House models have long been a valuable tool for house builders in the sales process. As technology has developed, physical homes have gradually given way to computerised dwellings, leading to 3D house models.
In addition to helping builders resolve any construction difficulties or design issues more quickly before the project begins, 3D technology also allows them to present home buyers with a virtual walk-through of the actual structure. It’s an effective method of describing a home’s design and an opportunity for potential buyers to see themselves in the room. While architects and builders are used to reading drawings and design documents, most home buyers are not, so any help in visualising the project is a powerful sales tool. This level of realism can only be achieved with 3D technology, as opposed to viewing a physical model of the house.
Builders are increasingly using 3D design technology to offer buyers a digital image of a house or a specific detail, for example a window or door 3D model, and enjoy a virtual walk-through of the project. This can be a more cost-effective alternative to, or used in conjunction with, the construction of real model homes.
How to make the most of 3D models in the process of selling homes to builders
With technology constantly changing, many builders are still trying to figure out how to make the most of it. We spoke to various house builders who have used 3D design software to learn about their experiences. Here are some of their recommendations for making the most of 3D house models in the sales process:
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Inform your consumers
Even if you don’t use 3D technology when you first meet customers, inform them that you have it. Obviously, the visuals need to be appealing, but simply using 3D models can set you apart from other contractors.
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Let customers play
Give customers the opportunity to interact with the technology by making the process interactive. Customers can explore all the alternatives available to them using interactive technology such as tablets, touchscreen laptops and flat-screen TVs in sales centers.
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Create a database
Create a database containing all your products and services for use with the models. Working in a sales center, you can add all your different 3D models, items and other alternatives, allowing customers to mix and match as they see fit.
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Use technology to bridge the gap between people
Make sure out-of-town buyers are aware of the technology. 3D models can be shared online as they are already digitised.
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Encourage discovery
Allow your customers to interact with the models from the comfort of their own homes. Builders give customers the opportunity to fully explore products and learn about the company’s work, including 3D models on their websites.
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Think accessibility
Consider creating and sharing 3D PDFs of your models. Because PDFs can be viewed using Adobe Acrobat Reader, a common consumer program rather than specialised software, homebuyers will have access to them.
- Be aware of compatibility issues and limitations
It is very important to be aware of the limitations of the technology beforehand.
