Questions to Ask When Interviewing Real Estate Agents: A Comprehensive Guide for Smart Homebuyers and Sellers

California is known for its scenic landscapes, thriving cities, and comfortable climate—but it's also infamous for one recurring natural threat: wildfires . Over the past decade, increasing wildfire activity has drastically reshaped the real estate landscape in California , particularly for properties located in high fire-risk zones. As climate patterns change and wildfires become more frequent and severe, homebuyers, sellers, and real estate agents must understand the risks, rewards, and responsibilities associated with buying or selling fire-zone properties . This is especially relevant in regions like Sacramento , where urban development meets natural landscapes, and where real estate remains competitive despite growing environmental concerns. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore: What defines a fire-zone property Risks associated with high fire-risk areas Potential rewards for buyers and investors Practical advice and tips for navigating these properties Realtor insights for both buyers and sellers What Is a Fire-Zone Property? A fire-zone property refers to real estate located in areas designated by Cal Fire (California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection) as High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) . These areas are mapped out based on: Vegetation type and density Historical fire data Wind and weather patterns Access to firefighting resources Topography (e.g., hills, valleys) The state classifies fire risk zones into three categories: Moderate High Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) If your property falls into one of the two higher categories, it comes with specific regulations, insurance requirements, and disclosure obligations —all of which can impact buying decisions and property values. Risks of Buying Fire-Zone Properties 1. Higher Insurance Premiums or Denials Insurance companies are increasingly cautious about insuring homes in high-risk areas. Buyers may face: Significantly higher premiums Deductibles for fire-related claims Difficulty obtaining standard insurance coverage Forced to use the California FAIR Plan , a last-resort coverage with limitations 2. Wildfire Damage and Evacuation The most obvious risk is loss or damage due to wildfires . Even if a fire doesn't destroy a property, smoke damage and prolonged evacuation can: Lead to temporary displacement Cause respiratory and health issues Lower property value in future resale 3. Property Value Volatility Home prices in fire zones can be more volatile due to: Market fear after wildfire seasons Limited buyer interest Stringent lending or insurance hurdles 4. Code Compliance & Retrofit Costs Properties in fire zones often require: Fire-resistant building materials Defensible space (clearing vegetation within 100 feet) Sprinkler systems Special roofing, windows, and vents These safety upgrades can significantly increase ownership costs . Potential Rewards: Why People Still Buy Fire-Zone Properties Despite the risks, many Californians still choose to live in fire zones—and sometimes, the benefits can outweigh the drawbacks. 1. Stunning Natural Surroundings Fire-zone homes are often located in wooded areas, near mountains, lakes, or scenic parks . For many, the beauty and peace of these environments are worth the trade-off. 2. Lower Purchase Prices Because of the perceived risks, some fire-zone properties are listed below market value , offering: Entry points for first-time buyers Investment opportunities for savvy renovators Potential for long-term appreciation if fire risk mitigation improves 3. Privacy and Larger Lots These areas often offer more space, less noise, and fewer neighbors , making them attractive to retirees, remote workers, and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle. 4. Resilient Building Technologies Modern construction materials and fire-resistant technologies have improved. If a home is well-built and upgraded , it may withstand fires better than older properties. Tips for Buyers Considering Fire-Zone Properties 1. Get a Wildfire Hazard Disclosure Report In California, sellers must provide a Natural Hazard Disclosure (NHD) report , which outlines if the property lies within a fire hazard severity zone. Review it carefully and ask your realtor for guidance. 2. Understand Insurance Options Shop around for quotes before making an offer. Consult with insurance brokers experienced in high-risk zones. Ask about bundling fire insurance with other policies for discounts. 