The world has evolved rapidly through digitization. Man’s constant need to make day-to-day operations easier and faster has catalyzed the advancement of digital technology. While other sectors were quick to implement these digital technology advancements, the real estate industry was a little late on this train.
The COVID-19 pandemic era was a wake-up call for the need to adopt more digital methods of operations. Presently, players in the real estate industry are becoming more innovative and seeking smart ways to enhance the overall workflow and customer experience through advanced digital technology.
Digital technology is used in the following areas of Real Estate;
- Construction, structure, and design: Digital tools like ‘Building Information Modelling (BIM)’ and other 3D-Model software are being used by Architects, Engineers, Surveyors, and developers to properly construct, design, plan, and manage a project. Advanced digital technology is also implemented in the management of workers. It ensures they meet safety guidelines and also track time management. This reduces hazards on-site and improves efficiency in construction.
- Customer/Client Management: Managing and tracking clients’ payment records, databases, and documents can be nerve-wracking if there’s no proper organization. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software is now available which helps in clients’ communication, organization, and management of data records.
- Inspection and marketing purposes: These are key areas in which advanced digital technology has been implemented. Most of the digital technology being deployed for inspection also functions as a marketing tool. This is because properties for sale are usually inspected before closing. The digital tools aid for a more detailed and flexible inspection, thereby enhancing the clients/prospects’ user experience. Here are some of the advanced digital tools used for this purpose.
- Drone: These specialized aerial devices are used to inspect and capture the aerial view of properties. They help to inspect the roof of buildings, map out the land area and capture the aerial imagery of a place. They also enhance marketing materials, as drone shots are used in photos and videos to provide a more detailed view of a property, for prospects and clients.
- Mobile Apps: According to oberlo.com, about 73% of the world’s population uses a smartphone. This means the majority of people in the world are using digital technology to facilitate their day-to-day activities. Mobile applications have been built to enable customers to easily view property listings and get detailed information on a property or location, without much physical contact or effort. A good example is Zillow, and the Yuze, owned by Veritasi Homes.
- Augmented Reality: Visualization is very important in real estate, as clients and prospects want to have visual imagery of how they can set up or furnish their homes. AR solves this problem by enabling clients to place 3D furniture and designs in the 3D model of their homes. This gives room for exploration and provides a unique experience for the buyer and aids in the affirmation of the home choice.
- Virtual Reality: This digital tool enables prospects, clients, and investors to view, inspect and tour through a property with ease, from the comfort of their space. Users can enjoy a real-life experience when taking a virtual inspection and this can be experienced via mobile, desktop, and using a headset.
Veritasi Homes has launched its virtual reality suite, to enhance the experience of prospects, clients, and investors; and make their customer journey with the brand smoother and hassle-free. This was referenced by the Partner, Head of marketing and communications, Veritasi Homes – Tobi Yusuff on Forbes Africa. You can explore and enjoy a virtual tour from the comfort of your space. Simply click here and see for yourself.
