The way people search for homes in the UK has changed dramatically in the last few years. From static newspaper ads to immersive virtual tours, the property market is moving at digital speed—and real estate video marketing is leading the charge.

If you’re an estate agent wondering whether investing in video content really makes a difference, the short answer is yes. But the long answer is far more interesting.

This blog explores the rise of video in the property industry, how buyer expectations are changing, and why video marketing has become one of the most effective tools for selling homes faster in 2025 and beyond.

The Rise of Video in Property Listings

Video is no longer a luxury or “nice to have”—it's a central part of property marketing strategies across the UK. From the smallest village agencies to high-end central London firms, estate agents are increasingly turning to video to improve listing engagement, stand out on crowded platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla, and make deeper connections with buyers.

Why the shift?

Video tells a story. Unlike photos, which capture fragments of a home, a video can reveal how rooms flow, how natural light shifts during the day, and what it feels like to walk through the front door.

Technology has become accessible. Today’s buyers and sellers are equipped with smartphones, fast internet, and expectations shaped by platforms like Instagram and YouTube.

Remote and overseas buyers have increased. With international interest in UK property and more people relocating across regions, video provides a viewing alternative when in-person isn’t practical.

Estate agencies that don’t adopt video risk appearing outdated, while those that do often find their properties selling faster, with higher engagement and more enquiries.

Changing Buyer Behaviour in the UK Housing Market

UK property buyers have become more digitally driven—and more demanding.

In 2025, over 85% of property searches begin online, often on a smartphone. And users form impressions within seconds. Listings that fail to immediately engage are simply ignored, while homes with video tours command more attention, more clicks, and ultimately more offers.

What’s driving these behavioural shifts?

Shorter attention spans. Scrolling culture has changed how people consume content. Buyers want quick, visual overviews that let them decide whether to learn more.

Desire for transparency. Video shows the reality of a property, giving buyers more confidence before visiting.

Emphasis on lifestyle. Buyers are looking beyond bricks and mortar—they want to see the life they could lead in that space.

According to a 2024 Zoopla survey, over 70% of UK homebuyers said they were more likely to book a viewing for a property that included a video tour.

What Is Real Estate Video Marketing?

Real estate video marketing is the strategic use of video to promote and sell properties. It's not just about filming a house—it’s about telling a story that helps buyers imagine themselves living there.

Types of Property Videos:

Walkthrough Tours: Room-by-room guides showing layout and flow.

Drone Footage: Aerial shots highlighting gardens, rooftops, and location.

Agent Introduction Videos: Personalised agent intros to build trust.

Lifestyle Videos: Cinematic clips showing daily life in the home.

Neighbourhood Highlights: Showcases of local schools, shops, parks, and transport links.

When used together, these video types bring a listing to life far more effectively than photos or written descriptions alone.

Benefits of Property Video in the UK Market

1. Stronger Engagement on Portals and Social Media

Listings with videos on Rightmove, Zoopla, and agency websites consistently outperform static-only listings:

Rightmove reports that listings with video receive 20% more enquiries.

On Facebook, video content gets 10× more engagement than static posts.

Instagram Reels and TikToks showcasing properties can go viral, reaching local audiences and building long-term brand awareness.

2. Faster Buyer Decision-Making

Videos help buyers make choices quickly:

• They self-qualify before booking viewings.

• Agents spend less time on low-quality leads.

• Properties sell faster—sometimes up to 30% quicker in active markets.

  
  

3. Emotional Storytelling & Buyer Connection

Emotion sells homes. Videos allow:

• Warmth of a sunlit living room.

• Tranquillity of a peaceful garden.

• Aspirational feelings that drive buyers to act.

Data & Statistics: Does It Actually Help Sell Homes Faster?

📊 Key UK Stats & Industry Reports:

• Savills UK, in their Residential Property Prices and Trends report, found that listings with fully integrated video marketing had 30% shorter time on market in prime areas (theguardian.com, savills.co.uk).

• Optica Photo reports that video-enabled properties generated 47% more online engagement .

• A Matterport UK survey noted that buyers were 95% more likely to enquire about homes with video or 3D tours, and these properties often sold without a second viewing.

What Buyers Expect in 2025

✅ Mobile-First Formats

With 70%+ of searches on mobile, optimal formats include vertical (9:16) for TikTok/Instagram, and square (1:1) for Facebook.

✅ Short and Cinematic

Ideal length:

60–120 seconds for typical homes.

3–5 minutes for high-end or luxury properties.

Combine cinematic shots, drone footage, and smooth editing for maximum impact.

✅ Virtual Tours and Interactivity

3D/360° virtual tours are growing in popularity, allowing viewers to navigate homes at their own pace—a valuable asset for out-of-area or overseas buyers.

Tips for Estate Agents Using Video

• Plan the Story: Highlight unique benefits and local features.

• Perfect Lighting: Use natural light or portable lighting to enhance interiors.

• Stay Concise: Leave viewers wanting more—don’t overstay your welcome.

• Include Area Footage: Show context—transport links, parks, cafes, schools.

• Use Voiceover or Subtitles: Reinforce key points, usable even with sound off.

• End with Branding: Agent details, website, and clear call-to-action.

Should You Hire a Professional Videographer?

While smartphone video can work for basics, professional videographers bring:

• Clean composition and stabilised moves.

• Colour-grading and cinematic storytelling.

• A polished final edit that strengthens brand credibility.

Conclusion

Real estate video marketing is more than a trend—it’s a strategic advantage. Buyers expect high-quality visual content that helps them experience a home before visiting. The data shows that properties with video sell faster, receive more enquiries, and foster personal connections.

To succeed in 2025, don’t just show houses—create an immersive viewing experience.

📞 Book a Property Video Consultation

If you're an agent ready to stand out and sell homes faster, let's talk. Book a property video consultation today and discover how professional video content can elevate your listings and your brand.