The firm has teamed up with Scottish technology firm Eskimo Intelligent Solutions to offer the digital viewing experience across Scotland. The virtual tours are created using rapid 360-degree imaging iSTAR panoramic cameras, which precisely capture full spherical images of the property. Individual panoramic images are “stitched” together – similar to Google Street View – allowing the viewer to move through the property using their mouse or fingertips.
Since their introduction, Google’s 360-degree maps have become part of everyday life for most. Bob Fraser, senior property partner at Aberdein Considine believes they could have the same impact in the property market. “It is unlikely that someone would buy a home without having at least one walk around,” he said. “However, where this technology will bring enormous benefit is for more remote properties which might not get the football urban properties get.”
“A virtual tour may catch the eye of a buyer who would otherwise have not seen the inside of the house.” Mr Fraser, who has been buying and selling property in Scotland for 35 years, added: “I think the sector is now ready for this technology as it has dropped in price over the past 18 months, allowing it to become a feasible marketing tool for people selling their home.”
The launch of the 360-degree tours comes as Aberdein Considine continues its expansion across Scotland. Last week, it officially completed its merger with Glasgow firm A&S Ireland. The combined businesses – which will now trade under the Aberdein Considine brand – will together employ 360 staff and have a total turnover of more than £21 million. The expansion adds two further estate agency and leasing branches to Aberdein Considine’s Glasgow property network, which will now span Byres Road in the west end, Kilmarnock Road in Shawlands and Ayr Road in Newton Mearns.
A&S Ireland’s legal office on Waterloo Street will now become Aberdein Considine’s new headquarters in the city, hosting its dispute resolution and employment law teams, as well as the firm’s national Corporate Real Estate department led by Partner Paul Jennings.
The deal gives Aberdein Considine 20 offices across Scotland.
