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January
4

What Buyers Notice During a Virtual Tour - Counselor Realty

Home tours have stepped into a whole new world – the virtual world, that is. Our agents were among the first in our area to launch virtual showings for homes. That early commitment to keeping sellers and buyers alike moving forward has now been echoed by the rest of the industry. Virtual tours are common, and they might persist in 2021 and beyond.

Minneapolis homes for sale are some of the most desirable in North Carolina – that hasn't changed. But the right way to showcase a home's unique features has. Recent research shows that buyers taking a virtual tour have priorities a little bit different from those in a traditional walk-through.

Sellers – and their real estate agents, of course – need to adapt. Here are five big things buyers notice on virtual tours.

  1. The Oven
    It's always been known that "kitchens sell houses," but buyers' interest in the oven has been a surprise. Ovens are among the appliances most likely to stay with the home, so it's wise to clean them inside and out before a showing – yes, some visitors are looking. Also consider replacing any bad burners or giving your eventual buyer a small credit toward new ones.

  2. The Bed
    Bedrooms are right up there with kitchens in their importance to buyers. As the room's centerpiece, the bed draws immediate attention. Many buyers wonder whether their own bed will fit into the room and if they have space for their other furniture. With that in mind, it's a great idea to focus on decluttering a bedroom and making it look as big and inviting as can be.

  3. The Back Door
    Buyers love a spacious back yard, especially those who have dogs that like to romp and play. That makes the exit that leads out into the yard a major concern. Doors leading out and any windows nearby should be thoroughly cleaned, so they let in the maximum amount of natural light. Remove curtains from the door area, mow the lawn, and clear out any yard debris so the tour can be taken outside.

  4. Bathroom Counters
    Virtual tour participants often take their time examining the bathroom, and their attention can go to several different places. However, smaller touches like new fixtures and light plates are less likely to be the stars of the show. Be sure you declutter the counters and clean out the sink fully. Shower curtains should be opened to create a sense of more space. And, of course, the toilet should be sparkling clean.

  5. Mirrors
    This one might sound unusual, but consider the way a mirror can change a room. Just like stainless steel appliances, a mirror has reflective qualities that can make things look more spacious by "bouncing" light. If you want to dress up a space that still seems dark or cramped despite your best efforts, bring in all the light you can and top it off with a mirror to enhance the effect.

Virtual tours are different, but the fundamentals remain the same. An experienced real estate agent can help stage your Saint Paul home for sale the right way. Sure, fresh-baked cookies on the stove no longer make a splash, but there are still plenty of ways to help your home stand out from all the rest. A successful tour can mean a higher selling price and a shorter path to closing day. Call today to learn more.



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Agency License Information: Counselor Realty, Inc. is licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin; Counselor Realty, Inc. of Alexandria is licensed in Minnesota; Counselor Realty Detroit Lakes, LLC is licensed in Minnesota; Counselor Realty of Rochester is licensed in Minnesota; Counselor Realty of Victoria, LLC is licensed in Minnesota; Counselor Realty of Brainerd is licensed in Minnesota.

Disclaimer: All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal. Neither listing broker(s) or information provider(s) shall be responsible for any typographical errors, misinformation, misprints and shall be held totally harmless. Listing(s) information is provided for consumers personal, non-commercial use and may not be used for any purpose other than to identify prospective properties consumers may be interested in purchasing. Information on this site was last updated 03/06/2026. The listing information on this page last changed on 03/06/2026. The data relating to real estate for sale on this website comes in part from the Internet Data Exchange program of Delta Media Group MLS (last updated Fri 03/06/2026 3:09:18 AM EST) or RMLS-MN MLS (last updated Fri 03/06/2026 12:02:34 AM EST). Real estate listings held by brokerage firms other than Counselor Realty may be marked with the Internet Data Exchange logo and detailed information about those properties will include the name of the listing broker(s) when required by the MLS. All rights reserved.



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