We had the opportunity to speak to one of our long-time customers and pioneering real estate agent, Riccardo Marrara. He’s been with iStaging since 2018 and shared how his decision to embrace the digital transformation in real estate has helped him grow his business.
Riccardo Marrara, REALTOR® Keller Williams Platinum Realty, Brokerage
Riccardo Marrara is a REALTOR® at Keller Williams Platinum Realty. He has been a real estate professional since 2017 in beautiful central Newfoundland, focusing on the areas in and around Grand Falls-Windsor, Lewisporte, Gander and Twillingate as well as St. John's and surrounding areas. As a father of two sons and two daughters he’s kept on his toes all day long. At home is also where he hones his negotiation and other work skills. ‘’It’s not easy, but totally worth it’’, Ricky said.
Back in 2018…
Almost 4 years ago, Ricky attended a real estate conference in Canada and that’s where his digital transformation began. A 1-minute live demonstration was all he needed to make up his mind. It was a time where virtual tours were not the standard. They were often mistaken for video tours or video slideshows. And, most people simply needed time to truly understand what this new technology was all about and the value it could bring to their business. Not Ricky - He came, he saw, he signed up.
‘’I signed up right away as soon as I recognized the value of the service in the market as well as the value of the product itself.’’
Digital Transformation
Ricky instantly understood how he could take this easy-to-use technology and put it to good use. ‘’I use the platform to showcase my listings and provide virtual walk-throughs that potential buyers can take advantage of, whether they’re on the road or thousands of miles away. This gives them the possibility to get and feel the layout of a home without having to physically walk through it.’’
Metaverse?
There's been a lot of attention on technologies that make up the digital world also referred to as the metaverse. How would a real estate professional see the technological future of his business and the industry?
‘’Although metaverse and virtual properties communicating through a virtual character/avatar have its place, connecting in person is invaluable. Getting to know my clients and helping them find their needle in a haystack is what brings me joy. Being able to then provide them with all the online tools and knowledge provides so much value for clients.’’
During our chat with Ricky, what really stood out was his deep understanding of how innovative technology in combination with genuine in-person connections can be incredibly powerful. Missing out on the value that digital solutions, such as virtual tours, can bring, keep you from generating more business. But, we all need that personal connection. If you can use it as a tool to bring yourself closer to your (potential) clients, you’ll get something that is truly worth one’s weight in gold.
Results
‘’Clients find it fascinating and they rave about the quality of the pictures. Especially gyro-mode catches their attention.’’
Gyro-mode enables you to move your mobile device left, right, up and down to look around in the virtual tour.
‘’Sales increased with fewer showings as only very interested buyers would view in person. Through Covid, I even had out of province buyers who’d skip in person viewings because the tours showed them exactly what the home looked and felt like.
iStaging has simply been excellent over the years. It’s easy to implement, listings are easy to manage and the price point is amazing as well. I cannot put my finger on any issues or mishaps whatsoever!’’
Virtual tours for Canadian real estate agents
Creating a virtual tour for your property, hosting virtual open houses and managing properties couldn’t be easier. Becoming more technologically resilient will set you apart from competitors, help you to gain the seller and buyer’s trust and seal the deal faster.
Want to start 2023 with a technological advantage? Get started for just CAD $6, choose your capturing equipment and let’s work together to make you a digital rockstar!