Virtual reality technology and specialized sales training in virtual touring create seamless buying experience while following social distancing protocols
The eNvy, a 127-unit condominium project developed by Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners and sold and marketed by Urban Pace, experienced its highest number of sales in one week, despite the economic and social disruption from the evolving COVID-19 outbreak. Five new homes, with an average sales price of $936,700, went under contract amid increased restrictions on movement throughout the city. Urban Pace, which has been at the forefront of tech frontiers for real estate marketing implemented a number of creative ways to continue sales, leasing and marketing during indisputably trying times.
The company’s extensive investment in virtual reality tools, video tours of models and specialized training in conducting virtual sales appointments made it possible for the sales team to continue to do business. As it became clear that the current Coronavirus crisis was only going to get worse before it got better, Urban Pace put together a training course for all of its sales and leasing staff on conducting virtual tours.
“We are determined to remain open for business and contribute as much as possible to a national economy that is in distress, while still doing everything possible to protect staff and clients,” said Clint Mann, President of Urban Pace. “Our team has been given tools and training to conduct appointments virtually so we can continue to serve our clients with some of the lowest interest rates in history and contribute to the real estate market as a whole.”
The eNvy sales team conducted several appointments via FaceTime and video conferencing this week and experienced a great response from prospective purchasers. Last year the company debuted a highly immersive virtual reality tool that lets buyers walk into their specific residence, change the view for different times of day, select the seasons, and change cabinet and flooring options to match their palette selections. In addition, prospective buyers can also experience eNvy’s community roof deck and see what it’s like to take in a baseball game or concert at Nats Park. Photos taken from the actual roof deck on 2019 Opening Day have been layered into the tool to provide the most realistic experience possible.
“From the beginning, the Urban Pace team has raised the bar, bringing tremendous innovation to the sales and marketing of this project. We are particularly impressed by their foresight in preparing the sales team to continue to do business during these challenging conditions, while instilling confidence in our customers,” said Jair Lynch, President and CEO of Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners. “Urban Pace’s success is reflective of our belief in the resilience of the DC’s economy despite the short-term uncertainty.”
Located at 70 N Street SE, eNvy is the only condominium community in Washington’s thriving Capitol Riverfront submarket to boast views directly into the home of Major League Baseball’s Washington Nationals. Homebuyers can choose from multiple floor plans, and some enjoy views of the river, Poplar Point and Buzzard Point, home to DC United’s brand-new stadium, Audi Field. eNvy is part of Jair Lynch Real Estate Partners iconic mixed-use project at Half and N Streets SE that includes the 312 unit Kelvin Apartments delivering this spring and over 55,000 square feet of retail and entertainment including the first DC location of Punch Bowl Social, a national bowling and entertainment concept.