Zillow is putting homebuyers in the pilot’s seat with the launch of SkyTour, a feature that lets users virtually fly around properties using a 3D, drone-style interface.
SkyTour uses a rendering technique called Gaussian splatting to turn drone footage into a smooth, interactive experience on Zillow’s mobile app and website.
SkyTour allows buyers to explore a home’s exterior, from lot layout to surrounding area. It’s available on select “Showcase” listings where sellers use Zillow’s premium media package.
The company debuted SkyTour as part of a broader product rollout announced Tuesday. The other new features include:
- Offer Insights: Simulates how different bid amounts might perform using Zestimate data and local market trends.
- BuyAbility: Gives buyers a real-time estimate of what they can afford and their likelihood of loan approval.
- Rental cost breakdowns: Offers transparent move-in and monthly cost details on listings.
- Tour itineraries: Lets buyers and agents coordinate and track scheduled home visits in one place.
Zillow acquired real estate marketing company VRX Media in 2022. VRX offered aerial drone photography, 3D tours, and other real estate-focused content.
Zillow’s new product push comes as its stock is up nearly 10% this year, despite ongoing challenges in the housing market and a legal battle with Compass over listing visibility policies.
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