Static images don’t capture the real feel of a space. That’s why businesses are switching to immersive 3D tours.
How Top Agents Use 3D Tours to Sell Homes Faster
Hawaii’s real estate market is unlike any other—a paradise where breathtaking ocean views and lush landscapes are just as important as the homes themselves. But with buyers often searching from the mainland or internationally, how do top agents keep up? Enter 3D tours, the game-changing technology that is transforming the way properties are marketed and sold. These immersive virtual experiences are making it easier than ever to showcase homes and close deals faster. Let’s dive into the top 10 ways 3D tours are reshaping Hawaii real estate.
1. Attracts Mainland and International Buyers
Many potential buyers aren’t in Hawaii yet, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t serious about purchasing. 3D tours allow them to explore a home remotely in detail, making them feel as if they are walking through the property. This significantly shortens the buying process, as clients can narrow down choices before even booking a flight.
Tip: For listings aimed at international buyers, include translations in key languages like Japanese or Chinese.
2. Increases Online Engagement
In a competitive market like Hawaii, time is of the essence. 3D tours help eliminate unnecessary showings, as buyers who aren’t interested can rule out a home without wasting anyone’s time. Serious buyers, on the other hand, come in ready to make an offer.
Fact: A Zillow report in 2024 found that 62% of home buyers wish more listings had 3D tours to help them decide.
3. Saves Time for Buyers and Sellers
In a competitive market like Hawaii, time is of the essence. 3D tours help eliminate unnecessary showings, as buyers who aren’t interested can rule out a home without wasting anyone’s time. Serious buyers, on the other hand, come in ready to make an offer.
Fact: A Zillow report in 2024 found that 62% of home buyers wish more listings had 3D tours to help them decide.
4. Highlights Unique Property Features
From open lanais to private beach access, Hawaii homes have features that don’t always translate well in photos. A 3D tour allows buyers to explore these spaces naturally, helping them visualize how they’d live in the home.
Tip: Use interactive tags in your 3D tour to highlight upgrades like solar panels, new flooring, or custom-built features.
5. Creates a Competitive Edge
In a fast-moving market, listings with 3D tours stand out. Top agents in Hawaii are using this technology to differentiate their listings from others, ensuring homes sell faster and often at higher prices.
Fact: Properties with 3D tours sell 31% faster on average than those without.
6. Reduces the Need for Open Houses
While traditional open houses still have value, 3D tours allow for virtual open houses, reducing foot traffic and inconvenience for sellers. This is especially useful for luxury and high-end properties where privacy is a priority.
Tip: Promote your 3D tour on social media to attract serious buyers who prefer viewing homes on their schedule.
7. Helps With Sight-Unseen Purchases
Hawaii’s real estate market is no stranger to sight-unseen purchases, especially from mainland investors. With a 3D tour, buyers gain the confidence to make an offer without ever stepping foot inside the home.
Fact: According to Redfin, 63% of homebuyers in 2020 made an offer on a home they hadn’t seen in person, largely thanks to 3D tours.
8. Enhances Rental and Vacation Home Sales
Hawaii has a strong short-term rental market, and 3D tours help showcase vacation properties to investors. Seeing the layout, views, and amenities in high definition makes it easier for buyers to commit to a purchase.
Tip: If selling a vacation home, use a 3D tour to highlight nearby attractions and potential rental income opportunities.
9. Improves Transparency and Trust
Buyers appreciate transparency, and 3D tours provide just that. By offering a full, unfiltered view of the property, agents build trust with potential buyers, reducing doubts and hesitation.
Tip: Provide a floor plan alongside the 3D tour to give buyers a clearer understanding of the home’s layout.
10. Boosts Sales Prices
With greater buyer confidence and increased competition, homes with 3D tours often receive higher offers. Buyers who have already “walked” through the home online are more likely to make strong, competitive bids.
Fact: A Matterport study found that homes with 3D tours sell for up to 9% higher prices than similar homes without.
Final Thoughts
The Hawaiian real estate market is evolving, and 3D tours are at the forefront of this transformation. Whether you’re a seller looking to attract more buyers or an agent wanting to close deals faster, leveraging this technology is a must. In a place where the beauty of a home extends beyond its walls, 3D tours bring paradise to life—no plane ticket required.
