URGENT UPDATE: An independent estate agent, Samuel Wood, has just announced a festive initiative offering free 360° virtual tours for all new property listings across Shropshire. This limited-time campaign, dubbed a “Christmas gift,” aims to give sellers a crucial marketing edge during one of the busiest periods for online property searches.
The initiative is set to run until January 15, 2026, and is designed to attract potential buyers during the surge of online activity that traditionally occurs in early January. With data from Ideal Insight highlighting that properties utilizing immersive 360° technology can garner up to 49% more inquiries, this offering is positioned to help sellers engage more effectively with serious buyers.
Russell Griffin, co-director at Samuel Wood, stated, “Rightmove often reports that page views spike by 15-20% in the first two weeks of January compared to December.” He emphasized the importance of modern buyers being able to explore homes virtually to understand their layout and flow before visiting in person. This technology not only enhances buyer confidence but significantly increases engagement.
Historically, the New Year marks a pivotal time for real estate transactions, with many potential sellers and buyers preparing for moves in early 2026. By absorbing the usual costs associated with 360° imaging, Samuel Wood is effectively lowering barriers for sellers and demonstrating a commitment to the local market.
The offer applies to all branches of the agency, including those in Shrewsbury, Craven Arms, Ludlow, and hubs in Church Stretton and Telford. Griffin expressed excitement about this initiative, saying, “We are delighted to offer this as a complimentary upgrade for new clients over the festive period. The aim is simple: to help sellers start the New Year with the strongest possible marketing advantage.”
As online property searches ramp up, this strategic move is expected to resonate with both sellers eager to capitalize on the Christmas season and buyers ready to make informed decisions in the New Year. With the digital landscape increasingly influencing real estate, initiatives like this underscore the evolving nature of property marketing.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
