How to create and embed virtual tours or 3D walkthroughs on your real estate website?

Marketing Apr 23, 2024

As the real estate industry booms, it becomes increasingly competitive for agents and brokers to show their properties effectively. One tool that has proven to be a game-changer is virtual tours or 3D walkthroughs.

These tours offer clients a comprehensive and interactive experience of a property, allowing them to walk through the space virtually as if they were physically present. In fact, according to a study by the National Association of Realtors, 77% of buyers found virtual tours to be very useful in their search for a new home.

So, how can you create and embed virtual tours or 3D walkthroughs on your real estate website? First, you must choose a platform to help you create these immersive experiences. Several options are available in the market, including Matterport, 3DVista, and Cupix. Each platform has unique features, so it's essential to research and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Once you have created your virtual tour, you must embed it on your website. Most virtual tour platforms provide an embed code to copy and paste into your website's HTML code. Alternatively, you can use a plugin or widget to simplify the process.

When embedding your virtual tour, it's important to ensure it is easily accessible to your website visitors. You can add a link or button on your homepage that leads directly to the virtual tour or create a dedicated page for all your virtual tours.

Why Virtual Tours Matter

Virtual tours have become an essential tool in the real estate industry and for a good reason.

They have emerged as a game-changing tool that can redefine how properties are showcased and, ultimately, how real estate transactions take place.

Increased Property Visibility

Traditional property listings with static images and textual descriptions often leave much to the imagination. In contrast, virtual tours open a portal to unparalleled visibility.

With virtual tours, the real estate game transforms into a vivid, 360-degree experience that allows potential buyers to step inside the property, feel its atmosphere, and visualize their future within its walls. Its heightened visibility captures the essence of a property like never before, providing a comprehensive and immersive perspective. It's not just a window into a space; it's the key to unlocking a potential buyer's emotional connection with a property.

Higher User Engagement

In this age of information overload, where everyone is perpetually scrolling through screens, engagement is the name of the game. Virtual tours rise to this challenge by offering a dynamic, interactive, and engaging experience.

Instead of being passive observers, potential buyers become active participants in the property viewing process. They can control their exploration, zoom in on details, navigate through rooms, and genuinely engage with the space. This active involvement results in significantly higher user engagement rates. Virtual tours turn what might have been a fleeting glimpse into an extended interaction, allowing users to delve into the property's nuances and intricacies.

Potential to Reach a Broader Audience

Virtual tours are the bridge that connects sellers with a vast and diverse array of potential buyers. Whether you're marketing a cozy cottage, a luxurious penthouse, or anything in between, virtual tours extend your reach beyond the confines of your local market.

Furthermore, virtual tours are accessible across a range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktops. This flexibility ensures that your property is available to interested parties regardless of their location or preferred browsing method. It is a powerful tool for expanding your reach and attracting a broader audience of potential buyers.

Types of Virtual Tours

Regarding virtual tours, there are several formats available to choose from. Each format has unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences. Here are three popular types of virtual tours:

360-Degree Tours for Immersive Experiences

Imagine stepping into a property and being able to look in any direction as if you were physically present. It is precisely what a 360-degree tour offers – a fully immersive experience that places you at the heart of the property. In a 360-degree tour, every inch of the space is captured, allowing viewers to pivot, pan, and zoom to explore the property from any angle.

This format is ideal for properties where spatial context is crucial. It provides a true sense of scale and layout, allowing potential buyers to navigate through rooms, hallways, and outdoor spaces seamlessly; whether a cozy studio apartment or a sprawling countryside estate, a 360-degree tour transforms passive viewing into an active, immersive adventure.

Interactive Tours for User Engagement

The human desire to interact and engage with their surroundings is at the core of the interactive tour experience. These tours go beyond simple observation and empower users to participate actively in property exploration. Users can click on hotspots, interact with elements within the tour, and access additional information, all while remaining within the tour environment.

Interactive tours are versatile and can accommodate various properties, from residential homes to commercial spaces. They are handy for showcasing key features, amenities, and details that might otherwise go unnoticed. This format fosters a deep level of engagement, as users can choose their journey through the property.

