Top 10 Reasons Why Virtual Tours Are a Business Owner’s Best Friend
Virtual 360 tours have revolutionized the way businesses engage with customers online. From real estate to hospitality, and retail to travel, virtual tours offer immersive experiences that traditional media simply cannot match. Here are the top 10 reasons why virtual tours are a business owner’s best friend:
1. Enhanced Customer Engagement
Virtual tours significantly boost customer engagement. Websites featuring virtual tours see 40% more views than those without them, and visitors spend 5-10 times longer exploring these sites (Digital in the Round) (EXP360) . This increased engagement can translate into higher interest and conversion rates.
2. Increased Online Exposure
Real estate listings with virtual tours enjoy approximately 90% more online exposure compared to those without tours (Momentum 360) . For hotels, virtual tours can result in a 67% higher likelihood of bookings (EXP360) . More visibility means more potential customers.
3. Higher Conversion Rates
Products and properties showcased through virtual tours tend to convert better. For instance, the conversion rate for listings with virtual tours is up to 27% higher than those with standard images (Momentum 360) . This is because virtual tours provide a comprehensive view, building customer confidence in their purchasing decisions.
4. Improved SEO and Google Ranking
Google favours websites with virtual tours, enhancing their visibility in search results. Businesses with virtual tours on their Google My Business listings see a 12% increase in engagement and a 16% higher chance of appearing in search results (Circus) . This improved SEO can drive more traffic to your site.
5. Broader Market Reach
Virtual tours allow businesses to reach a global audience without geographical limitations. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the usage of virtual tours in real estate surged by 750%, enabling buyers to view properties remotely (Momentum 360) . This capability is especially useful for attracting international clients or out-of-city customers.
6. Better User Experience
Customers aged 18-34 are 130% more likely to book based on a virtual tour (Circus) . This demographic values immersive and interactive experiences, making virtual tours a key tool for engaging younger customers. Many customers also experience anxiety and stress while navigating a new space. A virtual tour takes away the guessing, which can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
7. Cost-Effective Marketing
Virtual tours can reduce marketing costs by eliminating the need for physical showings and reducing travel expenses for sales teams. They also cut down on the costs associated with printed materials and traditional advertising (Circus) . Businesses can achieve high returns with relatively low investment.
8. Increased Revenue
Hotels and other hospitality businesses have reported significant revenue increases after implementing virtual tours. For instance, Radisson Hotel saw a 135% increase in online revenue, translating to an additional $7,200 per hotel per month (EXP360) . This showcases the direct financial benefits of virtual tours.
9. Reduced Cancellations and No-Shows
Virtual tours provide a clear and accurate representation of a product or service, reducing the likelihood of customer dissatisfaction. In the hospitality industry, clearer expectations have led to fewer cancellations and no-shows, as guests are better informed about what to expect (EXP360) .
10. Competitive Advantage
Incorporating virtual tours can set a business apart from competitors. As consumers increasingly seek out interactive and engaging content, businesses that offer virtual tours are more likely to attract and retain customers over those that do not (Momentum 360) (Circus) .
By leveraging virtual tours, businesses can enhance their online presence, improve customer engagement, and ultimately drive higher sales and revenue. In today’s digital age, virtual tours are not just a trend but a crucial tool for staying competitive and meeting customer expectations.
