By: Cloud Realty
In the evolving world of real estate, technology has quickly become a game-changer. Colleen Wallace, a veteran in the industry, has seen firsthand how digital tools are revolutionizing the way people buy and sell homes. But while she’s embraced these changes, she’s also quick to remind us that some things in real estate simply can’t be replaced by a screen.
It wasn’t too long ago that buying a house meant spending countless weekends driving from one open house to another, trying to imagine how your life might look within those four walls. But today, thanks to the wonders of 3D tours and drone videos, potential buyers can explore properties from the comfort of their own homes. Wallace, who has fully integrated these tools into her practice, says they offer an unparalleled advantage. “3D tours and drone videos are incredible tools to help buyers see more about the property they’re interested in,” she explains. They help buyers filter out homes that just don’t fit the bill, something that can be hard to do with traditional listing photos alone.
Wallace is no stranger to video tours either. Whether she’s selling a cozy downtown condo or a sprawling country estate, she’s found that a well-executed video can make all the difference. And while some services, like Zillow’s free 3D tours, are available to everyone, she’s quick to point out that investing in professional-quality videos often pays off in the long run.
But what about buyers who aren’t exactly tech-savvy? Wallace believes in making these digital tools accessible to everyone. “It’s always best to make all avenues available,” she says. Whether it’s through stunning photos, immersive 3D tours, or helpful video links on YouTube, Wallace ensures that her clients have every possible option at their fingertips. This approach not only broadens the appeal of her listings but also makes the entire process smoother for buyers, who can gather all the information they need before ever setting foot inside a property.
The impact of these digital tools on the buying process has been nothing short of transformative. Wallace shares stories of buyers who have purchased homes without ever seeing them in person. Thanks to virtual tours, video calls, and online contracts, the entire process can now be completed remotely. For some, the first time they see their new home is when they unlock the door on move-in day.
So, will digital house hunting eventually replace traditional methods? Wallace doesn’t think so. While she sees the value in these tools, she believes they’ll continue to complement—rather than replace—the need for in-person viewings. “With AI, there can be confusion if people use these tools to deceive buyers into thinking the home is better than it actually is,” she warns. And then there’s the matter of security. Wallace is wary of new technologies that allow buyers to unlock doors and tour homes without an agent present. “There’s too much risk with security and liability issues,” she says. Plus, there’s something irreplaceable about physically walking through a home, feeling the space, and sensing whether it’s the right fit.
For real estate agents, adapting to this digital revolution has been both challenging and exciting. Wallace acknowledges that while technology is changing the game, it’s also forcing agents to up their skills and stay relevant. But she’s concerned about the potential downsides, too—especially as some companies push for a fully automated buying process that could sideline agents altogether. “They want to make these things the new norm, but I don’t think it will stick,” she says. In her view, the human element—trust, security, personal connection—is still vital in real estate, and no amount of tech can replace that.
Looking ahead, Wallace sees even more advanced technologies on the horizon, like virtual reality, which could take digital house hunting to the next level. But she’s confident that the core of real estate—human relationships, trust, and the experience of walking through a home—will remain as important as ever. As the industry continues to evolve, professionals like Colleen Wallace will be there to ensure that technology enhances, rather than diminishes, the home-buying experience.
Published by: Khy Talara