3D Walkthroughs for Realistic Property Exploration

For those seeking the most realistic and immersive property exploration, 3D walkthroughs are the ultimate solution. These tours leverage cutting-edge technology to create a three-dimensional model of the property, allowing users to move through it as if they were physically present. You can smoothly transition from room to room, inspect every corner, and holistically understand the property's layout.

3D walkthroughs are particularly beneficial for properties still in the planning or construction phase, as they provide an incredibly realistic preview of the finished product. From residential developments to commercial spaces, this format adds a layer of realism unmatched by traditional two-dimensional media.

Creating a Virtual Tour

When it comes to creating a virtual tour, there are several tools and software available that can help you get the job done. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to create a virtual tour:

Equipment and Software Required

Camera: To capture the essence of a property, you'll need a camera capable of producing high-quality images. Many professionals opt for DSLR or mirrorless cameras for their versatility and ability to capture rich details.
360-Degree Camera: If you plan to create 360-degree tours, a dedicated 360-degree camera is a must. These cameras capture panoramic images, allowing for seamless navigation through the tour.
Tripod: Stabilization is vital to creating professional-looking virtual tours. A tripod ensures steady shots and eliminates unwanted camera movement.
Drone (Optional): A drone can be a valuable addition to your toolkit for aerial views and sweeping outdoor shots.
Virtual Tour Software: Invest in reliable virtual tour creation software such as Matterport, Kuula, or Pano2VR. These platforms simplify the tour creation process and offer various features to enhance the viewer's experience.
Image Editing Software: Software like Adobe Photoshop can help you enhance and retouch images before integrating them into your virtual tour.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Virtual Tour

Property Preparation: Ensure the property is impeccably clean and well-lit. Remove any clutter or personal items that could distract viewers.
Plan Your Shots: Before starting the shoot, plan the key areas and angles you want to capture. A well-thought-out shot list will streamline the process.
Capture High-Quality Images: Use your camera or 360-degree camera to take a series of high-quality images. Pay attention to composition, lighting, and focus.
Image Editing: If necessary, edit your images to enhance their quality and remove imperfections.
Select a Virtual Tour Platform: Choose a virtual tour creation platform that aligns with your goals and upload your images.
Link Images: Connect the images to create a seamless walkthrough experience. Add hotspots to allow viewers to navigate from one image to the next.
Add Enhancements: Customize your virtual tour with interactive elements like floor plans, maps, and video walkthroughs. Consider adding descriptions or annotations to highlight key features.
Review and Test: Go through your virtual tour to ensure it flows smoothly and delivers a captivating experience. Test it on various devices to ensure compatibility.
Publish and Share: Once satisfied with your virtual tour, publish and share it with your target audience. Embed it on your website and promoted it through your marketing channels.

Several companies offer virtual tour software and services.

Viara: is a virtual tour platform that offers an easy-to-use interface and customizable options for creating virtual tours. Their platform supports 360-degree images, videos, and drone footage for a more immersive experience. They also provide analytics and integrations with popular real estate websites.
Kuula: Kuula is another virtual tour platform that offers an easy and intuitive interface for creating virtual tours. It supports 360-degree images, videos, and 3D models and provides a range of customization options to create unique and engaging tours. It also allows you to embed your virtual tours on your website or share them on social media.
iStaging: iStaging offers a suite of virtual tour products, including 360-degree tours, 3D walkthroughs, and augmented reality tours. They use cutting-edge technology to create immersive and engaging experiences for users.

Editing and Enhancing Your Virtual Tours

Creating a virtual tour is just the beginning; enhancing it is where the magic happens. You can elevate your virtual tour from a simple walkthrough to an engaging, informative experience by adding annotations, descriptions, and interactive elements. Here are some tips for enhancing your virtual tours and a reminder of the crucial role that post-production tools and apps play in this process:

Add Annotations and Descriptions

Highlight Key Features: Annotate and describe important elements within the property, such as custom kitchen cabinets, a state-of-the-art security system, or a breathtaking view. It gives potential buyers context and a deeper understanding of the property's unique attributes.
Provide Historical Information: For historic or architecturally significant properties, consider adding annotations that share intriguing facts about the property's past, architectural design, or any notable events that have occurred there.
Furnishing and Decor Insights: Describe the interior design, furnishings, and decor choices to help viewers envision the property's potential and how their personal style might fit into the space.

