New tool to make virtual valuations more accurate despite lockdown

An instant valuation service has launched a new tool aimed at helping agents prioritise leads through prospective vendors uploading photographs to aid the process.

When requesting an instant online valuation via The ValPal Network, prospective sellers and landlords can now upload images of their property, meaning they can receive a more accurate virtual valuation from their chosen agent.

The Network, which represents over 800 agency brands with more than 4,000 offices, says that when a prospective client requests an instant online valuation on an agent's website, they can now upload up to 10 images of their property to provide the agent with more information.

The agent can download the images from their ValPal dashboard to get a better idea of the property's features and condition. The new feature can help agents to prioritise leads as those who upload photos are likely to be the most serious prospects.

Consumers are also invited to upload images after they have received their online valuation if they want the agent to provide them with a more detailed overview of their property and current local market trends.

"In the current market, the more information agents can get from prospective clients, the more accurate and useful their virtual valuations will be. This could encourage consumers to push ahead with selling or letting their property in the coming months" says Craig Vile, director of The ValPal Network.

"It's important for agents to show consumers that they are still operating and tech-enabled. And, when the lockdown period ends, there is a high possibility that innovations such as virtual viewings and valuations will remain popular as some form of social distancing seems likely to remain in place until at least the end of the year.”

Vile says the new facility is one example of how technology can help agents continue making an impact, even if they are operating with reduced teams.

"Even after staff return from furlough, automating parts of the back office allows agents to have the best people front of house. Making these changes now is important to future-proof the industry and could have a huge positive impact when the full agent workforce returns” he adds.

The ValPal Network is a product of Angels Media, publisher of Estate Agent Today and other Today titles.