Friday, March 15, 2024

Tech Trends: Reshaping Real Estate

By Lisa DiBiase

Buying a home today looks very different than how our previous generations used to buy their houses. Nowadays, most people probably start their search online and get pre-approved online. They might even view the home online and close remotely.

The Power of Data in Real Estate


Easier Access:
Previously, accessing real estate data often required physical visits to real estate offices or reliance on printed listings in newspapers or magazines. Today, real estate data is widely accessible online through various platforms, including real estate websites, mobile apps, and property listing portals. This increased accessibility has empowered consumers to research properties more easily and make more informed decisions.

More Information:
In addition to basic property information such as price, size, and location, today's real estate data includes a wide range of additional details, such as property history, neighborhood demographics, school ratings, crime statistics, and even environmental factors. This wealth of data enables buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals to conduct more comprehensive analyses and evaluations.

Other Technology: Real estate data is increasingly being integrated with other emerging technologies such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and drones. VR and AR technologies allow buyers to take virtual property tours and visualize properties in immersive 3D environments, while drones enable aerial photography for property inspections and site surveys. These technologies enhance the marketing appeal of properties and provide stakeholders with new perspectives for decision-making.

Impacts of VR Technology


Technology has changed the real estate industry, reshaping traditional practices and introducing different solutions that enhance efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. One in particular and widely used in today's listings are virtual reality (VR) tours which stand out as transformative tools with profound impacts on how properties are viewed and ultimately bought and sold.

Virtual reality tours have redefined the property viewing experience. Prospective buyers can now explore properties from the comfort of their homes, immersing themselves in virtual environments that offer a walk through experience of the space. This not only saves time and travel costs but also enables buyers to envision themselves living or working in the property before making a physical visit. Real estate agents benefit from VR tours by reaching a wider audience and providing more engaging presentations of their listings.

Recent real estate journey

Last week I sold a home to an out-of-state couple which marked a departure from the traditional real estate process. It began with the couple viewing the property listing online through our automated email search system and being instantly captivated by the property and location. Despite residing miles away, their interest was piqued, prompting them to delve deeper. There was an open house that weekend which initiated showings, including a deadline for offers the following week. With great anticipation that this was their perfect home, they flew to Maine to view the property. Instantly they knew this was the property. With intentions and a strong offer, they went under contract.

Despite the geographical distance, the couple remained undeterred in their pursuit. Through the convenience of current technology, they embarked on a journey of remote negotiations and virtual inspections. Each pixelated image and video call brought them closer to their dream of owning this piece of paradise.

As the transaction progressed, there may have been an absence of physical presence, however it was replaced by a digital thread weaving through emails, documents, and electronic signatures. The once-familiar rituals of sitting across the closing table, customary handshakes and exchanged keys and sharing aspirations were not exchanged. Instead, in the comfort of their home state, the couple finalized the deal and signed remotely. Despite departing from the traditional route, all parties involved expressed satisfaction with the collaborative effort that led them to the closing table.

Although there was the absence of a physical closing, the journey was rich with shared determination and mutual understanding. As the out-of-state couple officially became the new owners of their dream home, they were reminded that in today's world, distance is no match for dedication and collaboration. And though they hadn't sat together at a traditional closing table, the bonds forged through this unconventional process were just as strong, carrying the promise of future adventures in their new home.

As technology continues to advance, its potential to revolutionize the real estate industry further remains limitless, promising a future where buying and selling can be more efficient, accessible, and innovative than ever before.

As I have said before, please call a local REALTOR for all your real estate needs no matter how big or small. We are trained professionals here to make your life easier. It's best to surround yourself with the right team of professionals that can continuously give you the right advice for all your circumstances.

Lisa DiBiase is the Broker/Owner for Landing Real Estate. She and her company represent buyers and sellers in the Greater Portland area and surrounding areas. For all your real estate needs contact Lisa at lisa@landinghomesmaine.com or call 207-775-SOLD.

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