Interactive Elements

Clickable Hotspots: Incorporate clickable hotspots that offer additional information or trigger pop-up images or videos. For instance, when viewers click on a hotspot in the living room, they can see more details about the fireplace or entertainment system.
Floor Plans and Maps: Integrate interactive floor plans and property maps that help users navigate and understand the layout. This feature is handy for larger properties or commercial spaces.
Virtual Staging: Consider offering virtual staging options, allowing viewers to visualize the property with different furniture arrangements or decor styles, catering to a broader range of tastes.

Post-Production Tools and Apps

Image Editing Software: After shooting your images, use Adobe Photoshop to enhance them further. Adjust lighting, colors, and sharpness to make your images visually appealing.
Virtual Tour Platforms: Take advantage of the features provided by virtual tour platforms. These platforms often offer user-friendly interfaces for adding annotations, descriptions, and interactive elements. They are designed to streamline the enhancement process.
360-Degree Photo Editing Tools: If you're creating 360-degree tours, consider using specialized 360-degree photo editing tools to fine-tune your images and ensure they stitch together seamlessly.
Mobile Apps: There are mobile apps designed to complement your virtual tour creation process. Some apps allow you to add voiceovers, background music, or other audio enhancements to make your virtual tour even more immersive.

Embedding Virtual Tours into Your Real Estate Website

Integrating virtual tours into your real estate website is pivotal in maximizing their impact. This integration enhances the user experience and sets your website apart as a dynamic, informative resource for property seekers. To illustrate this process, look closer at SpreadSimple, a versatile platform, and explore why it's an ideal choice for real estate websites.

Creating a real estate website with virtual tours

Building a website usually seems like an expensive and time-consuming task. However, you don’t necessarily need a team of programmers and web designers to create and maintain your website.

It is possible to build a real estate website in minutes using SpreadSimple, a no-code website builder powered by Google Sheets. With this browser app, a regular spreadsheet becomes your website’s content management system, so updating the listings on the platform will be a piece of cake. In the Google sheet, you can store all the data you need, edit it, and pick the listings you want to appear on the website. Using the same document, you can also add the virtual tour to the site via a link or HTML code.

Who can use the Real estate website template

SpreadSimple features a Real estate website template that will be suitable for:

individual realtors and agents;
property developers and investors;
real estate agencies and brokerages.

TRY FOR FREE

Here’s what you can do with the Real estate template from SpreadSimple.

1. Create a catalog of listings with detailed property descriptions to gather leads.

2. Promote properties and projects, and update the information, statuses, and investor materials to ensure that customers and stakeholders are always informed.

3. Combine listings from different agents in a unified manner to create a cohesive platform showcasing all available properties.

4. Manage all the content in Google Sheets. You can easily add, remove, or edit listings on your website via a Google Sheet — no knowledge of code or special apps is needed.

5. Create a mobile-responsive and SEO-friendly website and attract organic traffic to it. Aby SpreadSimple website adapts to mobile devices automatically — you don’t need to worry about that and set up a mobile version manually.

6. Add a 3D virtual tour to your website via a link or HTML code to show off the listings in a proper manner.

How to build a real estate website with SpreadSimple

Step 1. Sign in to SpreadSimple. You can use your Google account.

Step 2. Find a fitting template for your website. For real estate websites, there is a special template that will help you to kickstart your project.

Step 3. Customize the template. Once you’ve created the website, you can use the settings to add and remove features and adjust the website to your needs. In the Content tab, you will see all the available features you can use — for example, Map View and Filters.

In the Design tab, you can upload a cover image, pick fonts, add your logo, etc. To translate the website, add meta-data, and use widgets, go to the Settings tab.

How to create a real estate website with a virtual tour

Step 4. Add your listings to the website. To input your actual listings, go to the Google sheet connected to the website from the Content tab.

Step 5. Add the virtual tours to your listings. There are two ways to do this, depending on what kind of virtual tour tool you used to create your walkthrough. Once you’ve published your tour, the platform will provide you with a link, an HTML code, or both.

To embed an HTML code, copy it and embed it in the Google sheet column, connected to the Text element of the details page — in the Real estate website template, it’s the Details column. Once you embed the HTML code, the tour will automatically appear on the website, you don’t need to add anything or change anything else.

