A local homebuilder said it has invested in innovative technology that will allow its customers to view upcoming properties in its portfolio that have yet to be built.
Simpson Developments said they are the first in NI to use new Computer Generated Illustration (CGI) software to offer potential buyers an insight into new residential builds set to go on the market even before the foundations are laid.
Features include interactive brochures and a virtual reality (VR) tour that uses a model of the interior built from architect plans and virtually furnished and decorated by their interior designers.
It’s a service that had been in the development pipeline for the company but was fast-tracked within six months due to the Covid-19 pandemic and its subsequent lockdowns.
David Simpson of Simpson Developments said: “Our new VR tours accompany Simpson Developments' brand-new website and both launches signal the completion of a rebranding process of the firm.
“Some of our plans for the future have been pushed forward given the pandemic we are operating in, including the need to social distance and in some instances, the complete halt of viewings so this allows us and our home buyers to continue house hunting from the safety of their own homes in what is a very unique experience.
RELATED: 'Try before they buy' - AR will revolutionise retail in a post-Covid world
“Given that we are in another lockdown I think it’s important we offer an even better service, one that allows our image galleries and viewing processes to be as close to reality as possible because while the world may be at some sort of a standstill, there is opportunity to adapt and operate during these challenging times,” added Mr Simpson.
Among the company’s upcoming developments is a new Ballyclare site which is set to feature 20 new residential properties in the heart of the town.
The £4m project has created 50 jobs and the business said it signals the start of major growth plans.
“We are in the market to purchase more land this year than we ever have and with that will come major growth. We are very much looking forward to what 2021 brings," David concluded.
