challenging parts is having restrictions on almost everything we do. Nobody wanted the new limitations, but we all had to do it.
As a leasing agent, I know the restrictions took a toll on you and your business. There were several months of lockdown, and most people were not allowed outside. Your job requires you to meet with clients, and the pandemic prevented you from doing it. But since we all have a bit of resiliency, we found ways to adapt.
At present, everyone is slowly getting back to how things were before the pandemic. However, some people are still hesitant to go out. Some agents find it difficult to show vacant properties to potential tenants because they do not want to share a room with several people. To limit everyone’s exposure, agents turn to virtual open houses. If you haven’t tried it yet, I will give you some tips to ensure your successful virtual tours.
Invest in a good camera and lighting.
As much as possible, you would want your clients to see the beauty of your rentals. It is challenging to convey if you use a low-quality camera for your tours. Buying a good camera is a bit pricey, but it will pay off in the long run. You may also want additional lighting to make the images more attractive.
Promote early.
If you want to have a large group of audience, it is best to promote the open house ahead of time. You have to remember that most of your target clients have jobs, and they would need to arrange their schedules to participate. Fortunately, doing the promotional work is easy. You can use your social media accounts, send email blasts, or connect with other agents. I would suggest including a few teaser photos to pique their interest.
You can even incorporate your promotions when you post your property listings online. Sign up and join Padleads because the website allows you to advertise your vacancies and syndicate them to other pages. The fee is worth every penny.
Do more than one tour.
You have to make the most of your scheduled house tour. Why not do a virtual open house for all of your listings? Make it a day of touring potential clients and giving them options. The tenants will enjoy watching the different rentals available, and you get to promote your services. You have to include it in your posts so they will have something to look forward to that day.
Allocate enough time for the tour.
A virtual tour should take at least 10 minutes or more. Avoid rushing from room to room because the customers should see everything. You have to consider that they will rely on what they see on their screens.
Reuse your virtual tour recordings.
The good thing about virtual tours is you can save the videos. You can use it again for those clients who were not present during the live open house. If you have a Youtube channel, you can upload the videos online. It will help you with advertising your vacancies.
Prepare and supply all the details.
As you go along with the tour, give all the necessary details for your viewers. You can also offer them an overview of the rooms you will show in order. Start your open house outside and slowly lead them inside the property rental. Show them any upgrades done, closet spaces, or the view from the windows.
Before you move on to another room, give the viewers a chance to ask a few questions. Aside from the property, you can add some information about the neighborhood, such as nearby establishments that they may find interesting.
Once you use these helpful tips, your virtual open house tours will become a success. At all times, adapt and elevate how you do your job because it will ensure rewards.