Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any limitations to how big an area can be captured?

Not really. With spaces of more than about 12,000 square feet, we will have to split the spaces into multiple tours, though.

Can there be people in the space when it is being scanned?   

 No. The space must be empty of people, pets or anything else that moves.

Will my Walk-Through Tour work on any device?

Yes, as long as the device supports a new (2013 or later) browser. It works on all modern devices from smart phones to tablets to laptops to desktops.The tours automatically size themselves to the device and can tell if it is touch-screen or mouse-driven.

How long does it take to capture a Walk-Through Tour? 

It depends on the space being captured. A 2,500 foot space can be scanned in about an hour or so. Larger spaces take proportionately longer.

Can I put the Tour on my own server?

No, we provide you with both an e-mailable link AND an embedding link so you can put the Tour on your website. Your Tour will run on our server so that it performs properly as it must use proprietary software during the viewing.

Is this the same type of tour I’ve seen promoted on CNN, The Wall Street Journal, etc.?

Yes! It is a genuine Matterport 3D Tour. We use a Matterport scanning 3D camera and our Tours are hosted on Matterport’s servers. We are an authorized Matterport practitioner!

Can you scan outdoors?

The 3D Walk-Through system is optimized for indoor spaces. However, under certain circumstances we can scan patios and the like.

Can the 3D Tours be retouched to exclude things?

No. We can exclude rooms from the tours by simply closing the doors to them, but otherwise, whatever is there will be there in your tour.

How much does it cost?

Each job is quoted separately based on the time it will take to scan and process it. Please call or email for a quote.

How long do you keep my Walk-Through Tour active?

For short-term use, such as homes for sale, we include free hosting for 4 months. For longer term use, such as commercial or retail Tours, there is a yearly fee based on the size of the file.

How long after you scan will the Tour be available?

Generally 24 to 48 hours after the scan is done, you will have your link and embed code.

What will be photographed?

The 3D photo shoot captures interior spaces. The camera is mainly designed for indoor use. Depending on sun light conditions, limited areas such as a covered patio or deck might be able to be included in the tour, but are not included as part of the basic price, nor guaranteed.

Small closets and garages are typically not photographed. Large walk-in closets are included, based on agent/owner preference. Two separate buildings, such as detached casitas must be photographed as two separate models, and are priced accordingly.

How long will it take?

3D photography generally takes longer than still photography. For homes, plan on 45 minutes per 1,000 square feet, plus 15 minutes for set up and planning. A 3,000 square foot home will take approximately 2.5-3 hours to complete.

In commercial/office environments the photography generally takes less time, but is dependent on type of space and level of detail required. As an example, an art gallery would take longer than a space the same size with open offices.

Does the real estate agent need to be present?

Its the realtors preference whether to be present or not. Due to the nature of the photography, people and pets cannot be in the vicinity of the camera. We work alone (lockbox), or with the agent, or home owner present. A confirmation text will be sent to the agent when the scan is complete if working alone.

What if workers are on site?

Because the camera rotates 360 degrees with each photo scan, people/animals cannot be in view of the camera during the session. The camera does record the exterior through windows, so if workers are on site outdoors, we cannot guarantee they will not be viewable in some camera angles.

Home/Site Preparation:

Make sure the home/space is in a ‘staged’ condition with no clutter, is vacuumed and dusted with all light bulbs working. We recommend removing personal items from bathrooms, showers, sinks and laundry areas. Also remove toilet bowl brushes, pet dishes, etc. Tidy up desk areas, align rugs, etc.
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Is special lighting required?

Because we use HDR (high dynamic range) photography to balance dark and light areas of an image, no special lighting or lighting equipment is required. However, direct sunlight can interfere with data collection from the sensor, so we suggest avoiding direct sunlight when possible. It operates very good in low light conditions so additional lighting sources are not required. It is also not possible to photoshop these 3D images.

How long does it take to get my finished model?

The links to your 3D Showcase willl be emailed to you within 48 hours. Usually turnaround time is less then 24 hours, however some models can take longer to process and edit prior to sending the links.

What do I get?

You receive the Showcase, Dollhouse and Floorplan Views plus Branded and Unbranded 3D Showcase link that can be emailed to clients, potential clients and email lists. You also receive a 3D Embed links that can be embedded into websites.

Is there a limitation on how many times I can email the Showcase link or use the embed the link?

You have unlimited access.

Where does the file get stored?

The Matterport 3D Showcase is cloud based and resides on Matterport servers. Due to the enormous amount of data it isn’t possible to host the model locally.

How long will my model be hosted?

3D Bestco hosts models for a period of one year. For additional years of hosting, there is an annual renewal fee of $35

Can exterior locations be photographed or included in the tour?

The camera is designed to be used only for interior spaces. However with overcast conditions its possible (but not guaranteed) to capture outdoor spaces.

Can I get schematic printed floor plans?

Yes! Floor plans can be ordered for just $99 (up to 5,000 sq.ft.). Floor Floor plans can be ordered anytime, but it is best if placed at the time of the initial order. Please allow 2-5 business days for Schematic floor plans.