To insert a link to a tour, in a Content tab, add a secondary button and select button type: Embedded link (popup). Then go to the Google sheet and insert the link to the tour into the Link column.

Optimizing User Experience

To ensure that your visitors have a positive and memorable interaction with your site, you must focus on two key aspects: navigation and load times. Additionally, with the growing reliance on mobile devices, mobile responsiveness and user-friendly interfaces play a vital role in achieving a seamless and satisfying user experience.

Intuitive Menu Structure: Organize your website with a clear and logical menu structure. Users should be able to easily find the virtual tours they are interested in without confusion. Categorize properties effectively using filters for property type, location, or other relevant criteria.
Search Functionality: Implement a robust search feature that allows users to search for specific properties or browse based on their preferences. An advanced search tool can help users pinpoint the exact properties they are interested in.
User-Friendly Navigation Tools: In virtual tour sections, provide intuitive navigation tools. Users should be able to move between different rooms or areas of the property effortlessly. Utilize interactive floor plans, maps, and clickable hotspots for a guided exploration.

2. Load Time Optimization:

Image and Video Optimization: Large media files can significantly slow load times. Optimize images and videos to strike a balance between quality and loading speed. Compress images and choose video formats that load quickly without compromising quality.
Caching: Implement caching mechanisms to store frequently accessed content temporarily. Caching can drastically reduce load times for returning visitors by serving content from the cache rather than reloading it from the server.

3. Mobile Responsiveness:

Inherent Mobile-Friendliness: SpreadSimple is designed with a default mobile-friendly structure, ensuring optimal user experience across various devices without the need for additional adjustments. It means that your website automatically adapts to different screen sizes, offering a seamless and responsive viewing experience on smartphones and tablets.
Effortless Responsiveness: SpreadSimple eliminates the need for users to take extra measures to make their websites responsive; it comes pre-equipped with features that prioritize responsiveness. The platform is engineered to prioritize user convenience, allowing individuals to focus on content creation and customization rather than grappling with intricate steps to ensure mobile compatibility.

4. User-Friendly Interfaces:

Clear Call-to-Action (CTA): Each virtual tour should have a clear and compelling call-to-action, such as "Explore Now" or "Take a Tour." Ensure that these CTAs are prominently displayed and easily clickable.
Consistent Branding: Maintain a consistent brand identity throughout your website. It includes colors and design elements. A consistent look and feel that creates a sense of professionalism and reliability.
Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage user feedback and make it easy for users to contact you for inquiries or support. A responsive customer support system contributes to a positive user experience.

By prioritizing streamlined navigation, swift load times, mobile responsiveness, and user-friendly interfaces, you create an environment where visitors can explore virtual tours effortlessly and gain a positive impression of your real estate website. A well-optimized website enhances engagement and increases the likelihood of potential buyers staying longer, exploring more properties, and ultimately reaching out to you for their real estate needs.

Improved Navigation:

Intuitive Menu Structure: Organize your website with a clear and logical menu structure. Users should be able to easily find the virtual tours they are interested in without confusion. Categorize properties effectively using filters for property type, location, or other relevant criteria.
Search Functionality: Implement a robust search feature that allows users to search for specific properties or browse based on their preferences. An advanced search tool can help users pinpoint the exact properties they are interested in.
User-Friendly Navigation Tools: In virtual tour sections, provide intuitive navigation tools. Users should be able to move between different rooms or areas of the property effortlessly. Utilize interactive floor plans, maps, and clickable hotspots for a guided exploration.

2. Load Time Optimization:

Image and Video Optimization: Large media files can significantly slow load times. Optimize images and videos to strike a balance between quality and loading speed. Compress images and choose video formats that load quickly without compromising quality.
Caching: Implement caching mechanisms to store frequently accessed content temporarily. Caching can drastically reduce load times for returning visitors by serving content from the cache rather than reloading it from the server.