3. Conduct a Property Condition Assessment Hire inspectors familiar with fire mitigation . Key items to evaluate: Type of roofing and siding materials Distance from nearby vegetation Access to water and hydrants Evacuation routes and emergency planning 4. Check Local Fire Mitigation Efforts Some communities invest in fire-safe councils , vegetation management programs , and firebreaks . These efforts can reduce risk and help retain property value. 5. Budget for Safety Upgrades Whether it’s installing metal roofing, replacing wood decks, or clearing defensible space, ensure you have a post-purchase budget to make the property safer. Tips for Sellers of Fire-Zone Properties 1. Be Transparent Disclose all known fire-zone classifications and upgrades completed to mitigate risk. Transparency builds trust and ensures legal compliance . 2. Emphasize Fire-Resistant Features Highlight any: Fireproof roofing/siding Metal fences Defensible space landscaping Smart fire alarm and sprinkler systems 3. Stage With Safety in Mind Tidy landscaping, showcase wide eaves, and provide documentation for upgrades to reassure cautious buyers. 4. Partner With a Local Expert Work with a realtor in Sacramento or your specific county who understands wildfire zones, local regulations, and insurance trends . How Sacramento Is Impacted Sacramento is a diverse region with urban, suburban, and semi-rural areas. While the city center is largely low-risk, outskirts and surrounding communities like El Dorado Hills, Folsom, and Auburn include designated fire zones. Local government is increasingly working with Cal Fire and city planners to: Expand defensible zones Enforce stricter building codes Improve evacuation readiness Buyers and sellers in Sacramento must stay proactive , as fire zone classification can impact home loans , insurance approvals , and resale value . Realtor Tips: Navigating Fire-Zone Real Estate Successfully For Buyers: Work with an agent familiar with California fire regulations Don’t be afraid to consider fire zones—but do your research Get inspections, insurance quotes, and disclosure reports early Understand both short-term costs and long-term property value For Sellers: Emphasize compliance and upgrades in marketing materials Provide full documentation of fire-mitigation efforts Be realistic about pricing based on insurance availability Collaborate with the best realtor in Sacramento to target the right buyers Conclusion: Are Fire-Zone Properties Worth It? Owning a home in a fire zone is not inherently a dealbreaker. In fact, it can offer peace, beauty, and even investment potential. However, buyers and sellers must be informed, prepared, and proactive . With the right information, expert guidance, and fire safety planning, navigating the risks and rewards of fire-zone real estate can be not only possible—but profitable.

Your Guide to the Future of Intelligent Living As technology continues to transform how we live, smart homes have emerged as one of the most powerful tools for homeowners and buyers seeking efficiency , security , and convenience . In 2025, smart home technology isn’t just about gadgets; it’s about integrated ecosystems that work seamlessly together to improve daily life. Whether you’re a first-time buyer eager to embrace smart living or a homeowner looking to sell your house for top value, understanding the latest smart home trends can make a major difference. In this comprehensive blog post, we explore the top smart home trends for 2025 , what’s driving their popularity, and how they impact home value and lifestyle in markets like Sacramento and beyond. 1. AI-Driven Home Automation In 2025, smart homes go beyond pre-set routines. Artificial Intelligence (AI) now enables homes to learn from your behavior and make intelligent adjustments automatically. From adjusting lighting and temperature to recognizing patterns in your routines, AI brings convenience and energy efficiency to new levels. What This Means for Homeowners: AI assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit now coordinate multiple devices and even make predictive decisions. Lights dim automatically when you start a movie. Thermostats adjust based on weather forecasts and your sleep patterns. AI-powered homes are becoming a major selling point—especially among tech-savvy first-time buyers . 2. Advanced Security Systems Security remains a top priority for homeowners, and in 2025, smart home security has become smarter, more intuitive, and more proactive . Features Driving the Trend: Facial recognition for keyless entry Smart video doorbells with AI threat detection 360-degree surveillance integrated with mobile apps Real-time alerts for unusual behavior or unknown visitors Buyers are increasingly looking for homes with installed smart security systems , and sellers who invest in these upgrades may sell faster and at higher prices . 