3D Walkthrough for Real Estate Industry: Everything You Need to Know [Round-up]

The real estate industry is undergoing some serious innovations and improvements that are bound to change the way properties are designed and sold. One of such incredible innovations is employing 3D architect animation in your presentations and designs. These changes have caused a massive shift in real estate, interior design, and architecture – don’t miss out!

3D walkthroughs have the power to accurately showcase a building, house, or any other space in a full 360 view – all that without ever having to leave the comfort of your chair. If you haven’t heard of this wonderful technology yet, or are hesitant to try it out, let us explain why this has become a must-have tool in every real estate agent’s and architect’s toolkit.

What Is 3D Walkthrough and How Does It Work?

A 3D home walkthrough has a wide set of applications and can be used in more than one way, which is precisely why this technology is slowly taking over the real estate market.

3D real estate walkthrough is basically a process where digital artists create virtual tours of any architectural piece. For example, if you’re looking to purchase a certain real estate property, with the help of 3D interior walkthrough technology, you’ll be able to get a full-view tour of the place and designs before ever physically implementing any changes. 

‍3D architectural animations allow you to tour and view any place without having to physically be present. This technology has a wide set of applications and has made selling and renovating real estate much easier, quicker, and more convenient. Instead of having to go through crowded open houses, you can tour your desired real estate with only a couple of clicks. 

One of the most significant trends in 3D architectural visualization walkthroughs is the increasing use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create even more immersive experiences. 

According to market research reports, the demand for 3D real estate walkthroughs is steadily increasing. Consumers are increasingly relying on virtual tours to preview properties before scheduling physical visits. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the adoption of this innovative technology, as social distancing measures have made traditional property visits more challenging.

However, 3D walkthrough animation services aren’t only useful for purchasing real estate. If you’re looking to redesign or renovate your home, a virtual house walkthrough will also let you make hyper-realistic changes in real-time. You can include all desired elements like rugs, windows, and accessories, see how they look in your space and conclude whether they’re a good design fit without ever having to purchase them.

This technology works by using specialized software which captures your home or any other real estate in 3D. Experts usually place the cameras inside each room which scans the space and notifies the user once the scan is complete. Or, artists can also plan and create a walkthrough of your home fully virtually, by employing animation rendering techniques. 

What Are the Benefits of a 3D Walkthrough?

With recent technological advancements, regular sketches and mockups will no longer cut it if you want to impress your clients and score more sales. Integrating building walkthrough animation in your presentations has a wide set of benefits that will change your whole real estate game. Let’s see how.

Enhanced Visualization

One of the most significant benefits of a 3D walkthrough is its ability to provide enhanced visualization. Unlike traditional 2D plans or static images, this technology allows clients to experience space as if they were physically present. This immersive approach offers a comprehensive understanding of the layout, scale, and flow of a property, making it easier for clients to visualize how a space will look and feel in reality. Clear visuals, a stunning aerial 3D render of the space, combined with the ability to walk around the space virtually and add or remove elements in real-time will make your customers’ jaw drop.

Increased Engagement

3D walkthroughs significantly boost client and customer engagement. The interactive nature of  3D rendering walkthrough allows users to explore spaces at their own pace, focusing on areas that interest them the most. This level of interactivity keeps clients more involved in the design process, making them feel more connected to the project. Additionally, the realistic elements and detailed visuals can evoke emotional responses, helping clients envision their future in the space. This heightened engagement often leads to more informed decision-making and increased satisfaction.

Cost and Time Efficiency

3D walkthroughs offer considerable savings in both cost and time during the planning and design stages. By creating a detailed and accurate digital model of a space, potential issues can be identified and resolved before construction begins. This proactive approach not only saves money but also accelerates the design process. Changes can be made quickly and efficiently in the digital environment. 

Marketing Advantage

In today’s competitive market, having a strong marketing strategy is crucial, and 3D rendering walkthroughs can play a pivotal role in this. The ability to showcase properties in a dynamic and engaging way gives real estate professionals a significant edge over those who rely solely on traditional methods. A 3D animation walkthrough can be a powerful tool in marketing materials, helping to attract more attention to listings and making them stand out. 

