There are people who can visualize space, and there are others who cannot. Selling an undeveloped property is more challenging. Buyers often have to rely on floor plans alone, and for the less visionary, this can be a challenge.
But this situation is not limited to new construction; Every property we sell is. Most people find the property online before they decide to view it. Providing a 3D floor plan where buyers can immerse themselves in the space is key to ensuring that they see it in person.
Why you should use 3D floor plans:
We all know that having a floor plan is essential if you want to increase the number of prospects for your list.
A two-dimensional floor plan is a flat, perspective, and shallow drawing, an AutoCAD drawing or sketch. On the other hand, a 3D plan shows the layout of a building in height, depth and perspective. This immersive technology, along with some virtual accommodations, allows customers to imagine living in that space, incorporating a variety of furniture to provide comfort and warmth to the interior.
Additionally, using 3D floor plans can:
- Help make your listings stand out.
- Help you stand out to win more listings.
- Provide a true-to-life visual representation.
- Customize the space with your preferences.
- Eliminate the need for interpretation.
- Save your time on wasted scenes.
- Maximize your online sales opportunities.
If you want to take advantage of all these benefits, start using 3D floor plans in your marketing.
There are many online companies that can do it for you, but that can be expensive. Or you can do it yourself using online tools like RoomSketcher or Houzz Pro.
Let me go over these two amazing 3D floor plan platforms and how they can be useful for your real estate marketing.
1. RoomSketcher and how it works
RoomSketcher is a powerful and user-friendly online floor planner and interior design application that allows users to create virtual designs for their homes. It has a built-in floor plan tool that is easy to create. It offers several ready-to-use furniture menus, plus access to a variety of design ideas, thanks to the templates available in the library. Drag-and-drop functionality is built into the entire design of the interface.
Through RoomSketcher, users can visually navigate through interactive 3D floor plans and quickly get a stunning 360-degree view of the designed space. It is suitable for preparing floor plans in 3D to your specifications and especially for new construction projects.
advantage
- Creates high quality 3D floor plans in PNG, JPG and PDF formats.
- It has over 20 potential floor plan configurations to simplify the process.
- It gives you the exact “feel” of the layout.
- It allows you to bring a blueprint/2D floor plan to trace.
- It is safe and effective.
Cons
- There are a lot of features, so getting started can be a bit overwhelming. Start with the free version and go from there.
- The free version is limited, and the pro version is expensive but offers more features.
- RoomSketcher is not available on phones. Available only on Macs, PCs, iPads and Android tablets.
Note: You can test the simplicity of RoomSketcher using the basic capabilities of the free registration, which is accessible to all users. For more advanced features, upgrade your subscription. The basic price is $38, and the Pro is $99.
2. Houzz Pro and how it works
Houzz Pro is a comprehensive project management, marketing, and client management tool for the design and remodeling industry, but can be adapted for real estate needs.
Houzz Pro goes far beyond 3D floor plans and allows users to customize online profiles and marketing settings to generate leads. Additionally, users can use a central project portal to engage with clients, get estimates, and access proposal templates — which can be useful for agents who work a lot with developers on new construction projects.
advantage
- Your customers can experience not only 3D floor plans, but also an augmented-reality tour of their future home.
- It allows you to change every detail of your design.
- With the Houzz Pro mobile app for iOS and Android, you can manage leads and projects on the go.
Cons
- It has many features and the learning curve can be challenging, so start with the basics.
- The project pages can be challenging to edit, but if you’re only using the program for 3D floor plans, it’s doable.
- The platform still has a few quirks; Not all features are always displayed on some pages.
Note: A free version is available. However, you won’t have access to core features in the free version. Houzz offers three subscription options starting at $65 per month for the beginner, $99 per month for the essential, and $399 per month.
Bottom line
Allowing prospects to “feel” a place they might buy has actually grown in popularity, becoming commonplace. Familiarize yourself with these tools and start using immersive technology with 3D floor plans in your marketing strategy. You’ll be glad you did. It will generate more leads, sell your listings faster and take your real estate business to the next level.
Anne Ewasco is a veteran Realtor and longtime technician in the Chicago area. Visit her at anne.luxhomechicago.com.
