The Role Of Virtual Reality In Post-Covid Housebuying

One year after the first Covid lockdown in the UK, virtual reality has now transformed the way people buy new homes, according to the award-winning housebuilder William Davis Homes.

New figures show thousands of people – an average of more than 290 unique visitors a week – have used virtual reality tours on the Leicestershire company’s interactive website to teleport themselves into a virtual show home, since coronavirus restrictions in March 2020 led to the initial closure of on-site show homes.

Thanks to the latest technology involving computer generated images (CGI), visitors to the William Davis Homes website can now immerse themselves in a 360° experience to explore virtual show homes, customise internal features and buy off-plan before a brick is laid.

They can even view their kitchen colour scheme and bathroom tiles – with the reassurance of enjoying the quality for which Loughborough-based William Davis Homes is renowned.

Sam Starling, marketing manager for William Davis Homes, says the cutting edge technology has revolutionised the housebuying process.

“Our virtual reality tours have proven to be invaluable in helping people imagine their ideal home, all from the comfort of their sofa.

“When marketing offices had to close due to Covid, William Davis Homes was ahead of the game because we were already looking at the potential benefits of interactive tours. The dedicated area on our website means we have been able to meet the growing demand for this exciting customer experience over the last year.

“Virtual reality tours are definitely here to stay. All of our new developments will have them, so customers can continue to explore their options wherever they are, using a smartphone, tablet or computer.”

Davis Homes has teamed up with the digital media experts EyeSiteView, who specialise in creating immersive interactive experiences. They use the same type of CGI technology featured in video games.

The head of EyeSiteView, Tony Buck, says the aim is not to replace the role of sales staff but for the technology to work alongside them to enhance the customer’s experience.

“In a post-Covid world, gone will be the days of driving miles to see a house or a show home for the very first time,” says Tony. “I expect that seeing a house with your own eyes will remain a huge part of the buying process, but will come much further down the line.”

William Davis Homes’ show homes are currently open to view on an appointment-only basis. Visitors to the company’s website can take virtual tours of four existing developments and the full range of 29 signature house types.

All five new developments under construction will also be featured in the coming months.

Find out more about current developments from William Davis Homes.