It Simplifies the Design Process 

3D house interior walkthrough is a good solution for everyone, regardless of their previous experience or tech-savviness. We all know how difficult it can be to get on the same page with a client, especially in the early stages of the design and construction process.

With a 3d home walkthrough, there’s no room for confusion because everything is as clear as day. Both clients and designers can pitch different ideas, add elements, and make a bunch of changes before actually implementing any of them in real life.

Also, because this technology renders designs in super detail, you’ll be able to zoom in and out of different spaces to highlight certain elements that might be overlooked with other traditional methods. If there’s something that your client disapproves of, you can modify it in under 24 hours without any additional hassle.

It provides you with a clear neighborhood visualization

In 3d real estate tours, the neighborhood surrounding the home is just as important as the home itself. Customers want to get the full experience and see what it would be like living in that particular home. You can add contextual elements like trees, streets, people walking around, or even golf centers or playgrounds. You can also show off the neighborhood in different environments, be it a different season, time of day, or weather conditions.

Remember, in real estate, you’re not only selling a space – you’re also selling a lifestyle. Buyers are usually interested in learning more about the surrounding infrastructure, how close other properties are, and how the whole neighborhood will look once the construction is complete. Employing digital walkthroughs will help customers fully understand what their new investment will look like.

Use Cases of 3D Walkthrough for Real Estate Agents and Architects

3D real estate tours have become invaluable tools for both real estate agents and architects, offering dynamic solutions across various aspects of their work. Here are some key use cases where this innovative technology make a significant impact:

Pre-Construction Visualization

For architects, one of the primary uses of building walkthrough is in pre-construction visualization. Before a single brick is laid, architects can create detailed 3D models of their designs and generate walkthroughs that allow clients to explore the space as if it were already built. This capability is particularly useful for complex projects where traditional blueprints might not fully convey the spatial relationships or design intent. Clients can see how different elements of the design come together, enabling them to provide feedback or request changes before construction begins. This proactive approach helps avoid costly alterations during the building process and ensures that the final product aligns with the client’s vision.

Virtual Property Tours

Real estate agents use 3D home walkthroughs to offer virtual property tours, providing potential buyers or tenants with a comprehensive view of a property without requiring them to visit in person. This is especially beneficial for out-of-town or international clients who may not be able to tour the property physically. 3D real estate tours can highlight every detail of a home or office space, from the layout and room dimensions to the finishes and lighting. By offering a realistic and immersive experience, agents can attract more interested parties, streamline the property viewing process, and even close deals faster.

Design and Renovation Planning

For both architects and real estate professionals, real estate 3D walkthroughs are essential in the design and renovation planning stages. When renovating a property, it can be challenging to communicate proposed changes using just sketches or 2D plans. A 3D rendering walkthrough allows clients to visualize the renovated space in detail, helping them to understand the potential of the property and make informed decisions about materials, layouts, and design elements. This tool is particularly useful for showcasing how older properties can be transformed with modern updates, giving clients confidence in their investment decisions.

Marketing New Developments

For real estate agents marketing new developments, 3D walkthroughs are a powerful tool to showcase properties that are still under construction or in the planning stages. By creating a virtual model of the development, agents can offer prospective buyers or investors a tour of the future space, highlighting key features and amenities. This immersive experience helps to generate interest and build excitement long before the project is completed. It also allows agents to start the sales process early, securing commitments from buyers who can see the potential of the development through the 3D real estate tours, even when only the groundwork has been laid.

How to Create a 3D Real Estate Walkthrough

While different design companies employ different techniques and processes to create 3D walkthroughs, the overall concept is more or less the same. Below, we’ll explain some basics on how to create real estate 3D walkthroughs and briefs. These are the four most important steps:

• Define Waypoints – waypoints are clickable elements that, once clicked, allow you to proceed with your walkthrough. Start at a single location and move your way up, creating a route that your customers will follow once they’re testing the walkthrough.
• Choose Camera Settings – define the focal length and frame rate to ensure that all elements are clear, realistic, high-quality, and visually appealing.
• Pay Attention to Vertical Movements – this is especially important for properties with high ceilings. Define the height which will limit the vertical movement function. While it doesn’t have to go all the way, it should be able to move around enough to get a good feel for the place.
• Share – integrate the design on your company website and share them. Clients will be able to go through 3d home walkthroughs without ever leaving their homes.

