When we founded Realkit, we envisioned a real estate media company to set the gold visual marketing standard. Every photo we captured and every video we produced aimed to elevate how homes were presented to potential buyers. Our mission was and remains to offer top-notch quality that highlights the unique character of each property and helps realtors and sellers achieve their goals.
Back then, 3D tours weren’t a priority. While they gained traction in the industry, they didn’t align with the premium experience we wanted to create. Unlike cinematic videos that immerse viewers in a property’s grandeur, 3D tours felt clunky and tedious, requiring users to navigate space by space. They could not tell a story or evoke emotion—two things we believe are essential in selling a home.
Still, we listened to our clients. As interest in 3D tours grew, we explored ways to incorporate them into our offerings. Early solutions like Matterport 3D tours were expensive and complex, making them difficult to integrate without significantly raising prices. That’s when we found Zillow’s 3D Tour solution—a more affordable option that allowed us to offer this service without compromising our focus on delivering exceptional value.
Adapting to a Changing Market
At Realkit, one of our core values is adaptability. We understand that the real estate market is constantly changing, and as a company, we’ve always sought to stay ahead of the curve. When we first introduced Zillow 3D Tours, we were optimistic. At the time, Zillow supported video content and hosted our cinematic real estate videos directly on their platform.
But the industry shifted. Zillow began phasing out video hosting due to server costs and redirected its focus toward 3D tours. At the same time, the pandemic changed how homes were marketed. With fewer in-person tours, buyers increasingly relied on virtual tools, making 3D tours an essential part of the real estate experience.
Yet, we noticed a growing divide as Zillow leaned into its ShowingTime+ platform—bundling services like photography, video, 3D tours, and floor plans. Their strategy prioritized quantity over quality, something we at Realkit could never stand behind.
The Realkit Difference
We’ve always believed that real estate media services are more than just a checkbox on a marketing plan. Every listing deserves visuals that make potential buyers feel connected to the home. This belief has guided everything we do, from how we train our photographers to the high standards we set for our photo editing and video production teams.
It’s also why we’ve resisted shortcuts. We were flattered but cautious when Zillow approached us with an exclusive contract to join their ecosystem as a preferred media partner. Signing over our rights would have meant compromising our independence and the standards that define us as a company. Daniel and I were unwavering: we would rather stay true to our values than sacrifice quality for convenience.
That decision has been validated time and time again by our clients, who tell us how much they appreciate the care and expertise we bring to every project. We’ve also heard the less-than-glowing feedback about the photographers provided by Zillow’s network. Realkit’s photographers stand out—not just because of their technical skills but because of their ability to capture the essence of every property.
Introducing the Zillow Showcase 3D Interactive Tour
Today, we’re proud to offer the Zillow Showcase 3D Interactive Tour as an add-on to our service packages. This tool includes an immersive 3D tour and an exclusive interactive floor plan designed to boost your listing’s visibility significantly. According to Zillow, Showcase Listings see up to 81% more page views, 80% more saves, and 90% more shares than standard listings—proving their impact in today’s competitive market.
To access this feature, you’ll need a ShowingTime+ account. Please note that Realkit does not sell Zillow Showcase Listings directly—this is a separate arrangement you’ll need to make with Zillow.
Zillow’s interactive floor plans provide a clear home layout but aren’t to scale and shouldn’t be used for appraisals or tax purposes. For greater precision, we offer an optional Standard Floor Plan created using CubiCasa’s advanced technology, boasting 98% measurement accuracy.
Why Quality Matters
At Realkit, we understand the stakes. A home isn’t just a building—it’s a place filled with memories, aspirations, and possibilities. For a buyer, making an offer is often rooted in an emotional connection to the property. Our visuals are so much more than pictures or videos—they’re invitations to imagine what life could look like within those walls.
This is where quality makes all the difference. A poorly lit photo or an uninspired video can dampen a buyer’s excitement, while a beautifully composed image or a sweeping cinematic shot can captivate them instantly. It’s the difference between a home sitting on the market for weeks and selling quickly at—or above—asking price.
When you choose Realkit, you’re choosing a partner who understands this. You’re choosing a team that pours its heart into every project, ensuring that your listings stand out in even the most competitive markets.
Balancing Innovation and Integrity
Offering the Zillow Showcase 3D Interactive Tour reflects our ongoing commitment to providing clients with the best tools available. But it’s more than that—it’s a testament to our ability to adapt without losing sight of what makes us unique.
Working with Zillow can sometimes feel complicated, especially as they position themselves as competitors through ShowingTime+. But we’ve found a way to navigate this landscape without compromising our integrity. By integrating Zillow’s tools while maintaining our standards, we ensure you get the best of both worlds: cutting-edge technology and the superior quality that defines Realkit.
Partnering for Your Success
At Realkit, we believe that exceptional real estate marketing goes beyond just delivering a service—it’s about creating a lasting impact that helps you achieve your goals. By combining our commitment to quality with innovative tools like the Zillow Showcase 3D Interactive Tour, we’re dedicated to ensuring your listings stand out in even the most competitive markets.
Choosing Realkit means choosing a partner who values integrity, artistry, and results. Let’s elevate your real estate marketing together—because every property deserves its moment to shine. Reach out today, and let us help you tell your next property story.