3. Smart Energy Management & Sustainability Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a priority. Energy-efficient smart homes that minimize utility bills are becoming essential in 2025. Top Smart Energy Features: Smart thermostats like Ecobee and Nest Solar-powered battery backups (e.g., Tesla Powerwall) Energy-monitoring systems that show real-time usage Smart lighting that adapts to occupancy and daylight With California’s emphasis on green living, smart energy systems are extremely attractive in cities like Sacramento , where energy efficiency is key. 4. Voice Control and Multi-Device Ecosystems Voice control continues to rise, but now it’s more seamless and integrated. In 2025, your smart home isn’t just connected—it communicates across platforms . Examples: Use a single voice command to lock all doors, turn off lights, and arm the alarm. Link your smart TV , music system , oven , and thermostat through one central app. Smart homes with interoperable ecosystems —especially those compatible with Matter , the universal connectivity standard—are more reliable, future-proof, and desirable. 5. Smart Kitchens and Appliances The kitchen is becoming a high-tech hub, and smart kitchen appliances are booming in 2025. Popular Innovations: Refrigerators with built-in screens and grocery tracking Voice-activated ovens and cooktops Touchless faucets with temperature memory AI meal planning based on your diet and inventory A smart kitchen can be a huge draw for first-time buyers and culinary enthusiasts, especially in competitive markets. 6. Health and Wellness Tech at Home In the wake of the pandemic and the continued remote-work culture, wellness has taken center stage in home design. 2025 Wellness Features Include: Smart air quality monitors and purifiers Water quality sensors and leak detectors Smart lighting that supports circadian rhythms In-home fitness tech with AI-guided workouts For homeowners focused on health-conscious living , these features go a long way in enhancing comfort and peace of mind. 7. Remote Work Integration With remote and hybrid work now the norm, smart home offices are critical in 2025. Buyers are looking for homes with tech-friendly workspaces . Top Home Office Tech Trends: Smart desks with sit/stand automation Voice-controlled lighting and blinds Noise-cancelling systems integrated into rooms Climate-controlled work areas Homeowners listing properties in Sacramento with high-tech office spaces are seeing stronger interest from professionals and freelancers. 8. Robotics and Cleaning Automation Home automation now includes physical tasks, too. Robotic home devices are becoming mainstream. Examples: Self-cleaning toilets and litter boxes Robotic lawn mowers and window cleaners Vacuum/mop combos with scheduling and AI navigation These features reduce household chores and increase a home’s value in the eyes of busy families or aging homeowners. 9. Smart Bathrooms Bathrooms are the newest frontier in smart home tech, offering comfort, luxury, and utility. 2025 Features Include: Smart mirrors with health updates and skincare advice Heated floors and smart showers with preset preferences Water-saving, touchless fixtures Toilets with built-in bidets and air purification Modern smart bathrooms can add a spa-like feel , boosting buyer interest and justifying higher listing prices. 10. Connected Outdoor Living Spaces Outdoor spaces are now equipped with smart technology as homeowners embrace entertaining and nature. What’s Trending: App-controlled sprinklers that adjust to weather Smart lighting and outdoor audio systems Wi-Fi-connected BBQs and pizza ovens Automated pergolas and retractable awnings In sunny regions like Sacramento , smart outdoor features can be a strong selling point—especially when paired with energy-saving irrigation and landscaping systems. Bonus: AI-Powered Real Estate Integration Realtors are using virtual staging , AI home valuations , and interactive 3D tours to highlight smart features during the home sale process. Buyers can now preview smart systems before even stepping into the home. Should You Upgrade Your Home With Smart Tech Before Selling? Absolutely. Here’s why: Increased property value Faster time on market Appeals to younger buyers and tech-savvy professionals Energy savings attract eco-conscious buyers A local expert like the best realtor in Sacramento can advise you on which smart upgrades offer the best ROI and which are most popular in your neighborhood. Conclusion: Smart Living Is the Future As we move deeper into 2025, smart homes are no longer futuristic—they’re the standard. Buyers expect connected, efficient, and adaptable spaces, and sellers must meet that demand to stay competitive. Whether you're planning to buy , upgrade , or sell your house , understanding these smart home trends will help you make the best decision. From AI-enhanced security to intelligent energy systems and smart kitchens, embracing this tech can significantly elevate your homeownership experience.

