As technology evolves and improves over time, online home listings get more sophisticated. Now more than ever, viewing a home online has become necessary as new rules and regulations encourage social distancing. But finding your dream home online without seeing it in person can be a challenge.

Here are the top 3 things to take into consideration when viewing a home virtually.

Virtual Tours

If a physical walk through isn't an option, then a virtual tour can be a great alternative. This will give you an opportunity to get a better feel for the home, and explore the floor plan and layout without having to actually set foot on the property.

Some realtors even offer virtual showings, where they visit the property on your behalf and give you a personal tour through live video. This is a great chance for you to ask questions and get a professional perspective on your potential home.

Professional Photography

Most Realtors work with photographers to take professional photos of their listings. These photos showcase the home at its finest, highlighting key areas which can be helpful in deciding whether or not the home meets your needs. It’s also a great way to keep track of the listings you’ve viewed and their unique features.

Each photo tells a story of the home, so be sure to take a detailed look at each one. Allow yourself to mentally place furniture where you think it would look best. Using a combination of the photos and floor plans is the best way to accurately plan each room of the house.

Outdoor Living Space

One thing that is often overlooked when viewing a home online is the outdoor space. Whether it is a full backyard or a small balcony, outdoor space is definitely something to try and get a feel for when viewing a home virtually.

Take into account what type of furniture you may need and what sort of maintenance will be involved in the upkeep of the outdoor space. This space may become your escape from self isolation in a time of need!

3D Home Tours

Advancements in recent technology have also allowed for 3D virtual tours, where you can navigate each room of a home with a 360 degree view online. This provides more flexibility and freedom to examine every square inch of the property without physically being there.

Although 3D virtual tours are not as common due to their time to make and high costs, they are becoming increasingly popular as more home buyers are viewing properties from the comfort of their home. Be sure to take advantage of 3D tours any chance you get!