By: Cloud Realty
In the fast-paced world of real estate, technology is transforming how we buy and sell homes. Colleen Wallace, a long-time real estate agent, has witnessed this shift up close. While digital tools like 3D tours and drone videos are changing the game, she’s quick to point out that they’re not a substitute for the traditional ways of finding a home.
There was a time when house hunting meant weekends spent driving around neighborhoods, hopping from one open house to another. But now, with the help of digital innovations, buyers can explore potential homes without leaving their couches. Wallace, who has embraced these tools in her work, sees their value. “3D tours and drone videos are incredible tools to help buyers see more about the property they’re interested in,” she says. They provide a level of detail that photos alone just can’t match, helping buyers make quicker, more informed decisions.
Wallace also relies heavily on video tours, which have become a staple in her listings. Whether she’s showcasing a downtown condo or a spacious suburban home, she finds that videos give buyers a much better sense of the property. While some services, like Zillow’s free 3D tours, are available to anyone, Wallace believes that investing in professional-quality videos often pays off by attracting serious buyers.
Of course, not everyone is comfortable navigating these digital tools, especially those who aren’t as tech-savvy. Wallace understands this and makes it a priority to ensure her listings are accessible to all. “It’s always best to make all avenues available,” she says. By offering a mix of high-quality photos, 3D tours, and video links, she caters to a wide range of buyers, ensuring that no one is left out of the process.
The impact of these digital tools has been significant. Wallace recalls instances where buyers have purchased homes without ever seeing them in person. Virtual tours, FaceTime calls, and online contracts have made it possible for buyers to complete the entire process remotely. In some cases, they don’t set foot in their new home until the day they move in.
But does this mean traditional house hunting is on its way out? Wallace doesn’t think so. While digital tools have become essential, she believes they’ll remain a complement to, rather than a replacement for, in-person viewings. “With AI, there can be confusion if people use these tools to deceive buyers into thinking the home is better than it actually is,” she warns. There’s also the issue of security. Wallace is cautious about new technologies that allow buyers to unlock doors and tour homes without an agent present. “There’s too much risk with security and liability issues,” she says. And, ultimately, there’s something irreplaceable about physically being in a home, feeling the space, and knowing if it’s the right fit.
For real estate agents, the rise of digital tools has been both a challenge and an opportunity. Wallace admits that staying on top of the latest technology is a constant effort, but one that’s necessary to stay competitive. However, she’s concerned about the potential for these tools to diminish the role of agents, especially as some companies push for fully automated buying processes. “They want to make these things the new norm, but I don’t think it will stick,” she says. For Wallace, the personal connection between an agent and a client remains critical to a successful transaction.
Looking ahead, Wallace sees even more advanced technology on the horizon, such as virtual reality, which could take digital house hunting to new heights. But she’s confident that, despite these advancements, the core elements of real estate—trust, human connection, and the experience of physically being in a home—will always be essential. As the market continues to evolve, professionals like Colleen Wallace will be key in ensuring that technology enhances, rather than replaces, the traditional home-buying experience.
Published By: Aize Perez