As Sacramento continues its rapid evolution into one of California’s most desirable and livable metropolitan hubs, permits and housing production have become central to its growth strategy. Whether you’re a first-time buyer , seasoned investor, or someone looking to sell my house , understanding how the local permitting process and housing pipeline work is critical. It impacts everything from home values and affordability to neighborhood livability and future development opportunities. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the current state of Sacramento’s housing production, permit approvals, zoning trends, challenges, and what it all means for buyers and sellers in 2025. 1. Why Permits Matter in Real Estate Permits—whether for new construction, renovations, or accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—are essential for maintaining safety, quality, and compliance in housing development. In Sacramento: Building permits are issued by the city or county depending on jurisdiction. Permits are required for major work such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, additions, or structural changes. Projects without permits may not pass inspection, affecting resale value , insurance , and mortgage eligibility . For developers, obtaining timely permits is crucial to bringing homes to market. For homeowners, having permitted improvements protects the long-term value of your investment. 2. Sacramento’s Housing Goals & State Mandates Sacramento’s housing production is shaped by both local planning efforts and California state mandates like the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) . Between 2021 and 2029, Sacramento is expected to produce over 45,000 housing units , including affordable and market-rate homes. Current RHNA Allocation for the City of Sacramento: Very Low-Income : ~10,000 units Low-Income : ~6,500 units Moderate-Income : ~7,000 units Above Moderate-Income : ~21,000 units As of 2025, Sacramento is falling short of these targets—especially in affordable housing categories—due to a mix of bureaucratic delays , rising construction costs , and neighborhood pushback . 3. Permit Trends in Sacramento (2023–2025) Residential Permits Issued: According to recent data from the City of Sacramento: 2023 : Roughly 4,800 housing units permitted (primarily multi-family) 2024 : Permits slowed slightly to ~4,200 due to interest rate hikes and financing issues 2025 projection : Expected rebound with state funding and zoning reforms kicking in Permit Processing Time: Single-family home permits : 6–8 weeks on average Multi-family/commercial mixed-use : 4–12 months, depending on size and complexity ADUs : Streamlined to 4–6 weeks under SB 9 & SB 10 reforms The City of Sacramento has adopted a Digital Permitting Portal to speed up approvals and improve transparency. This is a great move for those looking to build or renovate quickly . 4. Where Are the New Homes Being Built? Top Areas for New Housing in Sacramento: North Natomas : Known for planned communities and newer infrastructure The Railyards : A major urban infill site with high-density, mixed-use construction South Sacramento : Affordable housing hubs, including many infill and ADU projects Downtown & Midtown : Focused on vertical, multi-family developments If you're a first-time buyer , keep an eye on neighborhoods with new permit activity , as these often offer move-in-ready inventory and developer incentives. 5. Zoning & Housing Density Reform To address the housing crisis, Sacramento is implementing zoning reforms to promote higher density and mixed-use projects. Recent changes include: Elimination of single-family-only zoning : Duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes now allowed in all neighborhoods Streamlined ADU approvals : Thanks to state laws SB 9 and SB 10 Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) incentives : Faster permits near light rail or major bus corridors These changes are unlocking more buildable land and encouraging infill development—a win for urban sustainability and housing affordability. 6. Key Challenges Facing Housing Production While progress is being made, Sacramento still faces several obstacles that slow down permits and new housing development: A. Neighborhood Opposition Many established communities resist high-density developments due to traffic, parking, or aesthetic concerns. This can delay projects, even after permits are submitted. B. Rising Construction Costs Labor shortages, supply chain issues, and material costs have led to budget overruns that delay or kill projects altogether. C. Financing Difficulties Higher interest rates in 2024–2025 have made developers cautious about starting new projects. Pre-leasing and pre-sales are often required before funding is secured. D. Limited Staff in Planning Departments Despite digitization, city agencies remain understaffed, causing slowdowns in permit reviews and inspections. 