Steps to Create a 3D Walkthrough Brief

Having a comprehensive and detailed brief is imperative, especially if you want to capture your client’s attention from the get-go. Here’s how to nail your brief and score more clients than ever:

• Give General Project Information - make sure to include specific goals and targets, locations, notes, and requirements. This will be like a legend for your walkthrough visualization you’ll design later on.
• Add References – convey the main idea and concept by including references and inspiration. This can be a site plan, floor plan, architectural and design sketches, 3D renders, texture examples, or anything else that was used to inspire the concept.
• Creating the 3D Model - Start by building a detailed 3D model using software like SketchUp or AutoCAD. Accurately model the architectural elements, including walls, floors, windows, and doors. This forms the foundation for the entire walkthrough.
• Texturing and Lighting - Apply realistic textures to surfaces, such as wood or metal, and set up lighting to simulate natural and artificial sources. Proper lighting enhances realism and sets the mood for the 3D rendering walkthrough.
•  Furnishing and Decoration - Add furniture, fixtures, and décor that align with the space’s intended style. This step helps clients visualize the space's potential and adds depth to the walkthrough.
•  Setting Up the Walkthrough Path - Determine the walkthrough path, deciding how the viewer will navigate the space. The path should highlight key areas and ensure a smooth, engaging experience.
•  Rendering the Walkthrough - Render the walkthrough by generating the final video or interactive experience from the 3D model. High-quality 3d animation walkthrough ensures a realistic and impactful presentation.
• Post-Processing and Final Touches - In post-processing, enhance the walkthrough by adjusting colors, brightness, and adding effects. Final touches like music or voice overs can be added to create a polished, immersive experience.

How to Choose Real Estate 3D Walkthrough Services

When it comes to choosing the best 3D architectural walkthrough services, you have to be careful who you choose because that will significantly impact the 3D walkthrough cost, as well as the final outcome. The right service should provide a balance between cost efficiency and the ability to deliver a customized, immersive presentation. Here are our tips:

• Check out their portfolio
• Inquire about their project completion rate
• Inquire about their animation style
• Inquire customization options
• Request a demo
• Schedule an orientation call
• Look for online reviews
• Reach out to past customers

Ready to Crush Your Client Presentations?

PIXREADY is comprised of amazingly skilled professionals who can create jaw-dropping house plans with a 3D real estate walkthrough quickly and efficiently, without compromising on quality. Our team boasts industry experts, licensed architects, and 3D rendering experts with decades of combined experience.

We conduct all operations in-house, ensuring that the whole process is handled carefully and diligently, without leaving any room for error. Whether you need architectural walkthroughs or 3D interior visualization services, our team is capable of handling even the most demanding of tasks.

3D Rendering of Luxurious Island Villas by PIXREADY

A 3D real estate developer used our 3D rendering service to showcase a series of luxurious island villas. The 3D walkthrough highlighted the stunning ocean views, intricate architectural details, and opulent interiors. As a result, the developer pre-sold 80% of the villas before construction began, significantly reducing financial risk. The project’s marketing costs were cut by 30%, and client inquiries increased by 50%, thanks to the highly realistic and engaging CGI visuals.

Real Estate Visualization of Commercial Properties by PIXREADY

A commercial real estate firm utilized PIXREADY’s 3D renderings to market a new office complex. The walkthrough allowed potential tenants to explore customizable office layouts and visualize the space fully furnished. This approach led to a 40% increase in leasing inquiries and accelerated lease signings by 25%. The firm also reported a 35% reduction in time spent on client presentations, as the CGI visuals effectively communicated the property’s value and potential.

Book a call with one of our 3D real estate walkthrough experts, receive a free quote, and explore your options.

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