Online viewings have become increasingly common, especially for tenants moving from abroad or relocating from another part of the UK.
They’re also useful in high-demand areas, acting as a quick pre-screening before anyone commits to an in-person visit.
The best part is you don’t need any special kit, just a phone with a decent camera. Still, there’s a bit of technique involved for landlords filming them, and tenants should know what to look out for, too.
- Ways to conduct a virtual viewing
- How landlords can prepare for a virtual viewing
- How tenants can prepare for a virtual viewing
- Moving forward with the tenancy
Ways to conduct a virtual viewing
Virtual viewings can be done in a few different ways, depending on the property and the needs of those involved. Each method has its own advantages.
1. Live video calls
Live viewings take place in real time, typically using any standard video-call tool. They’re helpful because questions can be answered instantly, and prospective tenants can ask to see details that aren’t always captured in listing photos – such as inside wardrobes or storage spaces, or the view from a specific room.
Live calls also give a much clearer sense of the property’s layout and overall feel, which can sometimes be difficult to judge from photos alone. That is, even when the listing already features high-quality photos and floor plans, which every landlord should aim to include in their advert.
Even if you connect through external apps to hold the video call, all communication, decisions, and transactions should still take place through OpenRent to ensure security, clarity, and a full record of your tenancy process.
2. Pre-recorded video tours
Pre-recorded videos are filmed in advance, usually as straightforward walkthroughs on a smartphone, and shared with prospective tenants.
When included in a listing, they allow tenants to get a clear sense of the property before even contacting the landlord, helping them decide whether it’s worth pursuing further.
They are also particularly useful for tenants who aren’t able to attend a viewing in person, such as those relocating from abroad, as they can watch the property at a convenient time.
3. Hybrid approach
A combination of pre-recorded videos and live calls can work well for many rental properties. Tenants can start by watching a pre-recorded video tour on the listing to get an overall sense of the property.
Those who remain interested can then request a live call to ask specific questions or take a closer look at details such as storage, room layout, or how the spaces connect in real time.
You might also be interested in…
- Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act for Landlords 2026
- How Much Can a Landlord Increase Rent in 2026?
- When Will Section 21 Be Scrapped?
- How to Conduct a Property Viewing Online
- 5 Mistakes Tenants Make in Their Property Enquiries (and How to Fix Them)
How landlords can prepare for a virtual viewing
Before a virtual viewing, landlords should make sure the property is clean, tidy, and well-lit, as this makes a big difference on camera.
If the property is currently occupied, landlords should give notice to existing tenants or check they’re happy to be included in a video call. Alternatively, landlords can ask tenants to conduct the video tour themselves, which can be a convenient solution if scheduling a live call is difficult.
Finally, testing the camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand can prevent awkward interruptions during the viewing.
How tenants can prepare for a virtual viewing
Prospective tenants can also get a lot out of a virtual viewing by preparing in advance. Start by reviewing any pre-recorded videos or photos, so you have a sense of the layout and condition of the property.
If the virtual viewing is the only option, it’s worth asking detailed questions about storage, heating, appliances, noise levels, and anything else that might affect daily life, since you won’t have a chance to check in person.
If you plan to visit the property later, it can be better to focus on the basics during the virtual viewing, using it mainly to gauge whether the property is suitable before committing to an in-person visit.
Choose a quiet spot for the viewing so you can clearly hear the person conducting the tour without distractions or background noise. Make sure your device is fully charged and that your internet connection is stable, to avoid interruptions or dropped calls.
It’s also helpful to have a notebook or notes app ready so you can quickly write down important info, such as room dimensions, storage options, or any features you want to compare with other properties later.
Moving forward with the tenancy
Once a landlord and tenant have agreed to proceed, the tenancy can be set up quickly and smoothly through OpenRent.
The first step is for tenants to place a holding deposit by clicking the green Rent Now button on the listing (tenants in Scotland don’t pay a holding deposit). Once the landlord accepts the application, the referencing process can begin.
If referencing is successful, the next step is to sign the tenancy agreement and for tenants pay the move-in monies.
You can then review and sign our professional Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement entirely online. Tenants have the opportunity to read through the terms carefully at their own pace, and landlords can be confident that the agreement meets current legal requirements (and can even include custom clauses).
Finally, the tenancy deposit and first month’s rent are paid securely through OpenRent. At this point, the deposit is secured, and the rent is deposited to the landlord 10 days after the tenants have moved in, offering peace of mind for both parties.
With major changes arriving under the Renters’ Rights Act from 1st May 2026, OpenRent will be fully prepared to support landlords and tenants from day one.
Perhaps obvious, but for pre-recorded viewings, if possible, choose a sunny day for outside tour, have lights on, have flat furnished and tidy, no tenants in view, and point out key beneficial features.