7. Tips for Homeowners: Navigating the Permit Process If you're planning to sell your house , renovate, or build an ADU, here are some important tips: a) Always Check Zoning First Visit the City of Sacramento’s Planning Portal to confirm your zoning and what’s allowed. b) Use Licensed Contractors Only licensed professionals can pull permits. Avoid unpermitted work—it can result in fines and low appraisals. c) Document Everything Keep all plans, receipts, permits, and inspection approvals in a digital folder. It simplifies things when you decide to sell your home . d) Consider Pre-Sale Inspections They help verify that past renovations were permitted and compliant. This can increase buyer confidence . 8. What Buyers Need to Know About Permits If you're a first-time buyer in Sacramento: Always ask for documentation of past permits during inspections. Focus on homes with recent permits and modern upgrades—they’re often more energy efficient and code-compliant. Consider areas with ongoing development; they may offer newer homes at better prices. A knowledgeable agent can help you evaluate the true value of a property based on its permit history and future neighborhood plans. 9. The Role of a Realtor in Navigating Permits & Production Whether you're buying new construction, renovating, or planning to sell your house , working with the best realtor in Sacramento gives you an edge. Here's how: Market Insight : Knows which areas have the most new construction and what’s coming down the pipeline. Permit Guidance : Can help connect you with local contractors and planners. Valuation Strategy : Ensures your upgrades or new builds will boost ROI. The right real estate agent isn’t just a salesperson—they’re your partner in navigating Sacramento’s evolving housing landscape. Conclusion: Sacramento’s Path to Growth Through Permits & Housing Sacramento’s future depends on how well it can manage its permitting process and accelerate housing production. While challenges remain, zoning reforms, technological advancements, and market incentives are moving the city in the right direction. If you're looking to learn more about buying, selling, relocating or get the best real estate experience in the Sacramento area, get in touch with CJ Domondon. His team can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the market. You can contact CJ Domondon directly to schedule a consultation or discuss your real estate needs.

Sacramento is undergoing a transformative urban revival. From the iconic Railyards District to pockets of mid-rise infill, an ambitious wave of high‑rise and mixed‑use projects is reshaping the city’s skyline and redefining urban living. This shift presents fresh opportunities for everyone— first-time buyers , seasoned investors, folks ready to sell my house , and the best realtor in Sacramento navigating these evolving neighborhoods. 1. The Crown Jewel: Sacramento Railyards One of North America’s largest urban infill projects, the 244-acre Railyards District is a city-within-a-city Highlights include: 12,000 housing units , a mix of market-rate, affordable, and senior living condos Office, retail, hotel, museum , and green urban spaces. High-rise elements like the Foundry commercial blocks, the AJ residential tower, senior housing, and an 18-story county courthouse Anchors such as a Kaiser Permanente medical campus, a Major League Soccer stadium, and a new transit station Why it matters: This district will double Sacramento’s CBD, bring 19,000+ permanent jobs, and create a vibrant live-work-play destination 2. Downtown Jetstream: Lot X / 210 N Street The Lot X project at Capitol Mall and 3rd Street is intended to be the first high-rise rental residence complex in Sacramento Features a 26-story residential tower with 263 upscale units and a 14-story mass timber mid-rise of 154 units, plus 21 townhomes Includes 11,000 sq ft of ground-floor retail and sky-high amenities—pool decks, terraces, rooftop club spaces Estimated completion by 2026; the tallest residential building in the city Status update: The project faced delays due to rising construction costs and financing issues, but remains active with retooled timelines 3. Midtown Momentum: 1023 J Street & Metro Towers Midtown Sacramento is seeing thoughtful mid-rise densification: 1023 J Street : Eight stories with 256 units, ground floor retail, rooftop lounge, pool, and courtyard adjacent to Cesar Chavez Plaza. Construction expected in early 2025 Metropolitan Tower rebuild : A previously stalled high-rise site repurposed for eight-story apartments with 256 units, clubhouse, pool, and strong community integration Why it matters: These projects reinforce Midtown's identity as a live-work-play hub, supporting walkability and neighborhood vibrancy. 