Virtual Site Inspections Vs. Traditional Methods: Which Is Best?

No one ever said that picking the right property would be easy. Things can get tricky when you add in the additional challenge of an out-of-state purchase. So, how do you get around conducting onsite inspections before buying a property? Thanks to recent technological advances, there are now two main options: virtual site inspections and traditional methods. And although both have their ups and downs, the one you choose will ultimately depend on your specific needs and situation.

Let’s take a closer look at each option so you can make the best decision for your needs.

Traditional Methods for Property Inspection

If you’re buying a local property or can travel to the site easily, conducting a traditional onsite inspection is probably your best bet. After all, there’s nothing like seeing the property in person to get a real feel for it.

Pros:

1. When you conduct an onsite property inspection, you can get a first-hand look at the property’s condition. This means you can more easily spot any potential problems that need attention.
2. You can also better understand the property’s layout and how everything flows together. This can be helpful when trying to envision what renovations or changes you might want to make in the future.

Cons:

1. Onsite inspections can be time-consuming, especially if the property is far from your home. When making your schedule, you’ll have to factor in travel time and costs.
2. You also won’t be able to inspect it on your own if the property is currently occupied. This means you’ll need to coordinate with the current tenants or owner, which can add more time and hassle to the process.

What is a Virtual Site Inspection?

This is an online viewing of a property, usually conducted through a video call. This type of inspection has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its convenience and flexibility.

With a virtual site inspection, you can view a property from anywhere in the world, anytime. All you need is a good quality internet connection and a device with a camera, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Virtual site inspections are also often more affordable than traditional onsite inspections, as they eliminate the need for travel costs.

Pros:

1. Convenient and flexible – you can view a property from anywhere in the world, at any time.
2. More affordable – eliminates the need for travel costs.
3. It can be conducted with just a camera-equipped device and an internet connection.

Cons:

1. You cannot view the property in person, so you must rely on the video call quality and the agent’s description.
2. You may miss key details that an in-person inspection would reveal.
3. You cannot get a feel for the property’s atmosphere or “vibe.”

Which One Should You Opt For?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more affordable option that is still convenient and flexible, then a virtual site inspection might be the right choice for you. However, an onsite inspection would be a better option if you feel it’s important to view the property in person before making a decision.

Here’s How SpotOnSite Can Help You

SpotOnSite provides a comprehensive solution for managing onsite and virtual site inspections. With our easy-to-use interface, you can quickly set up and manage inspections for any property in the Los Angeles area.

We also offer a Free Sign- up today to help you get the most out of your inspection process, including online scheduling, electronic reports, custom workflows, asset tracking, and much more!

Interested? Schedule a free demo today.