3. Mobile Responsiveness:

Inherent Mobile-Friendliness: SpreadSimple is designed with a default mobile-friendly structure, ensuring optimal user experience across various devices without the need for additional adjustments. It means that your website automatically adapts to different screen sizes, offering a seamless and responsive viewing experience on smartphones and tablets.
Effortless Responsiveness: SpreadSimple eliminates the need for users to take extra measures to make their websites responsive; it comes pre-equipped with features that prioritize responsiveness. The platform is engineered to prioritize user convenience, allowing individuals to focus on content creation and customization rather than grappling with intricate steps to ensure mobile compatibility.

4. User-Friendly Interfaces:

Clear Call-to-Action (CTA): Each virtual tour should have a clear and compelling call-to-action, such as "Explore Now" or "Take a Tour." Ensure that these CTAs are prominently displayed and easily clickable.
Consistent Branding: Maintain a consistent brand identity throughout your website. It includes colors and design elements. A consistent look and feel that creates a sense of professionalism and reliability.
Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage user feedback and make it easy for users to contact you for inquiries or support. A responsive customer support system contributes to a positive user experience.

Real-Life Success Stories

These real-life success stories highlight the effectiveness of virtual tours in the real estate industry. With virtual tours, potential buyers can explore properties more engaging and immersively without physically visiting them. This approach has become increasingly popular during the global pandemic, allowing real estate agents and property managers to showcase properties safely and socially distanced.

A real estate agent Ryan Serhant used virtual tours to showcase properties in New York City. He created 3D tours of apartments and houses, allowing potential buyers to view the properties without visiting them physically. This approach helped him close several deals, including a $10.8 million apartment sale.

Bali Luxury Villas, a luxury villa rental company in Bali, Indonesia, used virtual tours to showcase their properties. They created 360-degree video tours that allowed potential customers to explore the villas, bedrooms, and amenities before booking. This approach helped increase the number of bookings by 40% in just three months.

A real estate firm in Australia called Jellis Craig used virtual tours to showcase an upcoming development project. They created interactive 3D models that allowed potential buyers to explore the development before it was completed. This approach helped them sell 70% of the units before the project finished.

Overall, these real-life success stories demonstrate the effectiveness of virtual tours in the real estate industry. By providing potential buyers with a more engaging and immersive experience, real estate agents and property managers can attract more leads, increase sales, and provide a better experience for everyone involved.

Overcoming Challenges in Virtual Tour Creation

While virtual tours have become a cornerstone of the real estate industry, they come with their challenges. Let's explore some common hurdles in virtual tour creation and provide practical solutions to overcome them, along with tips for a smoother creation process, including troubleshooting strategies. Common Challenges:

Lack of Technical Expertise:

Challenge: Not all real estate professionals are tech-savvy, and creating virtual tours may seem daunting for those with limited technical skills.

Solution: Invest time in training or consider outsourcing the virtual tour creation to professionals or agencies experienced in this field. Many virtual tour creation platforms offer user-friendly interfaces requiring minimal technical knowledge.

Equipment Limitations:

Challenge: Insufficient or outdated equipment can result in low-quality images or restricted tour features.

Solution: If upgrading equipment is not feasible, focus on optimizing the equipment you have. Ensure proper lighting, use tripods for stability, and consider post-production software to enhance image quality.

Time Constraints:

Challenge: Virtual tour creation can be time-consuming, especially when juggling multiple listings.

Solution: Plan your virtual tour creation process efficiently. Create a checklist, organize your shots, and use virtual tour creation software to streamline the process. Delegate tasks or consider hiring a virtual tour service to save time.

Budget Restrictions:

Challenge: High-quality virtual tours may require investments in equipment, software, or professional services.

Solution: Prioritize your virtual tour budget based on your needs. You may start with basic equipment and software, gradually expanding your capabilities as your business grows. Outsourcing virtual tour creation can also be cost-effective, saving you time and ensuring professional results.

Tips for a Smoother Virtual Tour Creation Process:

Preparation is Key: Ensure the property is in its best condition for the virtual tour. Clean and declutter the space to present it in the best light.
Storyboarding: Plan the virtual tour layout. Decide which areas to highlight and what route viewers should take through the property.
Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial for high-quality photos and videos. Utilize natural light whenever possible and supplement with artificial lighting as needed.
Camera Settings: Familiarize yourself with your camera's settings. Adjust the exposure, white balance, and focus to capture the property in the best possible way.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent style and format for all your virtual tours to establish a strong brand identity.
Troubleshooting: Be prepared to address technical issues such as camera malfunctions, stitching errors in 360-degree tours, or software glitches. Regularly back up your data to prevent data loss in case of technical failures.
User Testing: Before publishing, conduct user testing to ensure the virtual tour functions flawlessly on various devices and browsers. Address any issues that users may encounter.
Continuous Learning: Keep updated with the latest trends and technologies in virtual tour creation. Attend workshops, webinars, or online courses to enhance your skills.

