Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Real Estate Photography
Every real estate professional understands the value of quality images to include in a listing, the purpose of which is to highlight the properties best features. AI is a game changer in this regard.
For example, a new home under construction or a home being renovated can be shown, through AI photography, what it will look like when completed/renovated – including precise flooring, wall paint, fixtures, etc. Further, if a home is complete, AI photography could declutter it so the viewer can get a clearer idea of how the home actually looks when empty.
What if you could create images for buyers who have trouble imagining a space but don’t know exactly what they want? An agent fluent in AI photography can show a room(s) with varying décor, wall colors, and furnishings. The agent can even request that the AI algorithm offer its own ideas!
The form of technology described above is known as “generative AI.” It can even form images from text – yet another example if its “magical” abilities. Further, an agent conferring with a client can prompt an AI handle to create an image of a colonial-style home with some classical Spanish accents, overlooking a bay. And even more – if the client doesn’t like a feature or two of the colonial home, he/she can request the AI algorithm to alter those features and replace them with others more suited to the client’s taste.
Virtual staging, enabled by AI, is a game-changer in real estate, as well. It allows vacant properties to be filled with virtual furniture, making them more appealing to potential buyers. This tool also enables customization based on a buyer’s tastes, replacing outdated furniture with modern options. This is already being used in the industry and should soon become common practice.
AI’s role in automating photo and video editing in real estate photography, as alluded to earlier, is promising. For example, AI can enhance image quality by adjusting lighting, color correcting, and removing unwanted objects. This technology could choose the best time of the day, for instance, based on location and date.
AI which can convert 2D images into detailed and interactive 3D models is already being employed (virtual property tours, for example). But in the future this technology could be enhanced to create accurate digital replicas for various purposes, such as planning renovations or demonstrating an unfinished property’s potential.
As with all best practices, agents must choose to keep strictly in line with the National Association of Realtors (NAR) Code of Ethics regarding misrepresentation and the like. Agents should also show patience when using this or any new technology with clients to be sure the client understands what will be represented.