4. Affordable Mixed‑Use Developments Sacramento is also focusing on inclusive urban growth: 815 11th Street : A five-story complex with 52 affordable units, community amenities, parking, fitness center, and advocacy services 805 R Street (Monarch) : Proposed five-story, 241-unit mixed-use building, incorporating office and residential spaces, including those for the formerly homeless Impact: These projects address affordability amid surging mid-rise and high-rise supply. 5. River District High‑Rise Proposals Several high-rise projects are in process or facing scrutiny: American River One : A set of four towers totaling 826 units along Burkhardt Drive. The Sacramento Planning Commission approved it, but environmental lawsuits are underway Smaller-scale retail and food venues, like the proposed Alchemist Public Market, are adding local flavor What to monitor: Approval timelines and legal challenges may affect future construction and community impact. 6. Future Prospects & Planned High‑Rises Looking ahead: 301 Capitol Mall : A 557-foot tower on hold after initial developers withdrew—land now up for sale Large planned projects include: Sacramento Commons (three 26-story towers) by 2027 Vanir Tower (hotel + condos) and other convention-center adjacent towers These could redefine Sacramento’s skyline—if financing and demand align. 7. Implications for Buyers, Sellers & Realtors 🔑 For First-Time Buyers Opportunity to live in walkable urban cores with access to jobs and transit. Diverse options—from affordable mid-rises to luxury high-rise units. Caution: Rising supply may ease pricing pressure, but competition remains tight. 💰 For Sellers High demand in urban neighborhoods may boost home values . Downtown displacement may increase suburban interest and values. Sellers should time listings around adjacent new supply announcements. 🏢 For Investors Mixed-use districts offer promising rental demand. High-rise units command higher rents but face higher development risks 🧭 For Realtors Partner with developers—knowledge of pipeline projects is a competitive edge. Educate clients about long-term neighborhood value. Guide first-time buyers through new urban supply transitions. 8. Challenges Ahead Financing & construction costs are impacting activation timelines Legal delays from environmental groups threaten key River District proposals Market absorption must match the scale of new supply, or it could stall momentum. Conclusion: A Transforming Skyline Sacramento’s downtown is undergoing dramatic renewal. Through pioneering high-rises, mixed-use districts, and inclusive housing strategies, the city is evolving into a vibrant urban hub —ideal for those who want walkable living and city amenities. For first-time buyers , now is an opportunity to invest in the future of urban Sacramento. Sellers can leverage rising demand, and investors should track supply cycles. If you're looking to learn more about buying, selling, relocating or get the best real estate experience in the Sacramento area, get in touch with CJ Domondon. His team can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the market. You can contact CJ Domondon directly to schedule a consultation or discuss your real estate needs.

The real estate industry is undergoing a digital transformation like never before. One of the most significant changes is the rise of virtual real estate tours , a technology that allows prospective buyers to walk through homes remotely, using their devices—from the comfort of their couch. But a question looms large: Will virtual tours ultimately replace traditional, in-person home viewings? This article dives deep into that question, evaluating the pros, cons, and evolving trends in the home buying and selling experience. Whether you’re a first-time buyer , someone looking to sell my house , or the best realtor in Sacramento , understanding this shift is essential to staying ahead of the market curve. What Are Virtual Real Estate Tours? Virtual real estate tours use 3D scanning, 360-degree cameras, drone footage, and interactive software to simulate a walkthrough of a property online. Buyers can "enter" a home, look around, zoom in on features, and navigate from room to room—all without physically stepping inside. There are typically three types of virtual tours: 1. 360-Degree Panoramic Tours Provide a static but comprehensive view of each room. 2. Video Tours (Live or Pre-recorded) Agents walk through the property, highlighting features. 3. 3D Virtual Walkthroughs (e.g., Matterport) Interactive models allowing buyers to move around at their pace. The Rise of Virtual Tours: Why They Became Essential The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of virtual tours. Lockdowns, health risks, and travel restrictions forced real estate agents and buyers to pivot. In cities like Sacramento , where real estate moves fast, virtual tours helped keep the market alive. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR): Over 50% of home buyers said virtual tours were "very useful" during the buying process. Listings with virtual tours receive 87% more views than those without. The Pros of Virtual Real Estate Tours 1. Convenience Virtual tours save time. Buyers can view dozens of homes in one day without driving around town. 2. Accessibility They are ideal for: Out-of-town buyers relocating to Sacramento Busy professionals Elderly or disabled individuals who can’t attend in person 3. 24/7 Availability A virtual tour is always online, so buyers can view it at any hour—unlike open houses with limited time slots. 4. Pre-qualifying Interest Sellers benefit because virtual tours help weed out less-serious buyers. Only truly interested individuals will schedule a physical showing. 5. Marketing Boost Homes with virtual tours stand out online. In a highly competitive market, especially in Sacramento , this is a strategic advantage. The Cons of Virtual Real Estate Tours 1. Lack of Tangibility A camera can’t replicate the feel of a space—its smells, textures, or even ambient sound. Virtual tours may gloss over flaws like creaky floors, worn carpets, or poor natural lighting. 2. Potential Misrepresentation Wide-angle lenses and post-editing can make spaces look larger or more appealing than they really are. 3. Limited Inspection You can’t test a faucet’s water pressure, inspect the attic, or gauge how quiet (or loud) the neighborhood is. 4. Tech Barriers Older buyers or those without strong internet access may find virtual tours difficult to navigate. Will Virtual Tours Replace In-Person Showings Completely? Not likely—at least not in the near future. While virtual tours are becoming an essential part of the initial browsing and decision-making process, they are not a complete substitute for in-person visits, especially for final purchase decisions. Here’s how it breaks down: Stage of Buying Process Preferred Tour Type Early Research Virtual Tour Shortlisting Homes Virtual + Photos Final Selection In-Person Viewing Making an Offer In-Person (typically) Hybrid models are emerging as the new norm. Buyers often do a virtual tour first, followed by an in-person visit if the home makes their shortlist. How Realtors Can Adapt For agents and sellers in Sacramento , adapting to virtual real estate technology is critical. Here's how: 1. Invest in Professional Virtual Tour Services Poor-quality video hurts more than helps. 2. Use Live Virtual Tours to Engage Host live-streamed open houses with Q&A sessions. 3. Highlight Hidden Details Showcase the "less visible" aspects like storage space, utility access, and backyard orientation. 4. Train Buyers on Using the Tools Help first-time buyers navigate the technology with walkthrough videos or tutorials. 5. Be Transparent Clearly state that virtual tours are supplements—not substitutes—for physical inspections. Advice for First-Time Buyers If you’re a first-time buyer entering the market in 2025: Start with virtual tours to narrow down your options. Always do an in-person tour before making an offer. Bring a checklist to evaluate things the tour can't show: neighborhood noise, smells, lighting, etc. Ask your realtor to perform a live FaceTime walkthrough if you can't visit in person. Selling a Home? Use Virtual Tours to Stand Out If you’re planning to sell my house soon: Use a virtual tour to attract more attention and filter serious buyers. Combine it with floor plans, drone footage, and neighborhood insights. Work with the best realtor in Sacramento to ensure you’re leveraging every digital tool to maximize your property’s exposure. Future Outlook: Augmented Reality (AR) & Metaverse Listings? Technology is evolving rapidly. Within the next 5–10 years, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) could allow full sensory experiences in listings—from “feeling” the room temperature to hearing nearby traffic. Buyers might walk through homes using VR goggles or explore digital twin properties in the metaverse. While these futuristic tools will be powerful, buying a home remains an emotional and tactile experience. The final purchase will almost always include an in-person visit. Final Verdict Virtual real estate tours will not fully replace in-person showings , but they are here to stay—and they’re changing how homes are bought and sold. The key is to use them strategically and combine them with traditional methods. If you're a first-time buyer or looking to sell my house in Sacramento , working with an experienced agent who understands both digital tools and the local market is your best move.