By identifying common challenges, implementing the suggested solutions, and following the tips for a smoother virtual tour creation process, you can overcome obstacles and successfully create engaging virtual tours for your real estate listings. It's a learning process, and with practice and continuous improvement, you can master the art of virtual tour creation.

Collecting User Feedback

Gathering user feedback is important for optimizing virtual tours. It provides valuable insights into tour quality and user experience, facilitating the identification and resolution of issues.

Adopting a user-centric approach and listening to audience feedback allows for tailoring tours to meet expectations, ensuring ongoing relevance and adaptation to evolving trends. Additionally, user feedback helps address specific pain points, enhancing overall user satisfaction, engagement, and interaction rates with the virtual tours.

Future Trends in Virtual Tours and Technological Advancements in Real Estate

Virtual tours have become an essential part of the real estate industry, and emerging technologies rapidly advance how virtual tours are created and experienced. Here are some trends in virtual tours and technological advancements in the real estate industry:

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Augmented Reality (AR): AR overlays digital information onto the real world. In real estate, AR applications can provide real-time information about properties as potential buyers explore neighborhoods or view listings through their smartphones or AR glasses. This immersive experience can enhance decision-making by offering valuable data, such as property details and nearby amenities.

Virtual Reality (VR): VR creates entirely immersive digital environments. In real estate, VR allows potential buyers to virtually step inside a property, no matter where they are. VR headsets can provide a truly immersive experience, offering realistic, 360-degree walkthroughs and giving buyers a sense of being physically present in a property.

3D Scanning and Photogrammetry

3D scanning and photogrammetry enable the creation of highly detailed and accurate 3D models of properties. This technology provides a realistic representation of a property's interior and exterior, making it an invaluable tool for showcasing architectural designs and spaces still in development.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

AI and machine learning are poised to revolutionize property recommendations. AI algorithms can analyze buyers' preferences, search history, and behavior to suggest relevant properties. This personalization increases the chances of matching buyers with properties that align with their needs.

Interactive and Gamified Tours

As technology evolves, we can expect to see more interactive and gamified virtual tours. These tours may include challenges, puzzles, or gamified elements that make exploring properties fun and engaging, particularly for younger, tech-savvy audiences.

Enhanced Data Integration

The integration of real-time data into virtual tours is a promising trend. It could include data on traffic patterns, local amenities, school ratings, and crime statistics, providing potential buyers with a more comprehensive understanding of the neighborhood.

Environmental Considerations

In response to the growing focus on sustainability and eco-consciousness, virtual tours may incorporate features that allow buyers to assess a property's environmental impact. It could involve energy efficiency ratings, carbon footprint calculations, and information on green building materials.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain's decentralized and secure nature can be leveraged for property transactions. It can ensure transparency and security in real estate buying, potentially reducing fraud and streamlining property deals.

Drones for Aerial Tours

Drones are increasingly used to capture stunning aerial views of properties and their surroundings. This technology allows for more dynamic and immersive property presentations, especially for larger estates or properties with unique landscapes.

The fusion of virtual tours with emerging technologies is set to redefine the real estate industry. As AR, VR, AI, and other innovations evolve, they will provide a more immersive experience for potential buyers and offer real estate professionals more powerful tools to market properties effectively. These advancements are poised to shape the future of real estate by making property exploration more convenient, informative, and engaging than ever before.

Conclusion

Virtual tours have become essential in the real estate industry, offering numerous benefits for agents, brokers, and clients. They provide a comprehensive and interactive experience of a property, allowing clients to walk through the space virtually as if they were physically present.

Real estate professionals who embrace this technological evolution benefit from enhanced user engagement, more compelling property listings, and a competitive edge in the dynamic world of real estate marketing.